“Roczen Relishes P2 at Anaheim 1 SX: ‘I’ve Won It So Many Times, It Feels Almost Surreal to be…
Ken Roczen, one of the most decorated riders in Supercross, walked away from Anaheim 1 with a solid second-place finish, and surprisingly, he couldn’t have been happier. The German rider, who has a storied history at Anaheim 1, shared his thoughts on the race, his performance, and how this result fits into his broader goals for the 2024 season.
A Familiar Stage, a New Perspective
Anaheim 1, often referred to as the Super Bowl of Supercross, has been kind to Roczen over the years. With multiple wins at the season opener under his belt, Roczen is no stranger to the top step of the podium. However, this year’s P2 finish felt different.
“I’ve won Anaheim 1 quite a bit, and it kind of feels surreal to be here without the pressure of having to prove myself all over again,” Roczen said after the race. “This year, I came into the season with a fresh mindset, focusing more on consistency and long-term goals.”
A Strong Start to the Season
Roczen’s performance at Anaheim 1 was nothing short of impressive. He showcased his trademark smooth riding style and adaptability on the track, which was particularly challenging due to its technical layout and soft dirt conditions. After a solid start in the Main Event, Roczen maintained a steady pace, battling with top contenders and ultimately securing second place.
“It was a great race,” he said. “The track was tricky, and everyone was pushing hard, but I stayed patient and made smart decisions. It’s always good to start the season on the podium, especially at Anaheim.”
The Bigger Picture
While some riders focus solely on race wins, Roczen has adopted a broader perspective for the 2024 season. His goal is to remain consistent, avoid injuries, and stay in the championship hunt.
“I’m not just thinking about individual races anymore,” Roczen explained. “Of course, winning is great, but championships are built on consistency. A P2 here is a great foundation to build on, and I’m feeling really confident about the bike and my team.”
Fans and Rivals React
Roczen’s performance drew praise from fans and fellow riders alike. His smooth transitions, calculated passes, and ability to maintain composure under pressure highlighted why he remains one of the most respected figures in the sport.
Longtime rival Eli Tomac, who took the win at Anaheim 1, acknowledged Roczen’s strong performance: “Ken’s always a tough competitor. Starting the season like this shows he’s going to be in the mix all year.”
What’s Next for Roczen?
As the Supercross season heats up, all eyes will be on Roczen to see if he can carry this momentum forward. With a proven track record and a renewed focus, he’s poised to be a serious contender for the championship.
For Roczen, however, it’s not just about the results. “I love what I do, and I’m grateful to still be here competing at a high level. Every race is a chance to improve, and I’m looking forward to what’s next.”
Anaheim 1 may not have ended with a win for Roczen, but his performance proved he’s still one of the best in the business. With his sights set on the bigger picture, 2024 could very well be his year to shine.
