Motoworks / Can-Am's Chris Bithell rounded out the GNCC XC1 Pro Class in third place at the Ironman GNCC

Vista, CA (10/29/2012) – Can Am/Motorworks Chris Bithell pulled off another podium finish as he raced to a third place finish at the Ironman GNCC in Crawfordsville Indiana.

Bithell’s win would not come easy as the track conditions deteriorated with each lap, forcing strategy and good luck to play in the racers favor. After a mid pack start, Bithell would gain the lead after pit stops shuffled the field of XC1 racers for the second lap.

“I really didn’t want the lead, it’s easier to follow on a day like today where you let these guys make a mistake in front of you and you learn from their mistake,” said Bithell

In these conditions, following was better then leading and the Motorworks backed rider stayed within striking distance as the race winded down. On the last lap, Bithell himself would get stuck several times as fans and spectators rushed in to get him free from the many obstacles found on one of the toughest courses of the season.

GNCC XC1 Pro ATV Podium (left to right) Jarrod McClure (2nd), Walker Fowler (1st), Chris Bithell (3rd)

Bithell made up some ground when he found two of his competitors stuck on a hill, allowing him the opportunity to capitalize on their misfortune and move back up in the running order. When the checkered flag was thrown, Bithell had moved into third and claimed the final podium position.

"It was wicked out there. It was muddy and hard to hold on, so many new lines opened up, and I just put the hammer down and charged ahead. The fans were great, I couldn't have done it with out their support and help!" exclaimed Bithell.

Chris Bithell currently sits fourth in championship points and with the final round only two weeks away, his focus will be on another podium finish on his Motoworks powered Can-Am DS450 to wrap up the 2012 season. The final round heads to the Loretta Lynn's Ranch in Tennessee on Saturday November 3rd.