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Bazzaz Performance Expands

Bazzaz Performance Stepping up Support and Expansion Efforts Chino, CA — For Bazzaz Performance, 2007 is looking to be a year of growth and expansion in terms of sponsorships, products and services. Ammar Bazzaz recently announced that in addition to continued support with Jordan Suzuki, Bazzaz Performance would be sponsoring Safety First Suzuki. Furthermore, the company has moved and expanded its R&D operations and will be bringing some new products to market early this summer. During Ammar’s six years as race engineer at Yoshimura, he was instrumental in Mat Mladin bringing home his first three AMA Superbike Championships. Since 2003, his company, Bazzaz Performance, has been designing and tuning engine management systems and offering technical support for the top echelon of AMA racers. Bazzaz Performance has been working with Jordan Suzuki since 2005 and will be continuing its relationship as team sponsor and technical consultant for engine management and data acquisition for the team. “I am looking forward to our continued relationship with the Jordan Suzuki Team for 2007,” Ammar commented. “It has been great to see the progress of the team over the last few years, and I am personally very excited about the addition of Aaron Yates as well as the potential that Jake Holden and the team started to show last season.” Jordan Suzuki General Manager Ken Abbott was also pleased: “Jordan Suzuki has been very fortunate to work with Ammar. He has brought the leadership and engineering expertise that has proven AMA Superbike Championship results. His electronic components are innovative and set him apart from other industry icons. Bazzaz Performance will soon be the industry standard for engine management innovation.” In addition to Jordan, Bazzaz has announced a new relationship with Safety First Suzuki. Ammar feels it is important to the sport to help develop smaller teams that don’t have the big factory budgets. This Suzuki support team will be racing both Supersport and Formula Xtreme classes with two new riders Scott Ryan and 16 year old Bobby Fong. “I’m really excited about partnering with Bazzaz Performance this year,” Safety First President Kevin Hanson said. “I’ve known Ammar for several years now and the thing I like about his products is the ease of installation and adjustability. On top of that they are bulletproof, which is exactly what you need in racing.” “Things are really exciting in AMA racing this year,” Ammar Bazzaz explained. “With the legalization of traction control in all classes, there is needed expertise in tuning these systems. Bazzaz Performance wants to help provide a way for the average racer to utilize some of this more advanced technology. Our goal at Bazzaz Performance is to continually help to define, develop and then push the leading edge of technology at all levels of racing in the sport.” Bazzaz Performance will also be extending technical help to NHRA riders Antron Brown and Angelle Sampey, as they make the transition to fuel injection on their US ARMY Pro Stock Suzuki Motorcycles for 2007 and beyond. The company’s success has prompted it to move to new, larger quarters with increased manufacturing capabilities for their expanding product line. The new 7,500 square foot facility has enabled Bazzaz to double his R&D operations and significantly expand production capabilities. Other expansion has included a new state-of-the-art dynomometer test cell for fuel injection development and engine management tuning. Bazzaz Performance is busy developing new product lines for the everyday performance rider, so be on the lookout for Bazzaz products at your local motorcycle dealership soon.

Assorted Press Releases

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The Washington State based Team XLSR Racing is set to take on the 2007 motorcycle race season. The charge will be lead by team owner Joshua Ellingson, the 2005 WMRRA Rookie of the year and Team Operations Manager, 2006 WMRRA Rookie of the Year and OMRRA 650 GP Twins Champion Jake Frame. Frame said, “There isn’t going to be any changes to the look of the team this year with exception of a new racing number for myself.” Frame will be running the # 6 plate this year instead of # 115. “We are going to continue with the same paint scheme of black and red on the bikes so those who are familiar with us won’t have any problems picking us out of the front of the pack.” Ellingson added that “the mission of our team this year is to focus on bringing on board some new to racing talent and groom them as well as our existing members to be top level regional racers with potential hope of moving to the AMA.” XLSR had much success in 2006 that they hope to build on in 2007. The team raced up and down the West Coast and scored a total of 16 race wins and 53 podium appearances to go along with their Rookie of the Year, 1 Championship, and 7 championship podium spots. “We are very excited to get going this year. The variety of talent that we have on board is capable of putting us on the podium in every race that the team enters”, explained Ellingson. “We have a first year expert, Corson Piper, that we will be looking to get great growth from not to mention the always tenacious Brad Haley racing a pair of Buells.” New to the team this year is Chaplain and Team RFC (Racers for Christ) Regional Director Geoffrey Lambert who will give the team some more depth at the front of the big bike classes in addition to returning Novice Pat White. 2007 XLSR Team Roster: National Team: Brad Haley Jake Frame Joshua Ellingson Regional Team: Bob Neprud Geoffrey Lambert Todd Henry Club Team: Brett Mohr Corson Piper Kevin Bloudoff Pat White Richard King More can be read about Team XLSR Racing on their website: http://www.xlsrracing.com. Another press release: MDK MOTORSPORTS EXPANDS INTO ROAD RACING Los Gatos, CA. MDK Motorsports has announced a new relationship in Road Racing by supporting riders Steve Rapp and Jake Holden for the 2007 AMA Superbike Championship season. MDK Motorsports, continues their efforts in supporting many of the top athletes in motorcycle racing by adding these two riders. Attack Kawasaki’s Steve Rapp will be competing in both the Supersport and Formula Xtreme class, while Jordan Motorsport’s Jake Holden will be racing the Superbike and Superstock class. MDK’s owner, Mark Kvamme stated, “Road Racing is a new chapter for us and we couldn’t be more pleased to be teamed up with these two riders”. Come join the entire MDK Motorsports family at their race rig during the Daytona Supercross this Friday night. Rapp and Holden will be joining Xyience/MDK rider David Vuillemin before the start of the race to meet with fans and industry insiders. About MDK Racing MDK Racing, LLC is a privately held company and part of the MDK Motorsports brand family of motorcycle related products and services. As one of the leading “privateer” teams in the world, MDK Racing and riders Nick Wey and David Vuillemin have more AMA Supercross podium finishes in 2006 than any other non-factory team. MDK Racing offices are located in northern and southern California. For more information go to www.mdkmoto.com Another press release: Guzzitech.com MG Cup Sponsored Rider Wins Twin BOTT F1 Races at Daytona and Beats Pro Rider Larry Pegram! Guzzitech.com is proud to announce the overwhelming success of the MG Cup Contingency program at the AHRMA season opener at Daytona, March 2007. $850 in payouts were distributed to two riders, Gianfranco Guareschi of Italy and Ken Nemoto of Japan. Guzzitech.com sponsored rider Gianfranco Guareschi rode a modified 1300cc 2 valve water cooled pushrod Moto Guzzi MGS-01 to victory on both days against a battalion of NCR prepared Ducati Sport Classics featuring riders such as Larry Pegram, Valter Bartolini, and Nick Ienatsch. Guareschi’s F1 victory on the MGS-01 sets the standard for a pushrod-engined motorcycle in Twins racing in the United States. Guzzitech.com sponsored rider Ken Nemoto of Tokyo Japan took podium finishes on his immaculately prepared 1972 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. Nemoto scored a pair of 2nd place trophies in Formula Vintage and Formula 750 during Monday’s racing, finishing behind legendary racer Jay Springsteen on both occasions. Guzzitech.com owner Ed Milich of Torrance, California took 2nd and 3rd place trophies in Vintage Superbike Lightweight class on a 650cc Moto Guzzi V65 that he bought for only $600 three months prior to Daytona and prepped with the help of Southern California Guzzi dealer Moto Guzzi Classics. A summary of Moto Guzzi podium finishes at the 2007 AHRMA Daytona races are as follows: Gianfranco Guareschi, Italy, modified Moto Guzzi MGS-01 1st place, Battle of the Twins F1 3/5/07 1st place, Battle of the Twins F1 3/6/07 2nd place, Sound of Thunder 3/5/07 3rd place, Sound of Thunder 3/6/07 Ken Nemoto, Japan, 1972 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport 2nd place Formula 750 3/5/07 2nd place Formula Vintage 3/5/07 3rd place Formula 750 3/6/07 3rd place Formula Vintage 3/6/07 Ed Milich, Los Angeles, 1980 Moto Guzzi V65 2nd place, Vintage Superbike Lightweight 3/6/07 3rd place, Vintage Superbike Lightweight3/5/07 The 2007 MG Cup program was funded entirely with contributions from Moto Guzzi dealers and enthusiasts including: MG Cycle (Albany, WI), Guzzino.com (L.A., CA), Moto Guzzi Classics (Long Beach, CA), Sea Coast Sport Cycle (NH), Sam Baker, Pat Fitzgerald, and the West Virginia Moto Guzzi National Owners Club Chapter. More information on The MG Cup program is available at www.guzzitech.com About Guzzitech.com Guzzitech.com is a website comprised of technical data of, by and for the Moto Guzzi riders of the world. www.guzzitech.com www.bimotacagiva.com blog: www.guzzitech.blogspot.com Another press release: Announcing AlanBlair.com. Please feel free to share it with anyone looking for hosts, DJs, announcers or someone to perform voice overs for commercials and on-hold systems. Any additional thoughts or comments are welcome! Yet another press release: Centurion Racing Gearing Up for New Season www.centurionracing.net Centurion Racing are eagerly preparing for the 2007 British Supersport season which commences at Brands Hatch Circuit on Easter Weekend, 7th 9th April. After two very extensive testing sessions at Jerez and Cartagena in Spain, the two riders, Pete Spalding and James Westmoreland and feeling strong and confident for the season opener in a few weeks time. The two riders have worked hard to gain the perfect set up on the ex Padgetts Honda 600’s. With fast times not the forefront of the teams mind at the first test, it allowed Spalding and Westy to gain a good feeling and a good race set up for the 13-round Championship which they are preparing for. Reigning British Supersport Cup Champion Pete Spalding makes the jump into the main Supersport Championship and in both tests has secured some positive times. Commenting “I was desperate to get back on a bike as I’d not ridden since the last round at Brands Hatch in October, it was great going out to Spain and to be back out on track again. I was careful to ensure that I bedded myself in gentle and found a good set up on the Honda CBR. I’m looking forward to competing in the main Championship this year but I will certainly have my work cut out as it’s, once again, another strong Championship entry. We worked hard on suspension and tyre compounds at the two circuits and I’ve left each time feeling very content.” Spalding will be joined at Centurion by youngster James “Westy” Westmoreland this season, Westy will compete in the British Supersport Cup with it being his first full season in the 600 class. Already making huge progress in testing he said “I have only ever ridden a 600 a few times before and the moment I got on the Centurion bike I felt at home. I feel like I’m getting the hang of it fairly well and I’m really keen to get to Brands and see how I perform in the race. We’ve made a number of alterations to the bike which suite my style and each time I have been out on track I am gaining in confidence and really beginning to enjoy it.” Team Manager Gary Stubbington was extremely happy with the progress of the two riders saying “We’ve made huge leaps forwards with both riders at the two tests and it’s been great getting them both out on track. We’ve had a few small crashes but nothing major. They have both set fast lap times and seem comfortable and happy with the way things have been progressing, they are communicating to the team well and a real good team spirit has already been built. We have two more tests before we go to Brands in April and hopefully they will be just as positive.” Racing Calendar as follows: – British Superbikes 2007 Brands Hatch GP 7/8/9 April Easter Weekend Thruxton 13/14/15 April Silverstone 27/28/29 April Oulton Park 5/6/7 May Bank Holiday Snetterton 18/19/20 May Mondello Park 15/16/17 June Knockhill 29/30 June 1st July Croft Official Test 3/4 July Oulton Park 13/14/15 July Mallory Park 20/21/22 July Croft 10/11/12 August Cadwell Park 25/26/27 August Bank Holiday Donington Park 21/22/23 September Brands Hatch Indy 12/13/14 October More, from a press release issued by NGK: NGK SPARK PLUGS DEBUTS ALL NEW WEBSITE – www.ngksparkplugs.com features easier navigation, enhanced application lookup – Wixom, MI NGK Spark Plugs (USA), Inc., a subsidiary of NGK Spark Plug Co., LTD., “The World Leader” in spark plugs and oxygen sensors, has just launched a newly redesigned website for its NGK Spark Plug and NTK Oxygen Sensor lines. The new website, www.ngksparkplugs.com, features a fresh new look and an enhanced application look-up. According to Mark Sprague, NGK Spark Plugs (USA) Marketing Manager, “This new site will create added excitement for all of our products. We’ve combined new graphics and bold new colors along with more product information and easier navigation to make our new website as informative and easy to use for our automotive aftermarket customers.” The NGK website homepage introduces each NGK product category with a sliding marquee that displays product images, features, and benefits. New navigation allows visitors to browse by category or to select individual products of interest via a direct link. New image-rich catalog with 100,000 applications NGK’s new site incorporates a new catalog, which features over 100,000 product applications supported by individual product images for each part. To help educate customers on technical issues and assist with problem solving, NGK provides a complete reference library of technical bulletins, FAQs, and installation instructions. A motorsports section highlights NGK’s leadership role in supporting a wide variety of racing venues and the company’s ongoing commitment to provide high quality NGK performance products and sponsorship for some of the most successful racing teams in America. NGK Spark Plugs World Leader in Spark Plug and Oxygen Sensor Technology Since 1936, NGK Spark Plugs has been the world leader in technology, innovation, and world-class quality in the design of spark plugs and oxygen sensors. Today, NGK manufactures NGK Spark Plugs and NTK Oxygen Sensors for virtually every automotive manufacturer in the world. NGK has built a reputation for quality and reliability, and a commitment to excellence continues to be the driving force behind the company’s advanced research and development programs. With state-of-the-art manufacturing, inventory, and distribution facilities, NGK is dedicated to providing customers with world-class products and services. In addition to serving OE automotive and aftermarket customers, NGK also produces spark plugs and oxygen sensors for motorcycle, powersports, marine, and small engine manufacturers. NGK also offers complimentary product lines including resistor caps, spark plug wires, and high performance cables. In North America, NGK is headquartered in Wixom, MI and maintains manufacturing, inventory, and distribution facilities in Irvine, CA, Sissonville, WV, and Chicago, IL. Additional information about NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.), Inc. can be found at www.ngksparkplugs.com Our Mission: “We improve life through the environmentally responsible manufacture and precise application of advanced ceramic technologies for all of North America. Focused on innovation and teamwork, we contribute to local and global economic growth by matching our products to our customers’ visions each day, exceeding their expectations in quality, value, service and performance.”

800cc Ducati MotoGP Bikes Top 200 mph At Losail

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FIM MotoGP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Best Top Speeds During Qualifying: Top Speeds: 1. Casey Stoner (Ducati), 201.8 mph 2. Loris Capirossi (Ducati), 201.0 mph 3. Alex Hofmann (Ducati), 200.5 mph 4. Alex Barros (Ducati), 198.5 mph 5. Dani Pedrosa (Honda), 197.0 mph 6. John Hopkins (Suzuki), 194.6 mph 7. Jeremy McWilliams (Ilmor), 194.5 mph 8. Nicky Hayden (Honda), 194.2 mph 9. Toni Elias (Honda), 194.0 mph 10. Shinya Nakano (Honda), 194.0 mph 11. Olivier Jacque (Kawasaki), 193.4 mph 12. Carlos Checa (Honda), 192.8 mph 13. Makoto Tamada (Yamaha), 192.7 mph 14. Valentino Rossi (Yamaha), 192.6 mph 15. Sylvain Guintoli (Yamaha), 192.1 mph 16. Chris Vermeulen (Suzuki), 192.0 17. Marco Melandri (Honda), 191.7 mph 18. Randy De Puniet (Kawasaki), 191.4 mph 19. Colin Edwards (Yamaha), 191.3 mph 20. Andrew Pitt (Ilmor), 190.4 mph 21. Kenny Lee Roberts (Honda), 190.3 mph

Updated: Rossi Takes First MotoGP Pole Position, Lap Record Of 2007 In Qatar

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FIM MotoGP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Qualifying Results: 1. Valentino ROSSI (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:55.002 2. Casey STONER (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:55.007 3. Colin EDWARDS (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:55.233 4. Toni ELIAS (Hon RC212V), Bridgestone, 1:55.358 5. Dani PEDROSA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:55.361 6. John HOPKINS (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:55.833 7. Loris CAPIROSSI (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:55.851 8. Randy DE PUNIET (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:55.933 9. Nicky HAYDEN (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.041 10. Marco MELANDRI (Hon RC212V), Bridgestone, 1:56.222 11. Shinya NAKANO (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.306 12. Carlos CHECA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.609 13. Chris VERMEULEN (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:56.639 14. Olivier JACQUE (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:56.754 15. Alex BARROS (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:56.814 16. Sylvain GUINTOLI (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:57.257 17. Alex HOFMANN (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:57.274 18. Kenny Lee ROBERTS (Hon KR212V), Michelin, 1:57.495 19. Makoto TAMADA (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:58.024 20. Jeremy McWILLIAMS (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 1:59.606 21. Andrew PITT (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 1:59.725 More, from a press release issued by Ilmor GP: McWilliams down but not out Losail International Circuit 09.03.07: Today didn’t exactly go to plan for Ilmor GP as the first official qualifying session of the 2007 MotoGP World Championship got underway at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar. After making some positive developments during the two free practice sessions yesterday hopes were running high for the qualifying session today however the team suffered a series of minor issues and then unfortunately Jeremy McWilliams took a tumble on his final lap during the hour long timed session. Luckily the Northern Irishman is made of strong stuff and managed to escape the spectacular off with what appears at the moment to be nothing more than severe bruising. There was initial concern that he had broken his left femur after he fractured it during the pre-season test back in November last year- the team’s initial fears were put to bed when he made his exit from the circuit ambulance on two, albeit wobbly, feet and fiercely refusing the kind offer of a wheelchair. As a precaution McWilliams will have his leg x-rayed later this afternoon but it will come as no surprise to all who know him that he has every intention of competing in the first race of the season tomorrow. Despite his incident, McWilliams had a relatively positive day and even managed to clock up the seventh fastest recorded speed of the day at 313 Km/h. And whilst the day didn’t end quite so badly for McWilliams’ team mate Andrew Pitt, the Australian was still left frustrated after experiencing some problems with one of his engines. The electrical team, headed up by Phil Collins, have identified some further areas for the crew to work on as they make final preparations for the race tomorrow. Jeremy McWilliams, Ilmor GP Rider (20th 1’59.606, lap 10): “It’s a shame that I couldn’t get a full lap on the qualifying tyres, I messed up the first lap and there wasn’t a second in the tyres but the bike was in good shape and I would have liked to see what I could have done. I’m relieved that all I appear to have is some bruising, I can bend my knee and I’m able to put weight on both legs. I’m feeling a little weak and lucky, very lucky! I should be okay tomorrow and I have every intention of racing.” Andrew Pitt, Ilmor GP Rider (21st 1’59.725, lap 7): “It wasn’t a great day for me, we had an engine change and then there was a fuel leak which hampered our overall progress today. The major positive that we can take from today is that we made some good steps forward on the tyre front we established which tyre not to use fro the race we will use a harder compound to deal with the high track temperature. I’m still experiencing quite a lot of chatter but I know the guys are working on that I’m not expecting miracles overnight but the team are working very hard to give Jeremy and I the most ridable bikes possible for the race tomorrow. “ Mario Illien, Ilmor GP Team Principal: “I’m glad that Jeremy appears to be okay after his fall. We watched the crash on screen in the box and it looked terrible we assumed that he’d done more damage than he has fortunately. Qualifying was disappointing and we need to find the reasons for why things didn’t work out the way we planned.”

MotoGP To Be Broadcast To More People Than Ever In 2007

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The most eagerly anticipated season in the 58 year history of the MotoGP World Championship will be enjoyed by more television viewers than ever thanks to a host of new deals that will see the races transmitted live across several new countries around the globe in 2007. Iceland (Skjarinn Einn/Screen One), Slovenia (POP TV), Ecuador (Relad), El Salvador (Ch2 & 4) and New Zealand (SKY TV) will all be showing live coverage of each of the 18 Grand Prix events throughout the season, and in Cyprus (CYBC 2) each MotoGP Race will be broadcast live. In the Czech Republic, free-to-air terrestrial network CT2 have agreed a deal to screen live broadcasts of all races for the next two years, whilst race fans in Holland will be able to enjoy live coverage of the MotoGP and 250cc races, as well as special coverage of the A-Style TT Assen, on RTL 7 until 2009. As well as live coverage of all three Grand Prix classes on SKY TV in New Zealand, viewers will also be able to enjoy MotoGP highlights on the terrestrial Prime TV network and a 52-minute highlights programme of all three races on TVNZ. Extended deals in other countries means the MotoGP World Championship will be viewed on terrestrial networks in over 30 key countries in 2007. The longest deals were announced in 2006 in Italy and Spain, where Mediaset and TVE renewed their agreements for the live coverage of all three Grand Prix classes until 2011, however in Finland, Nelonen have also secured the rights until 2009, whilst in Belgium the races will be shown on RTL Club for at least the next two years. Other renewals have taken place in Venezuela (Meridiano) and Indonesia (Trans7). Meanwhile, ongoing deals continue with continental networks in Asia (ESPN-Star TV), Latin America (ESPN Latin America), the Indian Subcontinent (Ten Sports), Africa (Super Sport), Europe (Eurosport) , the Middle East (Al Jazeera Sport Channel) and agreements with other large broadcasters such as BBC in the UK, Ten Network and Fox in Australia and NTV in Japan make MotoGP a truly global spectacle, reaching an average of 304 million television viewers worldwide per Grand Prix. The 2007 edition of the MotoGP World Championship is expected to be the most exciting and tightly contested yet, with a new generation of hi-tech 800cc machines and an extraordinarily close field of riders looking to topple current World Champion Nicky Hayden. The American snatched the crown from five-time former champion Valentino Rossi in the final round of last season and will this year face an attempt at retribution from the popular Italian, as well as the challenge of household names such as Loris Capirossi, Colin Edwards, and Marco Melandri and promising youngsters Dani Pedrosa, Casey Stoner and John Hopkins.

Lorenzo Claims 250cc Grand Prix Pole Position With New Lap Record At Losail

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FIM 250cc GP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Final Qualifying Results: 1. Jorge LORENZO (Aprilia), 1:59.432 2. Hector BARBERA (Aprilia), 1:59.782 3. Alex DE ANGELIS (Aprilia), 1:59.871 4. Alvaro BAUTISTA (Aprilia), 2:00.127 5. Thomas LUTHI (Aprilia), 2:00.316 6. Hiroshi AOYAMA (KTM), 2:00.700 7. Andrea DOVIZIOSO (Honda), 2:00.702 8. Mika KALLIO (KTM), 2:00.721 9. Yuki TAKAHASHI (Honda), 2:00.801 10. Julian SIMON (Honda), 2:01.087 11. Roberto LOCATELLI (Gilera), 2:01.216 12. Marco SIMONCELLI (Gilera), 2:01.368 13. Shuhei AOYAMA (Honda), 2:01.554 14. Fabrizio LAI (Aprilia), 2:01.614 15. Arturo TIZON (Aprilia), 2:02.504

Talmacsi Takes 125cc GP Pole Position With New Lap Record In Qatar; American Bonsey 26th

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FIM 125cc GP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Final Qualifying Results: 1. Gabor TALMACSI (Aprilia), 2:06.011 2. Hector FAUBEL (Aprilia), 2:06.091 3. Mattia PASINI (Aprilia), 2:06.135 4. Lukas PESEK (Derbi), 2:06.767 5. Raffaele DE ROSA (Aprilia), 2:07.130 6. Sergio GADEA (Aprilia), 2:07.139 7. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA (KTM), 2:07.207 8. Esteve RABAT (Honda), 2:07.275 9. Bradley SMITH (Honda), 2:07.348 10. Simone CORSI (Aprilia), 2:07.525 26. Steve BONSEY (KTM), 2:10.614

Superbike Director Ciabatti Leaves Ducati Corse, Tardozzi To Fill Position

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The Phillip Island race, which took place a few days ago, also marked an important event within the Ducati Xerox Team. Following a decision taken some time before, Paolo Ciabatti, the Ducati Corse Superbike director, will be leaving the Italian company to embark on a new professional career. Paolo has worked for Ducati since 1997 and has made a major contribution to the growth and the success of the company, as well as to Ducati’s numerous Riders’ and Manufacturers’ title wins in the World Superbike Championship. Paolo Ciabatti wished to be present at the first two rounds of the 2007 championship to hand over to Davide Tardozzi, who from today takes on an increasingly important role within Ducati Corse. “Paolo has represented a lot for Ducati and also for me personally: he has been a loyal and precious colleague, but above all a sincere friend”, commented Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Corse Managing Director. “We are sad that he has decided to leave the company but, in the light of his correctness, professionalism and contribution he has made to the growth and the success of Ducati, we can only wish him all the best for his future professional career”.

De Angelis Heads Friday Morning 250cc GP Practice In Qatar

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FIM 250cc GP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Free Practice 2 Times: 1. Alex DE ANGELIS (Aprilia), 2:00.461 2. Hector BARBERA (Aprilia), 2:00.543 3. Jorge LORENZO (Aprilia), 2:00.636 4. Alvaro BAUTISTA (Aprilia), 2:00.667 5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO (Honda), 2:00.786 6. Thomas LUTHI (Aprilia), 2:01.428 7. Mika KALLIO (KTM), 2:01.487 8. Roberto LOCATELLI (Gilera), 2:01.585 9. Yuki TAKAHASHI (Honda), 2:01.870 10. Julian SIMON (Honda), 2:01.977 11. Shuhei AOYAMA (Honda), 2:02.129 12. Hiroshi AOYAMA (KTM), 2:02.273 13. Marco SIMONCELLI (Gilera), 2:02.360 14. Aleix ESPARGARO (Aprilia), 2:02.613 15. Anthony WEST (Aprilia), 2:02.875

Edwards Fastest After First Three MotoGP Practices At Losail

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FIM MotoGP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Free Practice 3 Results: 1. Colin EDWARDS (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:56.057 2. Valentino ROSSI (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:56.272 3. Casey STONER (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:56.540 4. John HOPKINS (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:56.569 5. Dani PEDROSA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.686 6. Marco MELANDRI (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.690 7. Loris CAPIROSSI (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:56.844 8. Nicky HAYDEN (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.918 9. Chris VERMEULEN (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:56.940 10. Carlos CHECA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.996 11. Alex BARROS (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:57.027 12. Shinya NAKANO (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:57.158 13. Randy DE PUNIET (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:57.316 14. Toni ELIAS (Hon RC212V), Bridgestone, 1:57.444 15. Kenny Lee ROBERTS (Hon KR212V), Michelin, 1:57.600 16. Alex HOFMANN (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:57.716 17. Sylvain GUINTOLI (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:57.849 18. Olivier JACQUE (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:58.393 19. Makoto TAMADA (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:58.979 20. Jeremy McWILLIAMS (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 1:59.266 21. Andrew PITT (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 2:00.045 Free Practices 1, 2 and 3 Combined: 1. Colin Edwards, 1:56.057 2. Valentino Rossi, 1:56.272 3. Casey Stoner, 1:56.540 4. John Hopkins, 1:56.569 5. Dani Pedrosa, 1:56.686 6. Marco Melandri, 1:56.690 7. Loris Capirossi, 1:56.844 8. Nicky Hayden, 1:56.918 9. Chris Vermeulen, 1:56.940 10. Carlos Checa, 1:56.981 11. Alex Barros, 1:57.027 12. Shinya Nakano, 1:57.158 13. Randy De Puniet, 1:57.316 14. Toni Elias, 1:57.382 15. Kenny Lee Roberts, 1:57.600 16. Alex Hofmann, 1:57.716 17. Sylvain Guintoli, 1:57.849 18. Olivier Jacque, 1:58.393 19. Makoto Tamada, 1:58.979 20. Jeremy McWillliams, 1:59.266 21. Andrew Pitt, 1:59.930

Bazzaz Performance Expands

Bazzaz Performance Stepping up Support and Expansion Efforts Chino, CA — For Bazzaz Performance, 2007 is looking to be a year of growth and expansion in terms of sponsorships, products and services. Ammar Bazzaz recently announced that in addition to continued support with Jordan Suzuki, Bazzaz Performance would be sponsoring Safety First Suzuki. Furthermore, the company has moved and expanded its R&D operations and will be bringing some new products to market early this summer. During Ammar’s six years as race engineer at Yoshimura, he was instrumental in Mat Mladin bringing home his first three AMA Superbike Championships. Since 2003, his company, Bazzaz Performance, has been designing and tuning engine management systems and offering technical support for the top echelon of AMA racers. Bazzaz Performance has been working with Jordan Suzuki since 2005 and will be continuing its relationship as team sponsor and technical consultant for engine management and data acquisition for the team. “I am looking forward to our continued relationship with the Jordan Suzuki Team for 2007,” Ammar commented. “It has been great to see the progress of the team over the last few years, and I am personally very excited about the addition of Aaron Yates as well as the potential that Jake Holden and the team started to show last season.” Jordan Suzuki General Manager Ken Abbott was also pleased: “Jordan Suzuki has been very fortunate to work with Ammar. He has brought the leadership and engineering expertise that has proven AMA Superbike Championship results. His electronic components are innovative and set him apart from other industry icons. Bazzaz Performance will soon be the industry standard for engine management innovation.” In addition to Jordan, Bazzaz has announced a new relationship with Safety First Suzuki. Ammar feels it is important to the sport to help develop smaller teams that don’t have the big factory budgets. This Suzuki support team will be racing both Supersport and Formula Xtreme classes with two new riders Scott Ryan and 16 year old Bobby Fong. “I’m really excited about partnering with Bazzaz Performance this year,” Safety First President Kevin Hanson said. “I’ve known Ammar for several years now and the thing I like about his products is the ease of installation and adjustability. On top of that they are bulletproof, which is exactly what you need in racing.” “Things are really exciting in AMA racing this year,” Ammar Bazzaz explained. “With the legalization of traction control in all classes, there is needed expertise in tuning these systems. Bazzaz Performance wants to help provide a way for the average racer to utilize some of this more advanced technology. Our goal at Bazzaz Performance is to continually help to define, develop and then push the leading edge of technology at all levels of racing in the sport.” Bazzaz Performance will also be extending technical help to NHRA riders Antron Brown and Angelle Sampey, as they make the transition to fuel injection on their US ARMY Pro Stock Suzuki Motorcycles for 2007 and beyond. The company’s success has prompted it to move to new, larger quarters with increased manufacturing capabilities for their expanding product line. The new 7,500 square foot facility has enabled Bazzaz to double his R&D operations and significantly expand production capabilities. Other expansion has included a new state-of-the-art dynomometer test cell for fuel injection development and engine management tuning. Bazzaz Performance is busy developing new product lines for the everyday performance rider, so be on the lookout for Bazzaz products at your local motorcycle dealership soon.

Assorted Press Releases

The Washington State based Team XLSR Racing is set to take on the 2007 motorcycle race season. The charge will be lead by team owner Joshua Ellingson, the 2005 WMRRA Rookie of the year and Team Operations Manager, 2006 WMRRA Rookie of the Year and OMRRA 650 GP Twins Champion Jake Frame. Frame said, “There isn’t going to be any changes to the look of the team this year with exception of a new racing number for myself.” Frame will be running the # 6 plate this year instead of # 115. “We are going to continue with the same paint scheme of black and red on the bikes so those who are familiar with us won’t have any problems picking us out of the front of the pack.” Ellingson added that “the mission of our team this year is to focus on bringing on board some new to racing talent and groom them as well as our existing members to be top level regional racers with potential hope of moving to the AMA.” XLSR had much success in 2006 that they hope to build on in 2007. The team raced up and down the West Coast and scored a total of 16 race wins and 53 podium appearances to go along with their Rookie of the Year, 1 Championship, and 7 championship podium spots. “We are very excited to get going this year. The variety of talent that we have on board is capable of putting us on the podium in every race that the team enters”, explained Ellingson. “We have a first year expert, Corson Piper, that we will be looking to get great growth from not to mention the always tenacious Brad Haley racing a pair of Buells.” New to the team this year is Chaplain and Team RFC (Racers for Christ) Regional Director Geoffrey Lambert who will give the team some more depth at the front of the big bike classes in addition to returning Novice Pat White. 2007 XLSR Team Roster: National Team: Brad Haley Jake Frame Joshua Ellingson Regional Team: Bob Neprud Geoffrey Lambert Todd Henry Club Team: Brett Mohr Corson Piper Kevin Bloudoff Pat White Richard King More can be read about Team XLSR Racing on their website: http://www.xlsrracing.com. Another press release: MDK MOTORSPORTS EXPANDS INTO ROAD RACING Los Gatos, CA. MDK Motorsports has announced a new relationship in Road Racing by supporting riders Steve Rapp and Jake Holden for the 2007 AMA Superbike Championship season. MDK Motorsports, continues their efforts in supporting many of the top athletes in motorcycle racing by adding these two riders. Attack Kawasaki’s Steve Rapp will be competing in both the Supersport and Formula Xtreme class, while Jordan Motorsport’s Jake Holden will be racing the Superbike and Superstock class. MDK’s owner, Mark Kvamme stated, “Road Racing is a new chapter for us and we couldn’t be more pleased to be teamed up with these two riders”. Come join the entire MDK Motorsports family at their race rig during the Daytona Supercross this Friday night. Rapp and Holden will be joining Xyience/MDK rider David Vuillemin before the start of the race to meet with fans and industry insiders. About MDK Racing MDK Racing, LLC is a privately held company and part of the MDK Motorsports brand family of motorcycle related products and services. As one of the leading “privateer” teams in the world, MDK Racing and riders Nick Wey and David Vuillemin have more AMA Supercross podium finishes in 2006 than any other non-factory team. MDK Racing offices are located in northern and southern California. For more information go to www.mdkmoto.com Another press release: Guzzitech.com MG Cup Sponsored Rider Wins Twin BOTT F1 Races at Daytona and Beats Pro Rider Larry Pegram! Guzzitech.com is proud to announce the overwhelming success of the MG Cup Contingency program at the AHRMA season opener at Daytona, March 2007. $850 in payouts were distributed to two riders, Gianfranco Guareschi of Italy and Ken Nemoto of Japan. Guzzitech.com sponsored rider Gianfranco Guareschi rode a modified 1300cc 2 valve water cooled pushrod Moto Guzzi MGS-01 to victory on both days against a battalion of NCR prepared Ducati Sport Classics featuring riders such as Larry Pegram, Valter Bartolini, and Nick Ienatsch. Guareschi’s F1 victory on the MGS-01 sets the standard for a pushrod-engined motorcycle in Twins racing in the United States. Guzzitech.com sponsored rider Ken Nemoto of Tokyo Japan took podium finishes on his immaculately prepared 1972 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. Nemoto scored a pair of 2nd place trophies in Formula Vintage and Formula 750 during Monday’s racing, finishing behind legendary racer Jay Springsteen on both occasions. Guzzitech.com owner Ed Milich of Torrance, California took 2nd and 3rd place trophies in Vintage Superbike Lightweight class on a 650cc Moto Guzzi V65 that he bought for only $600 three months prior to Daytona and prepped with the help of Southern California Guzzi dealer Moto Guzzi Classics. A summary of Moto Guzzi podium finishes at the 2007 AHRMA Daytona races are as follows: Gianfranco Guareschi, Italy, modified Moto Guzzi MGS-01 1st place, Battle of the Twins F1 3/5/07 1st place, Battle of the Twins F1 3/6/07 2nd place, Sound of Thunder 3/5/07 3rd place, Sound of Thunder 3/6/07 Ken Nemoto, Japan, 1972 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport 2nd place Formula 750 3/5/07 2nd place Formula Vintage 3/5/07 3rd place Formula 750 3/6/07 3rd place Formula Vintage 3/6/07 Ed Milich, Los Angeles, 1980 Moto Guzzi V65 2nd place, Vintage Superbike Lightweight 3/6/07 3rd place, Vintage Superbike Lightweight3/5/07 The 2007 MG Cup program was funded entirely with contributions from Moto Guzzi dealers and enthusiasts including: MG Cycle (Albany, WI), Guzzino.com (L.A., CA), Moto Guzzi Classics (Long Beach, CA), Sea Coast Sport Cycle (NH), Sam Baker, Pat Fitzgerald, and the West Virginia Moto Guzzi National Owners Club Chapter. More information on The MG Cup program is available at www.guzzitech.com About Guzzitech.com Guzzitech.com is a website comprised of technical data of, by and for the Moto Guzzi riders of the world. www.guzzitech.com www.bimotacagiva.com blog: www.guzzitech.blogspot.com Another press release: Announcing AlanBlair.com. Please feel free to share it with anyone looking for hosts, DJs, announcers or someone to perform voice overs for commercials and on-hold systems. Any additional thoughts or comments are welcome! Yet another press release: Centurion Racing Gearing Up for New Season www.centurionracing.net Centurion Racing are eagerly preparing for the 2007 British Supersport season which commences at Brands Hatch Circuit on Easter Weekend, 7th 9th April. After two very extensive testing sessions at Jerez and Cartagena in Spain, the two riders, Pete Spalding and James Westmoreland and feeling strong and confident for the season opener in a few weeks time. The two riders have worked hard to gain the perfect set up on the ex Padgetts Honda 600’s. With fast times not the forefront of the teams mind at the first test, it allowed Spalding and Westy to gain a good feeling and a good race set up for the 13-round Championship which they are preparing for. Reigning British Supersport Cup Champion Pete Spalding makes the jump into the main Supersport Championship and in both tests has secured some positive times. Commenting “I was desperate to get back on a bike as I’d not ridden since the last round at Brands Hatch in October, it was great going out to Spain and to be back out on track again. I was careful to ensure that I bedded myself in gentle and found a good set up on the Honda CBR. I’m looking forward to competing in the main Championship this year but I will certainly have my work cut out as it’s, once again, another strong Championship entry. We worked hard on suspension and tyre compounds at the two circuits and I’ve left each time feeling very content.” Spalding will be joined at Centurion by youngster James “Westy” Westmoreland this season, Westy will compete in the British Supersport Cup with it being his first full season in the 600 class. Already making huge progress in testing he said “I have only ever ridden a 600 a few times before and the moment I got on the Centurion bike I felt at home. I feel like I’m getting the hang of it fairly well and I’m really keen to get to Brands and see how I perform in the race. We’ve made a number of alterations to the bike which suite my style and each time I have been out on track I am gaining in confidence and really beginning to enjoy it.” Team Manager Gary Stubbington was extremely happy with the progress of the two riders saying “We’ve made huge leaps forwards with both riders at the two tests and it’s been great getting them both out on track. We’ve had a few small crashes but nothing major. They have both set fast lap times and seem comfortable and happy with the way things have been progressing, they are communicating to the team well and a real good team spirit has already been built. We have two more tests before we go to Brands in April and hopefully they will be just as positive.” Racing Calendar as follows: – British Superbikes 2007 Brands Hatch GP 7/8/9 April Easter Weekend Thruxton 13/14/15 April Silverstone 27/28/29 April Oulton Park 5/6/7 May Bank Holiday Snetterton 18/19/20 May Mondello Park 15/16/17 June Knockhill 29/30 June 1st July Croft Official Test 3/4 July Oulton Park 13/14/15 July Mallory Park 20/21/22 July Croft 10/11/12 August Cadwell Park 25/26/27 August Bank Holiday Donington Park 21/22/23 September Brands Hatch Indy 12/13/14 October More, from a press release issued by NGK: NGK SPARK PLUGS DEBUTS ALL NEW WEBSITE – www.ngksparkplugs.com features easier navigation, enhanced application lookup – Wixom, MI NGK Spark Plugs (USA), Inc., a subsidiary of NGK Spark Plug Co., LTD., “The World Leader” in spark plugs and oxygen sensors, has just launched a newly redesigned website for its NGK Spark Plug and NTK Oxygen Sensor lines. The new website, www.ngksparkplugs.com, features a fresh new look and an enhanced application look-up. According to Mark Sprague, NGK Spark Plugs (USA) Marketing Manager, “This new site will create added excitement for all of our products. We’ve combined new graphics and bold new colors along with more product information and easier navigation to make our new website as informative and easy to use for our automotive aftermarket customers.” The NGK website homepage introduces each NGK product category with a sliding marquee that displays product images, features, and benefits. New navigation allows visitors to browse by category or to select individual products of interest via a direct link. New image-rich catalog with 100,000 applications NGK’s new site incorporates a new catalog, which features over 100,000 product applications supported by individual product images for each part. To help educate customers on technical issues and assist with problem solving, NGK provides a complete reference library of technical bulletins, FAQs, and installation instructions. A motorsports section highlights NGK’s leadership role in supporting a wide variety of racing venues and the company’s ongoing commitment to provide high quality NGK performance products and sponsorship for some of the most successful racing teams in America. NGK Spark Plugs World Leader in Spark Plug and Oxygen Sensor Technology Since 1936, NGK Spark Plugs has been the world leader in technology, innovation, and world-class quality in the design of spark plugs and oxygen sensors. Today, NGK manufactures NGK Spark Plugs and NTK Oxygen Sensors for virtually every automotive manufacturer in the world. NGK has built a reputation for quality and reliability, and a commitment to excellence continues to be the driving force behind the company’s advanced research and development programs. With state-of-the-art manufacturing, inventory, and distribution facilities, NGK is dedicated to providing customers with world-class products and services. In addition to serving OE automotive and aftermarket customers, NGK also produces spark plugs and oxygen sensors for motorcycle, powersports, marine, and small engine manufacturers. NGK also offers complimentary product lines including resistor caps, spark plug wires, and high performance cables. In North America, NGK is headquartered in Wixom, MI and maintains manufacturing, inventory, and distribution facilities in Irvine, CA, Sissonville, WV, and Chicago, IL. Additional information about NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.), Inc. can be found at www.ngksparkplugs.com Our Mission: “We improve life through the environmentally responsible manufacture and precise application of advanced ceramic technologies for all of North America. Focused on innovation and teamwork, we contribute to local and global economic growth by matching our products to our customers’ visions each day, exceeding their expectations in quality, value, service and performance.”

800cc Ducati MotoGP Bikes Top 200 mph At Losail

FIM MotoGP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Best Top Speeds During Qualifying: Top Speeds: 1. Casey Stoner (Ducati), 201.8 mph 2. Loris Capirossi (Ducati), 201.0 mph 3. Alex Hofmann (Ducati), 200.5 mph 4. Alex Barros (Ducati), 198.5 mph 5. Dani Pedrosa (Honda), 197.0 mph 6. John Hopkins (Suzuki), 194.6 mph 7. Jeremy McWilliams (Ilmor), 194.5 mph 8. Nicky Hayden (Honda), 194.2 mph 9. Toni Elias (Honda), 194.0 mph 10. Shinya Nakano (Honda), 194.0 mph 11. Olivier Jacque (Kawasaki), 193.4 mph 12. Carlos Checa (Honda), 192.8 mph 13. Makoto Tamada (Yamaha), 192.7 mph 14. Valentino Rossi (Yamaha), 192.6 mph 15. Sylvain Guintoli (Yamaha), 192.1 mph 16. Chris Vermeulen (Suzuki), 192.0 17. Marco Melandri (Honda), 191.7 mph 18. Randy De Puniet (Kawasaki), 191.4 mph 19. Colin Edwards (Yamaha), 191.3 mph 20. Andrew Pitt (Ilmor), 190.4 mph 21. Kenny Lee Roberts (Honda), 190.3 mph

Updated: Rossi Takes First MotoGP Pole Position, Lap Record Of 2007 In Qatar

FIM MotoGP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Qualifying Results: 1. Valentino ROSSI (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:55.002 2. Casey STONER (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:55.007 3. Colin EDWARDS (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:55.233 4. Toni ELIAS (Hon RC212V), Bridgestone, 1:55.358 5. Dani PEDROSA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:55.361 6. John HOPKINS (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:55.833 7. Loris CAPIROSSI (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:55.851 8. Randy DE PUNIET (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:55.933 9. Nicky HAYDEN (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.041 10. Marco MELANDRI (Hon RC212V), Bridgestone, 1:56.222 11. Shinya NAKANO (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.306 12. Carlos CHECA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.609 13. Chris VERMEULEN (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:56.639 14. Olivier JACQUE (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:56.754 15. Alex BARROS (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:56.814 16. Sylvain GUINTOLI (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:57.257 17. Alex HOFMANN (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:57.274 18. Kenny Lee ROBERTS (Hon KR212V), Michelin, 1:57.495 19. Makoto TAMADA (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:58.024 20. Jeremy McWILLIAMS (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 1:59.606 21. Andrew PITT (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 1:59.725 More, from a press release issued by Ilmor GP: McWilliams down but not out Losail International Circuit 09.03.07: Today didn’t exactly go to plan for Ilmor GP as the first official qualifying session of the 2007 MotoGP World Championship got underway at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar. After making some positive developments during the two free practice sessions yesterday hopes were running high for the qualifying session today however the team suffered a series of minor issues and then unfortunately Jeremy McWilliams took a tumble on his final lap during the hour long timed session. Luckily the Northern Irishman is made of strong stuff and managed to escape the spectacular off with what appears at the moment to be nothing more than severe bruising. There was initial concern that he had broken his left femur after he fractured it during the pre-season test back in November last year- the team’s initial fears were put to bed when he made his exit from the circuit ambulance on two, albeit wobbly, feet and fiercely refusing the kind offer of a wheelchair. As a precaution McWilliams will have his leg x-rayed later this afternoon but it will come as no surprise to all who know him that he has every intention of competing in the first race of the season tomorrow. Despite his incident, McWilliams had a relatively positive day and even managed to clock up the seventh fastest recorded speed of the day at 313 Km/h. And whilst the day didn’t end quite so badly for McWilliams’ team mate Andrew Pitt, the Australian was still left frustrated after experiencing some problems with one of his engines. The electrical team, headed up by Phil Collins, have identified some further areas for the crew to work on as they make final preparations for the race tomorrow. Jeremy McWilliams, Ilmor GP Rider (20th 1’59.606, lap 10): “It’s a shame that I couldn’t get a full lap on the qualifying tyres, I messed up the first lap and there wasn’t a second in the tyres but the bike was in good shape and I would have liked to see what I could have done. I’m relieved that all I appear to have is some bruising, I can bend my knee and I’m able to put weight on both legs. I’m feeling a little weak and lucky, very lucky! I should be okay tomorrow and I have every intention of racing.” Andrew Pitt, Ilmor GP Rider (21st 1’59.725, lap 7): “It wasn’t a great day for me, we had an engine change and then there was a fuel leak which hampered our overall progress today. The major positive that we can take from today is that we made some good steps forward on the tyre front we established which tyre not to use fro the race we will use a harder compound to deal with the high track temperature. I’m still experiencing quite a lot of chatter but I know the guys are working on that I’m not expecting miracles overnight but the team are working very hard to give Jeremy and I the most ridable bikes possible for the race tomorrow. “ Mario Illien, Ilmor GP Team Principal: “I’m glad that Jeremy appears to be okay after his fall. We watched the crash on screen in the box and it looked terrible we assumed that he’d done more damage than he has fortunately. Qualifying was disappointing and we need to find the reasons for why things didn’t work out the way we planned.”

MotoGP To Be Broadcast To More People Than Ever In 2007

The most eagerly anticipated season in the 58 year history of the MotoGP World Championship will be enjoyed by more television viewers than ever thanks to a host of new deals that will see the races transmitted live across several new countries around the globe in 2007. Iceland (Skjarinn Einn/Screen One), Slovenia (POP TV), Ecuador (Relad), El Salvador (Ch2 & 4) and New Zealand (SKY TV) will all be showing live coverage of each of the 18 Grand Prix events throughout the season, and in Cyprus (CYBC 2) each MotoGP Race will be broadcast live. In the Czech Republic, free-to-air terrestrial network CT2 have agreed a deal to screen live broadcasts of all races for the next two years, whilst race fans in Holland will be able to enjoy live coverage of the MotoGP and 250cc races, as well as special coverage of the A-Style TT Assen, on RTL 7 until 2009. As well as live coverage of all three Grand Prix classes on SKY TV in New Zealand, viewers will also be able to enjoy MotoGP highlights on the terrestrial Prime TV network and a 52-minute highlights programme of all three races on TVNZ. Extended deals in other countries means the MotoGP World Championship will be viewed on terrestrial networks in over 30 key countries in 2007. The longest deals were announced in 2006 in Italy and Spain, where Mediaset and TVE renewed their agreements for the live coverage of all three Grand Prix classes until 2011, however in Finland, Nelonen have also secured the rights until 2009, whilst in Belgium the races will be shown on RTL Club for at least the next two years. Other renewals have taken place in Venezuela (Meridiano) and Indonesia (Trans7). Meanwhile, ongoing deals continue with continental networks in Asia (ESPN-Star TV), Latin America (ESPN Latin America), the Indian Subcontinent (Ten Sports), Africa (Super Sport), Europe (Eurosport) , the Middle East (Al Jazeera Sport Channel) and agreements with other large broadcasters such as BBC in the UK, Ten Network and Fox in Australia and NTV in Japan make MotoGP a truly global spectacle, reaching an average of 304 million television viewers worldwide per Grand Prix. The 2007 edition of the MotoGP World Championship is expected to be the most exciting and tightly contested yet, with a new generation of hi-tech 800cc machines and an extraordinarily close field of riders looking to topple current World Champion Nicky Hayden. The American snatched the crown from five-time former champion Valentino Rossi in the final round of last season and will this year face an attempt at retribution from the popular Italian, as well as the challenge of household names such as Loris Capirossi, Colin Edwards, and Marco Melandri and promising youngsters Dani Pedrosa, Casey Stoner and John Hopkins.

Lorenzo Claims 250cc Grand Prix Pole Position With New Lap Record At Losail

FIM 250cc GP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Final Qualifying Results: 1. Jorge LORENZO (Aprilia), 1:59.432 2. Hector BARBERA (Aprilia), 1:59.782 3. Alex DE ANGELIS (Aprilia), 1:59.871 4. Alvaro BAUTISTA (Aprilia), 2:00.127 5. Thomas LUTHI (Aprilia), 2:00.316 6. Hiroshi AOYAMA (KTM), 2:00.700 7. Andrea DOVIZIOSO (Honda), 2:00.702 8. Mika KALLIO (KTM), 2:00.721 9. Yuki TAKAHASHI (Honda), 2:00.801 10. Julian SIMON (Honda), 2:01.087 11. Roberto LOCATELLI (Gilera), 2:01.216 12. Marco SIMONCELLI (Gilera), 2:01.368 13. Shuhei AOYAMA (Honda), 2:01.554 14. Fabrizio LAI (Aprilia), 2:01.614 15. Arturo TIZON (Aprilia), 2:02.504

Talmacsi Takes 125cc GP Pole Position With New Lap Record In Qatar; American Bonsey 26th

FIM 125cc GP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Final Qualifying Results: 1. Gabor TALMACSI (Aprilia), 2:06.011 2. Hector FAUBEL (Aprilia), 2:06.091 3. Mattia PASINI (Aprilia), 2:06.135 4. Lukas PESEK (Derbi), 2:06.767 5. Raffaele DE ROSA (Aprilia), 2:07.130 6. Sergio GADEA (Aprilia), 2:07.139 7. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA (KTM), 2:07.207 8. Esteve RABAT (Honda), 2:07.275 9. Bradley SMITH (Honda), 2:07.348 10. Simone CORSI (Aprilia), 2:07.525 26. Steve BONSEY (KTM), 2:10.614

Superbike Director Ciabatti Leaves Ducati Corse, Tardozzi To Fill Position

The Phillip Island race, which took place a few days ago, also marked an important event within the Ducati Xerox Team. Following a decision taken some time before, Paolo Ciabatti, the Ducati Corse Superbike director, will be leaving the Italian company to embark on a new professional career. Paolo has worked for Ducati since 1997 and has made a major contribution to the growth and the success of the company, as well as to Ducati’s numerous Riders’ and Manufacturers’ title wins in the World Superbike Championship. Paolo Ciabatti wished to be present at the first two rounds of the 2007 championship to hand over to Davide Tardozzi, who from today takes on an increasingly important role within Ducati Corse. “Paolo has represented a lot for Ducati and also for me personally: he has been a loyal and precious colleague, but above all a sincere friend”, commented Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Corse Managing Director. “We are sad that he has decided to leave the company but, in the light of his correctness, professionalism and contribution he has made to the growth and the success of Ducati, we can only wish him all the best for his future professional career”.

De Angelis Heads Friday Morning 250cc GP Practice In Qatar

FIM 250cc GP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Free Practice 2 Times: 1. Alex DE ANGELIS (Aprilia), 2:00.461 2. Hector BARBERA (Aprilia), 2:00.543 3. Jorge LORENZO (Aprilia), 2:00.636 4. Alvaro BAUTISTA (Aprilia), 2:00.667 5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO (Honda), 2:00.786 6. Thomas LUTHI (Aprilia), 2:01.428 7. Mika KALLIO (KTM), 2:01.487 8. Roberto LOCATELLI (Gilera), 2:01.585 9. Yuki TAKAHASHI (Honda), 2:01.870 10. Julian SIMON (Honda), 2:01.977 11. Shuhei AOYAMA (Honda), 2:02.129 12. Hiroshi AOYAMA (KTM), 2:02.273 13. Marco SIMONCELLI (Gilera), 2:02.360 14. Aleix ESPARGARO (Aprilia), 2:02.613 15. Anthony WEST (Aprilia), 2:02.875

Edwards Fastest After First Three MotoGP Practices At Losail

FIM MotoGP World Championship Losail International Circuit Doha, Qatar March 9, 2007 Free Practice 3 Results: 1. Colin EDWARDS (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:56.057 2. Valentino ROSSI (Yam YZR-M1), Michelin, 1:56.272 3. Casey STONER (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:56.540 4. John HOPKINS (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:56.569 5. Dani PEDROSA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.686 6. Marco MELANDRI (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.690 7. Loris CAPIROSSI (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:56.844 8. Nicky HAYDEN (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.918 9. Chris VERMEULEN (Suz GSV-R), Bridgestone, 1:56.940 10. Carlos CHECA (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:56.996 11. Alex BARROS (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:57.027 12. Shinya NAKANO (Hon RC212V), Michelin, 1:57.158 13. Randy DE PUNIET (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:57.316 14. Toni ELIAS (Hon RC212V), Bridgestone, 1:57.444 15. Kenny Lee ROBERTS (Hon KR212V), Michelin, 1:57.600 16. Alex HOFMANN (Duc GP07), Bridgestone, 1:57.716 17. Sylvain GUINTOLI (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:57.849 18. Olivier JACQUE (Kaw ZX-RR), Bridgestone, 1:58.393 19. Makoto TAMADA (Yam YZR-M1), Dunlop, 1:58.979 20. Jeremy McWILLIAMS (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 1:59.266 21. Andrew PITT (Ilmor GP), Michelin, 2:00.045 Free Practices 1, 2 and 3 Combined: 1. Colin Edwards, 1:56.057 2. Valentino Rossi, 1:56.272 3. Casey Stoner, 1:56.540 4. John Hopkins, 1:56.569 5. Dani Pedrosa, 1:56.686 6. Marco Melandri, 1:56.690 7. Loris Capirossi, 1:56.844 8. Nicky Hayden, 1:56.918 9. Chris Vermeulen, 1:56.940 10. Carlos Checa, 1:56.981 11. Alex Barros, 1:57.027 12. Shinya Nakano, 1:57.158 13. Randy De Puniet, 1:57.316 14. Toni Elias, 1:57.382 15. Kenny Lee Roberts, 1:57.600 16. Alex Hofmann, 1:57.716 17. Sylvain Guintoli, 1:57.849 18. Olivier Jacque, 1:58.393 19. Makoto Tamada, 1:58.979 20. Jeremy McWillliams, 1:59.266 21. Andrew Pitt, 1:59.930