From ISRT Kawasaki
Round 16 of the Supercross season in Denver brought a unique set of challenges, as the high elevation tested everything from athlete endurance and breathing to precise motorcycle tuning. The ISRT Kawasaki team embraced the conditions head-on, eager to rise to the occasion.
After nearly three months sidelined due to a mechanical breakdown, the team proudly welcomed back its race transporter in Denver. The return of the ISRT hauler was a welcome sight for both fans and industry insiders, and a major morale boost for the entire organization.
ISRT was also honored to represent Team Gastro, a St. Louis Metro East gastroenterology group, as a valued partner for the weekend.
Qualifying saw a competitive showing from Vince Friese, who secured 18th overall in the 450SX class. In Heat 1, Friese got off to a mid pack start but charged forward, working his way into a top-9 transfer position. Unfortunately, a red flag incident for a downed rider halted the race. The subsequent single-file restart—based on the previous completed lap—placed Friese just outside a transfer spot.
Undeterred, Friese pushed forward again after the restart and climbed back into the top 9. However, with just over a lap remaining, a small crash dropped him back in the field, sending him to the LCQ.
In the LCQ, Friese quickly battled his way into a transfer position once again. But after a few laps, contact with another rider in the notoriously treacherous sand section resulted in a heavy crash for both riders. Medical staff attended to them on track, and thankfully, both were able to walk away under their own power. Despite avoiding serious injury, the incident brought an early end to Friese’s night.
The crash also snapped an impressive streak of 15 consecutive main event appearances in the 2026 season for Friese and the ISRT Kawasaki team. Still, the team remains grateful the outcome wasn’t more severe, with Friese sustaining only minor bumps and bruises.
With resilience at the forefront, ISRT now shifts its focus to the Supercross finale in Salt Lake City, determined to bounce back and close out the season on a high note.
