Commentary

Villopoto wins AMA SX Anaheim

Ryan Villopoto wins the first AMA Supercross stop of the 2012 season in Anaheim

Updated: January 8, 2012, 10:15 AM ET
By Associated Press | ESPN.com

Steve CoxRyan Villopoto (middle), the winner, Chad Reed (right) who was second, and Ryan Dungey (left) who was third.

Broc Tickle Chad Reed Ryan Dungey Ryan Villopoto 2012 Season Preview

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Defending champion Ryan Villopoto won the season opener of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, beating Chad Reed and Ryan Dungey at Angel Stadium on Saturday night.

Villopoto, the Kawasaki rider from Poulsbo, Wash., won at Anaheim for the second straight year, beating Reed by 12.2 seconds.

"It was a phenomenal night for me," Villopoto said. "I didn't have the heat race I wanted, so I didn't have a great gate pick. Once I was out front I wanted to lay down fast laps and make no mistakes. I did make one small one, but overall, it was a great race for me."

Reed, the Honda rider from Dade City, Fla., who finished four points behind Villopoto last year in the 17-race championship, added: "Villopoto made us look silly out here tonight. I am just happy to get second place tonight in this field of riders."

Cole Seely of Murrieta, Calif., won the Supercross Lites race. The Honda rider secured the lead on the second lap and went on to his third career victory. Tyla Rattray, of Wildomar, Calif., was second on his Kawasaki.

"I couldn't think of a better way to start the season," Seely said. "To get a win here tonight in front of my family and friends is huge. I learned last year that consistency is key, and I hope to be on the podium at every race."

Steve CoxCole Seely, who won the Lites main event.

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