While it wasn’t an ideal start to the Atlanta Supercross residency for Cooper Webb, he was able to salvage a podium and continue to build his points lead on a day he felt he ‘kinda rode like crap’.

Mother Nature played a large part in the day’s festivities, bringing in rain and shortening track time to just one timed session before racing got underway.

The limited track time likely played a role for many riders, one of them being Webb who admittedly struggled to get up to speed aboard his Red Bull KTM.

“I kinda rode like crap,” Webb explained, “to be honest for myself. Was struggling with some lines and just kind of riding tight and made a lot of mistakes. So at the end of the day, I was happy to still be on the podium.

“Kind of felt like I left a lot out there though, you know I felt like I was in a great situation and didn’t take advantage of it. A little bummed on that aspect, but overall the big picture it was great for the points, and to be on the podium on a day that you’re struggling is always a huge plus.”

With his closest championship rival Ken Roczen (Team Honda HRC) coming through the first turn in 19th and eventually finishing 9th on the night, Webb’s championship lead now jumps to 22 points.

Following the race, Webb was asked about the growing rivalry between the two as the series comes to a close.

“I know where I’m at mentality wise,” he continued, “and moving forward what I need to be at with these races left. Obviously, when it comes down to later in the season, it’s easy to overthink. But yeah, I’m just doing what I can and trying to get good starts like I did in the main and put myself up front and honestly contend for wins still, I feel like that’s the goal.”

The 2021 Monster Energy Supercross championship continues tomorrow with round 14 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.