Kawasaki’s Paul Whibley started off the defense of his No. 1 plate with a win at Round 1 of the OMA Nationals in Nashville, Tenn. The current GNCC point’s leader earned a tough win in front of teammate and former OMA Champion Jimmy Jarrett. Kawasaki nearly took the top-three spots, with Scott Watkins finishing just off the podium in fourth.

The Defense Begins

After earning his first OMA championship last year, Whibley started out his title defense with a hard-fought win. The victory didn’t come easy as he battled back and forth with his teammate Jarrett, but in the end the New Zealander came out on top.

“It was good to get the first win taken care of,” said Whibley. “I was able to get the holeshot and get out front early. We weren’t even through the first lap when a vine snagged my foot peg and I was on the ground. I had to pick off riders as fast as I could knowing Jimmy (Jarrett) would start to pull away. I pitted the lap after Jimmy and was able to get into the lead. Then my chain came off in one of the rocky sections. It was definitely back and forth with us, but over the last couple laps I was able to open up about a 30 second lead and took that to the checkered flag.”

Jarrett’s Ride

Multi-time OMA Champion Jarrett was a man on a mission during the first round and nearly won the race over his teammate. His consistent ride showed that he will be a championship contender throughout the 10 round series.

Watkins First Ride

The OMA race in Nashville was Watkins’ first-ever attempt at the series and his results proved the series suits him well.

“I think this series is a good fit for my style,” said Watkins. “I tend to like tighter tracks and the OMA’s seem to keep the courses more single-lined. The race went well for me. I made my way through the pack from seventh or eighth and almost pulled out a podium finish.”

Next Round

The three Kawasaki riders return to GNCC competition next weekend at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Whibley is looking for his second XC1 win of the season, while Jarrett will be going for his first. 

OMA Nationals Round 1 Results:
Nashville, Tenn.
April 12, 2009

Pro Class Results
1. Paul Whibley, Kawasaki
2. Jimmy Jarrett, Kawasaki
3. Jason Thomas, Yamaha
4. Scott Watkins, Kawasaki
5. Nick Fahringer, Husaberg