It’s Ryan Dungey’s 2017 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship in the 450SX category that ranks as his most rewarding victory following a hard-fought battle to the end with Eli Tomac.

The 2017 premier class crown, marking his third-consecutive title and fourth in his career, came after an up-and-down season for the Red Bull KTM rider who lost the red plate to Tomac just rounds two rounds before the Las Vegas season-finale.

“It was good hard racing, I think the fans got a show and it’s nice and rewarding to be able to get this championship,” said Dungey. “It’s probably one of the sweetest ones – it just was a very challenging season right down to the final lap.

“This has been the most rewarding championship win, and it takes a lot of things to go right to get here. I’m grateful to my wife, my family, my mechanic, the team and everybody who has supported this.”

Dungey credits much of his success to the behind the scenes effort from the Red Bull KTM squad managed by former world motocross champion Roger DeCoster.

“I had some tough competition, but it’s not over until it’s over and it’s a big team effort,” he added. “We had no issues with the bike all season, and a lot goes into it from back at the KTM factory to the entire Red Bull KTM team.”

As the chequered flag flew inside Sam Boyd Stadium, Dungey claimed the 2017 450SX Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship by five points over arch-rival Tomac.