A first-turn crash in the second 250MX moto at High Point almost ended Haiden Deegan’s chance of a third podium in four rounds, but the rookie’s ‘crash or podium’ tactic paid off as he fought his way back to P6 in the moto to land third overall.

Deegan looked poised to win the opening moto as he led the majority of the race, only to be passed by RJ Hampshire (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna) and relegated back to second position toward the end of the final lap.

Combined, the 17-year-old Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing standout’s 2-6 results were enough to continue his podium form, further establishing himself at the top-end of the 250MX field. He qualified quickest on Saturday in the tough early conditions of Mt. Morris.

“It was a good day,” Deegan reflected. “I was the fastest qualifier and got a good start. I was happy with the first moto, even though RJ got by me there in the end. I was riding smooth and it was a good moto.

“The second moto was crazy. I crashed after the start, got run over, and got up in last. My mindset was just, I’m going to crash or I’m going to get on the podium today. I just sent it so hard and made my way up to sixth to get third overall.”

After four rounds of racing and in his first full Pro Motocross campaign, Deegan sits second overall in the 250MX standings with 147 points, 28 behind red plate-holder Hunter Lawrence (Team Honda HRC) on 175 points.