“ I didn ’ t start off that great ,” said Ansley . “ I went down in the first test and kind of got hung up where I couldn ’ t get my bike out of the trees , so I kind of started the day off at a deficit . So , the next test I just gave it my best and I ended up second in the second test and second in the third test . I made sure I just stayed consistent that last test and brought it home for a win .”
After missing half of last year due to an injury , Coastal Racing GasGas ’ Ricky Russell returned to action to claim eighth in Sumter , edging KTM-mounted Zach Hayes by two seconds . Hayes claimed second in the NE Pro 2 class with his ninth place finish .
Tely Energy Racing KTM ’ s Liam Draper rounded out the top 10 .
FMF / KTM ’ s Josh Toth managed to get through the day in 11th while riding with a broken hand .
“ It would have been too close after surgery so I just had to suck it up and ride – I plan on getting it fixed on Tuesday morning ,” said Toth . “ The day went pretty well with everything considered , I was able to ride pretty well and just tried to be cautious and stay away from all the trees . I ’ m happy to score some points toward the championship , that was the goal for today .”
Tyler Vore ( Hsq ) finished 12th overall and third in the NE Pro 2 class .
VOL . 6 ISSUE 3 - MARCH 2021 // PAGE 85