BSB Sportbike: American Gus Rodio Debuts at Donington Park

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 10, 2025

BSB Sportbike: American Gus Rodio Debuts at Donington Park

What a weekend it’s been! Our first outing as luxeStar VIP Suzuki in the SportBike class at the British Super Bikes Championship was nothing short of exhilarating. From torrential rain to record-breaking laps, the debut was packed with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments.

A Wet Welcome at Donington Park

We rolled into Donington Park on Thursday under a sky that seemed determined to drown our spirits. The forecast was grim, but thankfully, the weather held off for most of the weekend, allowing us to focus on what really mattered—racing.

Gus Rodio Takes on the Challenge

Our rider, Gus Rodio, flew in from the United States accompanied by his father Kevin Rodio and mechanic Rich Marshall, ready to tackle a weekend of firsts:

First time racing at Donington Park
First time riding the Suzuki GSX-8R
First time on Pirelli tyres

That’s a mountain of new experiences to climb, especially in the ultra-competitive National SportBike class, where every rider is fast and fearless.

Rising to the Occasion

Despite the steep learning curve, Gus adapted quickly. His feedback was sharp, his pace improved with every session, and his determination was palpable. He finished the race in 12th place—but here’s the kicker: his fastest lap came on the final lap of the race, and it was the fastest lap of the entire field. Had the race gone on for just five more laps, Gus would likely have overtaken several riders ahead of him. That’s how strong his pace was.

Rodio on the grid before his first race in the SportBike class at Donington Park. Photo credit: Ian Hopgood Photography.

Back to the States—For Now

As we write this, Gus is boarding a flight back to the U.S. to continue his campaign in the MotoAmerica Series. But we’re already looking ahead to his return at Brands Hatch in mid-October. He’s raced there before, and now that he’s dialed in with the Suzuki, we’re optimistic about what’s to come.

A Huge Thank You

This weekend wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support from our team and partners:

Mats Petersson for providing the bike and infrastructure

John Thornley for his top-tier mechanical expertise

Scott Rehl of luxeStar VIP for unwavering support

Holly the Brolly – Holly Harris – a great racer in her own right.

BigMoto, Classic Team Suzuki, Team GB Racing, HEL Performance, EBC, Envy Racing Apparel and other product suppliers joining us for future rounds

Your contributions have been invaluable.

Spotlight on Asher Durham

Another standout performance came from Asher Durham, also supported by luxeStar VIP and racing for the PowerSlide Suzuki Team. Asher battled fiercely with the leading group and clinched a well-earned 2nd place finish, propelling him to 2nd in the championship standings. We’re proud to play even a small part in his success.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning for Luxar VIP Suzuki Racing. With talent like Gus and Asher, and a passionate team behind them, the future looks fast and bright. We’re fired up for the next round and can’t wait to see what unfolds at Brands Hatch.

Until then—keep the throttle open and the passion alive.

Session-4709

AMA Hall of Fame Days Scheduled On October 23-26

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 10, 2025

0

AMA Hall of Fame Days Scheduled On October 23-26

AMA Hall of Fame Days to include Induction Ceremony, Bike Night and plenty of racing.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — In a grand celebration of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2025, the American Motorcyclist Association has a full weekend of activities scheduled for AMA Hall of Fame Days, which runs Oct. 23-26.

Centered around the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, AMA Hall of Days features plenty of exciting opportunities for all motorcycle enthusiasts, including AMA Hall of Famers on site, a bike night, racing in a variety of disciplines, and much more!

“AMA Hall of Fame Days is a grand celebration of the legends, heroes, advocates, promoters and achievers who have shaped the landscape of American motorcycling,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “The Hall of Fame Induction ceremony welcomes the incoming Hall of Fame class, and a full weekend of activities follows to raise money for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit that helps fund the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will kick off the week, with Dana Bell, Chris Carter, Colin Edwards, Joe Kopp, Chad Reed and Ryan Young entering the prestigious collection of AMA Hall of Famers on Thursday, Oct. 23, in the auditorium of the Event Center at Violet Woods (formerly the Wigwam Event Center) in Pickerington, Ohio.

Following the induction ceremony, a cocktail reception will be held at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, during which the inductees will introduce their hall of fame displays within the museum. Heavy hor d’oeuvres will be served at the cocktail reception.

Purchase tickets today at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/hall-of-fame/hall-of-fame-members/induction-ceremony/ .

On Friday, Oct. 24, the AMA Hall of Fame Heritage Adventure Ride will depart from the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and take riders on a scenic journey through Southern Ohio. All participants must be AMA members, and those interested can find more information atAmericanMotorcyclist.com/events/heritage-adventure-ride/ .

Saturday, Oct. 25, is packed with racing action, in addition to an AMA Hall of Fame Bike Night.

The morning starts with the AMA Adventure X Time Trials, which allows riders the opportunity to ride the adventure loop on the AMA Campus, and compete for medals. Entry is $30 for one class and $20 for additional classes. More information can be found atAmericanMotorcyclist.com/events/scheduled-events/adventure-x-time-trials/ .

Following the Adventure X Time Trials, riders can compete in the AMA Pitbike Moto on the pitbike track at the AMA’s campus. Sessions will be enforced depending on rider count, and flaggers will be on hand to ensure a safe and smooth riding experience. Racers can register at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/events/scheduled-events/ama-pit-bike-moto/ .

Run by Trials Inc., a Vintage Trials session will also be run on the adventure loop on the AMA Campus following the Adventure X Time Trials. More details can be found atwww.dabtracker.com/TI/ .

Saturday culminates in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Bike Night, which will include vendor displays, a bike show, food trucks, 50/50 raffle, and much more! Check outAmericanMotorcyclist.com/events/scheduled-events/ama-bike-nights/ for more details.

Also on Saturday is the AMA Road Captain Workshop, which is exclusively for AMA members who want to lead group road rides more successfully and safely. VisitAmericanMotorcyclist.com/riding/riding-resources/road-captain-workshop/ for more information.

Running concurrently with AMA Hall of Fame Days are Competition Commission meetings, which aim to establish the best practices for both racers and race organizers, while addressing common concerns surrounding fairness and competitiveness of motorcycle racing in America.

R.I.P.: AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer John Penton

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 10, 2025

0

R.I.P.: AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer John Penton

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association mourns the passing of John Penton, one of motorcycling’s most influential and well-known figures. Penton passed peacefully at 100 years of age, having recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

Born on Aug. 19, 1925, Penton and his brothers learned to ride after reviving an old 1914 Harley-Davidson they found in their barn. But when World War II began, Penton shifted his emphasis to defense of the country, serving during the war as a Merchant Marine and in the Navy.

After the war he bought a used Harley-Davidson Knucklehead, heading with his brother Bill to Lansing, Michigan, to ride in the grueling Jack Pine 500-Mile Enduro in 1948. It was at that race that Penton realized that the days of larger bikes like Harleys and Indians were likely numbered in races like the Jack Pine when he saw a lighter, nimbler BSA beating the more powerful bikes.

Penton returned to the Jack Pine the next year on a B-33 BSA and finished second, which was the beginning of his mission to find a smaller, lighter and better-performing enduro motorcycle.

Penton went on to open a motorcycle dealership with his brothers while also continuing to race, winning the Ohio State Enduro Championship and many other enduros throughout the Midwest. In 1960 he won the AMA’s Most Popular Rider Award.

Later becoming a Husqvarna distributor after winning the Jack Pine aboard a Husky in 1966, Penton toured the Husqvarna factory in Europe in 1967 and tried to convince the manufacturer to begin building lightweight off-road machines, which Penton saw as the future of off-road riding and racing.

His idea was met with a lukewarm reception, so he went to visit the KTM factory in Austria, where his idea of a lightweight off-road bike was greeted with slightly more enthusiasm. He offered to put up $6,000 of his own money if KTM would build a handful of prototypes to his specifications, and KTM agreed.

In early 1968, Penton took delivery of six Penton 100cc prototypes, promptly entering them in races and putting other top riders on the bikes. Right from the start there was a big demand for the Pentons, which were lightweight and inexpensive, and in the first year over 400 were sold. More than a decade later, over 25,000 highly-competitive Penton motorcycles had been sold in America.

Penton’s innovations also included improving boots for off-road riders by working with Alpinestars of Italy to produce legendary Hi-Point boots.

For his innovation and contributions to the industry with Husqvarna, Penton, Hi-Point and in a many other ways, Penton was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.

See John Penton’s AMA Hall of Fame biography here:

http://hof.motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/detail.aspx?RacerID=84&lpos=-410px&letter=P&txtFname=&rblFname=S&txtLname=&rblLname=S&discipline=0

The Penton brothers in 1950, from left, Bill, Ted, John, Ike. Photo courtesy Davey Coombs.

More, from Davey Coombs:

John Penton (1925-2025)

The world of motorcycling lost one of its true giants earlier this week when John Penton passed away. The man who helped shape off-road racing and the motorcycle business in America, as well as his early influence on now global companies like KTM in Austria and Alpinestars in Italy, made him one of the most influential figures in the growth of off-road racing as well as the aftermarket industry. Just a few weeks ago we were celebrating Penton’s 100th birthday, as his hometown of Amherst, Ohio, shut down one afternoon in August for a centennial celebration. Born into a farming family with three older brothers, Penton learned how to ride on a 1914 Harley-Davidson motorcycle that his dad had left in the corner of the family barn. He went into the merchant marine and then the U.S. Navy when World War 2 broke out. And then he became one of the best motorcycle riders in the country in the 1950s, winning AMA National Enduro Championships and setting records for transcontinental solo rides across the U.S., including one for riding from New York City to Los Angeles in just 52 hours. Penton and his brothers opened a motorcycle dealership in the 1950s that sold the lightweight two-stroke European brands John Penton preferred over the heavier American and British four-stroke brands of the day. He had an idea to make a trail-specific lightweight motorcycle that would be mass-produced, so he built a business plan and took it to Sweden to meet with Husqvarna. They passed on the idea, but the next place that Penton went to–KTM in Austria, at the time a moped and bicycle maker–liked his idea enough to go into business with him.

John Penton on a German built NSU. Photo courtesy Davey Coombs.

In 1968 the first Penton motorcycle was produced to be sold in America, and the same model would be available in Europe under the KTM label. For ten years it worked that way, and Penton ended up selling more than 25,000 of his eponymously named motorcycles. They were primarily for woods racing, but they were also competitive motocross bikes. In fact, in 1974 KTM-mounted Gennady Moiseev won the FIM 250cc World Motocross Championship on one, then added two more by the end of the decade.

It was in the late ’70s that KTM decided to buy the U.S. distribution from Penton, effectively ending the line, though every KTM to this day has John Penton as part of its DNA. By that point he had moved on to other projects in the industry, under the banner of Hi-Point Racing Products. That all started with him contracting with Alpinestars, at the time the maker of climbing boots and road-riding boots, to make a dirt bike-specific boot that was sold in the U.S. under the Hi-Point brand. He also licensed and sold lubricants, tires, bike trailers, and more. All the while he kept him family and his company in his native Ohio.

John Penton, circa 2004. Photo courtesy Davey Coombs.

After retiring from the business Penton’s legacy was cemented by writers like Ed Youngblood, who wrote the biography “John Penton and the Motorcycle Revolution,” as well as filmmakers like Todd Huffman, who produced the documentary “Penton: The John Penton Story.” He was a charter member of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, entering in 1998 as a member of its first class. His legacy was further solidified by all of the riders and people he worked with that would eventually join him in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, including his sons Jack and Tom Penton, who were both world-class off-road racers, as well as Dick Burleson, Rod Bush, Billy Uhl, Larry Maiers, and more.

Given his deep passion for motorcycling, his love of competition, his endurance records and his extraordinary life, it’s only fitting that John Penton completed 100 laps around the sun.

John Penton Turns 100 Years Old. Photo courtesy SuperMotocross Media — John Penton recently turned 100 Years Old. Photo Courtesy Ken Hill.

ASRA: 2025 Ozarks REVFEST Starts This Thursday

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

ASRA: 2025 Ozarks REVFEST Starts This Thursday

This weekend Ozarks International Raceway – September 10-14

Thursday/Friday practice day with EvolveGT
Move in begins 6pm Wednesday
Double points weekend
ASRA double header weekend

EvolveGT riders on track at Ozarks International Raceway. Photo courtesy EvolveGT.

Race registration is open for Ozarks September 10-14
This event will also feature the new Time Trials series.
You do not need a race license to compete in the time trials.
Garages for the event under the tickets section.

The 58-bay garage at Ozarks International Raceway. Photo courtesy Ozarks International Raceway.

INFO PACKET HERE

RACE REGISTRATION HERE

2025-race-day-schedules-OZARK-9-12_13-2

Overhead view of Ozarks International Raceway.

Stunt shows to concerts, ride alongs, parade laps, tours of the track, food, drinks and a parachute jump in! You can ride the trackday, race or just hang out! We made a special website just for it with all the details – REVFEST.

APRILIA will be on hand the weekend with demo bikes.
The most incredible track in the U.S.

A photo showing an EvolveGT rider on course at Ozarks Raceway. Photo courtesy EvolveGT.

About REVFEST:

REVFEST is more than just motorcycle racing events—it’s a revolution in motorsport culture. Born from a passion for speed, community, and the relentless pursuit of adrenaline, we’ve created a platform where amateur and professional racers come together to celebrate racing.

Since our founding in 2022, we’ve been breaking boundaries and building bridges between different racing disciplines. Our events feature competitive racing, skill development workshops, and community gatherings that bring together people who share our love for the sport.

Oceania Junior Cup: Race Results From Philip Island

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

Oceania Junior Cup: Race Results From Philip Island

The 2025 BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup (OJC) redefined the meaning of close racing when round four was held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on September 6-7.

It was mesmerising from start to finish, kicked off in spectacular fashion when 20 riders and their striking Yamaha YZF-R15s flashed across the line separated by just 1.648 seconds in race one.

Xavier Curmi came out of the Saturday rolling scrum with the biggest smile before New Zealand wildcard Lucas Hyslop and Callum Campbell won the two races on Sunday.

With slipstreaming a key battle front at Phillip Island, it was nigh on impossible for riders to break free, which placed an extra premium on race craft and again emphasised why the class is the perfect launching pad to begin circuit racing.

The top two at Phillip Island: Xavier Curmi (left) and Callum Campbell. Photo credit RbMotoLens

Campbell (11-2-1) and Curmi (1-5-7) finished on equal top-scoring points at Phillip Island, with the former awarded the overall courtesy of a higher finishing position in race three.

Hunter Charlett (4-6-2) was third overall, which helped him move up from fifth to fourth in the championship on 176pts.

At the front, Connor Lewis (222pts) is the new leader in the official Australian Junior Road Race Championship class over Chaz Williams (213pts) and Curmi (179pts).

race 1

The weekend started well for Williams – who had led the OJC standings from race one at Sydney Motorsport Park – when he was second in race one after starting from the front row of the grid, before he went down within sight of the finish line in race two.

That saw Lewis take over the championship lead, which he extended to 9pts in race three when he finished third and Williams was sixth.

But with two rounds and six races still remaining, the 2025 OJC battle is still exceptionally wide open.

For the Phillip Island OJC results and updated standings, click here.

race 2

race 3

The penultimate round will be held at One Raceway from October 3-5, alongside the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul.

The race two finish, with wildcard Lucas Hyslop defeating Callum Campbell by 0.009 seconds. Photo credit RbMotoLens

Meanwhile, expressions of interest are now open for riders aged between 11 and 16 to join the OJC grid in 2026.

The OJC is officially part of the global Road to MotoGP program and supported by the FIM and FIM Oceania with dedicated coaching, rider training, media and PR development and a host of high-performance training programs.

For more information and to submit an expression of interest, click here.

AFT: Tickets Now On Sale For The 2026 Daytona Short Track

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

AFT: Tickets Now On Sale For The 2026 Daytona Short Track

On the heels of last weekend’s Springfield announcement of Progressive American Flat Track’s first-ever visit to Budd’s Creek Motocross Park in Mechanicsville, Md., fans now have another reason to start looking ahead to 2026.

General Admission and Standing Room Only (SRO) tickets are officially on sale for the 2026 DAYTONA Short Track I & II, set for March 5-6, 2026, at Daytona International Speedway. The high-intensity season opener will once again launch the Progressive American Flat Track season with a back-to-back doubleheader under the lights.

2-Day Pass: Buy Now
Thursday, March 5 – DAYTONA Short Track I: Buy Now
Friday, March 6 – DAYTONA Short Track II: Buy Now

Fans who want first crack at the best seats and premium experiences can sign up now for exclusive pre-sale access to all other ticket types: Pre-Sale Sign-Up.

Reserved ticket renewals will be offered first to all 2025 ticketholders before opening to the general public.

Even with the 2025 season still in full swing but coming to an end soon, anticipation is building for what’s to come in 2026. From the brand-new Maryland showdown at Budd’s Creek to the traditional Daytona doubleheader kickoff, the stage is being set for another unforgettable season of bar-banging, dirt-slinging, heart-pounding racing.

Lock in your spot now for the DAYTONA Short Track and get ready to be part of the thunder when the 2026 season roars to life.

But First:

Progressive American Flat Track will conclude an epic 2025 Grand National Championship season with the Arby’s Lake Ozark Short Track presented by Arrowhead Brass at Lake Ozark Speedway in Eldon, Missouri, on Saturday, September 13.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/lake-ozark-short-track-126438 to purchase your tickets now.

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://flosports.link/aft.

FOX Sports coverage of the Springfield Mile II presented by Drag Specialties will air this Saturday, September 13, at  10:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. PT).

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

2026 Golden State Mini & SuperMoto Series Coming To California

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

2026 Golden State Mini & SuperMoto Series Coming To California

A collaboration of noted racers – Hawk Mazzotta, Tyler O’Hara, John Hopkins, and Bronson Pearce – have announced the 2026 Golden State Championship, the premier mini road racing and supermoto championships slated to be held in California in 2026.

The 2026 Golden State Championship will feature four events at four different racetracks in California – Redding Motorsports Park in Redding, Apex Racing Center in Perris, Buttonwillow Raceway Kart Track in Buttonwillow, and Sonoma Raceway Karting Center in Sonoma.

Series logo

All four rounds will be qualifying events for the 2026 Mission MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Finals in addition to AMA Supermoto and other showcase and feature classes. The AMA Supermoto series will have unique dirt sections at each round with each round promising something for everyone, even the youngest racers with Stacyc racing classes. The championship will be AMA sanctioned, and every event will feature the same structure, rules, classes, and procedures.

Each of the four rounds will be two-day events (Saturday and Sunday) with some rounds set for Friday practice. There will also be new-racer schools, hosted by Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp, at every event.

Racer, riding coach, promoter and Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp owner Hawk Mazzotta and wife Nina, with their kids.

“I have been wanting to host a proper series like this for years, and now it is coming to fruition. I am so heavily submersed and invested in the youth riders and really want to help the movement, this is only going to help the process. California brought up the best racers in the world at one point, I’d like to see that again.

I have partnered with three of the most solid men, as both human beings, and racers. I am confident that together we will do great things for the sport.

Our focus is to provide an extremely professional, safe, fun, confidence inspiring series that is very welcoming to all, and promotes growth in the sport and helps pave the way for our American talent to the next levels.” –Hawk Mazzotta

“I am super excited to be collaborating with the Golden State Championship to host the event at Sonoma Raceway in July for the MotoAmerica Mini Cup qualifier. Last year for our inaugural event it was a huge success and I can’t wait to see everyone at the races.” -Tyler O’Hara

Bronson Pearce (in the middle) — SuperMoto racer Bronson Pearce with his crew

“I’m beyond excited to be a part of running AMA Supermoto. This sport has given me so much throughout my career, from racing in the Supermoto World Championship representing Team USA at the Supermoto of Nations. I know firsthand the dedication, passion, and energy it takes to compete at the highest level, and I am looking forward to using that experience to help grow the series and create opportunities for the next generation of riders.” -Bronson Pearce

John “Hopper” Hopkins during his MotoGP career

“I’m so excited for this new Golden State Series & truly honored to host one of the rounds at my very own circuit Apex Motorsports Park. I’m even more excited for the future of our sport! It’s so awesome to be linked up and working with fellow longtime Pro Racers, world renowned Organizations & brands who are all just as passionate, motivated & willing to put in the work to see this sport excel to all new heights. The trophy alone is so cool that I personally might need to dust off the cobwebs & get back at it…” –John “Hopper” Hopkins

CIV: American Kristian Daniel Jr on The Podium At Imola

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

CIV: American Kristian Daniel Jr on The Podium At Imola

Podium on Saturday, crash on Sunday for Red Bull Rookies Cup rider in Italian championship wild card.

American rider Kristian Daniel Jr. returned to the CIV Italian Moto3 Championship this past weekend at Imola (September 6–7, 2025), riding for Spanish manufacturer Beon Automotive. The 16-year-old, who competes full-time in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, already knew the Imola circuit well after racing there last year, where he also scored a podium. This time, he picked up right where he left off.

Race 1: Saturday Podium

Kristian started the weekend strong, qualifying 6th and carrying that speed into Saturday’s race. Staying with the front group throughout, he fought hard to claim a well-earned 3rd place finish, adding another Imola podium to his record.

civ moto3 race 1 results

Race 2: Sunday Setback

On Sunday, Kristian was again showing competitive pace, holding 5th place by lap six. Unfortunately, a crash ended his race early. He walked away without injury and was quick to highlight the positives from the weekend despite the disappointment.

civ moto3 race 2 results

Looking Ahead

The Imola round gave Kristian more valuable mileage in the CIV Moto3 and another chance to work closely with Beon Automotive. With Saturday’s podium and solid speed across the weekend, it was another step forward in his development on the international stage.

Next up, Kristian heads to Misano for the final round of the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, where he will find out if he is selected to continue in the championship for a third season.

British Talent Cup: Americans Raymond and Correa Top10 at Donington

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

British Talent Cup: Americans Raymond and Correa Top10 at Donington

American Julian Correa finished 10th on his Honda – Mortimer Racing during British Talent Cup Race 1 Saturday morning at Donington Park, in England.

Correa placed sixth in Saturday afternoon’s Race 2 and followed it up with a 13th-place finish in Sunday’s Race 3.

Meanwhile, American rider Joshua Raymond Jr. was forced to retire from Race 1 on his Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing. He bounced back on Saturday afternoon with a strong seventh-place finish, and on Sunday, Raymond secured a spot in the top ten in Race 3.

“Bit of an up and down weekend at Donington Park. Race 1-dnf, Race 2-7, Race 3-P10. Josh was fighting with the lead group until he lost the front. His lap times were on point all weekend. He’s heading to Spain to train and he’ll be ready for assen in two weeks.
The team did an amazing job as always. He can’t wait to see what he can do at Assen.” –Josh Raymond Sr

More from a press release issued by R&G British Talent Cup:

The R&G British Talent Cup returned to Donington Park for Round 6 of the 2025 season, with fans treated to three races across the weekend. Ethan Sparks (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) set the tone in Race 1, converting pole position into a sensational victory by just 0.332s at the chequered flag following a last-lap showdown with Ryan Frost (Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing). Frost edged out Filip Surowiak (City Lifting Team) for second, with the #75’s lead being reduced to 20 points following a P3 finish.

Sparks made a blistering start from pole, holding firm at Redgate, with Surowiak and Frost in chase. There was drama from the start, with George Bowes (GB | 67 / Edwards Racing) crashing out at Turn 1 and ending hopes of a strong result immediately. The lead group formed quickly, with Harrison Mackay (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) joining the scrap in true British Talent Cup fashion. On Lap 2, Sparks ran wide, opening the door to Frost, who slipped into the lead. Meanwhile, there was extra work to do for Jack Burrows (Burows Engineering / RK Racing), with the #16 being handed a Long Lap.

Peter Willis (WM Racing) began carving his way forward, working his way from the edge of the top 10 towards the leaders. Up front, Sparks regrouped, launching his attack on Lap 5 – regaining control of Race 1. There would soon be further drama, with Joshua Raymond Jnr (Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing) crashing out at the final corner, setting sights on Race 2 redemption. The tension continued to brew, with positions continuing to shuffle as Mackay slipped from second to fourth in the space of two corners.

Frost briefly snatched the lead again, with Sparks searching for his opportunity to attack. The chance arrived on Lap 12, with Sparks reclaiming the advantage, setting the stage for a dramatic fight for the podium places. Meanwhile, Surowiak was beginning to show incredible pace, firing in the last lap of the race. It was elbows out action as Frost sent a sensational move at the penultimate corner, slotting into second position at the chequered flag.

Sparks held firm at the line, clinching victory by just 0.332s and banking further championship points. Frost followed closely in second, edging out Surowiak as the title battle tightened once again. Mackay took fourth, narrowly missing out on the podium, while Willis capped off a brilliant ride to complete the top five. Mason Foster (Mortimer Racing) claimed sixth, finishing ahead of Jack Dunabie (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) and Clayton Edmunds (City Lifting Team). Further back, Burrows fought his way to ninth, with the experienced Julian Correa (Mortimer Racing) closing out Race1’s top 10!

british talent cup race 1

Sparks clinches the Donington double

Ethan Sparks made it two from two at Donington Park, storming to another stunning victory in another 14-lap dash on Saturday. The #62 held his nerve, scoring a crucial 25 points, closing the gap to his title rival Filip Surowiak, who continues to head the standings and is in search of his seventh victory of the season. Behind them, Jack Dunabie capitalised on late drama, earning his first podium since Brands Hatch.

Harrison Mackay grabbed the holeshot at Turn 1, but it wasn’t long before Surowiak responded as he entered P1 following an impressive start. The opening lap delivered classic British Talent Cup action, with Ethan Sparks working his way from the second row to slot into second. Another fierce scrap was unfolding further down the field, with Mason Foster determined for a strong result, and Clayton Edmunds lighting up the timing screens, clocking purple times.

Further back, Blake Wilson led the second group of riders in an intense battle for the remaining places inside the top 10. Meanwhile, there was drama on Lap 6 for Lily Rhodes (Wilson Racing), who crashed out and ended her Race 2 early. Up front, five riders went head-to-head as the BTC provided sensational action once again for the Donington Park crowd. Sparks faced relentless pressure, showing maturity and holding firm in P1 as the #62 soaked up the pressure.

Ryan Frost launched several attacks throughout Race 2, unable to find a way past Sparks and was eventually shuffled back to third by Surowiak. The race built to a classic BTC finale, with Sparks leading the field onto the pivotal 14th lap. Surowiak initially pounced at McLeans, bringing final lap fireworks before everything changed at the Fogarty Esses when both Frost and Mackay crashed out, costing them vital championship points.

Sparks sealed his second win of the weekend with a decisive move at the penultimate corner, while Surowiak chased behind. Meanwhile, Dunabie earned a late podium in another strong day for the Kovara Projects / RS Racing squad. Edmunds took fourth, setting the fastest lap of the race in the process, edging Peter Willis, who completed the top five. Julian Correa took the flag in sixth ahead of Joshua Raymond Jnr, Scott McPhee (SMP Racing) and Blake Wilson (BWR Racing), with Jack Burrows rounding out the top 10. There was also late heartbreak for Mason Foster, who crashed out at the Melbourne Hairpin.

british talent cup race 2

Frost ends Sparks’ reign in Race 3

The R&G British Talent Cup served up a thrilling finale at Donington Park, with Ryan Frost striking back on Sunday, claiming victory by just 0.251s. Frost worked hard in Race 3, clawing back some crucial championship points which were lost earlier in the weekend. Ethan Sparks charged to second, narrowly missing out on his third victory of the weekend at Donington Park. Elsewhere, Filip Surowiak stood on another podium as the #75’s championship lead comes down to just 18 points.

Although Clayton Edmunds started from pole on Sunday, it was Ryan Frost who grabbed the holeshot in Race 3, leading the pack through Turn 1. The opening laps were electric, with Sparks clawing his way through the order, soon entering the podium places after a third-row start. The #62 was on the attack, stunning the field to enter the lead for the first time on Lap 2. Title leader Surowiak had a lot of work to do in the opening stages, defending from a star-studded group in third position.

Sparks and Frost edged into the distance, extending their cushion to one second over the rest of the field. However, the cards remained in Sparks’ hands, holding a sixth-tenth gap over Frost behind. Further back, there was drama for Aeziah Divine (Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing), who brought an early end to the weekend following a crash at the end of Lap 11. Things soon began to change in the closing laps, with Frost chipping away, as he began to close the gap to under half a second – setting up a grand finale on Sunday.

After several attempts, Frost entered the headlines, launching his decisive move at the Fogarty Esses on the final lap. It was a brave move to steal P1, and after navigating some traffic, the Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing rider secured his first victory of the weekend, at Donington Park in dramatic fashion – ending Sparks’ dominance this weekend.

It was a crucial moment in Frost’s title race, bringing home the maximum 25 points available. Sparks and Surowiak completed the podium, with the #75’s lead in the standings being reduced to just 18 points, leaving Donington. Mason Foster and Harrison Mackay rounded out the top five, leaving Jack Burrows to finish P6 on Sunday. Jack Dunabie ended his weekend in seventh, while Scott McPhee, Clayton Edmunds and Joshua Raymond Jnr completed the top 10.

With just two rounds remaining in 2025, the R&G British Talent Cup now prepares to head to the iconic TT Circuit Assen. The championship battle shows no signs of stopping, and with 50 points in store, make sure you join us for Round 7 of the season from September 19-21 in the Netherlands!

british talent cup race 3

AHRMA: Race Results from Nelson Ledges Road Course

Mathilde Gasnier

-

September 9, 2025

0

AHRMA: Race Results from Nelson Ledges Road Course

Complete race results from the 2025 AHRMA Roadracing Series presented by Motobilia event held September 6-7 at Nelson Ledges Road Course, Garrettsville, OH.

RRW_Nelson

BSB Sportbike: American Gus Rodio Debuts at Donington Park

September 10, 2025

Gus Rodio in action at Donington Park. Photo credit: Ian Hopgood Photography. — Gus Rodio in action in the SportBike class at Donington Park. Photo credit: Ian Hopgood Photography.

What a weekend it’s been! Our first outing as luxeStar VIP Suzuki in the SportBike class at the British Super Bikes Championship was nothing short of exhilarating. From torrential rain to record-breaking laps, the debut was packed with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments.

A Wet Welcome at Donington Park

We rolled into Donington Park on Thursday under a sky that seemed determined to drown our spirits. The forecast was grim, but thankfully, the weather held off for most of the weekend, allowing us to focus on what really mattered—racing.

Gus Rodio Takes on the Challenge

Our rider, Gus Rodio, flew in from the United States accompanied by his father Kevin Rodio and mechanic Rich Marshall, ready to tackle a weekend of firsts:

First time racing at Donington Park
First time riding the Suzuki GSX-8R
First time on Pirelli tyres

That’s a mountain of new experiences to climb, especially in the ultra-competitive National SportBike class, where every rider is fast and fearless.

Rising to the Occasion

Despite the steep learning curve, Gus adapted quickly. His feedback was sharp, his pace improved with every session, and his determination was palpable. He finished the race in 12th place—but here’s the kicker: his fastest lap came on the final lap of the race, and it was the fastest lap of the entire field. Had the race gone on for just five more laps, Gus would likely have overtaken several riders ahead of him. That’s how strong his pace was.

Back to the States—For Now

As we write this, Gus is boarding a flight back to the U.S. to continue his campaign in the MotoAmerica Series. But we’re already looking ahead to his return at Brands Hatch in mid-October. He’s raced there before, and now that he’s dialed in with the Suzuki, we’re optimistic about what’s to come.

A Huge Thank You

This weekend wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support from our team and partners:

Mats Petersson for providing the bike and infrastructure

John Thornley for his top-tier mechanical expertise

Scott Rehl of luxeStar VIP for unwavering support

Holly the Brolly – Holly Harris – a great racer in her own right.

BigMoto, Classic Team Suzuki, Team GB Racing, HEL Performance, EBC, Envy Racing Apparel and other product suppliers joining us for future rounds

Your contributions have been invaluable.

Spotlight on Asher Durham

Another standout performance came from Asher Durham, also supported by luxeStar VIP and racing for the PowerSlide Suzuki Team. Asher battled fiercely with the leading group and clinched a well-earned 2nd place finish, propelling him to 2nd in the championship standings. We’re proud to play even a small part in his success.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning for Luxar VIP Suzuki Racing. With talent like Gus and Asher, and a passionate team behind them, the future looks fast and bright. We’re fired up for the next round and can’t wait to see what unfolds at Brands Hatch.

Until then—keep the throttle open and the passion alive.

Session-4709

AMA Hall of Fame Days Scheduled On October 23-26

September 10, 2025

Full Weekend of Activities Scheduled for AMA Hall of Fame Days, Oct. 23-26