Caselli Wins National Hare & Hound Finale
Race conditions in Lucerne Valley are notorious for being extremely dry and dusty. With such circumstances, Caselli knew how crucial the start was going to be in order to stay in contention for the series title. “I knew I had to win these last two rounds if I wanted any shot at the championship,” commented Caselli. “It was important to have a good start and stay out of everyone’s dust so I could ride my own race.”
Caselli did just what he planned and was able to get the holeshot to lead the group into the first loop. The first forty-mile loop was split into two twenty-mile segments of technical single track. Caselli came through the pits at the end of the two sections 15 seconds ahead of David Kamo and series point leader David Pearson. Pearson would have to finish third or worse in order for Caselli to claim the championship.
After the fuel stop, Caselli maintained his lead and headed out for the final loop. “The second loop was really fun and had some cool rocky down hills,” remarked Caselli. “The club did a really good job of changing up the course and I had a lot of fun riding today.” Caselli was able to stretch out his lead for the remainder of the race. He crossed the finish line in first with a comfortable margin over the second place rider of David Pearson.
Due to an incident during the race, there are currently multiple protests pending against one of the riders. The official overall results for the final round are currently awaiting the effect of those protests. The outcome will determine the 2012 AMA National Hare & Hound Series Champion.
“Regardless of what happens with the pending protest to determine the title,” remarked Factory FMF/KTM team manager Antti Kallonen, “we’re happy to finish out the series on a high note. We really had a great year despite missing a few races, but we’re glad Kurt was able to come back from his injury and win those last few races. The Hare & Hounds have been great way for our team to make bike adjustments and test settings as we direct our focus to the upcoming SCORE/Baja 1000,” commented Kallonen.
The championship title will remain unannounced until the protests are settled and officially publicized by the AMA National Hare & Hound Series.
Unofficial - Overall Results
- Kurt Caselli – KTM
- David Pearson
- Jacob Argubright
- David Kamo
- Nick Burson
- Ivan Ramirez - KTM
