From a press release:

Vincent Haskovec Set To Race Willow Springs’ Toyota 200

Popular Czech rider finished on podium there last year; looking to improve in ’03

FLORENCE, Ky., (October 15, 2003) – Fresh off being one of two riders invited for a successful AMA Superbike test session at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Formula One road course, Vincent Haskovec will roll out his own Suzuki GSXR 1000 this weekend at Willow Springs International Motorsports Park for the annual Toyota 200, part of the WSMC Toyota Cup Road Race Series weekend at the challenging Southern California track.

Haskovec enjoyed a successful AMA/Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship campaign this summer, finishing on the overall podium in the Superstock class and in the top ten overall in the premier Superbike class. He returns to the Toyota 200 this year as a defending overall podium finisher (3rd) and is looking forward to improving upon his efforts of last year.

“Willow Springs is special to me in that it’s the first track I ever raced when I came here from Czechoslovakia,” said Haskovec. “It’s a fast track with good flow and I’m very comfortable racing there. I look forward to getting back on a bike and racing this weekend.”

Haskovec also added that the Toyota 200 is “One of the most difficult races in the world.”

“In the afternoon the wind blows so severely that it becomes difficult to do 80 laps,” he said. “So not only does the race require intense mental focus, it also takes an extreme toll on your body. Strength and endurance will be key if I hope to make it back on the podium this year, hopefully on the top.”

Action gets underway at Willow Springs on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17 & 18, with qualifiers for the Toyota 200. Sunday’s (Oct. 19) races will feature the RoadracingWorld.com 250 Grand Prix, followed by the Toyota 200. For more information on the race weekend check out willowspringsraceway.com.