Image: Octopi Media.

Capturing a heat race win in Daytona highlighted a convincing premier-class debut for RJ Hampshire, the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider leading a host of proven 450SX talent during his first-ever gate drop in the category.

In the build-up to round eight Hampshire confirmed he would join Christian Craig to bring the team’s 450SX program back to two riders for the event, with regular Malcolm Stewart sidelined for an extended duration following knee surgery.

With the 250SX West region currently on break, Hampshire capitalised on the opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities onboard an FC 450, withstanding the charge of Cooper Webb (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) to lead each lap on his way to victory in heat two, notably ahead of Webb, Chase Sexton (Team Honda HRC) and Jason Anderson (Monster Energy Kawasaki) across the line. The number 24 then delivered a measured performance in the main event on his way to P8.

“Man, it was an awesome day, and an awesome experience,” Hampshire said. “Murph pushed hard for it, believed I could do it, and we got all the other guys on board. I was just happy I was able to prove myself today. We were solid from the beginning of the day, really.

“My qualifying times were decent, P5. I holeshot the heat, led a few laps, and then reality hit that I might win this thing. I won my first heat, my first time ever trying to do it, and first ever race on a 450, so that was awesome.

“The main event start was decent and I just kind of rode my own race. I didn’t really race anyone hard and wanted to finish in the top ten of my first main and I did that. I’m just really stoked on our whole day and like I said, for the team giving me a chance to come out here and race tonight.”

No real indication has been made regarding Hampshire’s continuation on a 450 in 2023 Supercross, with the 250SX West Championship set to resume at Lumen Field, Seattle on 25 March.

Update: Hampshire has confirmed he will continue in 450SX this Saturday at Indianapolis.