FLY ATV Supercross Daytona International Speedway Daytona, Florida March 8, 2016

JB Racing’s Jeffrey Rastrelli, like Natalie Jr, crashed in his heat, but unlike Natalie, he didn’t make the cut, so he qualified for the main by winning the LCQ, which also gave him one of the last gate picks, but it didn’t keep him from challenging the front runners as he had a tremendous race-long battle with Thomas Brown.

Gold Speed Tire's Jeffrey Rastrelli was on the gas in the Pro Main as he quickly closed the gap on the leaders & started making passes

“I had a nice little get-off; I went into a hole and fell off the bike,” said Rastrelli of his crash during his heat. “That really put a fire under my butt and made me ride even better. I charged ahead and I knew the work I put in during the winter would pay off. I just stayed consistent and didn’t make any mistakes. I had some really good lines out there today, made my moves and rode a solid race.

Jeffrey Rastrelli swapped positions with Thomas Brown before Rastrelli was able to secure the 2nd spot, which he held to the checkered flag

Standing in Daytona’s legendary Victory Lane with a podium finish, Root River Racing’s Thomas Brown was tough on himself, despite starting off the season with a third place finish. He said he’s ready to win some races this year.

Maxxis' Thomas Brown got off to a great start & claimed the final spot on the Daytona ATV SX Pro ATV Podium

“I came across the finish line and I was very disappointed in myself because Jeffrey caught and passed me twice,” said Brown. “I reeled him in at the end I couldn’t push the pass. I’m ready to win some races this year. I’ve been the third-place guy, so it’s time to start winning some races.”

Thomas Brown celebrated his third place finish with his new mechanic Brian Johnson at the Daytona's Winner Circle

Despite Brown’s disappointment in not winning, he still has a positive outlook on the season. “This is definitely a lot better start to the year than last year,” added Brown. “It’s nice to be in the hunt for the championship. The whole program is unbelievable this year. Hard work really pays off.”