Industry Seating Podcast - Episode 200: Arlington SX Summary

Host: Jason Thomas
Release Date: February 24, 2025

1. Introduction

In Episode 200 of Industry Seating, host Jason Thomas delves deep into the Arlington Supercross Triple Crown, offering listeners an insightful analysis of the event, rider performances, and the broader implications for the SMX World Championship season. Recorded on the Sunday following the race, Thomas provides a comprehensive breakdown of the night’s happenings, setting the stage for upcoming races, including the highly anticipated Daytona event.

2. Event Recap: Arlington SX

Date & Location:

• Event: Arlington Supercross Triple Crown
• Round: Round seven of the 31-round SMX World Championship
• Weather: A pleasant evening in Dallas with blue skies and milder temperatures, contrasting the earlier week’s bitter cold in North Texas.

Atmosphere:
Thomas describes the Arlington event as a vibrant night, enhanced by fan engagement during the race day and the fan fest activities. The conducive weather played a significant role in the event’s success, allowing both riders and fans to enjoy the races without the hindrance of adverse weather conditions.

3. Triple Crown Analysis

Definition & Structure:

• Triple Crown Rounds: 17 Supercross rounds, 11 outdoor events, and 3 playoff rounds.

Reception:
While the Triple Crown format is lauded by broadcasters like Feld and fans for offering more racing action and engagement, it faces criticism from riders and teams. The primary concerns revolve around increased risk of injury, higher costs, and the complexities of managing extended schedules.

Jason’s Perspective:
Jason articulates a balanced view, acknowledging the benefits of heightened action and fan satisfaction, while also recognizing the genuine concerns of riders and teams. He emphasizes the universal increase in racing opportunities and its undeniable appeal to audiences.

Notable Quote:
"There is simply more of it, period, bar none, there is more of it. And that's, that's a really hard thing to argue."
— Jason Thomas [12:45]

4. Rider Performance Analysis

a. Hayden Deegan

Performance Highlights:
Deegan showcased exceptional skill, securing two out of three race wins. His dominant performance has repositioned him as a formidable contender with a five-point lead, signaling his potential to clinch the championship.

Team Dynamics:
Despite changes in training programs and strategic adjustments, Deegan’s consistency and adaptability have been paramount. Brian Deegan, Hayden’s team member, credits ongoing efforts to enhance performance, hinting at undisclosed factors contributing to their success.

Notable Quote:
"He looks like a different guy. He looked more confident, had more speed, didn't matter where he started, didn't matter if he fell. He was able to overcome whatever adversity was thrown at him and get the wins."
— Jason Thomas [25:30]

b. Jordan Smith

Performance & Injury:
Smith secured a race win but faced a setback due to a shoulder injury incurred during practice. The injury has impacted his performance, resulting in a significant points loss to Deegan.

Impact on Championship:
With a five-point deficit, Smith’s championship hopes are dwindling, though not entirely extinguished. His resilience and toughness suggest a potential return, but the current standing severely hampers his bid.

Notable Quote:
"It's a big difference. It can be the difference between winning and losing and very likely would be you're talking about three or four seconds, you know, of track position. That's a big deal."
— Jason Thomas [45:15]

c. Cole Davies

Breakout Performance:
Davies has emerged as a standout talent, winning races at Glendale and showing immense potential. His trajectory in the 250 class is upward and promising, garnering significant attention and support from Monster Yamaha Star Racing.

Future Prospects:
At 17 years old, Davies is poised for a stellar career, with consistent improvement and a solid contract underpinning his future in the sport.

Notable Quote:
"This kid is the real deal. This kid has something, you know, I don't know what his contract is with Monster Yamaha Star Racing. I think it's pretty solid from what Daniel Blair was telling me, why he went there, because it was a pretty solid offer for a long term."
— Jason Thomas [38:20]

d. Garrett Marchbanks

Performance & Challenges:
Marchbanks faced difficulties due to a severe shoulder injury, which has hampered his performance and added financial strain due to mounting medical bills. His need for podium finishes is driven by the necessity to alleviate debt, intensifying the pressure to perform despite physical setbacks.

Notable Quote:
"A great way to call yourself out of debt is to get some bonus checks. And I'm sure that's what's in the back of his mind is every single Saturday is a chance to get 5, 10, 30, 50 grand."
— Jason Thomas [60:10]

e. Joe Shimoto

Injury Impact:
Shimoto’s broken hand has significantly affected his ability to practice and perform. Racing with a compromised grip strength has left him at a disadvantage against competitors who have maintained rigorous training schedules.

Recovery & Expectations:
Despite the setback, Shimoto shows determination to recover and improve, with expectations that he will return stronger in upcoming races, including Indianapolis.

Notable Quote:
"All you're trying to do in life in general. All you're trying to do is be better than you were the day before. And I think Joe will be better in Indy than he was in Arlington."
— Jason Thomas [65:45]

5. Power Rankings

Jason presents a concise power ranking of the top contenders in the 450 class, offering insights into their performances and potential trajectories.

1. Cooper Webb
   Most opportunistic racer, excels in exploiting weaknesses, and maintains a strong mental game.

   Quote:
   "He just finds angles to work just what he does. He will find whatever edge he can exploit and make the most of it and it'll wear you down."
   — Jason Thomas [80:50]

2. Chase Sexton
   Displays resilience but grapples with the psychological aftermath of recent crashes.

   Quote:
   "That was a tough night for Chase Sexton... he needs a mind eraser, somebody to come in and just wipe that memory from his mind."
   — Jason Thomas [75:30]

3. Ken Rockson
   Close to winning overall but struggles with maintaining speed in the middle stages of races.

   Quote:
   "He's like, man, I just need to be faster... when everybody gets going, that's when he feels like he's missing that last 1%."
   — Jason Thomas [70:15]

4. Justin Cooper
   Solid performance but hindered by difficulties navigating the Whoops section of the track.

5. Justin Barcia & Jason Anderson
   Both riders exhibit aggressive maneuvers, often resulting in on-track clashes.

6. Aaron Plessinger
   Struggling to replicate past performances, ranking lower due to inconsistent results.

7. Julian Bomera
   Underperformed, later revealed to be due to a shoulder dislocation during practice.

8. Mookie
   Had an invisible race with minimal standout moments.

Honorable Mention:

• Joey Savage: Consistently talented but hampered by crashes and bad starts, making him an underrated rider.

6. Conclusion & Looking Ahead to Daytona

Jason wraps up the episode by reflecting on the Arlington event’s implications for the rest of the season. With upcoming races like Daytona on the horizon, he anticipates further developments in rider performances and championship standings. The episode underscores the relentless nature of the sport, where resilience, adaptability, and mental fortitude are as crucial as physical prowess.

Final Thought:
"We are off to Daytona and I'll be there on Thursday and yeah, looking forward to another race. Looking forward to another podcast."
— Jason Thomas [78:00]

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from Episode 200 of Industry Seating. For listeners seeking in-depth analysis and exclusive content, consider subscribing to Jason Thomas’s Patreon at patreon.com/industryseating.