After grabbing sixth in the opening moto at Southwick, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki star Jo Shimoda produced a masterclass to claim his first moto victory of the season in the second race to propel him to third overall on the day.

Read what the brutally honest Japanese sensation had to say about his day below in the post-race press conference.

Question: Congratulations on the strong second moto winning performance. First win since last year at Pala, as we talked about earlier, so tell us how it went? You know, you mentioned earlier to me that you’re starting to get more comfortable with your bike setup for the outdoors and tell us how it’s progressed in the series?

Jo Shimoda: Yeah, to be honest, I’ve been struggling this whole outdoor season. And just honestly, like throughout the week, I’ve been basically only testing so it has been just hard for me to get my flow going, you know, to go into the race to do two 30s at full pace with being a little uncomfortable and stuff. But just today we’re having a win. I think the team deserves it more than I do, you know. I know they’re working super hard for me and then finally I get to show something on the table – so I’m happy for them.

Q: Did you get a smile out of Mitch when you came over the finish line? 

JS: Yeah, I hope so (haha).

Q: And Joe your situation, you’re 20 points out, just a couple of points ahead of Justin, but you’re in fourth. So now is your goal to be looking at the championship? Could it happen or could you at least have a chance for it?

JS: To be honest, I don’t care, like I’m not even looking at it – like (not even looking at) last weekend’s score. Right now I’m focused on bringing my full potential to the race. Literally, I never look at the scoreboard on Instagram or anything – just right now I don’t care.

Q: And Joe, how about yourself – next week are you looking forward to Spring Creek? Is it one of your favourite tracks and where does it rank? 

JS: I like Spring Creek. It’s one of my favourite tracks. Yeah, I just want to have a good time there too.

Lead Image: Alec Gaut

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