Walker felt pressure the first five or six miles until he was able to get a small cushion. “I was definitely being pushed hard the first few miles, but I was feeling good,” explained Walker. “I was just trying to battle early race fatigue. Your heart rate goes from 120 to 220 real quick, and it’s definitely a challenge the first half of the race. So I just tried to get out there and eliminate mistakes and choose good lines from the start. That way I could be in a good position for the second hour of the race because that’s when the fight is on.”

Once the two-card came out and Walker realized it would be a five-lap race, the WFR team decided a second pit stop would be a safe bet. After a quick splash of gas, Walker was back on course to finish the race. Everything was smooth sailing until a lapped rider got stuck on the Monster Energy Hill Climb right in front of Walker. Fortunately, some Fowler Fanatics were quick to respond and help Walker get back going on the steep terrain. Knowing he now had a shorter lead, Walker pushed through the remaining few minutes and ultimately crossed the finish line first overall for the third straight time this season.