On day one of the Rhode Island National, the riders were experiencing trouble finding traction with the overnight rains the day before causing many fives on obstacles that most riders felt were relatively easy. As the scores mounted riders were working to squeeze threes instead of fives, and two's instead of threes. Well, you get the picture.
In the Pro class Monster/Gas Gas sponsored Chris Florin started out on fire holding a first loop lead, but young Patrick Smage held on all day to lower his loop scores, while the others padded points to theirs.
In the Expert class Sherco USA pilot Will Ibsen ran away with the class over South American Deigo Ordenez 44 dabs to 81. Daiki Watanbe took third, Travis Fox took fourth and Canada's champ Maxine Gobeil took fifth.
On the support line Lewis Bolopue took low score honors with 40 dabs. Lewis rides the Sportsman class.Stephen Dolan in Senior 45 took second with 43 dabs and Dave Diehl took third. (second in Senior 45.)
Notes:
* Louise Forsley rode the expert line.
* Ray Peters was a no-show.
* In round #8 (sunday) Will Ibsen will finish the season in the Pro class after wrapping up second place for the season in Expert class behind Ray Peters.
* 10 time champ Geoff Aaron, yes indeed, 10 time champ. With a fourth place finish, Geoff Aaron secured his 10th national title. Congratulations Geoff.
* Still to close to call. Bruce leRiche needs to best Cody Webb on Sunday to secure his #2 plate for the second year in a row.
Pro
1) Patrick Smage - 92
2) Chris Florin - 95
3) Cody Webb - 98
4) Geoff Arron - 101
5) Bruce leRiche - 105
