You won’t see a more dramatic race than moto three of the triple crown in Dallas. In a season of pure unpredictability and excitement, that third moto became the most unpredictable and exciting race of an already unforgettable and adrenaline charged season – and maybe one of the best races of all time.
Webb went head to head with his title rivals, the pure talent of Ken Roczen and the pure speed Chase Sexton, and of course it was Cooper Webb who found a way to come out on top!
That win even came after a scary crash in practice that left Webb favouring his left wrist. And he still made it happen.
“I think yesterday in press day was like a quick reminder, you can get put back to reality really quick,” conceded Webb. “So, I think staying in the moment is important, obviously, and tonight was huge for just overall, leaving with the red plate. After the first main event, I dug myself a big hole, so I didn’t see that happening. But last weekend, I think was a good just getting the first one, get the confidence, have a good week, come in here, like, the ball’s definitely rolling. I’m definitely in a in a great spot mentally, physically, everything, and definitely ready to charge for this championship.”
So, as a two-time 450 Supercross champion, the same as legends like Ward, Johnson, Reed and Tomac, we asked is it frustrating to still be overlooked year after year as a pre-season favourites?
“Oh, for sure, I think it’s no question, rarely am I the title favourite, but like I said, sometimes rightfully so. These competitors are insane, you know? They got a lot of speed, a lot of talent, and a lot of championships themselves, but I just kind of always try to put myself in a good position. I know what I can do on a dirt bike and with my team behind me, I always never count myself out. Sometimes it’s a little annoying more than frustrating, just kind of like, “Hey guys, I don’t know why I’m not in the conversation sometimes,” but it is what it is. It definitely fires me up and keeps me in it, no doubt.”
Webb was also asked if he feels his speed doesn’t get enough credit and he was pretty humble and self-effacing in his answer. “I mean, it doesn’t bother me. I think it’s been something that, that’s been said for a long time. I mean, I do rarely qualify first in practice. I think that’s a fair statement, and you can fairly say sometimes I don’t have the speed. I mean, I wouldn’t say tonight I was the fastest guy. I was close, but I don’t think I was the fastest. But with that being said, what we did 60 laps? You know you’ve got to put yourself in good positions and we work on it [speed] at the farm. I’ve got great teammates and riders and training partners and the speed is always there [with teammates during the week] so it definitely helps me there. But yeah, I mean sometimes it’s fair to say, sometimes I would say it’s not fair to say.“
Regardless of the perception, the reality is Webb’s raw speed has went up, his instincts are insanely good and he simply knows how to dig in and win when the opportunity is there. He just finds a way to make it happen with that chip on his shoulder, thanks to the doubters. And he ‘s proving everyone wrong yet again.
Never doubt Cooper Webb.
