Minneapolis, MN – Red Bull KTM Factory rider Ryan Dungey did exactly what his hometown fans expected: he chased down points leader Ryan Villopoto and took the win at the H.H.H. Metrodome to earn a standing ovation by the Minneapolis crowd.
Dungey and his 250SX teammate, Marvin Musquin, earned the fastest lap times in qualifying. Dungey’s fast time earned him the top gate pick in his heat. Unfortunately, Dungey had a mid-pack start in his heat and had to work his way up through the pack. In the eight lap heat he was able to make multiple passes to move into second before the checkered flag flew.
In the main event, Dungey selected a different starting gate which proved to be beneficial as he started the race in third position. It did not take long for him to move into second place behind the lead ride of Ryan Villopoto. The two riders quickly pulled away from the rest of the field and began what would be a 20 lap battle for the win. Dungey trailed throughout the first sixteen laps consistently turning a faster lap time to inch closer to the rear wheel of Villopoto each lap. With four laps to go, Dungey began to apply pressure to Villopoto. With three laps to go he was able to make a pass for the lead. His hometown crowd stood on their feet and cheered as loud as they could for their hero as he took over the lead. The two riders remained close for the final laps. Dungey remained strong and held on to his lead to claim his second victory of the season.
“It feels amazing to get a win here in front of my hometown,” commented Dungey. “I have so many great fans here, and of course, all my friends and family. My bike was running perfect tonight and I felt really comfortable all day. I hope to take the momentum of this win into the final rounds and hopefully land back on the top step of the podium a few more times.”
Next Event: Seattle, WA – April 20, 2013
Overall Results
1. Ryan Dungey
2. Ryan Villopoto
3. Davi Millsaps
4. Justin Barcia
5. Chad Reed
6. Andrew Short
7. Trey Canard
8. Josh Hill
9. Justin Brayton
10. Weston Peick
11. Matt Goerke
12. Jake Weimer
13. Broc Tickle
14. Mike ALessi
15. Chris Blose
16. Bobby Kiniry
17. Ben Lamay
18. James Stewart
19. Phil Nicoletti
20. Les Smith
Overall Point Standings –
- Ryan Villopoto – 299
- Ryan Dungey – 277
- Davi Millsaps – 276