The battle for the final step on the podium was hard-fought for Girroir, as three riders challenged for position throughout the five-lap event. The FMF KTM Factory Racing rider would power his KTM 350 XC-F to the podium position when it counted, making up two places on the final lap and securing third place.

Johnny Girroir: “It feels great to finish on the podium here in Ohio! Made a few mistakes there and really had to put the hammer down on the final lap to get by [Josh] Strang. To be on the box is awesome, as we’re building momentum, which feels really good. Getting closer to 100 percent, so I’m excited to keep moving forward and finishing out the championship strong. Big thanks to my team and all those who support me!”

The other FMF KTM Factory Racing entry of 2021 champion Kelley started off strongly in position three, before coming unstuck in the hills and losing an immense amount of time. He worked his way back up to the leaders twice, before an issue signaled the end of his run toward the front at The John Penton GNCC and he scored P8.

Ben Kelley:“Tough day here at The John Penton GNCC round. Felt super comfortable all day, just a couple of big mistakes cost me where I lost a lot of time, especially getting stuck on a couple of those hills. Charged back to the leaders twice, then ran into some difficulties, which put us at the back. Rough day, but it is what it is, we’ll come back strong for the next one.”

The XC1 Pro Class standings now see KTM-mounted Steward Baylor Jr take over at the top of the standings after finishing second today, with Kelley now ranked third, 19 points from the lead. Girroir’s result saw him climb into eighth place overall as five rounds remain in this year’s season.