Photography by Jeff Allen

Hype built into Round One of the 2010 AMA Supercross/FIM World Championship was all for good reason. This is it, really, the best of the best, put into a spectacular show for the world to watch. Although "A1" at Anaheim Stadium wasn't a sellout, the atmosphere was unlike that of any other motorcycle race, dirt or paved. The "show" has really taken over, as, for many, the event itself is less about racing and more about the "scene." There were commercials on the big screens, explosives, celebrity interviews and the Jagermeister freestyle exhibition (the latter takes longer to set up than there are actual stunts). Less racing than in past years, too, a point that might only upset pure-bred enthusiasts who like to see as much on-track action as possible.

But the action that did take place was hot, especially in the last few laps of the 20-lap 450cc Main Event—as it should be. Reigning series champ, Yamaha's James Stewart, passed Ryan Dungey only to have the Suzuki rider make a last-lap effort to retake the lead. Stewart held strong to earn the checkers. The 250cc Lites class was exciting, too, with lots of action behind the leader.

Given all that, looks like we have the makings of a thrilling 17-race series. First-race nerves calmed, it's time to bring on the bar-banging action!