Two riders fought to the end of the 25-lap National at Virginia Motor Speedway in Saluda, Virginia, last night and when all was said and done it was defending AMA Grand National Champion Kenny Coolbeth ending his teammate Jared Mees’ three-race win streak. After several lead changes, Coolbeth took over on lap 15, but last years’ winner, Mees, was determined to take one more shot and on lap 23 tried one last time to pass high in turn three. It was not to be, however, as Mees slid high off the tight groove and Coolbeth was home free.
Now well off the lead, Mees recovered to finish second over pole sitter Screamin’ Eagle/Latus Harley-Davidson’s Joe Kopp.
Fourth went to American Suzuki’s Jake Johnson over Harley-mounted Rich King, Shauwn Russell, Bryan Smith, Johnny Murphree, Jethro Halbert and Bryan Bigelow.
Mees now leads Coolbeth, 104-95, in the championship.
