Rider Files

James Stewart Wins in Return to Motocross at Opening Round of Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship from Hangtown

(NEWS RELEASE)

Baggett Captures Second Straight Hangtown Win in 250 Class

SACRAMENTO (May 19, 2012) – A massive crowd watched the FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic on Saturday afternoon for the opening round of the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. After three seasons away from the Nationals, Team Yoshimura Suzuki’s James Stewart, of Haines City, Fla., made a memorable return to action, sweeping the day’s motos en route to the 450 Class win. In the 250 Class, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Blake Baggett, of Grand Terrace, Calif., raced to his second straight overall victory at Hangtown, winning both motos.

Stewart grabbed the holeshot in the day’s opening moto, but was forced to battle with Team Chaparral Honda’s Andrew Short, of Smithville, Texas, for the lead early. Despite the challenge, Stewart assumed the top spot prior to the completion of the opening lap and never looked back.

In Moto 2, Stewart secured another strong start, following MotoConcepts Suzuki’s Mike Alessi, of Victorville, Calif., out of the gate. Stewart engaged in a battle with both Alessi and Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey, of Belle Plaine, Minn., for the first couple laps, but made an impressive move to pass both riders and take over the lead. Dungey paced Stewart throughout the moto, but lapped traffic ultimately separated the two, allowing Stewart to pull away.

“(Today) went better than I thought,” said Stewart. “I thought I’d come and struggle a bit, which I did a little. This (season) is one of those things where you continue to build and we got a good start on it. I’m just here to enjoy it. I didn’t come to be the fastest; I came to learn the motorcycle. Everything is new. We’ve got a long way to go. I’ve been away for a while, but I don’t realize how much I miss it till I’m gone.”

Stewart made headlines coming into the season by signing with Yoshimura Suzuki just two weeks ago, committing to compete in Lucas Oil Motocross. In his last full-time season of Nationals competition back in 2008, Stewart claimed the premier class championship by becoming the second rider in history to compile a perfect season, winning all 24 motos to join Ricky Carmichael.

The 250 Class was set to be a showcase of the rising stars of the sport with one of the most talented and accomplished fields in history. Baggett took advantage of the opportunity, posting a pair of impressive rides in the motos.

In Moto 1, Baggett placed himself into fifth on the opening lap and proceeded to gradually work his way forward. Out front, Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen, of Germany, and GEICO Honda’s Justin Barcia, of Monroe, N.Y., provided a compelling battle for the fans, pacing one another and trading positions throughout the moto. As they battled, Baggett closed the gap and made a last-lap pass on Roczen for the moto win.

In Moto 2, Baggett position himself behind early leader Barcia and set himself up for a definitive pass to seal the win. After a few laps, he worked past Barcia and pulled away for the remainder of the moto for another Hangtown victory.

“I couldn’t expect anything else,” said Baggett. “(Sweeping the motos) is beyond what I came in expecting to do. I just wanted to be on the box. Every weekend I don’t want to ask for too much. I want to be in the points one way or the other with two rounds to go. I couldn’t even tell you what was going on in the first moto. I honestly was just bouncing around. I knew in the second moto if I stayed on (Barcia’s) rear wheel I could make a pass. The opportunity came and I took advantage of it.”

In the Women’s Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki’s Jessica Patterson, of Tallahassee, Fla., relied on consistency to take the overall win, grabbing a pair of runner-up finishes to outlast Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Ashley Fiolek, of St. Augustine, Fla., in second (1-5) and Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda’s Tarah Gieger, of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, in third (3-3).

The 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship continues next week, with round two from Freestone Raceway in Wortham, Texas and the Freestone National on Saturday, May 26.

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship
FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic
Prairie City OHV Park – Sacramento
May 19, 2012
Round 1 of 12

450 Class (Moto Finish)

1. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki (1-1)
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM (3-2)
3. Mike Alessi, Victorville, Calif., Suzuki (7-3)
4. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda (5-4)
5. Brett Metcalfe, Mannum, Australia, Suzuki (4-5)
6. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki (6-7)
7. Davi Millsaps, Cairo, Ga., Yamaha (2-14)
8. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki (10-6)
9. Josh Grant, Riverside, Calif., Kawasaki (9-8)
10. Nico Izzi, Rochester, Mich., Yamaha (11-10)

450 Class Championship Standings

1. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki, 50
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM, 42
3. Mike Alessi, Victorville, Calif., Suzuki, 34
4. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda, 34
5. Brett Metcalfe, Mannum, Australia, Suzuki, 34
6. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki, 29
7. Davi Millsaps, Cairo, Ga., Yamaha, 29
8. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki, 26
9. Josh Grant, Riverside, Calif., Kawasaki, 25
10. Nico Izzi, Rochester, Mich., Yamaha, 21

250 Class (Moto Finish)

1. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki (1-1)
2. Justin Barcia, Monroe, N.Y., Honda (3-2)
3. Ken Roczen, Apolda, Germany, KTM (2-3)
4. Ivan Tedesco, Murrieta, Calif., Kawasaki (6-5)
5. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda (4-10)
6. Martin Davalos, Quito, Ecuador, Suzuki (14-4)
7. Kyle Cunningham, Fort Worth, Texas, Yamaha (9-8)
8. Jason Anderson, Edgewood, N.M., Suzuki (8-9)
9. Marvin Musquin, La Reole, France, KTM (5-14)
10. Wil Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Honda (7-13)

250 Class Championship Standings

1. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki, 50
2. Justin Barcia, Monroe, N.Y., Honda, 42
3. Ken Roczen, Apolda, Germany, KTM, 42
4. Ivan Tedesco, Murrieta, Calif., Kawasaki, 31
5. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda, 29
6. Martin Davalos, Quito, Ecuador, Suzuki, 25
7. Kyle Cunningham, Fort Worth, Texas, Yamaha, 25
8. Jason Anderson, Edgewood, N.M., Suzuki, 25
9. Marvin Musquin, La Reole, France, KTM, 23
10. Wil Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Honda, 22

WMX Class (Moto Finish)

1. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Suzuki (2-2)
2. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda (1-5)
3. Tarah Gieger, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico., Honda (3-3)
4. Meghan Rutledge, New South Wales, Australia, Kawasaki (8-1)
5. Sayaka Kaneshiro, Osaka, Japan, Honda (5-4)
6. Kasie Creson, Vallejo, Calif., Honda (6-6)
7. Mariana Balbi, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Honda (7-8)
8. Sara Pettersson, Sweden, KTM (11-9)
9. Lindsey Palmer, Conifer, Colo., Kawasaki (10-11)
10. Hailey Larson, Green Brae, Calif., Honda (9-13)

WMX Class Standings

1. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Suzuki, 44
2. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda, 41
3. Tarah Gieger, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico., Honda, 40
4. Meghan Rutledge, New South Wales, Australia, Kawasaki, 38
5. Sayaka Kaneshiro, Osaka, Japan, Honda, 34
6. Kasie Creson, Vallejo, Calif., Honda, 30
7. Mariana Balbi, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Honda, 27
8. Sara Pettersson, Sweden, KTM, 22
9. Lindsey Palmer, Conifer, Colo., Kawasaki, 21
10. Hailey Larson, Green Brae, Calif., Honda, 20

Tickets for all 12 rounds of the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship can be found at www.allisports.com.

For additional information please visit AlliSports.com/motocross also, “like” the American Motocross Facebook page, “follow” @AmericanMX on Twitter and Instagram for exclusive content and information on the latest Lucas Oil Motocross news and developments.

For media information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please contact MX Sports Pro Racing via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. The industry leader in off road powersport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators. Visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Alli Sports
Alli Sports, is an action sports lifestyle brand whose mission is to connect fans with athletes and brands through best in class events, media, and authentic branded products. Alli Sports includes: the Dew Tour, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship and the Red Bull Signature Series; Alli Media, which creates, produces, and distributes original content; Alli RideShop, an online retailer carrying top skate and BMX consumer products; and Alli MotoShop an online retailer carrying top moto consumer products. Alli Sports is owned by NBC Sports. More information can be found at www.allisports.com.

AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing sanctioning body in the United States, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization sanctions professional motorcycle racing competition, which includes, AMA Pro Motocross, AMA Pro Road Racing, and AMA Pro Flat Track. Visit www.amaproracing.com.

NBC Sports Group
When the Comcast-NBCUniversal transaction was completed in January of 2011, the broad reach and storied history of NBC Sports united with Comcast’s 24/7 ability to super-serve fans to create the NBC Sports Group. The new sports media company consists of an array of broadcast television, cable television and digital sports assets, including NBC Sports & Olympics, Golf Channel, Versus, 11 SportNets (regional sports networks) and their respective websites. Together, the new combined assets of the NBC Sports Group possess an unparalleled collection of television rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the Olympics, NFL, NHL, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, USGA, IndyCar, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, Wimbledon, French Open, Tour de France and Kentucky Derby.

FUEL TV
FUEL TV is the only cable and satellite television network that features the exciting world of adrenaline and thrill-seeking sports including UFC, surfing, motocross, snowboarding and more. This new generation of sports provides a rich landscape of some of the most vibrant and action-packed television entertainment in the world. With more hours of UFC coverage than any other network, FUEL TV is the place to be for live fights, weigh-ins, prelims, pre- and post-fight coverage, specials and events you won’t see anywhere else. See why adrenaline sports fans call FUEL TV the channel they never turn off. FUEL TV, part of FOX Sports Media Group, was launched July 1, 2003 and is seen in more than 36 million U.S. homes and can be accessed by broadband, mobile devices and other digital platforms such as iTunes®. FUEL TV programming is available in more than 50 countries around the world with 24/7 channels operating in Australia and Europe. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4 FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.

Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, lubricants and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, lubricants and problem-solving performance additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry. Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the “Official Motor Oil of the Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

Posted by admin on May 20, 2012 at 12:27 pm under Motocross-Supercross.
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MotoGP News – May 20, 2012

Pedrosa snatches pole in thrilling Le Mans qualifying
In an action-packed qualifying session at the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France in Le Mans it was Repsol Honda Team’s Dani Pedrosa who took his first pole position of the season ahead of Casey Stoner. Read more.

Monster Yamaha Tech 3 targets podium at home race
The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team will go into its home race at the historic Le Mans circuit in France confident that Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow can battle for the podium after both produced good qualifying performances today. Read more.

Second row starts for Lorenzo and Spies
Yamaha Factory Racing riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies were faced with a wet, damp and then drying track as they fought to finally deliver fourth and sixth on the grid respectively for tomorrow’s race. Read more.

Pedrosa takes pole with Stoner in second
Dani Pedrosa will start tomorrow’s Grand Prix of France from pole position (1′33.638) with team mate Casey Stoner in second place (1′33.941) after a stressful qualifying practice that was decided in the final minutes. Read more.

Rossi seventh, Hayden eleventh at damp Le Mans
Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden posted the seventh and eleventh best times, respectively, in today’s qualifying session for the French Grand Prix. Read more.

Bautista rues qualifying crash
After impressing during free practice yesterday and this morning it was understandable that Álvaro Bautista felt some disappointment at qualifying on the third row of the grid in eighth place this afternoon. Read more.

Márquez claims Moto2™ pole position at Le Mans
Team CatalunyaCaixa Repsol’s championship leader Marc Márquez claimed pole position at the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France despite a crash early in the session. Read more.

Viñales takes pole in incident-packed Moto3™ qualifying
In wet conditions at the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France in Le Mans it was Blusens Avintia’s Maverick Viñales who held his nerve to take pole position ahead of Efrén Vázquez. Read more.

De Puniet looking for top CRT glory on home soil
Randy de Puniet fought through the pain barrier to qualify as the fastest CRT rider at his home Grand Prix this afternoon. Read more.

Promising third row for Pramac in Le Mans
Today’s qualifying session at Le Mans for tomorrow’s Grand Prix of France was a good session for the sole Ducati Pramac rider Héctor Barberá, who has been consistently quick on this track. Read more.

Posted by admin on May 19, 2012 at 10:29 pm under Road Racing.
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MotoGP News – May19, 2012

Stoner throws down the gauntlet in second Le Mans free practice
Repsol Honda Team’s Casey Stoner set the tone for this weekend’s Monster Energy Grand Prix de France in Le Mans, after setting the fastest time of the day in the second MotoGP practice session. Read more.

Repsol Honda Team set the pace at Le Mans
After announcing yesterday in the official press conference his plans to retire at the end of this season, Casey Stoner got back on track and set the fastest time (1′33.740) in the first day of practice at the Le Mans circuit. Read more.

Yamaha duo looking for more pace at Le Mans
Yamaha Factory Racing riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies took to the Le Mans circuit today for the first two practice sessions of the French Grand Prix. Read more.

Monster Yamaha Tech 3 make good start to home race
The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team’s home race at the legendary Le Mans circuit in France kicked off in positive fashion today, with Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow posting competitive times on the opening day of MotoGP practice. Read more.

Redding goes top in second Moto2™ free practice at Le Mans
Marc VDS Racing Team’s Scott Redding topped the timesheets in the second free practice at the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France in Le Mans ahead of Interwetten-Paddock’s Tom Lüthi. Read more.

Viñales finishes top in second free Moto3™ practice at Le Mans
Blusens Avintia’s Maverick Viñales ended the second practice session of the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France at the top of the timesheets in front of compatriot Luis Salom. Read more.

Rossi and Hayden hampered by lack of grip
At the first day of the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France, the Ducati Team duo of Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden were hampered in their efforts by a lack of grip. Read more.

De Puniet leads CRT pack at Le Mans
The Power Electronics Aspar Team continued their dominance of the CRT era on the opening day of the fourth round of the season at Le Mans, where Randy de Puniet was the fastest rider on the new machines. Read more.

Vermeulen getting to grips with CRT at Le Mans
NGM Mobile Forward Racing Team was hard at work on the first practice day at Le Mans to provide Chris Vermeulen with the best possible bike for this Sunday’s race. Read more.

Bautista makes positive start at Le Mans
On the opening day of the French Grand Prix, Team San Carlo Honda Gresini’s Álvaro Bautista found crucial confidence on board the Honda RC213V and lapped fourth fastest by the end of the two sessions today. Read more.

Posted by admin on May 19, 2012 at 9:50 am under Road Racing.
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James Holds Off Hard-Charging Crevier – Elkhart Lake (1994)

(L to R) Steve Crevier, Jamie James and Gerald Rothman celebrate on the winners’ rostrum after the AMA 600 Supersport race at Road America in June of 1994. James just held off Crevier, who made a furious last-lap charge, to make it two wins in a row. James was riding for Vance & Hines Yamaha on a YZF600. Crevier raced a Muzzy Kawasaki ZX-6, while third-place Rothman was on a privateer Kawasaki. James went on to win that year’s AMA 600 Supersport tile over Mike Smith.

(L to R) Steve Crevier, Jamie James and Gerald Rothman celebrate on the winners’ rostrum after the AMA 600 Supersport race at Road America in June of 1994. (Larry Lawrence photo)

Posted by admin on May 18, 2012 at 11:52 am under Road Racing.
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Team Kim: Jeremy McGrath Urges Fans, Friends, Family To Keep Pushing Until Kim’s Race is Won!

Just days after heartfelt, two-sentence request quietly released through his personal twitter account asking for help in finding a bone marrow match for his 36 year-old wife Kim – a very recent breast cancer survivor and recently diagnosed with Leukemia – supporters of Jeremy McGrath (the beloved All-Time Supercross champion) resolutely took charge and immediately jumped into action. In less than a week, Jeremy McGrath, as well as a combination of bethematch.org staffers, family and friends, set more than 26 bone marrow drives into action, the VERY latest of which took place yesterday at Monster Energy Drink headquarters in Corona, California.

With more than 600 people rolling into Monster’s parking lots on Wednesday afternoon – all of them eagerly awaited by an army of Monster Energy volunteers – the gathering immediately took to lines and received test kits, and then subsequently, performed the simple mouth swabs and instantly became “registered” on the official national bone marrow registry – ultimately allowing many to become potential donors.

“Jeremy has been part of our Monster Energy Family right from the very start,” said Terri Sacks, Monster Energy Director of Philanthropic Initiatives. “ When we were informed of Kim and Jeremy’s challenge, we immediately reached out and asked, ‘Jeremy and Kim, how can we help?!”

When the drive started, Jeremy was right there alongside us and added: “It is my personal goal to find a bone marrow match for my wife Kim and with all of this incredible support we hope to test thousands of people over the next few weeks. In less than a week we have already tested more than 1,000, brought in funds to help bethematch.org keep doing what they do and hopefully raised some awareness of how important it is for people to get tested and become bone marrow donors,” McGrath said.

In a movement McGrath lovingly refers to as TEAM KIM, bone marrow drives have already been set at most of the stops of the AMA Outdoor National Series starting this weekend in Anza, CA.Additionally, weekend drives are also taking place this Saturday and Sunday, May 19th and 20th at Speedworld Raceway in Arizona where Jeremy will be for the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series. Tomorrow, May 18th bethematch.org and TEAM KIM will be at Camp Pendleton for the Semper Fi Ride Day, where up to 5,000 participants are expected. Next week TEAM KIM drives continue on May 23 in Carlsbad at Wasserman Media Group / Transworld Headquarters; June 1st in Ensenada, Mex for the Baja 500; June 2nd in Lancaster, CA at the AV Motoplex; June 8thand 9th in San Bernardino at Chaparral Motorsports; and June 17th in Del Mar, CA with SPY Optic for the Del Mar Races.

Additionally, McGrath stated, “We really hope to keep the momentum going and I look forward to coordinating bone marrow drives at many large-scale events this summer. The responses to my initial ask for help has really been more than me and Kim could have ever imagined. Thank you all so much.”

A TEAM KIM Facebook page is in the works that will list all of the upcoming events in detail. The TEAM hopes to have drives in place at an upcoming NASCAR race and at events surrounding the Summer X Games in Los Angeles.

Please visit www.bethematchfoundation.org/goto/kimmcgrath to get tested or make a donation.

: Monster Energy CEO Rodney Sacks does his cheek swab.

: Monster Energy CEO Rodney Sacks (right) talks shop with Pro Circuit’s Mitch Payton (left).

: Raffle table

: Jeremy McGrath (center) and the Aussies from MX Heaven.

: Terri Sacks

: Australians from MX Heaven came out in a large group to register.

: Jeremy McGrath (right) signs autographs for some people who registered for marrow donation.

: Jeremy McGrath (left)

: Marrow drive location.

: Monster Energy Marrow Registry Area

: Volunteers registering people for donation.

: Registration sticker on someone who registered for donation.

: Jeremy McGrath’s pin on his T-shirt.

: Jeremy McGrath (left) with Monster Energy’s Eric Johnson (right).

: Bruce Penhall doing his swab.

: Volunteers registering people for donation.

: Jeremy McGrath (left) with Speedway-racing legend and star of CHiPs Bruce Penhall (right).

: Jeremy McGrath (right) and Monster Senior VP Sam Pontrelli (left).

: Mitch Payton (center), Jeremy McGrath (left) and one of Mitch’s twin sons.

: Mitch Payton doing his swab.

: Monster fans and employees mingling while they get registered.

: Mitch Payton and others signing up to register for marrow donation.

: The Mitch Payton family along with Terri Sacks.

: Raffle

: Mitch Payton (right) and Jeremy McGrath (center) and one of Mitch’s twin sons.

Posted by admin on May 18, 2012 at 10:32 am under General, Motocross-Supercross.
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MotoGP News – May 18, 2012

News-packed press conference starts Le Mans weekend
At Thursday’s pre-event press conference at the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France in Le Mans, Repsol Honda Team’s Casey Stoner announced his retirement at the end of the 2012 MotoGP™ season, at the same time that Valentino Rossi announced a further two years in the sport. Read more.

Rossi plans at least two more years in MotoGP™
Valentino Rossi confirmed on Thursday that he would ride in the MotoGP™ World Championship for at least two more years. Read more.

Stoner announces retirement at end of 2012
MotoGP™ World Champion Casey Stoner announced on Thursday afternoon that this season would be his last in the sport. Read more.

Rossi confesses all to motogp.com
At the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France, Ducati Team’s Valentino Rossi took time out to answer fans’ questions, shed some light on recent news, and even reveal his phone number. Read more.

De Puniet targeting successful weekend at home Grand Prix
The Power Electronics Aspar Team head into the fourth round of the MotoGP World Championship this weekend as the leading CRT team with Aleix Espargaró and Randy de Puniet at the head of the new class in the rider standings. Read more.

Le Mans racing numbers
As the MotoGP™ World Championship heads into its fourth round at the historic Le Mans circuit for the Monster Energy Grand Prix de France, motogp.com shares some interesting trivia to have you fully clued-up for Sunday’s race. Read more.

Valentino answers your questions live at 18:45 today!
motogp.com and Monster Energy have teamed up for a special event ahead of the French Grand Prix, with an exclusive live interview with Valentino Rossi, taking place at 18:45 local time today! Read more.

Posted by admin on May 18, 2012 at 9:02 am under Road Racing.
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Tillman Wins, Broken Leg and All

Tim Tillman, on his No. 32 Cycle Racer-sponsored Honda CBR600F2, leads Mike Reed (No. 50 Kawasaki ZX-6) and Ken Melville (No. 43 Honda CBR600F2) in the WERA National Challenge Series Michelin 600cc Superstock race at Putnam Park Road Course in July of 1994. The race was this close throughout with Tillman holding on for the victory over Reed and Melville. Tillman took the win in spite of racing with a broken leg he suffered in a mountain bike crash.

Tim Tillman, on his No. 32 Cycle Racer-sponsored Honda CBR600F2, leads Mike Reed (No. 50 Kawasaki ZX-6) and Ken Melville (No. 43 Honda CBR600F2) in the WERA National Challenge Series Michelin 600cc Superstock race at Putnam Park Road Course in July of 1994. (Larry Lawrence photo)

Posted by admin on May 17, 2012 at 6:49 pm under Road Racing.
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Americade: AMA National Convention comes to Lake George, N.Y., June 4-9

(NEWS RELEASE)

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association is pleased to recognize Americade as an AMA National Convention for 2012. The AMA Premier Touring Series event will run June 4-9 in Lake George, N.Y. Attracting motorcyclists on all types of bikes, especially tourers, sport-tourers and cruisers, Americade offers some of the best riding in the country in addition to a full slate of events and entertainment.

“Americade is one of America’s grandest motorcycle vacations, and draws thousands of true motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy having a great time on two wheels,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “As a longstanding proponent of responsible, safe and quiet riding, Americade features more fun activities than any one person could possibly do in one event.”

Americade Founder Bill Dutcher said that this will be a special year because of a significant milestone being set by the event.

“Because it’s our 30th birthday, we’re rippin’ out all the stops for the best AMA National Convention ever,” he said.

Added Americade Vice President Christian Dutcher: “Americade continues to steam along, always attracting the best vendors and probably more factory demo teams than anywhere else. This year marks the return of Ducati demos, joining over a dozen other OEMs; an exciting introduction of Shoei’s new helmet demo program for their high-end lids; and a hugely successful indoor/outdoor TourExpo.

“The AMA Poker Run will have a new route this year, extending into Vermont,” he continued. “Riders can post-enter at the Lake George Holiday Inn starting Tuesday, June 5.”

In addition to all the great two-wheel camaraderie of Americade, the event features tours in the Adirondack Park and Green Mountains of Vermont. The AMA is sponsoring the Stone Bridge & Caves mini-tour, an unguided 126-mile ride that explores the natural stone bridges and caves of the region.

Americade also features motorcycle trade shows with hundreds of vendors, demo rides, bike shows, barbecues, parades, music and comedy shows, boat cruises on Lake George, museum tours, displays from nearly all the major motorcycle manufacturers and more.

For more on Americade, see www.americade.com.

Americade is just one event on the calendar of AMA sponsored, promoted and sanctioned events for 2012. For more on AMA Road Riding events see AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Riding.

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists’ interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, the AMA honors the heroes and the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. For more information, please visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Posted by admin on May 17, 2012 at 4:42 pm under General.
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Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Notes and Stats: FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic

(NEWS RELEASE)

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (May 17, 2012) – Only a day remains until the gate drops on the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, with the FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento. The world’s best riders and teams have spent countless hours over the past two weeks, testing and dialing in their bikes for the toughest championship on the planet.

Over the course of 12 weekends this summer, riders in the premier 450 Class and highly-competitive 250 Class will do battle for 24 motos. Additionally, the world’s fastest women riders will go head-to-head for eight rounds in the Women’s Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

With a season-ending injury to reigning 450 Class Champion Ryan Villopoto, who rides for Monster Energy Kawasaki, the premier division title is up for grabs this summer. Additionally, injured TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray Honda rider Chad Reed leaves one less title contender in the field.

In their absence, Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey and new Team Yoshimura Suzuki rider, James Stewart, assume the lead roles in the division. These two former champions know what it takes to win a title in the world’s most prestigious motocross championship, but they will be challenged by a talented field of former race winners and competitors eager to leave their mark on the series.

450 Class

Monster Energy Kawasaki
With Villopoto on the sidelines, former World Motocross MX2 Champion, Tyla Rattray, will make the move into the 450 Class after three seasons in the 250 Class. Rattray is no stranger to winning in Lucas Oil Motocross and will look to take advantage of his valuable experience to become an instant challenger in the premier class.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity to ride for Monster Energy Kawasaki in the 450 Class,” said Rattray. “I wanted to ride the KX450F outdoors and feel really comfortable on it already.”

Jake Weimer’s first season in the 450 Class in 2011 is sure to pay big dividends in his sophomore campaign. Unlike last season when he entered the championship coming off an injury, Weimer is at full-strength this summer and is prepared to take his shot at the title.

“I’m looking forward to Hangtown,” said Weimer. “I finished the Supercross season strong and look forward to being on the podium (at the Nationals) as well. The goal is to be there every weekend and battle up front.”

Red Bull KTM
This season, the Austrian-based KTM team signed 2010 Champion Ryan Dungey. The relationship has proven to be a fruitful one so far, with Dungey grabbing four victories in the AMA Supercross Championship. KTM’s success at the Nationals has been limited, having never won an overall, but Dungey has the tools to bring the brand into the forefront of the premier class and add to the history he’s already made for the team this season.

“I’m looking forward to getting the (motocross) season started,” said Dungey. “I’m in a good place on the new KTM, and the team and I have laid down a lot of laps in recent weeks testing. It’s great to be back working with Roger (DeCoster) again. I have total confidence in the team he has assembled and the new KTM 450SX-F as we prepare for the season opener this weekend at Hangtown.”

Team Yoshimura Suzuki
James Stewart’s move to Suzuki has been the biggest news coming into the 2012 season, and will likely remain the most prominent storyline throughout the season. Stewart has not raced full time in Lucas Oil Motocross since his championship-winning season in 2008, when he joined Ricky Carmichael as the only other rider in history to amass a perfect season, winning all 24 motos. What the effect of Stewart’s time away from the series will have on his speed and stamina remains to be seen, but with such impressive accolades, he is widely considered to be a title threat.

“I’m really looking forward to joining the team,” said Stewart. “I’m very excited. I love the bike. Ever since I rode it from day one, I knew it was a great opportunity for me to come out and showcase my talent.”

Brett Metcalfe will compete alongside Stewart at the Suzuki rig. Following a breakthrough motocross season one year ago in which he was able to grab his first career victory on U.S. soil, Metcalfe is poised to be one of the biggest threats to Dungey and Stewart. While he experienced some ups and downs during the AMA Supercross season, Metcalfe is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to race the Nationals and potentially even learn from his successful new teammate.

Team Honda Muscle Milk
American Honda’s efforts in the 450 Class this season will be anchored by Justin Brayton, who has already established a breakthrough season thanks to a strong effort in the AMA Supercross Championship. With Trey Canard out for the year with an injury, Brayton has stepped up and now enters Lucas Oil Motocross with a lot of momentum. Brayton is a former moto winner in the 450 Class, and will look to grab that elusive first career win this summer.

Tommy Hahn will step in as a substitute for the 2012 season. Like Brayton, Hahn has tasted victory in the 450 Class, coincidentally taking the overall win at the very same race that Brayton won his lone moto, back at Steel City during the 2009 championship. Hahn has been recovering from a broken leg for most of 2012, but he’s ready to get back out on the track and take advantage of the opportunity before him.

Toyota/Yamaha/JGRMX
Davi Millsaps is coming off the best AMA Supercross season of his career, finishing second in the championship, and now he enters Lucas Oil Motocross with considerable momentum and confidence. The Joe Gibbs Racing team hasn’t seen the success it had hoped for in 2012, but Millsaps has proven to be a bright spot. JGRMX is entering its fifth season at the Nationals and Millsaps will look to add to the team’s one overall victory over that span.

Joe Gibbs Racing announced just prior to the season that Kyle Regal will campaign the summer as its second rider. Regal has proven to be an impressive motocross rider over the past few seasons, with overall podium finishes to his credit. Now, with the best opportunity of his young career ahead of him, Regal will look to build on that success.

MotoConcepts Suzuki
Mike Alessi has been one of Lucas Oil Motocross’ most consistent threats since his runner-up finish in the 2007 premier class championship. This year, Alessi enters the Nationals aboard the same bike on which he achieved some of his greatest success – a Suzuki. Alessi will campaign the summer for the well-respected MotoConcepts team and while he may not be riding a factory bike, he is sure to be a regular at the front of the field.

Team Chaparral Honda
After a year away from the brand he has identified with for most of his 450 Class career, veteran rider Andrew Short is back aboard a Honda for the 2012 season. Short is the lone rider for the new L&Mc Racing team run by a couple of the sport’s most prominent figures – Larry Brooks and Jeremy McGrath. Short has already given the team a taste of victory in 2012, grabbing his first career AMA Supercross victory just about a month ago. As arguably the most consistent rider in the premier class over the past five seasons, Short will be looking to give his team even more success this summer.

Jeff Ward Racing Kawasaki
Former champion Jeff Ward has also ventured down the path of team ownership this season. Experienced riders Josh Grant and Kyle Chisholm will lead the way for the up-and-coming team, and both riders look to be challengers in the 450 Class this season. Grant is a former overall winner in the premier class and has also had some strong rides aboard his JWR machine during the AMA Supercross season. As for Chisholm, he has been a fixture in the top 10 in the 450 Class for the past few seasons and will be looking to take a step forward this summer.

250 Class

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki
Dean Wilson enters the 2012 season as the first rider in four years to defend his 250 Class title. While he is entering the Nationals on the mend with a lingering shoulder injury, Wilson is not going to let it slow him down or prevent him to wearing the coveted No. 1 plate all season long. As the champion, all eyes will be on Wilson throughout the season as a very talented field of riders look to unseat him from his position atop the 250 Class.

“I can’t wait to get out there,” said Wilson. “I’m confident in myself and my team and we’re ready to rock the number one.”

Last season, Blake Baggett was one of the 250 Class’ breakthrough stars, garnering more overall wins than any other rider in Lucas Oil Motocross, in either division. While consistency ultimately hindered Baggett’s chance at the title, he has a full year of experience under his belt and will likely be one of his teammate’s most formidable challengers this season.

“I’ve been counting down to Hangtown for a while now,” said Baggett. “(Motocross) is where I strive, so my expectations are to be on the box and take it from there.”

In one of the most interesting moves of the season, former 250 Class champion Ivan Tedesco is making his return to the division. The 2005 title winner has not competed full time at the Nationals since the 2009 season, when he broke through for his first career win in the 450 Class. He sees the chance to race for the very same team he won his championship with as an opportunity too good to pass up and will no doubt be a rider many will have their eyes on this summer.

GEICO Honda
Perhaps no team in the series has more momentum coming into the 2012 season than GEICO Honda. After sweeping the AMA Supercross Lites Regional titles this season, the team has two of the 250 Class’ hottest riders in Justin Barcia and Eli Tomac, and it is ready for the Nationals.

Barcia is entering his final season in the division and while his success in Lucas Oil Motocross has been mixed, he has shown tremendous growth this year. He gained valuable experience as a part-time competitor in the 450 Class last season and will no doubt look to use it to his advantage this summer.

“I’m looking forward to it definitely,” said Barcia. “I’m glad to be completely healthy going into (the) motocross season because that hasn’t happened in a while. Myself and the rest of the team had such a good year in Supercross and we want to be able to back it up during the (Nationals). We want to show everyone that we’re all-around riders.”

Tomac knows how to win in Lucas Oil Motocross, making history two seasons ago by becoming the first rider in history to win his professional debut. While he didn’t have the season he had hoped for last summer, Tomac has also shown considerable growth as a rider.

“I’m very much looking forward to Hangtown,” said Tomac. “I got a win there in 2010 in my first race as a pro. Last year wasn’t as good, but it was still a fourth-place finish. I think after the success the team had in Supercross, we’re all going to be dialed in right from the start. It’s going to be a really fun (motocross) season.”

Justin Bogle burst onto the Lucas Oil Motocross scene in the late stages of the 2011 season. While 2012 will officially be his rookie season, Bogle has already gone head-to-head against the best riders in the 250 Class and believes he can challenge for the podium consistently.

Wil Hahn rounds out a talented group of riders at GEICO Honda. While he has had to battle through some injuries this season, Hahn is back at full health and ready take on the Nationals with a team that is on the rise.

Red Bull KTM
The world-champion tandem of Marvin Musquin and Ken Roczen make KTM a major threat this season in the 250 Class. Between them, this duo has captured the last three World Motocross MX2 Championships and both riders are looking to achieve the same success on U.S. soil.

Musquin enters his second Lucas Oil Motocross season and prior to an injury last summer, he looked to be a contender. While he doesn’t have as much experience as he would have hoped coming into a second season, Musquin knows how to run at the front of the field.

“There are a lot of good riders here in the U.S., so I don’t expect the 250 Class Championship to be at all easy,” said Musquin. “However, I’ve had a lot of success racing motocross home in Europe and won two world titles prior to coming to America last year, so I will draw on that experience to perform my best each week.”

As the youngest rider in all of the series, Roczen will generate a lot of attention. He has shown incredible speed for such a young age, but he has never gone head-to-head with the world’s best 250 Class riders in Lucas Oil Motocross. His rookie season will be one to watch as he aims to claim a World Championship and National Championship, back-to-back.

“I’m super excited for the motocross season,” said Roczen. “I think this will be my series to shine in because I love (the) racing. The longer, sweeping tracks are more my style and I love going fast. Supercross has tight tracks with big jumps, whereas motocross tracks are longer and faster. After winning the World Championship in Europe last year, I made the move to America to race fulltime so this will be my first season racing motocross in the U.S. I’m really excited and think I will do well in the 250 Class.”

Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki
So far, the 2012 season has shown a surge in competitiveness for the Rockstar Suzuki team. With perennial front-runner Blake Wharton leading the way, this team is looking for big things this summer.

Wharton missed the 2011 season due to injury, but the year off has proven to be beneficial. Wharton took a win during the AMA Supercross season and is no doubt looking for similar success at the Nationals.

Veteran Martin Davalos picked up the pace towards the end of his AMA Supercross campaign and is looking to carry it into a strong summer. While he’s still searching for his first career win, Davalos knows better than anyone on the team how to run up front and will look to show that.

Following a rookie season where he learned the highs and lows of the sport, sophomore rider Jason Anderson possesses a much greater confidence this season, and it’s showed. Anderson is looking to turn some heads in 2012 and could be one of the riders to watch this season.

Hunter Hewitt has also experienced some strong results this season, taking advantage of the experience and success of his teammates to improve his confidence as well. He’s in the midst of one of his best years and hopes it will continue into the summer.

Star/Valli Yamaha
Veteran rider Kyle Cunningham will carry the flag for the Star/Valli Yamaha team in the 250 Class this summer. Cunningham grabbed solid results last season and while he hasn’t had the season he’d hoped for to this point in 2012, he’ll look to turn things around at the Nationals.

Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda
The Troy Lee Designs team has been hit hard by injuries coming into the 2012 season and as a result, will enlist the services of veteran rider Billy Laninovich to get the ball rolling this summer. Laninovich has the experience to run up front and will look to carry the flag high for the team.

WMX Class

The Women’s Motocross Championship is shaping up to once again be a showdown between rivals Ashley Fiolek and Jessica Patterson. Fiolek captured her third title in four years last summer and will carry the No. 1 plate for Team Honda Muscle Milk. Fiolek, no doubt, has what it takes to win, but she will be forced to defend her crown against a determined Patterson, who joins the Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki team this season.

Also looking to challenge this duo is fellow veteran Tarah Gieger, who will once again compete for Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda, along with Team Honda Muscle Milk’s newest rider Sayaka Kaneshiro. Additionally, stalwarts like Mariana Balbi, Jacqueline Strong and Vicki Golden will also be in the mix.

Television coverage for Saturday’s FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic begins with the return of live coverage of the opening motos for both the 450 and 250 Classes on FUEL TV as well as online at AlliSports.com, beginning at 4 p.m. EST. Final moto coverage of both classes can be seen via same-day coverage on NBC Sports Network at 12:30 a.m. EST.