In a thrilling heavyweight battle at the SMX Playoff 2, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac fought to the finish and secured a hard-earned third overall (3-2) inside The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

“It was a good day of racing for us. In the first moto, I just kind of hung out in third. I had a good start and was solid there, but nothing really happened other than Jett (Lawrence) got close to my rear wheel at the end of that moto. I was able to fend him off and defend third, so that was important going into the second moto. I had another good start in Moto 2 and made a move in the second turn to make a couple of passes. I was right there. I was really close that whole race. I just couldn't find anything extra to get close enough to try for a pass, and maybe got a little lucky with some lappers at the end to get a little bit closer. Overall, it was good riding but of course shy of the win.”

Tomac qualified fifth and got a strong start in Moto 1, running third from the opening laps and setting a consistently fast pace. Under pressure in the closing laps, he held off the red-plate holder to secure third. In Moto 2, he got another good start and quickly made his way to the runner-up spot.

The eight-time AMA Supercross/Motocross Champion kept his title rival in sight, and in the final laps, the top three closed in on each other, making for a nail-biter finish to the moto. In the end, Tomac crossed the line in the runner-up spot to finish third overall, heading to the triple-points paying season finale third in the standings and 16 points from the top spot.

Rich Simmons – Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing 450 Team Manager was more than happy with the performance of his number one rider.

“It’s always nice to have a roof over the track. It helps keep the track conditions more consistent and creates good racing, and that’s exactly what we had. Eli rode two very good races, and the second one was exciting from start to finish. We obviously wish he had come out with the win, but those top three put on a great show.”

Tomac will race the final round of the SMX this coming weekend in Las Vegas, before a weekend off and then of course, he will lead Team USA into the Ironman held, Monster Energy Motocross of Nations. Team USA are the favourites to win the event.