Chad Reed eyes third US Open crown

Yamaha rider Chad Reed will line up as one of the favourites to take out event honours at this weekend’s Rockstar Energy Drink U.S. Open in Las Vegas.

L&M/San Manuel/Yamaha rider Chad Reed will line up as one of the favourites to take out event honours at this weekend’s Rockstar Energy Drink U.S. Open at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena.

The 24-year-old went back to back in 2003/04, and feels as his form and fitness will help him to contend for his third event victory, equaling the record set by rival Ricky Carmicheal The Aussie has been putting in the hard yards in training over the past few months, which included a positive showing at the MX des Nation’s at Budd’s Creek. Reed wasn’t able to convert his opening moto second place to an overall result, taken out of contention by another rider in the final moto, but feels as though he has the necessary momentum to challenge this weekend.

“The U.S. Open is a great event,” said Reed. “It’s a two-night race with such prestige and history. When I moved to America, it was a race I really looked forward to competing in. It receives great publicity, so after winning the race in ’03 and ’04, it helped boost my profile in this sport.” “I took this summer off so I could rest up,” added Reed. “It was a decision I made so that I can show up at the U.S. Open ready and excited to race.”

With Ricky Carmichael not racing, Reed will square off against James Stewart in a continuation of their Supercross duel which raged for much of last season. “James is a great rider and excellent competitor,” said Reed. “He does not contribute to my motivation for success, though. I am motivated by my will to win.” The event consists of a series of practice sessions, followed by heats, semi-finals, a LCQ and the 20-lap main event with the victor taking a US$100,000.00 prize purse.