Industry Seating Podcast: EP 186 - Budds Creek

Host: Jason Thomas
Release Date: August 22, 2024
Podcast Description: Industry Seating offers an insider's perspective on professional supercross and motocross racing, delivering insightful discussions every Monday morning with host Jason Thomas.

Overview

In Episode 186 titled "Budds Creek," Jason Thomas delves deep into the recent motocross season's highlights, focusing primarily on Hayden Deegan's triumphant first pro Motocross championship win at Budds Creek. The episode also previews upcoming events like Ironman and touches upon the evolving landscape of the SMX playoffs.

Hayden Deegan's Championship Victory

Jason opens the discussion by celebrating Hayden Deegan's historic win:

[04:30] Jason Thomas: "Hayden Deegan won his first ever pro Motocross championship."

Deegan's performance at Budds Creek was nothing short of dominant. Jason highlights Deegan's exceptional first moto, where he not only qualified fastest in both sessions but also showcased a commanding lead:

[06:15] Jason Thomas: "He dominated the first Moto with a 25-second lead at one point... Deegan took it to the best guys and they didn't have an answer."

Despite a minor mistake where Deegan tipped over, his ability to build a substantial gap set him apart from competitors like Kitchen and Jaime, solidifying his status as the season's standout performer.

Impact on SMX Playoffs and Future Events

Jason reflects on the sustainability and growth of the SMX playoffs format, indicating strong support from key stakeholders:

[10:45] Jason Thomas: "The powers that be are all in on the playoffs... it's only going to grow from here."

Looking ahead, the host anticipates the intense competition at Ironman and the forthcoming SMX playoffs, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming Labor Day weekend and its role in the racing calendar.

Financial Implications of the Championship

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the financial rewards tied to championship success. Jason underscores the life-changing potential of the earnings:

[20:30] Jason Thomas: "The financial aspect cannot be overstated... It's life-changing money because that number grows into numbers that would blow your mind."

He elaborates on the substantial payouts from the SMX playoffs, noting that riders like Deegan not only receive prize money but also team bonuses, which cumulatively offer a path to financial stability and growth within the sport.

Season Performance of Other Riders

Levi Kitchen:
Levi Kitchen has been a formidable competitor, securing three out of the last four races. Jason acknowledges Kitchen's prowess but also contemplates the narrative surrounding his performance:

[25:50] Jason Thomas: "It's not like it's impossible to take a shot at him, but I think it's also impossible to say he wasn't the best guy."

Malcolm Stewart and Dylan Ferrandis:
Both riders have shown potential but haven't consistently met expectations. Jason discusses the challenges they face, including equipment performance and the need for further improvements to stay competitive.

Eli Tomac:
Eli Tomac's return is a focal point, with Jason analyzing his recent performances and the impact of injuries on his racing intensity:

[40:20] Jason Thomas: "Eli Tomac is back and still in contention... we'll see what he does with Ironman."

Jason Anderson and Justin Cooper:
Jason Anderson has had a steady summer, focusing on podium finishes, while Justin Cooper has successfully established himself as a key player on the factory Yamaha team.

Power Rankings

Jason concludes the content-heavy segment with his annual power rankings, evaluating riders' performances and prospects:

1. Chase Sexton:
   Dominating the season, Sexton's momentum and speed position him as the top contender for the SMX World Championship.

2. Hunter Lawrence:
   Lawrence's remarkable improvement and consistent performances have significantly boosted his standings.

3. AP (Ariane Patterson):
   Maintaining a strong position, AP's consistency keeps him in the top ranks despite upcoming competition from returning veterans.

4. Justin Cooper:
   Successfully carving out his place on the factory Yamaha team, Cooper's steady performances secure his ranking.

5. Jason Anderson:
   With a quiet yet solid summer, Anderson remains a reliable contender aiming for regular podiums.

6. Eli Tomac:
   While showing promise, Tomac's recent challenges due to injuries leave his future performances uncertain.

7. Dylan Ferrandis:
   Despite high expectations, Ferrandis hasn't consistently delivered, prompting questions about his equipment and strategy.

8. Malcolm Stewart:
   Struggling to find consistent form, Stewart's future depends on potential changes in his setup or team dynamics.

9. Christian Craig:
   Craig's performance appears tied to his equipment, and a potential switch back to Monster Star Yamaha could reignite his career.

10. Phil Nicoletti:
    Nearing retirement, Nicoletti's resilience and ability to overcome age-related challenges earn him a spot in the rankings.

Sponsor Mentions

While the episode features numerous sponsors, the focus remains on the racing discussions. However, notable mentions include:

• Pirelli Tires: Dominating the European circuits and a favorite among many riders.
• Guts Racing: Leading in custom graphics for seats and seat covers.
• Plum Creek Funding: Offering competitive rates, crucial for riders preparing financially for upcoming seasons.
• Concept Coatings Design Co: Providing top-notch bike builds and custom solutions for professional teams.

Conclusion

Episode 186 of Industry Seating offers a comprehensive analysis of the current motocross season, spotlighting Hayden Deegan's championship win and its broader implications on the sport's competitive and financial landscapes. Jason Thomas provides insightful commentary on rider performances, upcoming events, and the crucial factors influencing the remaining races. With detailed power rankings and thoughtful discussions, listeners gain an in-depth understanding of the motocross industry's current state and future trajectory.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason Thomas on Deegan's Victory:
  "Deegan took it to the best guys and they didn't have an answer." [06:15]

• On Financial Rewards:
  "It's life-changing money because that number grows into numbers that would blow your mind." [20:30]

• Regarding Chase Sexton's Championship Potential:
  "If Chase Sexton keeps pulling hole shots at the playoffs, he's going to be the SMX World Champion." [55:10]

Stay Tuned:
For more insights and updates, subscribe to Industry Seating and join Jason Thomas every Monday morning as he navigates the thrilling world of professional motocross and supercross racing.