Daytona is one of the more unique races on the circuit. The sand whoops, ruts, and grass sections make for a different track than any other. An outdoor-type venue with the speedway setting also sets it apart, while Bike Week gives it a completely different atmosphere from start to finish. For the riders, “Daytoner” is the most physically demanding race and requires some revisions in bike setup. With all of these differences, I thought it would be fun to take a look at what I imagined to be going through some of the racers’ heads at various points of the race. Remember, these are just my opinions and thoughts and I am not a particularly bright individual.
Lap 1
Ken Roczen (1st): Danke Schoen for the lead, RV. This class is easy.
Ryan Villopoto (3rd): I holeshot then go off the track? Real smooth, champ. Now I have to pass Barcia. Awesome. Lots of time, though, and this track is going to look like Chernobyl by halfway.
James Stewart (6th): Really would have liked a better start, but let’s try to jump a wall or something here ASAP.
Chad Reed (7th): Great start, pal. Now I gotta pass all of these dudes. Can’t wait!
Eli Tomac (9th): Is Roczen really winning? He’s almost as gnarly as my dad. This track is rougher than it looked on TV!
Broc Tickle (12th): Yes RC, I know, I know.
Mike Alessi (18th): Where am I? Did I make a wrong turn on A1A?
"This other Ryan is really starting to piss me off." - JT$
Simon Cudby photo
Lap 5
Ryan Villopoto (1st): Time to make like Houdini. Later, homies.
Ryan Dungey (3rd): This other Ryan is really starting to piss me off.
Trey Canard (5th): Did anyone see that save in the heat race?
Davi Millsaps (12th): Mayday! I need a red flag ASAP. Anyone feel like helping me out?
Jake Weimer (15th): Dang.
Lap 10
Justin Barcia (3rd): Dungey passed me, but a podium at my first Daytona 450 race isn’t so bad. Stanton won here four times in a row, though, so I’m sure I’ll hear about it.
James Stewart (7th): I can’t jump this stupid wall and I already crashed once. Halfway?! Crap.
Chad Reed (8th): Stupid Tuff Blox. I already passed all my mates once and now have to do it again? Bugger.
Broc Tickle (9th): I’m top ten, RC! Oh, you won here five times? Okay, I’ll shut up now.
Mike Alessi (16th): Man down! When is Hangtown again?
"Dungey passed me, but a podium at my first Daytona 450 race isn’t so bad. Stanton won here four times in a row, though, so I’m sure I’ll hear about it." - JT$
Simon Cudby photo
Lap 15
Ryan Villopoto (1st): The Dunge is back there, but we’re all good. I like Daytona.
Eli Tomac (4th): This is a little more like it. I got to pass Ze German also! Bonus!
Ken Roczen (5th): Hey, Eli, was it 17 points or 18? See you at Seattle, bro.
Davi Millsaps (10th): Really wish I could get a few of these guys but it’s just not happening.
Matt Goerke (12th): That crash really blew my night but I can get Short if I push here.
Weston Peick (18th): Hey, Kiniry, you wanna finish this for me?
"Red plate me!" - JT$
Simon Cudby photo
Lap 20
Ryan Villopoto (1st): Red plate me!
Chad Reed (5th): Had a chance to be up front tonight but just wasn’t meant to be.
Trey Canard (6th): Wasn’t bad but wanted more. Did anyone see that save in the heat race?!
Ken Roczen (7th): The beginning was more fun than the end. Felt good to lead, though!
James Stewart (8th): I am better than this.
Andrew Short (12th): One of those nights. Can Indy be tomorrow?
Josh Hill (15th): Goggles are underrated and this track is a rough mofo.
