Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and current Moto2 World Championship racer Cameron Beaubier married Shelby Smith December 11 in Roseville, California.
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Video: Interview With Moto2 Racer Sam Lowes
“I aim to come out fighting for the World Championship from the first race in 2022”
Sam Lowes completed a successful second season with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team in 2021 with a fourth place finish overall in the Moto2 World Championship. Lowes claimed an impressive tally of five podiums, three victories and six pole positions to show once again why he is one of the fastest in the intermediate category. In this special interview, the Briton reflects on a positive year while outlining his goals for 2022.
Can you give us your assessment of the 2021 season?
“The last season had some really good points and unfortunately some not such good points. We finished fourth overall in the World Championship and I’m slightly disappointed with that because we started the season so strongly with wins in the first two races in Qatar. I then made some mistakes and lost points and in doing that I lost some momentum and some confidence. I certainly want to do better than fourth overall next year.”
What lessons have you learnt in 2021 that will help make you stronger in 2022?
“You always learn something that can help you in the future and this year I felt I controlled my emotions a lot better. Sometimes I should have accepted the position I was in and finished the race rather than trying to push for a little bit more. It’s all so easy to say after the event but I have learnt a lot in my second year with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team. They’ve helped improve my riding and we all know as a group there are a lot of things we can improve on to help us fight for the title next year.”
What would say was your best moment of the 2021 season?
“Winning the first race in Qatar was very special because it was a long winter, you’ve done all the training and testing and there is a big build-up, so I was really proud and happy to win that. Winning again in Misano after a few difficult races was also special because in that period as well I seemed to keep finishing in fourth position and just missing the podium.”
What are the key areas you feel can be improved for 2022?
“I need to understand that in some races when you’re in a good position and maybe not feeling the best with the package, it is crucial to finish and score points. That helps you build momentum for the next race because each time you DNF you must pick yourself up and start again at the next race. I know I can be a little bit smarter in certain situations and in terms of my riding I still need to improve in the middle of the turn and on corner exit.”
What is your plan for the start of the winter break?
“I always analyse the previous season and try to understand where I and the Team can be stronger because we are all trying to be better moving forward. I’m going to be working hard and training, but I’ll also take time to enjoy myself with my family because it is important to have that balance. We have the potential to fight for the World Championship next year and we need to do that and this winter will be concentrating on doing everything possible to make it happen in 2022.”
What are your goals for 2022?
“My goals for next year are clear. I must be fighting for the World Championship, and I believe both myself and the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team can do that together. I want to be competitive and battling at the front in every race because if you do that, you’ll be a title contender. I need to improve in a couple of areas because the competition in Moto2 is so tight, but I aim to come out fighting for the World Championship from the first race.”
You have a new teammate for 2022 with Tony Arbolino joining the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team, so what do you think about him as a rider?
“Tony has proven how fast and talented he is because in 2020 he was fighting for the title in Moto3 all the way down to the last race and that’s not easy. It wasn’t easy in his first year in Moto2, but this is such a competitive class, and it is hard to understand his level after just one season. He did some great rides in Le Mans and Austin where he was very fast. To be as fast as he was on a difficult track like Austin, having never ridden a Moto2 bike there was impressive. I expect him to be fast next year and I’m looking forward to working with him because he seems a really cool and great guy. It will be a nice ambience together, which I think was missing at times this year, and I’m sure we can help each other improve.”
MotoE World Cup: Escrig Joins Tech3 E-Racing
Alex Escrig set for MotoE debut with Tech3 E-Racing
Alex Escrig will be joining the Tech3 E-Racing team next year in the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup alongside Spanish compatriot Hector Garzo. The 17-year-old native from Valencia will make his debut in the electric class at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez, the first MotoE races of the fourteen scheduled in 2022, and already has his eyes set on the price.
The young rider competed in the Spanish championship in the 80cc class in 2015 and 2016, before he contested for two seasons in the Spanish PreMoto3 category and finished 3rd overall in 2018. This great result allowed him to get his ticket to the Red Bull Rookies Cup for the 2019 and 2020 seasons, during which he managed to finish one time on the podium. Alex is coming out of an incredible 2021 season as he is the new European Stock 600 champion, having won 10 races out of 11.
Alex Escrig
“For next year, my objective is obviously to win the championship. But before everything, I am looking forward to learning about the bike and I want to have fun riding it. The MotoE bike will be different from what I know, but I am very keen to discover new riding techniques. I want to gain experience in fighting for world championships with older riders who are more experienced than me.”
“Hector Garzo will be my teammate for the second time of my young career, and I have known him since I was 4 years old. It will be a pleasure to share a box with him again. We have a good relationship, he has experience in MotoE, so I hope that we will share podiums together.”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“It is a great pleasure to announce that the Tech3 E-Racing team has now finalized its 2022 line-up. Alongside Hector Garzo, we are delighted to welcome Alex Escrig, a young and promising rider whom we have been following for a few seasons. We have been amazed by his 2021 season as he won the European Stock 600 championship with 10 victories out of 11 races.”
“Clearly the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup is becoming more and more attractive for the riders, and we are proud to be bringing a mix of experience and youth with our new line-up into the electric class. Alex will dispute his rookie season and will have a lot to learn, but I am sure that we can count on Hector to give him a few tips as they know each other already, both being from Valencia. We can’t wait to be in Jerez for the first test session of 2022, and I am sure that our riders will be fighting for podiums and victories next year.”
Bagger Racing League: Race Results From Sonoma Raceway
Editorial Note: The event schedule was compressed to fit everything into Saturday, to avoid running during a major storm predicted to hit the Sonoma area sometime on Saturday night and continue through Sunday. The event drew a total of 52 entries across five classes.
Bagger Racing League
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, California
December 11, 2021
Provisional Race Results:
Metzeler Pro Stock Bagger:
- Benny Carlson, 6 laps, Total Race Time 16:27.258
- Michael “Arnie” Wells, -16.795 seconds
- Logan Lackey, -18.766
- Oleg Pianykh, -19.453
- Steven Chamberlin, -20.012
- Cody Danley, -32.584
- Doug Ramey, -43.851
- Nicholas Arroyo, -54.055
- Chris Rivas, -60.296
- Kelly Quinn, -4 laps, DNF
ICON Lite Weight Twins/FS Cup:
- Benny Carlson, 6 laps, Total Race Time 11:33.718
- Patricia Fernandez, -13.996 seconds
- Cory West, -18.855
- Tony Sollima, -55.536
- Gregory Stinnett, -64.953
- Chris Wiggins, -77.610
- Ron Shincke, -93.453
- Bryan Shields, -102.710
- Brandon Quaid, -116.068
- Anyhony Gonzalez, -125.774
NAMZ Big Twins:
- Benny Carlson, 6 laps, Total Race Time 11:36.347
- Ravi Patel, -17.299 seconds
- Clay Braun, -17.809
- Tony Sollima, -18.301
- Lucas Geboo, -42.964
- Lenny Howard, -54.478
- Joshua Nichols, -55.984
- Carter Crafton, -83.022
- Nicholas Bartlett, -101.340
- Brendan Murphy, -108.927
Custom Dynamics Bagger GP:
- Shane Narbonne (H-D), 8 laps, Total Race Time 14:18.683
- Cory West (H-D), -0.362 second
- Ben Bostrom (H-D), -10.224 seconds
- Benny Carlson (H-D), -26.957
- Hawk Mazzotta (H-D), -30.266
- Patricia Fernandez (Indian), -54.755
- Tony Sollima (H-D), -112.785
- Jake Johnson (H-D), -7 laps, DNF
- Bryan Shields (H-D), -7 laps, DNF
Bagger Racing League: Narbonne On Bagger GP Pole At Sonoma
Editorial Note: Event organizers have not issued official results or an entry list with information like motorcycle makes and models.
Bagger Racing League
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, California
December 11, 2021
Unofficial Qualifying Results:
Metzeler Pro Stock Bagger:
- Benny Carlson, 1:55.387
- Michael “Arnie” Wells, 2:02.278
- Oleg Pianykh, 2:02.735
- Tony Tucker, 2:03.179
- Logan Lackey, 2:03.909
- Steven Chamberlin, 2:04.599
- Chris Rivas, 2:12.437
- Doug Ramey, 2:12.883
- Kelly Quinn, 2:12.969
- Nicholas Arroyo, 2:19.318
ICON Lite Weight Twins/FS Cup:
- Benny Carlson, 1:57.875
- Patricia Fernandez, 1:58.890
- Tony Sollima, 2:02.898
- Gregory Stinnett, 2:04.863
- Chris Wiggins, 2:05.076
- Ron Shincke, 2:11.389
- Brandon Quaid, 2:13.707
- Brandon Kofford, 2:15.754
- Carson Kofford, 2:17.797
- Bryan Shields, 2:18.113
NAMZ Big Twins:
- Benny Carlson, 1:54.509
- Sean Ungvarsky, 1:55.728
- Tony Sollima, 1:59.539
- Ravi Patel, 2:01.477
- Clay Braun, 2:03.172
- Joshua Nichols, 2:04.649
- Lucas Geboo, 2:06.265
- Carter Crafton, 2:09.121
- Lenny Howard, 2:09.168
- Nicholas Bartlett, 2:13.620
Custom Dynamics Bagger GP:
- Shane Narbonne (H-D), 1:47.705
- Cory West (H-D), 1:47.812
- Jake Johnson (H-D), 1:49.992
- Hawk Mazzotta (H-D), 1:50.428
- Ben Bostrom (H-D), 1:50.443
- Patricia Fernandez (Indian), 1:52.018
- Tony Sollima (H-D), 2:00.632
- Bryan Shields (H-D), 2:45.436
British Superbike: Vickers Signs With FHO Racing BMW
FHO RACING BMW SIGN RYAN VICKERS ALONGSIDE PETER HICKMAN FOR 2022 BENNETTS BSB CHAMPIONSHIP CAMPAIGN
FHO Racing BMW are delighted to announce the signing of Ryan Vickers for the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship. The 22-year old contender will complete the team line-up alongside six-time race winner Peter Hickman.
Vickers joins the Louth-based team for their second season in the Championship as they prepare to build on their successful debut campaign, which featured five podiums, including two victories for Hickman and a final championship finishing position of fifth.
Former National Superstock 600 champion Vickers looks ahead to next season with the FHO Racing BMW team following some strong performances in 2021. Despite finishing twelfth in the final standings, the Thetford-based contender narrowly missed out on a debut podium finish with a pair of fourth place results at Thruxton and set the fastest ever lap of Cadwell Park in August.
Vickers said: “I’m extremely excited and grateful for the opportunity to ride with FHO Racing BMW. During the 2021 championship, it was clear to see Faye’s dedication and commitment to the team and I am really looking forward to joining them for next season.
“Hicky had an amazing season with FHO Racing this year and it will be a privilege to work alongside him within such a professional environment. Not only am I there to learn, but I’m also there to win and I feel that this is my chance to move forward.
“I have learnt so much in my short time in BSB and I feel this opportunity has come at the perfect time for me to make this next step. The BMW M 1000 RR is a proven race winner in the championship so I can’t wait to test it for the first time. I am now excited about starting work with the team to prepare for the 2022 Championship.”
Team Owner Faye Ho commented: “I am really happy to welcome Ryan to the team for next season, he is one of the youngest riders on the BSB grid, but already has three full Superbike seasons under his belt and I feel that with the right environment, he can develop into a regular podium contender.
“I like to be able to give riders the opportunity to prove themselves and I feel that this season he showed his potential on several occasions, but was just a little bit unlucky too that he didn’t get that first career podium finish.
“As a team, we now have a season’s worth of experience with the new BMW M 1000 RR and that combined with Peter’s knowledge and some new input from Ryan should be a fantastic mix.”
For more information please visit www.fhoracing.com
MotoE World Cup: Hector Garzo Returns To Tech3 E-Racing
Tech3 E-Racing welcomes back Hector Garzo in MotoE for 2022
Hector Garzo will line-up with the Tech3 E-Racing team for the second time of his career, after already competing with the French squad in the inaugural season of the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup in 2019. In his first season in the electric class, the Spanish rider was very impressive on the Energica bike and finished three times on the podium, 4th overall in the championship, and will be for sure looking to do even better next year.
The 23-year-old native from Valencia has had a particular relationship with the South of France-based team over the last couple of years, as he made three Moto2 apparences at Jerez, Le Mans and Mugello with the team in 2018. Over the last two seasons, he competed in the Moto2 World Championship and achieved a valuable second place at the Valencia Grand Prix in 2020.
Hector Garzo
“I’m feeling very excited for next year because I am back with the Tech3 family which is the most important thing for me. I have already done a season in MotoE, the first year that the championship was built. In 2019, I came really close to winning the title, so this year, I want to fight for the championship again. It is going to be a really good year, so let’s go for the championship!”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“I am very happy to announce that Hector Garzo will be back with Tech3 E-Racing in 2022. We had a great 2019 season together and I am very excited to see him back in the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup. I am confident that we will be competitive, and I dare to dream that we will have the possibility to fight for the title.”
“During the last two seasons, Hector showed great speed and potential in the Moto2 World Championship. He made a lot of progress and raised his game. Having a young rider of such a high-level joining the MotoE Championship proves that MotoE is becoming more and more competitive every year, and attracts talented and fast riders.”
Northern Talent Cup: 2022 Schedule Released
Provisional 2022 Northern Talent Cup calendar announced
The provisional calendar for the 2022 Northern Talent Cup can now be announced! A seven-round, 14-race season will see the NTC race in five different countries next year, taking on six different tracks. Three rounds will take place alongside the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship and three alongside IDM, with the Cup also set to join the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship for the first time ever.
Track action begins with a two-day test at Oschersleben before the grid heads to Le Mans alongside MotoGP™ for their season opener, then it’s a return to Oschersleben for Round 2 alongside IDM. The Sachsenring then welcomes the Cup back to the MotoGP™ paddock at the German GP in the first of two more back-to-back rounds, with the Dutch TT up next at the legendary TT Circuit Assen.
From there, WorldSBK welcomes the NTC for the first time at Most in Czechia, before two more rounds alongside IDM to round out the year. First up is a return to Assen, before the season comes to a close at the stunning Red Bull Ring in Austria.
NTC_2022_Calendar_2021_11_28_1_
Applications remain open for 2022!
There’s still time to apply for a place on the 2022 grid and the chance to take on that calendar!
Applications are open until the 31st of December at northerntalentcup.com, where prospective competitors can also find out the entry requirements and more.
American Flat Track: Tickets For Volusia Half-Mile On Sale Now
Tickets on Sale Now for 2022 Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader
Progressive AFT’s 2022 season to kick off during Daytona Bike Week on Thursday, March 10 & Friday, March 11
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 10, 2021) – Progressive American Flat Track’s 2022 season is approaching at full speed, and there’s no need to wait any longer to purchase your tickets to the Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader as tickets are on sale now at AmericanFlatTrack.com.
The 2022 Progressive AFT season will once again kick off at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Fla. during Daytona Bike Week, with the 2022 season opener scheduled for Thursday, March 10 and Friday, March 11. Back-to-back nights of on-track action will mark the start of the 69th consecutive season for America’s Original Extreme Sport and will set into motion what is expected to be one of the most explosive championships to date.
Not only will the event serve as a must-see attraction during one of the world’s most iconic motorcycling events, it also promises to be among the most fan- and family-friendly attractions at Bike Week as well. General Admission Grandstand tickets are priced at just $40 and kids 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. New for the 2022 season, Paddock Access Upgrades are available for purchase, providing all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.
Fans can select their favorite seats in the Reserved Grandstand located directly in front of the start/finish line or get the best view in the house by securing one of the limited number of seats that are available in the Premium Reserved Grandstand section. Another new offering the 2022 season is the Turn 1 Paddock Grandstand offering, granting fans all-day access to the pits along with exclusive access to the trackside grandstand located just outside Turn 1.
Get a double dose of Progressive AFT action and save some cash with the Doubleheader Discount, which knocks $10 off a pair of Thursday and Friday tickets when purchased together.
Reserve your seats for the Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader today by visiting Progressive American Flat Track’s website at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3666/
For more information, please visit http://www.americanflattrack.com. To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.
British Superbike: Buchan, Andrew Irwin Staying With SYNETIQ BMW
BUCHAN & IRWIN TO REMAIN WITH SYNETIQ BMW FOR 2022 BENNETTS BRITISH SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP
SYNETIQ BMW will retain the services of both Danny Buchan and Andrew Irwin for a second successive season in the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship. The official announcement was made this morning [11:30] on the BMW Motorrad stand at Motorcycle Live, Birmingham NEC.
Both riders showed strong potential during their first season on TAS Racing prepared BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR machinery and are now looking forward to continuing that upward trajectory next season in the official BMW team.
DANNY BUCHAN
#83 BRITISH SUPERBIKE
Buchan, who took two race wins from his four BSB podiums during the 2021 campaign, that saw him finish seventh overall, explained:
“I’m over the moon to stay with TAS Racing and the SYNETIQ BMW team for 2022. The initial plan was always to do a second season and have a real go at winning the title. This first season was good with race wins and podiums, but with a season of development now under our belt, I’m excited to see how far we can take it in year two with the support of BMW Motorrad . I learned a lot throughout the year and connected with the team and my crew. We now fully understand each other and I believe we can challenge strongly and have a really good 2022. I can’t wait to get started.”
ANDREW IRWIN
#18 BRITISH SUPERBIKE
Andrew Irwin, who also enjoyed a race podium with SYNETIQ BMW during his first season on M 1000 RR machinery, said:
“I’m really excited to continue with SYNETIQ BMW into 2022. There’s no point hiding or running from the fact that 2021 wasn’t my strongest in BSB, so I’ve got lots of motivation to turn that around and prove what I’m capable of on the M 1000 RR. Thanks to TAS Racing for showing the commitment to keep me onboard for next year, and I’m now looking forward to repaying the faith they have shown in me with a strong campaign. I’m excited about going racing again, turning this ship around and putting the SYNETIQ BMW on regular podiums in 2022.”
PHILIP NEILL SYNETIQ BMW TEAM MANAGER
“Following the confirmation of our continued partnerships with BMW and SYNETIQ, it was always our preference to continue with Danny and Andrew for the 2022 Bennetts BSB season. Both riders really are a perfect fit within our team and everyone at TAS Racing is excited at the prospect of building on our many strong performances during 2021, by challenging for race wins and podiums with the BMW M 1000 RR in 2022.”
Recent Wedding: Cameron Beaubier – Shelby Smith
Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and current Moto2 World Championship racer Cameron Beaubier married Shelby Smith December 11 in Roseville, California.
Video: Interview With Moto2 Racer Sam Lowes
“I aim to come out fighting for the World Championship from the first race in 2022”
Sam Lowes completed a successful second season with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team in 2021 with a fourth place finish overall in the Moto2 World Championship. Lowes claimed an impressive tally of five podiums, three victories and six pole positions to show once again why he is one of the fastest in the intermediate category. In this special interview, the Briton reflects on a positive year while outlining his goals for 2022.
Can you give us your assessment of the 2021 season?
“The last season had some really good points and unfortunately some not such good points. We finished fourth overall in the World Championship and I’m slightly disappointed with that because we started the season so strongly with wins in the first two races in Qatar. I then made some mistakes and lost points and in doing that I lost some momentum and some confidence. I certainly want to do better than fourth overall next year.”
What lessons have you learnt in 2021 that will help make you stronger in 2022?
“You always learn something that can help you in the future and this year I felt I controlled my emotions a lot better. Sometimes I should have accepted the position I was in and finished the race rather than trying to push for a little bit more. It’s all so easy to say after the event but I have learnt a lot in my second year with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team. They’ve helped improve my riding and we all know as a group there are a lot of things we can improve on to help us fight for the title next year.”
What would say was your best moment of the 2021 season?
“Winning the first race in Qatar was very special because it was a long winter, you’ve done all the training and testing and there is a big build-up, so I was really proud and happy to win that. Winning again in Misano after a few difficult races was also special because in that period as well I seemed to keep finishing in fourth position and just missing the podium.”
What are the key areas you feel can be improved for 2022?
“I need to understand that in some races when you’re in a good position and maybe not feeling the best with the package, it is crucial to finish and score points. That helps you build momentum for the next race because each time you DNF you must pick yourself up and start again at the next race. I know I can be a little bit smarter in certain situations and in terms of my riding I still need to improve in the middle of the turn and on corner exit.”
What is your plan for the start of the winter break?
“I always analyse the previous season and try to understand where I and the Team can be stronger because we are all trying to be better moving forward. I’m going to be working hard and training, but I’ll also take time to enjoy myself with my family because it is important to have that balance. We have the potential to fight for the World Championship next year and we need to do that and this winter will be concentrating on doing everything possible to make it happen in 2022.”
What are your goals for 2022?
“My goals for next year are clear. I must be fighting for the World Championship, and I believe both myself and the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team can do that together. I want to be competitive and battling at the front in every race because if you do that, you’ll be a title contender. I need to improve in a couple of areas because the competition in Moto2 is so tight, but I aim to come out fighting for the World Championship from the first race.”
You have a new teammate for 2022 with Tony Arbolino joining the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team, so what do you think about him as a rider?
“Tony has proven how fast and talented he is because in 2020 he was fighting for the title in Moto3 all the way down to the last race and that’s not easy. It wasn’t easy in his first year in Moto2, but this is such a competitive class, and it is hard to understand his level after just one season. He did some great rides in Le Mans and Austin where he was very fast. To be as fast as he was on a difficult track like Austin, having never ridden a Moto2 bike there was impressive. I expect him to be fast next year and I’m looking forward to working with him because he seems a really cool and great guy. It will be a nice ambience together, which I think was missing at times this year, and I’m sure we can help each other improve.”
MotoE World Cup: Escrig Joins Tech3 E-Racing
Alex Escrig set for MotoE debut with Tech3 E-Racing
Alex Escrig will be joining the Tech3 E-Racing team next year in the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup alongside Spanish compatriot Hector Garzo. The 17-year-old native from Valencia will make his debut in the electric class at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez, the first MotoE races of the fourteen scheduled in 2022, and already has his eyes set on the price.
The young rider competed in the Spanish championship in the 80cc class in 2015 and 2016, before he contested for two seasons in the Spanish PreMoto3 category and finished 3rd overall in 2018. This great result allowed him to get his ticket to the Red Bull Rookies Cup for the 2019 and 2020 seasons, during which he managed to finish one time on the podium. Alex is coming out of an incredible 2021 season as he is the new European Stock 600 champion, having won 10 races out of 11.
Alex Escrig
“For next year, my objective is obviously to win the championship. But before everything, I am looking forward to learning about the bike and I want to have fun riding it. The MotoE bike will be different from what I know, but I am very keen to discover new riding techniques. I want to gain experience in fighting for world championships with older riders who are more experienced than me.”
“Hector Garzo will be my teammate for the second time of my young career, and I have known him since I was 4 years old. It will be a pleasure to share a box with him again. We have a good relationship, he has experience in MotoE, so I hope that we will share podiums together.”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“It is a great pleasure to announce that the Tech3 E-Racing team has now finalized its 2022 line-up. Alongside Hector Garzo, we are delighted to welcome Alex Escrig, a young and promising rider whom we have been following for a few seasons. We have been amazed by his 2021 season as he won the European Stock 600 championship with 10 victories out of 11 races.”
“Clearly the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup is becoming more and more attractive for the riders, and we are proud to be bringing a mix of experience and youth with our new line-up into the electric class. Alex will dispute his rookie season and will have a lot to learn, but I am sure that we can count on Hector to give him a few tips as they know each other already, both being from Valencia. We can’t wait to be in Jerez for the first test session of 2022, and I am sure that our riders will be fighting for podiums and victories next year.”
Bagger Racing League: Race Results From Sonoma Raceway
Editorial Note: The event schedule was compressed to fit everything into Saturday, to avoid running during a major storm predicted to hit the Sonoma area sometime on Saturday night and continue through Sunday. The event drew a total of 52 entries across five classes.
Bagger Racing League
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, California
December 11, 2021
Provisional Race Results:
Metzeler Pro Stock Bagger:
- Benny Carlson, 6 laps, Total Race Time 16:27.258
- Michael “Arnie” Wells, -16.795 seconds
- Logan Lackey, -18.766
- Oleg Pianykh, -19.453
- Steven Chamberlin, -20.012
- Cody Danley, -32.584
- Doug Ramey, -43.851
- Nicholas Arroyo, -54.055
- Chris Rivas, -60.296
- Kelly Quinn, -4 laps, DNF
ICON Lite Weight Twins/FS Cup:
- Benny Carlson, 6 laps, Total Race Time 11:33.718
- Patricia Fernandez, -13.996 seconds
- Cory West, -18.855
- Tony Sollima, -55.536
- Gregory Stinnett, -64.953
- Chris Wiggins, -77.610
- Ron Shincke, -93.453
- Bryan Shields, -102.710
- Brandon Quaid, -116.068
- Anyhony Gonzalez, -125.774
NAMZ Big Twins:
- Benny Carlson, 6 laps, Total Race Time 11:36.347
- Ravi Patel, -17.299 seconds
- Clay Braun, -17.809
- Tony Sollima, -18.301
- Lucas Geboo, -42.964
- Lenny Howard, -54.478
- Joshua Nichols, -55.984
- Carter Crafton, -83.022
- Nicholas Bartlett, -101.340
- Brendan Murphy, -108.927
Custom Dynamics Bagger GP:
- Shane Narbonne (H-D), 8 laps, Total Race Time 14:18.683
- Cory West (H-D), -0.362 second
- Ben Bostrom (H-D), -10.224 seconds
- Benny Carlson (H-D), -26.957
- Hawk Mazzotta (H-D), -30.266
- Patricia Fernandez (Indian), -54.755
- Tony Sollima (H-D), -112.785
- Jake Johnson (H-D), -7 laps, DNF
- Bryan Shields (H-D), -7 laps, DNF
Bagger Racing League: Narbonne On Bagger GP Pole At Sonoma
Editorial Note: Event organizers have not issued official results or an entry list with information like motorcycle makes and models.
Bagger Racing League
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, California
December 11, 2021
Unofficial Qualifying Results:
Metzeler Pro Stock Bagger:
- Benny Carlson, 1:55.387
- Michael “Arnie” Wells, 2:02.278
- Oleg Pianykh, 2:02.735
- Tony Tucker, 2:03.179
- Logan Lackey, 2:03.909
- Steven Chamberlin, 2:04.599
- Chris Rivas, 2:12.437
- Doug Ramey, 2:12.883
- Kelly Quinn, 2:12.969
- Nicholas Arroyo, 2:19.318
ICON Lite Weight Twins/FS Cup:
- Benny Carlson, 1:57.875
- Patricia Fernandez, 1:58.890
- Tony Sollima, 2:02.898
- Gregory Stinnett, 2:04.863
- Chris Wiggins, 2:05.076
- Ron Shincke, 2:11.389
- Brandon Quaid, 2:13.707
- Brandon Kofford, 2:15.754
- Carson Kofford, 2:17.797
- Bryan Shields, 2:18.113
NAMZ Big Twins:
- Benny Carlson, 1:54.509
- Sean Ungvarsky, 1:55.728
- Tony Sollima, 1:59.539
- Ravi Patel, 2:01.477
- Clay Braun, 2:03.172
- Joshua Nichols, 2:04.649
- Lucas Geboo, 2:06.265
- Carter Crafton, 2:09.121
- Lenny Howard, 2:09.168
- Nicholas Bartlett, 2:13.620
Custom Dynamics Bagger GP:
- Shane Narbonne (H-D), 1:47.705
- Cory West (H-D), 1:47.812
- Jake Johnson (H-D), 1:49.992
- Hawk Mazzotta (H-D), 1:50.428
- Ben Bostrom (H-D), 1:50.443
- Patricia Fernandez (Indian), 1:52.018
- Tony Sollima (H-D), 2:00.632
- Bryan Shields (H-D), 2:45.436
British Superbike: Vickers Signs With FHO Racing BMW
FHO RACING BMW SIGN RYAN VICKERS ALONGSIDE PETER HICKMAN FOR 2022 BENNETTS BSB CHAMPIONSHIP CAMPAIGN
FHO Racing BMW are delighted to announce the signing of Ryan Vickers for the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship. The 22-year old contender will complete the team line-up alongside six-time race winner Peter Hickman.
Vickers joins the Louth-based team for their second season in the Championship as they prepare to build on their successful debut campaign, which featured five podiums, including two victories for Hickman and a final championship finishing position of fifth.
Former National Superstock 600 champion Vickers looks ahead to next season with the FHO Racing BMW team following some strong performances in 2021. Despite finishing twelfth in the final standings, the Thetford-based contender narrowly missed out on a debut podium finish with a pair of fourth place results at Thruxton and set the fastest ever lap of Cadwell Park in August.
Vickers said: “I’m extremely excited and grateful for the opportunity to ride with FHO Racing BMW. During the 2021 championship, it was clear to see Faye’s dedication and commitment to the team and I am really looking forward to joining them for next season.
“Hicky had an amazing season with FHO Racing this year and it will be a privilege to work alongside him within such a professional environment. Not only am I there to learn, but I’m also there to win and I feel that this is my chance to move forward.
“I have learnt so much in my short time in BSB and I feel this opportunity has come at the perfect time for me to make this next step. The BMW M 1000 RR is a proven race winner in the championship so I can’t wait to test it for the first time. I am now excited about starting work with the team to prepare for the 2022 Championship.”
Team Owner Faye Ho commented: “I am really happy to welcome Ryan to the team for next season, he is one of the youngest riders on the BSB grid, but already has three full Superbike seasons under his belt and I feel that with the right environment, he can develop into a regular podium contender.
“I like to be able to give riders the opportunity to prove themselves and I feel that this season he showed his potential on several occasions, but was just a little bit unlucky too that he didn’t get that first career podium finish.
“As a team, we now have a season’s worth of experience with the new BMW M 1000 RR and that combined with Peter’s knowledge and some new input from Ryan should be a fantastic mix.”
For more information please visit www.fhoracing.com
MotoE World Cup: Hector Garzo Returns To Tech3 E-Racing
Tech3 E-Racing welcomes back Hector Garzo in MotoE for 2022
Hector Garzo will line-up with the Tech3 E-Racing team for the second time of his career, after already competing with the French squad in the inaugural season of the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup in 2019. In his first season in the electric class, the Spanish rider was very impressive on the Energica bike and finished three times on the podium, 4th overall in the championship, and will be for sure looking to do even better next year.
The 23-year-old native from Valencia has had a particular relationship with the South of France-based team over the last couple of years, as he made three Moto2 apparences at Jerez, Le Mans and Mugello with the team in 2018. Over the last two seasons, he competed in the Moto2 World Championship and achieved a valuable second place at the Valencia Grand Prix in 2020.
Hector Garzo
“I’m feeling very excited for next year because I am back with the Tech3 family which is the most important thing for me. I have already done a season in MotoE, the first year that the championship was built. In 2019, I came really close to winning the title, so this year, I want to fight for the championship again. It is going to be a really good year, so let’s go for the championship!”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“I am very happy to announce that Hector Garzo will be back with Tech3 E-Racing in 2022. We had a great 2019 season together and I am very excited to see him back in the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup. I am confident that we will be competitive, and I dare to dream that we will have the possibility to fight for the title.”
“During the last two seasons, Hector showed great speed and potential in the Moto2 World Championship. He made a lot of progress and raised his game. Having a young rider of such a high-level joining the MotoE Championship proves that MotoE is becoming more and more competitive every year, and attracts talented and fast riders.”
Northern Talent Cup: 2022 Schedule Released
Provisional 2022 Northern Talent Cup calendar announced
The provisional calendar for the 2022 Northern Talent Cup can now be announced! A seven-round, 14-race season will see the NTC race in five different countries next year, taking on six different tracks. Three rounds will take place alongside the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship and three alongside IDM, with the Cup also set to join the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship for the first time ever.
Track action begins with a two-day test at Oschersleben before the grid heads to Le Mans alongside MotoGP™ for their season opener, then it’s a return to Oschersleben for Round 2 alongside IDM. The Sachsenring then welcomes the Cup back to the MotoGP™ paddock at the German GP in the first of two more back-to-back rounds, with the Dutch TT up next at the legendary TT Circuit Assen.
From there, WorldSBK welcomes the NTC for the first time at Most in Czechia, before two more rounds alongside IDM to round out the year. First up is a return to Assen, before the season comes to a close at the stunning Red Bull Ring in Austria.
NTC_2022_Calendar_2021_11_28_1_
Applications remain open for 2022!
There’s still time to apply for a place on the 2022 grid and the chance to take on that calendar!
Applications are open until the 31st of December at northerntalentcup.com, where prospective competitors can also find out the entry requirements and more.
American Flat Track: Tickets For Volusia Half-Mile On Sale Now
Tickets on Sale Now for 2022 Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader
Progressive AFT’s 2022 season to kick off during Daytona Bike Week on Thursday, March 10 & Friday, March 11
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 10, 2021) – Progressive American Flat Track’s 2022 season is approaching at full speed, and there’s no need to wait any longer to purchase your tickets to the Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader as tickets are on sale now at AmericanFlatTrack.com.
The 2022 Progressive AFT season will once again kick off at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Fla. during Daytona Bike Week, with the 2022 season opener scheduled for Thursday, March 10 and Friday, March 11. Back-to-back nights of on-track action will mark the start of the 69th consecutive season for America’s Original Extreme Sport and will set into motion what is expected to be one of the most explosive championships to date.
Not only will the event serve as a must-see attraction during one of the world’s most iconic motorcycling events, it also promises to be among the most fan- and family-friendly attractions at Bike Week as well. General Admission Grandstand tickets are priced at just $40 and kids 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. New for the 2022 season, Paddock Access Upgrades are available for purchase, providing all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.
Fans can select their favorite seats in the Reserved Grandstand located directly in front of the start/finish line or get the best view in the house by securing one of the limited number of seats that are available in the Premium Reserved Grandstand section. Another new offering the 2022 season is the Turn 1 Paddock Grandstand offering, granting fans all-day access to the pits along with exclusive access to the trackside grandstand located just outside Turn 1.
Get a double dose of Progressive AFT action and save some cash with the Doubleheader Discount, which knocks $10 off a pair of Thursday and Friday tickets when purchased together.
Reserve your seats for the Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader today by visiting Progressive American Flat Track’s website at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3666/
For more information, please visit http://www.americanflattrack.com. To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.
British Superbike: Buchan, Andrew Irwin Staying With SYNETIQ BMW
BUCHAN & IRWIN TO REMAIN WITH SYNETIQ BMW FOR 2022 BENNETTS BRITISH SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP
SYNETIQ BMW will retain the services of both Danny Buchan and Andrew Irwin for a second successive season in the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship. The official announcement was made this morning [11:30] on the BMW Motorrad stand at Motorcycle Live, Birmingham NEC.
Both riders showed strong potential during their first season on TAS Racing prepared BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR machinery and are now looking forward to continuing that upward trajectory next season in the official BMW team.
DANNY BUCHAN
#83 BRITISH SUPERBIKE
Buchan, who took two race wins from his four BSB podiums during the 2021 campaign, that saw him finish seventh overall, explained:
“I’m over the moon to stay with TAS Racing and the SYNETIQ BMW team for 2022. The initial plan was always to do a second season and have a real go at winning the title. This first season was good with race wins and podiums, but with a season of development now under our belt, I’m excited to see how far we can take it in year two with the support of BMW Motorrad . I learned a lot throughout the year and connected with the team and my crew. We now fully understand each other and I believe we can challenge strongly and have a really good 2022. I can’t wait to get started.”
ANDREW IRWIN
#18 BRITISH SUPERBIKE
Andrew Irwin, who also enjoyed a race podium with SYNETIQ BMW during his first season on M 1000 RR machinery, said:
“I’m really excited to continue with SYNETIQ BMW into 2022. There’s no point hiding or running from the fact that 2021 wasn’t my strongest in BSB, so I’ve got lots of motivation to turn that around and prove what I’m capable of on the M 1000 RR. Thanks to TAS Racing for showing the commitment to keep me onboard for next year, and I’m now looking forward to repaying the faith they have shown in me with a strong campaign. I’m excited about going racing again, turning this ship around and putting the SYNETIQ BMW on regular podiums in 2022.”
PHILIP NEILL SYNETIQ BMW TEAM MANAGER
“Following the confirmation of our continued partnerships with BMW and SYNETIQ, it was always our preference to continue with Danny and Andrew for the 2022 Bennetts BSB season. Both riders really are a perfect fit within our team and everyone at TAS Racing is excited at the prospect of building on our many strong performances during 2021, by challenging for race wins and podiums with the BMW M 1000 RR in 2022.”