Image: Octopi Media.

250SX East number one plate-holder Chase Sexton struck a working relationship with James Stewart during the mid-season pause in Monster Energy Supercross, declaring the multiple-time champion as an asset to his program in these early stages.

Details remain thin on the extent of Geico Honda rider Sexton and Stewart’s cooperation in Florida, although he did touch on the topic after finishing second at Salt Lake City 1 on Sunday afternoon.

“It’s kind of been under the radar a little bit,” Sexton said. “But it’s been really good and he’s helping me a lot. I think today I rode decent, but my race-craft wasn’t very good – I’ve got a few text messages already about it, so we’ll go back to work.

“He’s been a big help and mentor so far and it’s only the beginning, so looking forward to going back and doing some more work this week. Unfortunately, he’s not here, but yeah, we’ll go back to work.”

It was a frustrating main event of sorts for the 20-year-old, not able to mount a serious challenge on title rival Shane McElrath (Monster Energy Star Racing Yamaha) and eventually crossing the finish-line 2.949s behind.

“I felt like I rode decent,” he recalled. “I think the lappers were gnarly for both Shane and I. Every time I felt like I’d gained some ground I’d just lose it the next corner. I just feel like that was on me – I had a win in my sights, but didn’t make it happen.”

Sexton saw his advantage in the championship standings reduced to seven over the weekend as McElrath took victory. He will step up to the 450 class with Team Honda HRC once Pro Motocross commences next month and into the entire 2021 season.