ST. LOUIS — Team Honda HRC Progressive ‘s Hunter Lawrence earned the overall win at Playoff 2 of the SMX World Championship inside the Dome at America’s Center.
Both 450SMX class motos delivered intense action down to the final corner, and Hunter’s (1-3) moto finishes netted him the event win and the double-points payout in St. Louis. The victory puts Hunter just 6 points down in the championship with only the final, which pays triple points, remaining on the 2025 calendar.
Team Honda HRC Progressive’s Jett Lawrence put in an inspiring charge in the first moto to come from 21st place to fourth; he was just a tick of the stopwatch away from second place as three riders crossed the checkered nearly in unison. Lawrence was part of another close, three-rider finish in the second moto but this time taking the win and retaining the championship points lead. Jett’s (4-1) motos were good for second overall on the night. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac was part of both close finishes and took home third overall with (3-2) moto scores. Tomac sits 16 points down in the championship going into the Las Vegas Final next weekend.
“Great night. [I’m] happy, though it’s weird, it’s like a coincidence, like we’re in the second round over and over,” Hunter Lawrence said. “But it’s nice, you know we’re trying to build a house so, fellas, if that bonus could hit Monday that would be wonderful. A little money always helps, so yeah we’d like some nice things and they cost money [laughs]. So, big thanks to the team, everyone that’s helped out, yeah, [I’m] stoked, what a good night.”
In 250SMX class racing, Jo Shimoda earned the overall with (2-2) moto finishes. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker also used consistency to his advantage, taking second overall via (3-3) moto scores. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher took the final spot on the podium with (6-4) moto results.
