After all the hype that preceded Davi Millsaps’ rookie year in AMA pro racing last year, he did not perform to expectations. With a few exceptions, his 2004 season was riddled with mediocre rides and blown engines.
Last night in Indianapolis, Millsaps seemed to shake away the demons and ride to his full potential. As a result, he blew away a talented field of contenders, including Grant Langston, Matt Walker and others. He seemed to ride with the commanding force he showed so often as an amateur.
Just as Jeremy McGrath was a positive influence on many young riders at Yamaha a few years ago, Ricky Carmichael may be having a similar effect on the young Suzuki riders, including Davi Millsaps and Broc Hepler. It is not so much about showing them how to ride, but how to think like a champion. It is beginning to look like Suzuki has a killer combination of talent right now.
