Most memorable GNC1 moments of 2014: No. 1 - Championship battle between Jared Mees and Bryan Smith is turned upside down at Calistoga
Note: We counted down the top five most memorable moments in 2014 from the GNC1 ranks each day this week. This is No. 1.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 21, 2014) - The 2014 edition of the Calistoga Half-Mile will go down in AMA Pro Flat Track lore as the definitive turning point, for better or worse depending on your favorite rider, in the Grand National Championship title hunt, all because of some engine smoke.
Bryan Smith was fast in California’s wine country on Sept. 27, and it looked like he would extend his points lead over Jared Mees with just one race to go. Then, his Kawasaki began to smoke, and he was shown the black flag.
In a tight pack, and with his bike not showing any sign of slowing down, Smith refused to pull into the pits and while he crossed the finish line in second behind Brad Baker, he was disqualified. Mees was officially scored in second and took a points lead into the finale that he was able to hold on to and win the overall title.
It’s all part of racing, and Smith is sure to be the last person to ever forget that fateful race. One thing is for sure though, he’ll be out for vengeance in 2015, and the rest of the paddock knows it.
In fact, had Smith stayed clear of trouble, Calistoga still would have been memorable for the fact that he would have all but sealed the title in the rolling hills of northern California.
Baker claiming his first win of the season was also a major milestone for the defending GNC1 champion, who had been recovering from a broken arm in the early part of the year.
For its title implications, drama and ensuing discussions, the Calistoga Half-Mile is the No. 1 most memorable moment of the 2014 season.
Upcoming Broadcast
Latest news
PARTNERS
