Hampshire Claims First 450 Podium at Ironman
RJ Hampshire showcased his burgeoning talent in the 450 class during the latest AMA Pro Motocross round at Ironman, achieving his first overall podium finish. This comes less than two weeks after undergoing wrist surgery, marking a remarkable return to competitive form.
Hampshire initially impressed at Fox Raceway, finishing ninth overall with consistent moto scores of 6-12. His transition from 250 to 450 was marked by a shift in riding style; he appeared more composed and strategic, moving away from the aggressive, risk-taking approach that characterized his earlier career.
At Ironman, Hampshire’s performance crystallized. In a post-race interview, he expressed optimism about his continued progress: “We knew it was coming, there’s still more. I’m not saying this is kind of where we are at, there is still a lot of progression that we can get to.” He emphasized the need for comfort and durability as he adapts to the 450 class, indicating a commitment to improvement.
Hampshire’s evolving skill set bodes well for the remainder of the season, as he continues to refine his technique and gain confidence on the bike. His ability to maintain top-tier performance while managing his recovery will be crucial as the series advances.
