The potential for Anaheim One to turn into a mud race was on everyone’s mind at today’s Supercross press conference. The rain in Southern California has let up (for now), but the forecast calls for an incoming storm to bring another five inches. The track is currently being built and is being tarped as they go, but despite the efforts, Anaheim one might turn into a quagmire.The riders, however, are all still focused and looking forward to a great season and a great battle. All eyes are, of course, on the elite three: former champion Ricky Carmichael, defending champion Chad Reed and incoming phenom James “Bubba” Stewart. Carmichael and Reed both admit they feel like the underdog: Carmichael for coming back after sitting out last season, and Reed for having won his Championship in Ricky’s absence. Stewart’s success in the upcoming season remains a mystery pending his 250 class debut this Saturday. “People either expect me to win, or crash my brains out,” he says. The countdown is on, and this Saturday night, fans will get their first taste of what is hyped to be the greatest season in Supercross history.Jeremy McGrath is adding even more excitement by coming out of retirement to race select rounds. He’s very excited to be back this season, but admits this time around, things are much different. With his amazing record-setting career already behind him, this season is about doing what he loves, and meeting the personal challenge of racing again. “I’m proud to be a part of Team Honda and excited about the year. As far as my expectations go, I’m being realistic. I don’t want anyone to get confused about this being a comeback. I just miss the racing and I’m excited to be here.”Despite his humble attitude, those who know the King know he can never be counted out. He’s been training hard, and has as much determination as anyone else this year. “I’m gonna make sure that if I’m going to [race], it’s going to be great,” McGrath says, “I didn’t race my whole career and have the results I’ve had to come out and ruin it now. I’m not showing up just to show up.”The fans aren’t the only ones excited about McGrath racing this season. Chad Reed made his move up to the 250 class the year McGrath retired, and never got a chance to race with his idol. Reed admits he is looking forward to lining up on the start next to his childhood hero. When Todd Harris asked if he’d “still be your hero if he sends you into the tuff blocks.” Reed laughed and responded: “Yeah, I already did that to him once, so he owes me!”We’re keeping our fingers crossed that the weather gods will be in favor of a great race this weekend. We hope to see everyone compete in peak conditions rather than a mud hole; but rain or shine, the race is on!Log on to Dirtrider.com Sunday morning for results. Set a link to our Supercross page, dirtrider.com/news/supercross for season-long coverage. Get Sunday results and check back for more pictures, interviews, wallapers and giveaways!
