For Immediate Release

Winnipeg, MB (January 7, 2020) – Elias Ishoel picked up right where he left off before the holiday break, winning night one of the Pirtek National at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota. The Shakopee round is always pivotal in determining who the contenders will be as the national tour hits its stride and all three Jimmy John’s team riders showed they are in it to win it, with five total podium appearances during the three day event.

Freezing rain early in the week, combined with fresh, man-made snow in the days leading up to the race made for tricky and ever-changing conditions during an otherwise perfect weather weekend. On Saturday, the course was especially technical forcing the front-runners to ride the edges in search of good traction and smooth lines. Ishoel, who was charging toward the front, eventually rode over the line and off the edge of the track, costing him valuable positions and the chance at another win.

Fortunately, this would be Pihlaja’s moment to shine with a podium finish, while Ishoel recovered for fourth overall. It was a solid weekend for Pihlaja overall, with three top five results.

The challenging conditions were no issue for Jordan Lebel’s speed, control and maturity as he swept the Sport division on Friday and Saturday. Unlike the Pro classes who had to make up a postponed round from the season opener, Sport riders were caught up after a third round at the last event and all classes are now back on track for the traditional two day weekend as the series progresses in the heart of the schedule.

Up next is the action-packed bullring in Deadwood, South Dakota on January 24-25