Villopoto Wins Supercross Opener

As the gates dropped on the Supercross class main event, Dodge/Hart & Huntington Kawasakis Ivan Tedesco raced to the holeshot with Villopoto and Red Bull KTM s Mike Alessi, of Victorville, Calif., in tow. Villopoto made quick work of Alessi, taking over the top spot on the first lap before going wire-to-wire for his 10th career win in the class.

Defending Monster Energy Supercross Champion Ryan Dungey finished second overall aboard his Rockstar/Makita Suzuki, gradually working his way into the runner-up spot and never relinquishing it. San Manuel Yamaha s James Stewart rounded out the overall podium in third, overcoming a mid-pack start to methodically work his way into podium position on Lap 12.

I got off to a decent start and had to play some catch up out there, says Dungey. During the week, Im going to work hard to get ready for Phoenix. Im glad that I put my Suzuki up on the box tonight.

I almost went down a few times, says Stewart. Next week, Ill work on my starts and be prepared for Phoenix. I tried my best to get up there. Once I got into third, I tried to make up some time on Ryan (Dungey) but ran out of laps.

In the Supercross Lites class, it was all Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki. In his debut for the team, Broc Tickle grabbed the early lead and led for eight laps before getting passed by teammate Josh Hansen just at the finish line. The duo then opened up a considerable gap over the field.

Im happy to be here and get back on my feet and head down the right path, says Hansen. I have a great crew around me, and I am really excited about tonight. I have a lot of people to thank for sticking by me. Im excited for the season.

Supercross Lites class rookie Tyla Rattray completed the Pro Circuit sweep in third.