X GAMES:

Ricky Carmichael on his way to gold in Step Up. Photo: Matt Morning/ESPN Images/Shazamm

The people have spoken- or texted- and they voted Todd Potter winner of Moto X Best Whip at X Games 15.

Potter didn’t warm up much this afternoon, but practice apparently wasn’t necessary to be perfect and grab the prize by a whopping 43% of the vote.  Defending his 2008 Best Whip gold medal was a blast, even if the three-time medalist acknowledged Q-Rating can play a role in his success.

“It’s always a fun competition,” shrugged Potter.  “But you don’t know if it’s popularity, or if it’s truly talent.  Either way, it’s fun.”

Runner-up James Stewart was a ball of energy while collecting his 20%, cupping his ear to the crowd to pump his approval rating.  After the contest, he even bowed down to Potter and gave the winner his jersey, the stakes upon during some good natured trash talk before the event.  “He was a good sport,” smiled Potter.

Ricky Carmichael took third place with 17% of the vote.

Fighting their way to a contested tie, Ricky Carmichael and Ronnie Renner each won their second career gold medal in Moto X Step Up at X Games 15.

The last riders standing with a 35-foot bar to clear, the X Games Sports and Competition Director decided that if both missed their allotted pair of attempts, they would each get one final chance in a single elimination.  Neither was successful on their final try, but both were satisfied to share the glory.

“I worked my tail off for that thing.  I can’t believe that I finally won,” said Renner before expressing gratitude towards the STAPLES Center crowd. “Thanks for keeping me motivated.”

Carmichael was also pleased with his finish.  “The stakes were high, you know?  Just going back and forth.  And, my style has never been pretty.  Just get the job done.  I’m happy.”

Matt Buyten made the final three before failing to clear 33-feet.