Image: Octopi Media.

Grabbing the early lead in San Diego’s 450SX main event serves as a boost to the returning Adam Cianciarulo who continues to build in his competitive comeback from injury.

Cianciarulo was sidelined for the AMA season last year from San Diego after hurting his knee, also forced out prematurely during the Pro Motocross and Supercross championships in 2021.

The Monster Energy Kawasaki rider completed his first competitive outing in nearly 12 months a controlled P9 at Anaheim 1. He then delivered a strong start to San Diego’s main and claimed the early lead, maintaining position at the front of the field until lap four when he was passed by Cooper Webb (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing).

Throughout the 20 laps, Cianciarulo was ultimately relegated to eighth, where he finished the race, but was able to bank another complete main event as things continue to move in the right direction.

“Overall, I’m pleased with my performance tonight, particularly my strong starts and ability to contend with the lead group in the main event,” said Cianciarulo.

“There certainly is still room for improvement but, I believe tonight marked a step forward from my previous race. I will keep working hard week by week and with the support from the fans and the team at Monster Energy Kawasaki, aim for an even better race next weekend.”

Entering the third race of the season this Saturday at Anaheim 2, Cianciarulo is eighth in the 450SX standings, 23 points back from red plate-holder Eli Tomac (Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing).