The second round of the Monster Energy AMA 250SX East championship showed speed and promise for the Triumph TF 250-X but ended prematurely with unfortunate injuries to Triumph Racing’s two riders.
As the series’ Military Appreciation Round, the event at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, offered the teams and riders a chance to make tribute to the US special forces with special military-inspired graphics and gear. The Triumph Racing TF 250-X of riders Jalek Swoll and Evan Ferry were no different, with a visual salute to the US Air Force.
In only the second ever Supercross race for Triumph Racing, the event got off to a tough start with Supercross rookie Ferry #751 frustratingly ruled out with a right shoulder injury following a fall during the event’s press day. This meant it was down to Jalek Swoll to fly the flag alone. Overall qualifying saw Swoll place the ninth fastest time, just over a second down from the quickest rider.
Heading into the 250 Heat 1 where the top nine progress directly to the Main, #33 Swoll was able to take full advantage of the Triumph TF 250-X’s performance out of the gate and grab the holeshot. Ultimately placing fifth at the flag, Jalek maintained his momentum and assured his place in the Main.
Looking to avoid a repeat of the first round gatedrop in Detroit when the Triumph riders were the innocent victims of a first turn pile-up, it was a clean start for most of the pack. Unfortunately for Swoll, his race was over at the end of the first lap when he crashed heavily after contact with another rider. The medical team attended to Jalek before he was eventually able to stand with help.
Both Jalek and Evan will seek further medical investigation and advice from doctors on Monday to confirm what the prognosis will be.
Everyone at Triumph Racing wishes the riders all the very best for a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing them back riding on the Triumph TF 250-X soon.
Bobby Hewitt – Triumph Racing Team Principal (US): “It was a rough weekend, with Evan going out on press day and then ultimately Jalek going out in the Main. But focussing on the positives, Jalek did well on the day and improved every time he got out on the bike. He’s riding better and the bike is much better – the break from the first round to here did us well. We used that time to make some improvements with the bike.
“Both riders have no bones broken, but we’ll need some further checks to assess them and see how we look for the next round at Daytona this coming Sunday. Unfortunately, this is just part of the sport but whatever happens the team will be in Daytona to support Triumph and our sponsors in this new adventure and meet with the fans. We’ll update everyone as soon as we can.”
Results 250 Supercross East Main Event – Round 2, Detroit
1st Haiden Deegan (Yamaha)
2nd Cameron McAdoo (Kawasaki)
3rd Tom Vialle (KTM)
DNF Jalek Swoll (Triumph)
250 Supercross East Championship after Round 2 of 9
1st Max Anstie (Honda) – 38
2nd Pierce Brown (GasGas) – 34
3rd Daxton Bennick (Yamaha) – 32
15th Jalek Swoll (Triumph) – 16
The 250 East Supercross championship returns to action for Round 3 of the series in Florida at the famous Daytona International Speedway on March 3, 2024.
