Eli Tomac Reflects on Gate Selection After Rain Alters Track Conditions.
Eli Tomac, one of the most accomplished motocross and supercross riders of his generation, found himself facing an unexpected challenge during a recent race. What seemed like an ideal gate pick quickly turned into a disadvantage as rain changed the track’s conditions in a matter of minutes. Reflecting on the decision, Tomac admitted that, in hindsight, he should have chosen a different starting position.
How Rain Affected Tomac’s Start
In motocross and supercross, gate selection is a crucial aspect of race strategy. Riders analyze the track before their heat or main event, considering factors such as soil composition, rut depth, and the overall starting line conditions. Tomac, known for his aggressive riding style and precise decision-making, initially believed he had chosen one of the best gates. However, when rain started falling on the hard-packed dirt just outside the rut, the surface became slick and unpredictable.
This sudden change meant that the advantage Tomac had anticipated was quickly erased. Instead of getting the powerful drive he needed off the gate, he found himself struggling to find traction. As a result, his competitors who had picked slightly different gate positions had a better launch, leaving him to battle through the pack rather than leading the charge into the first corner.
The Importance of Gate Selection in Changing Conditions
Tomac’s experience highlights the ever-changing nature of motocross and supercross. While a gate might appear ideal during track walk or early heats, conditions can change rapidly—especially when weather is a factor. In dry conditions, riders prefer gates with solid dirt that provides maximum traction. However, when rain comes into play, hard-packed areas outside ruts can become dangerously slick, making starts more difficult.
Veteran riders like Tomac have extensive experience reading track conditions, but even the best racers can find themselves caught off guard. The challenge of gate selection isn’t just about the dirt itself—it’s also about predicting how conditions will evolve before the drop of the gate. This race served as a reminder that even the most seasoned pros must adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances.
Lessons Learned for Future Races
Reflecting on the race, Tomac acknowledged that a different gate might have given him a better chance at a holeshot. While it’s impossible to predict the weather with complete accuracy, this experience will likely influence his approach in future races. Riders and their teams often study weather forecasts and track conditions extensively before making their final gate selection, but sometimes, Mother Nature has the final say.
For aspiring racers and fans, Tomac’s situation is a valuable lesson in the unpredictability of motocross. No matter how much preparation goes into a race, variables like rain, track maintenance, and even other riders’ choices can impact the outcome.
Moving Forward
Despite the setback, Tomac remains one of the strongest competitors in the sport. His ability to fight through adversity and make strategic adjustments is what separates champions from the rest of the field. As the season progresses, he will undoubtedly use this experience to refine his approach to gate selection and track adaptation.
In the fast-paced world of motocross, every race is a learning opportunity. For Tomac, this one served as a reminder that even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by the elements. The key is to adapt, overcome, and come back stronger—something he has proven Time and time again.
