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MotoAmerica: Jake Lewis Subbing For Jacobsen At PittRace

David Swarts
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MotoAmerica: Jake Lewis Subbing For Jacobsen At PittRace

Jake Lewis is going to ride the Celtic HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R in MotoAmerica Superbike Cup in place of injured PJ Jacobsen this weekend at Pittsburgh International Race Complex (PittRace), in Wampum, Pennsylvania.

“I was surprised,” Lewis told Roadracingworld.com, shortly after arriving at the track Friday. “I don’t think a lot of people realized how bad PJ’s burns were. They gave me a call and asked if I was interested. Pittsburgh is one of my favorite tracks and the Ducati seems like a really interesting bike to ride, so I said, ‘Yeah.’”

Jacobsen suffered second-degree burns on his arms, legs, and buttocks when his Ducati caught fire while he was at speed on track June 28 at Road America. The New Yorker tried to ride his repaired Ducati during last weekend’s MotoAmerica event at Road Atlanta, but Jacobsen’s condition combined with some technical issues with his motorcycle led him to sit out.

Moto3: Fernandez Fastest In FP2 At Brno

David Swarts
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0
Moto3: Fernandez Fastest In FP2 At Brno
Moto3 FP2

World Supersport: Locatelli Leads FP1 In Portugal

David Swarts
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0
World Supersport: Locatelli Leads FP1 In Portugal
SS FP1

World Superbike: Razgatlioglu Tops FP1 In Portugal

David Swarts
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0
World Superbike: Razgatlioglu Tops FP1 In Portugal
SBK FP1

Kody Kopp Earns Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award

David Swarts
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0
Kody Kopp Earns Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award

AMA National No. 1 plates awarded at Flat Track Grand Championship

Half-mile and TT competition determined titles for 19 classes

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — More than 725 riders from as far away as California and New York turned out July 19-25 for the 2020 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, first at Plymouth Speedway in Plymouth, Ind., and, then, at Ashland County Fairgrounds in Ohio.

Rainstorms forced adjustments to the event schedule and racing disciplines. At the close of the week, three days of half-mile and one day of TT racing were completed. AMA National No. 1 plates were awarded in 10 Amateur and nine Youth classes.

Kody Kopp, son of 2000 AMA Grand National Champion Joe Kopp, is the recipient of the 2020 Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award.

“Nicky was a great guy, the best on two wheels, in my opinion,” said the 15-year-old from Mica, Wash. “It’s such an honor to be the next person to receive this award.”

The Horizon Award is presented to the most promising amateur rider aiming for success in the professional ranks. Previous winners of this prestigious award include Jared Mees, Brad Baker and Briar Bauman, all of whom went on to become AMA Grand National Champions.

Eight-year-old Braxton Ragan took home the AMA Flat Track Fast Brain Award, which is given to a racer who also demonstrates excellence in the classroom.

This year’s Horizon winner, Kopp, won the Fast Brain award in 2018. “It’s the ‘A’ grades that matter most,” Joe Kopp said at the time.

The Fast Brain award includes a $1,500 educational scholarship and is funded by Tim Estenson of Estenson Racing, Jerry Stinchfield of Roof System Racing, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legend Bill Werner and Dave Zanotti of Zanotti Racing.

The week started strongly at Plymouth Speedway, with the half-mile getting underway on Monday afternoon after the clay track was prepped. The full program included two practices for each class, heat races, semis and, then, mains for 178 entries.

Following Indiana and Ohio state coronavirus guidelines, organizers mandated social distancing and mask wearing in the pits, and riders’ meetings were conducted the over the public address systems. Only one person and one motorcycle at a time were permitted through tech inspection.

Tuesday featured TT racing, but rain stopped the program during the heats. Wednesday brought enough dry weather to complete the heats and a half-dozen semis before the skies again opened up, leaving parts of the TT track under water.

Organizers began reprepping the half-mile after the short-track course in the speedway’s infield, likewise, proved too muddy to use. An unexpected 11 p.m. curfew ultimately scrubbed any late-night activity. TT points were awarded based on the heats and semis.

Thursday, the championship moved 235 miles east to the Ashland County Fairgrounds, which hosted two more days of half-mile racing. After battling rains in Indiana, in Ohio, participants, some 375 across Friday and Saturday, encountered heat, wind and dust.

In all, 14 riders took home AMA National No. 1 plates at the 45th annual event, with Brandon Pflanders, Travis Horn, Casey Chisham, Chase Saathoff and Kopp collecting two each. Jack Brucks won the AMA Flat Track Youth Award, and Simon Neto captured the AMA Flat Track Vet/Senior Award.

“Success at the AMA Flat Track Grand Championship demands not just speed, but consistency across a multi-day event competing in different flat-track disciplines,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “While several riders excelled this year, we congratulate all who earned 2020 AMA National No. 1 plates and put their names in the AMA record books forever.”

 

AMA National No. 1 Youth Classes

50cc DTX SR (7-8): Linwood Patton (Cobra)

50cc DTX PW Shaft (4-8): Jace Dimatteo (Yamaha)

50cc DTX PW (4-8): Jackson Brown (Cobra)

65cc DTX (7-11): Jack Brucks (Yamaha)

65cc Modified (7-11): Dalton Hunn (KTM)

85cc DTX (7-11): Bradon Pflanders (KTM)

85cc DTX (12-15): Travis Horn (KTM)

85cc Modified (7-11): Bradon Pflanders (KTM)

85cc Modified (12-15): Travis Horn (KTM)

 

AMA National No. 1 Amateur Classes

250cc DTX: Evan Renshaw (Husqvarna)

250cc Modified (150cc 4-stroke excluded): Casey Chisham (KTM)

201cc-250cc: Casey Chisham (KTM)

251cc-500cc DTX: Kody Kopp (KTM)

450cc Modified: Kody Kopp (KTM)

450cc-Open Singles: Chase Saathoff (Husqvarna)

450cc-Open Modified (Singles & Twins): Chase Saathoff (Husqvarna)

Veteran 25+: Joey Boulis (Honda)

Senior 40+: Simao Neto (KTM)

Super Senior 50+: Kenny Dahlin (Honda)

 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

Moto2: Lowes Fastest, Roberts P2 In Free Practice One At Brno

David Swarts
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0
Moto2: Lowes Fastest, Roberts P2 In Free Practice One At Brno
Moto2 FP1
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy American Racing Team.
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy American Racing Team.

MotoGP: Nakagami Quickest In FP1 At Brno

David Swarts
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0
MotoGP: Nakagami Quickest In FP1 At Brno
MotoGP FP1

Moto3: Rodrigo Rules FP1 At Brno

David Swarts
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0
Moto3: Rodrigo Rules FP1 At Brno
Moto3 FP1

Moto Guzzi 100th Anniversary: More Elements Added To Celebration

David Swarts
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0
Moto Guzzi 100th Anniversary: More Elements Added To Celebration

New and exciting initiatives enrich the already intense program of the “GP Days” of 14/16 May 2021, to pay tribute to Giorgio Parodi, the Genoese founder of the historic ‘Eagle Motorbike’, on the centennial of its establishment (Genoa, March 15th 1921).

 

A historic photo of Giorgio Parodi during a trip to Africa.
A historic photo of Giorgio Parodi (left) during a trip to Africa. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.

 

The Institutions of Liguria region led by the Municipality of Genoa, together with the Italian Air Force (which will reach the century of its life on March 28, 2023) and the local Air Force Association (AAA), identified Giorgio Parodi as a prominent wonderful testimonial of his time; he was an excellent citizen, with his generous commitment, he has been able to combine his profile of valiant aviator, awarded with six medals during three conflicts with that, equally brilliant, of successful entrepreneur and passionate flight and motorbike sportsman.

The news follow one after the other: planes and motorbikes promise to make this ‘golden eagle’ event truly memorable, that “Lettuce”, the humble nickname that the Genoese pilot attributed to himself, carried proudly along both in flight and racing on the world tracks.

The organization of the “GP Days 2021” will be also enjoying the passionate commitment of ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano) which will select the 100 vintage motorcycles participating in the event: fascinating queens of the history of Italian motorcycling, born from the ‘vision’ of this great Genoese entrepreneur and his brilliant designer, Carlo Guzzi. Moreover, thanks to the ASI Aeronautical Commission, a fascinating flight of vintage aircraft will perform a fly past over the venue of the event, offering an even more engaging experience. Finally, on occasion of Milano AutoClassica exhibition, scheduled from 25th to 27th  September, in the pavilions of Fiera Milano-Rho, “GP Days 2021” will be presented to the general public with a preview of the activities and many guests at the ASI stand.

 

A Moto Guzzi motorcycle. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.
A Moto Guzzi racebike. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.

 

“Together with the mayor of Genoa Marco Bucci, we have decided to strongly support this event: the city is proud and lofty to be able to celebrate its special link with Giorgio Parodi and with the whole world linked to the ‘eagle legend’. Through Giorgio’s life we remember the history and the stubborn and industrious character of Genoa” – said the councilor Paola Bordilli.

Important updates come from Elena Bagnasco, President of the Giorgio Parodi Association, who completed the research for the publication of a book on the adventurous life of GP with unpublished photos and stories. The book, entitled “Giorgio Parodi – The wings of the eagle” will be available for booking and purchasing through the website www.giorgioparodi.it.

 

Elena Bagnasco, granddaughter of Moto Guzzi co-founder Giorgio Parodi.
Elena Bagnasco, granddaughter of Moto Guzzi co-founder Giorgio Parodi. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.

 

“The website – Elena Bagnasco explains – is enriched every day with interesting opportunities: the latest of which are the specialties of our Ligurian cuisine and the fine silver filigree products handcrafted by the master goldsmiths of Campo Ligure”.

It will also be possible to make reservations for an exclusive gala dinner in the prestigious rooms of Palazzo Ducale; since limited seats are available, it is advisable to book in advance; the funds collected from the various  initiatives will go to the local ‘Giannina Gaslini’ Pediatric Hospital. (You can see a smart introduction following this link https://tinyurl.com/GP-GASLINI )

In the same period, during the Rolli Days, Genoa Municipality will offer to our guests the unique opportunity to visit some of the most prestigious palaces, residence of the most prominent families, ruling the ancient and powerful Maritime Republic of Genoa and belonging to the UNESCO World heritage list.

Registration for the event (www.giorgioparodi.it) is open to those who want to be part of a truly special event.

“I can only express the satisfaction of organizing in our city and in the Porto Antico area” – declared Mauro Ferrando, President of the Porto Antico  S.p.A. resort – “such a wide-ranging happening, organized despite the difficulties associated with the pandemic, therefore well expressing our Genoese tenacity, Giorgio Parodi’s first and foremost quality”.

It will be precisely through the city streets that the stages of the “Parodi Tour” will unfold, in preparation by the TeA Tourism and Environment Association, visiting the significant venues of the family history.

Moreover, Giorgio Parodi deserves a tribute and an event of such a magnitude. As a matter of fact, he is not only a symbol for motorcycling world but also a brave and gallant aviator. He was co-founder of the Aero Club of Genoa, one of the most historic in Italy; he established and run a very valuable flying school that has been named after him; ‘Lettuce’ qualified, among others, Carina Negrone, the female pilot who established still unbeaten world records.

Motorbikes and planes then found a perfect fusion in the pilot eagle on his uniform, also the emblem on his motorcycles which represented, and still is, a symbol of the pilots, both civil and military in the world. An interesting and wide presentation of the event can be seen in the interview with Elena Bagnasco produced by the journalist and press officer of Aeroclub of Genoa, Dino Frambati, in a video of the WebTV ‘Genova Superba’. (https://tinyurl.com/GP-AEROCLUBGE )

MotoGP: Rossi Talks About His Newest Crew Chief

David Swarts
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0
MotoGP: Rossi Talks About His Newest Crew Chief

“Every season has a different story”

The pre-event Press Conference gets Brno down to business

Thursday, 06 August 2020

On Thursday at the Monster Energy Grand Prix České republiky, the pre-event Press Conference brought some of the protagonists of 2020 so far together as we head into the first three in a row of the year – with plenty to talk about ahead of Brno.

Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) took centre stage as he comes into the event leading the Championship, joined by Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team), Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), Valentino Rossi (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar). Here are some of their quotes!

 

Fabio Quartararo at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fabio Quartararo at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

FABIO QUARTARARO: “I think Jerez is a track that was better for us, but like I said last year the Yamaha is going well in every track. It’s true this track has a lot of straights, uphill, but a lot of corners so at the end our bike is turning really well. We miss a bit of power but we can’t have everything. We will do out best, the same mentality, we will work really hard to see what our potential is for Sunday and tomorrow and Saturday we’ll be working on the pace.

“Honestly, after race wins, you always celebrate with your friends but it was quite strange. But when I arrived home, I saw nobody and always with the mask. I went back to see my family but I couldn’t even kiss my mum so I was a bit scared, especially after an F1 driver had the virus. I was a bit stressed honestly so we didn’t do something special, but stayed safe and always with the mask. Now we’re here and we can fully focus on racing.”

 

Maverick Vinales at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Maverick Vinales at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

MAVERICK VIÑALES: “It’s fantastic. Our objective was to be on the podium, so we achieved our maximum in Jerez. Now we’re going to tracks I really like; I love the layout of both Brno and Austria. We have a great opportunity, so we need to keep pushing and hopefully we’ll find something more for this race and get to the maximum again.

And is he worried about the Yamaha engine usage so far?

“No. We’re quite confident and comfortable. We know what our potential is, so we’re quite calm. We need to make it work as best we can, and that’s it. We need to keep going and, especially, we need to be as fast as we were in Jerez.”

 

Andrea Dovizioso at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Andrea Dovizioso at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

ANDREA DOVIZIOSO: “I can’t be too happy about my riding in Jerez in the first two races, but in the end the Championship points are not so bad. Happy to be in Brno. I think it can be a better track for us, but it will be important to fix my weak points. We studied a lot this week to try and be ready for this weekend.. We will see during the practice, because just being on the bike you can feel if you have made some changes. Let’s see how the track is because its normally very difficult for the map and the grip. There is a new tyre so we will work in a different way. And let’s see the Yamaha. I expect them very competitive here, but I’m really interested to see if they are strong like in Jerez.

“For sure, there is an opportunity for everybody. But, you know, every year has a different story and the first two races say that the two Yamaha riders are stronger than everybody else. But, whether it’s just in Jerez in the really hot temperatures. The season is still really long with a lot tracks and different temperatures. Let’s see.”

VALENTINO ROSSI: “It’s an important weekend because I’ve always liked Brno. Last race in Jerez, we changed something that gave me a better feeling and I enjoyed the whole weekend. To be back on the podium after a long time and a difficult period was a great feeling. So, it’s important to understand if I can also be strong here because the track is great, I’ve always liked it, but in previous years with the Yamaha we’ve always struggled a bit. It’s important to know our potential at another track, with different conditions, and also for the next races after this.

“In the summer of last year, I understood that I needed something different, so we changed the chief mechanic and we bet on a younger guy from Moto2 with no MotoGP experience. I liked a lot his approach because he was working in my team with Moto2. I feel very good, he can teach me a lot and he has a different way of working on the bike. We needed fresh ideas, and now we need time to work on our relationship and for him to understand what I need. But over these next races we will understand if we’re in a good way.”

 

Takaaki Nakagami at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Takaaki Nakagami at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

TAKAAKI NAKAGAMI: “In Jerez it was special conditions. Really hot, the second race on the Sunday was my worst conditions. I was always behind and it was difficult to breathe. We’ve improved a lot from the first race, now it’s a different story and a different track. Not the same conditions as Jerez, I think Sunday will be hot but not like in Jerez. Nothing special, we’re working hard, the same as always. Marc is not here so I feel a lot of pressure from HRC but that is nice, I’m enjoying this moment so hopefully it’s a good weekend for us.

“Of course when I saw the data compared to Marc, I always saw some… I can find some special riding from Marc. But absolutely not easy to copy. From HRC side they have helped a lot during the weekend, we checked Marc’s data from the first race and one thing I found that on braking he has a completely different way to stop the bike. I tried all sessions, it’s not easy to understand but I feel that when I saw the lap times it was always better. When I’m riding, I feel a lot more confidence and it’s easier to stop the bike. This is a lot of help during the race, Jerez, 25 laps, it was difficult to not make any mistakes. It was a lot of help. It’s difficult to explain but he has special riding under braking. It was tough and not easy, but we have to adapt all season. Now I have found the best way on braking, we’ll keep going like this and we will see on this track.”

 

Joan Mir at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Joan Mir at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

JOAN MIR: “I’m so happy about the fifth position in Jerez. The most important thing after the first race was to finish. I had this on my mind during all the weekend. I think that here we can be a little bit more competitive. The weekend looks like it will be much colder than in Jerez. So, looking forward to it, so let’s see if we can improve our qualifying sessions I think that is our.. we are missing a little bit in that point. But I think if we improve in that area we can fight to be in front.”

Mir also spoke about the crash he had last year in the Brno test.

“This track doesn’t bring me good memories, like you said, but it’s always been a track that I enjoyed a lot. Riding here is so nice, but like you said I had a big injury last year, but anyway it’s best not to think about that, it’s better to think about the good feelings I have had here in the past and for sure let’s see if we can bring a good result on Sunday to help us forget last year!”

MotoGP™ head out for FP1 at 9:55 (GMT +2) on Friday, and the race starts on Sunday at 14:00.

MotoAmerica: Jake Lewis Subbing For Jacobsen At PittRace

Jake Lewis (85) riding a Scheibe Racing BMW Superbike during the MotoAmerica Road America I event. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Jake Lewis (85) riding a Scheibe Racing BMW Superbike during the MotoAmerica Road America I event. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Jake Lewis is going to ride the Celtic HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R in MotoAmerica Superbike Cup in place of injured PJ Jacobsen this weekend at Pittsburgh International Race Complex (PittRace), in Wampum, Pennsylvania.

“I was surprised,” Lewis told Roadracingworld.com, shortly after arriving at the track Friday. “I don’t think a lot of people realized how bad PJ’s burns were. They gave me a call and asked if I was interested. Pittsburgh is one of my favorite tracks and the Ducati seems like a really interesting bike to ride, so I said, ‘Yeah.’”

Jacobsen suffered second-degree burns on his arms, legs, and buttocks when his Ducati caught fire while he was at speed on track June 28 at Road America. The New Yorker tried to ride his repaired Ducati during last weekend’s MotoAmerica event at Road Atlanta, but Jacobsen’s condition combined with some technical issues with his motorcycle led him to sit out.

Moto3: Fernandez Fastest In FP2 At Brno

Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy of Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy of Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Moto3 FP2

World Supersport: Locatelli Leads FP1 In Portugal

Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy of Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy of Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
SS FP1

World Superbike: Razgatlioglu Tops FP1 In Portugal

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy of Pata Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy of Pata Yamaha.
SBK FP1

Kody Kopp Earns Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award

Kody Kopp (43) in action. Photo by Jen Muecke, courtesy AMA.
Kody Kopp (43) in action. Photo by Jen Muecke, courtesy AMA.

AMA National No. 1 plates awarded at Flat Track Grand Championship

Half-mile and TT competition determined titles for 19 classes

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — More than 725 riders from as far away as California and New York turned out July 19-25 for the 2020 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, first at Plymouth Speedway in Plymouth, Ind., and, then, at Ashland County Fairgrounds in Ohio.

Rainstorms forced adjustments to the event schedule and racing disciplines. At the close of the week, three days of half-mile and one day of TT racing were completed. AMA National No. 1 plates were awarded in 10 Amateur and nine Youth classes.

Kody Kopp, son of 2000 AMA Grand National Champion Joe Kopp, is the recipient of the 2020 Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award.

“Nicky was a great guy, the best on two wheels, in my opinion,” said the 15-year-old from Mica, Wash. “It’s such an honor to be the next person to receive this award.”

The Horizon Award is presented to the most promising amateur rider aiming for success in the professional ranks. Previous winners of this prestigious award include Jared Mees, Brad Baker and Briar Bauman, all of whom went on to become AMA Grand National Champions.

Eight-year-old Braxton Ragan took home the AMA Flat Track Fast Brain Award, which is given to a racer who also demonstrates excellence in the classroom.

This year’s Horizon winner, Kopp, won the Fast Brain award in 2018. “It’s the ‘A’ grades that matter most,” Joe Kopp said at the time.

The Fast Brain award includes a $1,500 educational scholarship and is funded by Tim Estenson of Estenson Racing, Jerry Stinchfield of Roof System Racing, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legend Bill Werner and Dave Zanotti of Zanotti Racing.

The week started strongly at Plymouth Speedway, with the half-mile getting underway on Monday afternoon after the clay track was prepped. The full program included two practices for each class, heat races, semis and, then, mains for 178 entries.

Following Indiana and Ohio state coronavirus guidelines, organizers mandated social distancing and mask wearing in the pits, and riders’ meetings were conducted the over the public address systems. Only one person and one motorcycle at a time were permitted through tech inspection.

Tuesday featured TT racing, but rain stopped the program during the heats. Wednesday brought enough dry weather to complete the heats and a half-dozen semis before the skies again opened up, leaving parts of the TT track under water.

Organizers began reprepping the half-mile after the short-track course in the speedway’s infield, likewise, proved too muddy to use. An unexpected 11 p.m. curfew ultimately scrubbed any late-night activity. TT points were awarded based on the heats and semis.

Thursday, the championship moved 235 miles east to the Ashland County Fairgrounds, which hosted two more days of half-mile racing. After battling rains in Indiana, in Ohio, participants, some 375 across Friday and Saturday, encountered heat, wind and dust.

In all, 14 riders took home AMA National No. 1 plates at the 45th annual event, with Brandon Pflanders, Travis Horn, Casey Chisham, Chase Saathoff and Kopp collecting two each. Jack Brucks won the AMA Flat Track Youth Award, and Simon Neto captured the AMA Flat Track Vet/Senior Award.

“Success at the AMA Flat Track Grand Championship demands not just speed, but consistency across a multi-day event competing in different flat-track disciplines,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “While several riders excelled this year, we congratulate all who earned 2020 AMA National No. 1 plates and put their names in the AMA record books forever.”

 

AMA National No. 1 Youth Classes

50cc DTX SR (7-8): Linwood Patton (Cobra)

50cc DTX PW Shaft (4-8): Jace Dimatteo (Yamaha)

50cc DTX PW (4-8): Jackson Brown (Cobra)

65cc DTX (7-11): Jack Brucks (Yamaha)

65cc Modified (7-11): Dalton Hunn (KTM)

85cc DTX (7-11): Bradon Pflanders (KTM)

85cc DTX (12-15): Travis Horn (KTM)

85cc Modified (7-11): Bradon Pflanders (KTM)

85cc Modified (12-15): Travis Horn (KTM)

 

AMA National No. 1 Amateur Classes

250cc DTX: Evan Renshaw (Husqvarna)

250cc Modified (150cc 4-stroke excluded): Casey Chisham (KTM)

201cc-250cc: Casey Chisham (KTM)

251cc-500cc DTX: Kody Kopp (KTM)

450cc Modified: Kody Kopp (KTM)

450cc-Open Singles: Chase Saathoff (Husqvarna)

450cc-Open Modified (Singles & Twins): Chase Saathoff (Husqvarna)

Veteran 25+: Joey Boulis (Honda)

Senior 40+: Simao Neto (KTM)

Super Senior 50+: Kenny Dahlin (Honda)

 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

Moto2: Lowes Fastest, Roberts P2 In Free Practice One At Brno

Sam Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Marc VDS Racing.
Sam Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Marc VDS Racing.
Moto2 FP1
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy American Racing Team.
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy American Racing Team.

MotoGP: Nakagami Quickest In FP1 At Brno

Takaaki Nakagami (30). Photo courtesy LCR Honda.
Takaaki Nakagami (30). Photo courtesy LCR Honda.
MotoGP FP1

Moto3: Rodrigo Rules FP1 At Brno

Gabriel Rodrigo (2). Photo courtesy of Dorna.
Gabriel Rodrigo (2). Photo courtesy of Dorna.
Moto3 FP1

Moto Guzzi 100th Anniversary: More Elements Added To Celebration

The Palazzo Ducale will host a special gala during the 100th anniversary of Moto Guzzi, May 14-16, 2021 to benefit a local children's hospital. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco, granddaughter of Moto Guzzi co-founder Giorgio Parodi.
The Palazzo Ducale will host a special gala during the 100th anniversary of Moto Guzzi, May 14-16, 2021 to benefit a local children's hospital. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco, granddaughter of Moto Guzzi co-founder Giorgio Parodi.

New and exciting initiatives enrich the already intense program of the “GP Days” of 14/16 May 2021, to pay tribute to Giorgio Parodi, the Genoese founder of the historic ‘Eagle Motorbike’, on the centennial of its establishment (Genoa, March 15th 1921).

 

A historic photo of Giorgio Parodi during a trip to Africa.
A historic photo of Giorgio Parodi (left) during a trip to Africa. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.

 

The Institutions of Liguria region led by the Municipality of Genoa, together with the Italian Air Force (which will reach the century of its life on March 28, 2023) and the local Air Force Association (AAA), identified Giorgio Parodi as a prominent wonderful testimonial of his time; he was an excellent citizen, with his generous commitment, he has been able to combine his profile of valiant aviator, awarded with six medals during three conflicts with that, equally brilliant, of successful entrepreneur and passionate flight and motorbike sportsman.

The news follow one after the other: planes and motorbikes promise to make this ‘golden eagle’ event truly memorable, that “Lettuce”, the humble nickname that the Genoese pilot attributed to himself, carried proudly along both in flight and racing on the world tracks.

The organization of the “GP Days 2021” will be also enjoying the passionate commitment of ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano) which will select the 100 vintage motorcycles participating in the event: fascinating queens of the history of Italian motorcycling, born from the ‘vision’ of this great Genoese entrepreneur and his brilliant designer, Carlo Guzzi. Moreover, thanks to the ASI Aeronautical Commission, a fascinating flight of vintage aircraft will perform a fly past over the venue of the event, offering an even more engaging experience. Finally, on occasion of Milano AutoClassica exhibition, scheduled from 25th to 27th  September, in the pavilions of Fiera Milano-Rho, “GP Days 2021” will be presented to the general public with a preview of the activities and many guests at the ASI stand.

 

A Moto Guzzi motorcycle. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.
A Moto Guzzi racebike. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.

 

“Together with the mayor of Genoa Marco Bucci, we have decided to strongly support this event: the city is proud and lofty to be able to celebrate its special link with Giorgio Parodi and with the whole world linked to the ‘eagle legend’. Through Giorgio’s life we remember the history and the stubborn and industrious character of Genoa” – said the councilor Paola Bordilli.

Important updates come from Elena Bagnasco, President of the Giorgio Parodi Association, who completed the research for the publication of a book on the adventurous life of GP with unpublished photos and stories. The book, entitled “Giorgio Parodi – The wings of the eagle” will be available for booking and purchasing through the website www.giorgioparodi.it.

 

Elena Bagnasco, granddaughter of Moto Guzzi co-founder Giorgio Parodi.
Elena Bagnasco, granddaughter of Moto Guzzi co-founder Giorgio Parodi. Photo courtesy Elena Bagnasco.

 

“The website – Elena Bagnasco explains – is enriched every day with interesting opportunities: the latest of which are the specialties of our Ligurian cuisine and the fine silver filigree products handcrafted by the master goldsmiths of Campo Ligure”.

It will also be possible to make reservations for an exclusive gala dinner in the prestigious rooms of Palazzo Ducale; since limited seats are available, it is advisable to book in advance; the funds collected from the various  initiatives will go to the local ‘Giannina Gaslini’ Pediatric Hospital. (You can see a smart introduction following this link https://tinyurl.com/GP-GASLINI )

In the same period, during the Rolli Days, Genoa Municipality will offer to our guests the unique opportunity to visit some of the most prestigious palaces, residence of the most prominent families, ruling the ancient and powerful Maritime Republic of Genoa and belonging to the UNESCO World heritage list.

Registration for the event (www.giorgioparodi.it) is open to those who want to be part of a truly special event.

“I can only express the satisfaction of organizing in our city and in the Porto Antico area” – declared Mauro Ferrando, President of the Porto Antico  S.p.A. resort – “such a wide-ranging happening, organized despite the difficulties associated with the pandemic, therefore well expressing our Genoese tenacity, Giorgio Parodi’s first and foremost quality”.

It will be precisely through the city streets that the stages of the “Parodi Tour” will unfold, in preparation by the TeA Tourism and Environment Association, visiting the significant venues of the family history.

Moreover, Giorgio Parodi deserves a tribute and an event of such a magnitude. As a matter of fact, he is not only a symbol for motorcycling world but also a brave and gallant aviator. He was co-founder of the Aero Club of Genoa, one of the most historic in Italy; he established and run a very valuable flying school that has been named after him; ‘Lettuce’ qualified, among others, Carina Negrone, the female pilot who established still unbeaten world records.

Motorbikes and planes then found a perfect fusion in the pilot eagle on his uniform, also the emblem on his motorcycles which represented, and still is, a symbol of the pilots, both civil and military in the world. An interesting and wide presentation of the event can be seen in the interview with Elena Bagnasco produced by the journalist and press officer of Aeroclub of Genoa, Dino Frambati, in a video of the WebTV ‘Genova Superba’. (https://tinyurl.com/GP-AEROCLUBGE )

MotoGP: Rossi Talks About His Newest Crew Chief

Valentino Rossi at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Valentino Rossi at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

“Every season has a different story”

The pre-event Press Conference gets Brno down to business

Thursday, 06 August 2020

On Thursday at the Monster Energy Grand Prix České republiky, the pre-event Press Conference brought some of the protagonists of 2020 so far together as we head into the first three in a row of the year – with plenty to talk about ahead of Brno.

Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) took centre stage as he comes into the event leading the Championship, joined by Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team), Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), Valentino Rossi (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar). Here are some of their quotes!

 

Fabio Quartararo at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fabio Quartararo at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

FABIO QUARTARARO: “I think Jerez is a track that was better for us, but like I said last year the Yamaha is going well in every track. It’s true this track has a lot of straights, uphill, but a lot of corners so at the end our bike is turning really well. We miss a bit of power but we can’t have everything. We will do out best, the same mentality, we will work really hard to see what our potential is for Sunday and tomorrow and Saturday we’ll be working on the pace.

“Honestly, after race wins, you always celebrate with your friends but it was quite strange. But when I arrived home, I saw nobody and always with the mask. I went back to see my family but I couldn’t even kiss my mum so I was a bit scared, especially after an F1 driver had the virus. I was a bit stressed honestly so we didn’t do something special, but stayed safe and always with the mask. Now we’re here and we can fully focus on racing.”

 

Maverick Vinales at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Maverick Vinales at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

MAVERICK VIÑALES: “It’s fantastic. Our objective was to be on the podium, so we achieved our maximum in Jerez. Now we’re going to tracks I really like; I love the layout of both Brno and Austria. We have a great opportunity, so we need to keep pushing and hopefully we’ll find something more for this race and get to the maximum again.

And is he worried about the Yamaha engine usage so far?

“No. We’re quite confident and comfortable. We know what our potential is, so we’re quite calm. We need to make it work as best we can, and that’s it. We need to keep going and, especially, we need to be as fast as we were in Jerez.”

 

Andrea Dovizioso at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Andrea Dovizioso at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

ANDREA DOVIZIOSO: “I can’t be too happy about my riding in Jerez in the first two races, but in the end the Championship points are not so bad. Happy to be in Brno. I think it can be a better track for us, but it will be important to fix my weak points. We studied a lot this week to try and be ready for this weekend.. We will see during the practice, because just being on the bike you can feel if you have made some changes. Let’s see how the track is because its normally very difficult for the map and the grip. There is a new tyre so we will work in a different way. And let’s see the Yamaha. I expect them very competitive here, but I’m really interested to see if they are strong like in Jerez.

“For sure, there is an opportunity for everybody. But, you know, every year has a different story and the first two races say that the two Yamaha riders are stronger than everybody else. But, whether it’s just in Jerez in the really hot temperatures. The season is still really long with a lot tracks and different temperatures. Let’s see.”

VALENTINO ROSSI: “It’s an important weekend because I’ve always liked Brno. Last race in Jerez, we changed something that gave me a better feeling and I enjoyed the whole weekend. To be back on the podium after a long time and a difficult period was a great feeling. So, it’s important to understand if I can also be strong here because the track is great, I’ve always liked it, but in previous years with the Yamaha we’ve always struggled a bit. It’s important to know our potential at another track, with different conditions, and also for the next races after this.

“In the summer of last year, I understood that I needed something different, so we changed the chief mechanic and we bet on a younger guy from Moto2 with no MotoGP experience. I liked a lot his approach because he was working in my team with Moto2. I feel very good, he can teach me a lot and he has a different way of working on the bike. We needed fresh ideas, and now we need time to work on our relationship and for him to understand what I need. But over these next races we will understand if we’re in a good way.”

 

Takaaki Nakagami at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Takaaki Nakagami at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

TAKAAKI NAKAGAMI: “In Jerez it was special conditions. Really hot, the second race on the Sunday was my worst conditions. I was always behind and it was difficult to breathe. We’ve improved a lot from the first race, now it’s a different story and a different track. Not the same conditions as Jerez, I think Sunday will be hot but not like in Jerez. Nothing special, we’re working hard, the same as always. Marc is not here so I feel a lot of pressure from HRC but that is nice, I’m enjoying this moment so hopefully it’s a good weekend for us.

“Of course when I saw the data compared to Marc, I always saw some… I can find some special riding from Marc. But absolutely not easy to copy. From HRC side they have helped a lot during the weekend, we checked Marc’s data from the first race and one thing I found that on braking he has a completely different way to stop the bike. I tried all sessions, it’s not easy to understand but I feel that when I saw the lap times it was always better. When I’m riding, I feel a lot more confidence and it’s easier to stop the bike. This is a lot of help during the race, Jerez, 25 laps, it was difficult to not make any mistakes. It was a lot of help. It’s difficult to explain but he has special riding under braking. It was tough and not easy, but we have to adapt all season. Now I have found the best way on braking, we’ll keep going like this and we will see on this track.”

 

Joan Mir at Thursday's pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Joan Mir at Thursday’s pre-event press conference at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

JOAN MIR: “I’m so happy about the fifth position in Jerez. The most important thing after the first race was to finish. I had this on my mind during all the weekend. I think that here we can be a little bit more competitive. The weekend looks like it will be much colder than in Jerez. So, looking forward to it, so let’s see if we can improve our qualifying sessions I think that is our.. we are missing a little bit in that point. But I think if we improve in that area we can fight to be in front.”

Mir also spoke about the crash he had last year in the Brno test.

“This track doesn’t bring me good memories, like you said, but it’s always been a track that I enjoyed a lot. Riding here is so nice, but like you said I had a big injury last year, but anyway it’s best not to think about that, it’s better to think about the good feelings I have had here in the past and for sure let’s see if we can bring a good result on Sunday to help us forget last year!”

MotoGP™ head out for FP1 at 9:55 (GMT +2) on Friday, and the race starts on Sunday at 14:00.

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