For those behind the number one plate, each moto may indeed bring the chance for glory however the fight has yet to be for a win it is for a podium finish making things interesting as the war plays out behind the leader. The fact isn’t that Hetrick is untouchable, it’s the fact that there is a load of talent on the track whose triumphs are being over shadowed by a legend in the making. New talent is mixing with veteran racers as the never ending battle between youthful enthusiasm and cagey warriors of past seasons sort things out lap after lap. While it appears there is no stopping Hetrick, those racing for the top overall spots are trailing probably one of if not the fastest rider ever to pilot an ATV and that could set up a master class of talent in coming seasons.

Ford Brothers Racing/FXR/SSi Decals/CST’s Bryce Ford is riding the line between a still up and comer and the reality that he has multiple seasons under his belt. Ford put in an impressive ride here at Echeconnee and strolled out of the event after earning second on the day. Ford continues to prove he is developing the speed to remain up front and the ability to remain there even when under pressure as he raced from eighth to second in moto one.

A swap of positions from the second round would see Westland Motorsports/JH Racing/Goldspeed Tires/PEP/Musick Racing’s Brandon Hoag fall to third behind Ford as the pair seems to be emerging into the fight to watch as each is making strides towards the overall position if they can somehow close the gap and take the fight to Hetrick. Hoag appears to be gaining whatever he had been missing in his program and should remain a top finisher as the season moves into new venues.

It’s ironic that ML2 Motorsports/Walsh Race Craft/Maxxis/Yamaha’s Max Lindquist finished fourth as he is now in his fourth year as a pro. Lindquist is a solid rider whose  talent runs deep yet he has been unable to capitalize in any huge way to make that jump from rookie to veteran. Glimmers of hope have shown through, and he is held in high regard throughout the pro ranks as he continues to march forward taking the highs and lows in stride. This season appears to have a different tone to it however and it wouldn’t come as a surprise if we see him start battling for a podium finish as the season gets cranked up.

Taking the fifth spot at round three would be GennUSA Racing/SSi Decals/Kenda/Action Off-Road’s Nick Gennusa as he struggles with breaking into the front runners and earning the finishes he is capable of. Gennusa should be battling for a podium position at every round, yet he once again finds himself reaching deep to roll out of the weekend with anything he would deem to be proud of. Gennusa is a rider caught between things as the talent around him rises and keeps him searching for every ounce of speed he can find to fend them off.

The overall vibe was positive as this iconic track did not disappoint and provided a great weekend of intense racing. The question still remains, who can not only run down Hetrick but who can get past him and bust his winning streak. Those looking for answers will be watching as the series heads north to Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville, Indiana as the next round gets ready for what will be another exciting race.

For more information on the ATV Motocross National Championship, visit the series official website at www.atvmotocross.com or call (304) 284-0101. Join the conversation on the series social media channels, along with receiving the most up-to-date news and exclusive content.

• Facebook: @atvmotocross
• Instagram: @atvmotocross
• Twitter: @atvmxdotcom
• YouTube: @atvmotocross