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Clothing Company Extends Sponsorship Of Assen And Motegi GP Races Through 2009

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A-STYLE EXTEND TITLE SPONSORSHIP FOR TT ASSEN AND GRAND PRIX OF JAPAN UNTIL 2009 Popular Italian fashion brand A-Style has signed with Dorna Sports, commercial rights-holders for the MotoGP World Championship, to extend their title sponsorship agreements of the TT Assen and Grand Prix of Japan until 2009. The deal follows on from a successful initial partnership that began last season, when the familiar logo first appeared at MotoGP circuits as A-Style became title sponsors for the Dutch and Japanese events – securing the right to name the event as well as trackside brand exposure. The TT Assen is the MotoGP World Championship’s longest serving race, having been on the series calendar ever since its inception in 1949, and is regarded as the ‘Cathedral’ of motorcycling. Twin Ring Motegi is one of the most modern venues in motorsport and it has been home to MotoGP since its opening in 2000, initially hosting the Pacific Grand Prix before taking over as the venue for the Grand Prix of Japan in 2004. A-Style gained popularity over a decade ago, when graphic designer Marco Bruns conceived and patented the ‘world’s funkiest “A”’ and it became a popular sticker and print for surf, skate and urban orientated gear. Clothing designer Simone Sidoti was later to join forces with Bruns, and the logo became a lifestyle brand with a full collection of men’s and women’s fashion which has since become popular with celebrities and sportsmen in 1440 stores across the world. In 2007 the A-Style TT Assen takes its traditional slot on the last Saturday in June, the 30th, and is the eighth event on the eighteen-round MotoGP World Championship 2007 calendar. The A-Style Grand Prix of Japan is round fifteen and takes place on the 23rd September. A-Style will also have a brand presence at the MotoGP Official Test which takes place at Jerez on February 23rd-25th.

More From MotoGP Testing In Malaysia

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BRIDGESTONE MOTOGP: MALAYSIA TEST DEBRIEF Q+A with Hiroshi Yamada – Bridgestone Motorsport – Manager Motorcycle Racing The first test of the 2007 season concluded at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on Wednesday with several Bridgestone-shod riders frequenting the top half of the timesheets throughout the three-day session. Bridgestone Motorsport’s Manager of Motorcycle Racing, Hiroshi Yamada, reviews the opening week of Bridgestone’s sixth year of participation in MotoGP and looks ahead to the coming season with cautious optimism. Was it good to be back in action at Sepang this week? “It was great to be back at the race track after seven weeks away but development work has been ongoing since the last test of 2006. Our engineers have spent the winter break analysing the data we collected in November tests in order to finalise the direction for tyre development ahead of this new season.” What was Bridgestone’s programme for this opening week of testing in Malaysia? “Using the data from the post-season tests last year, we developed a range of new constructions, shapes and compounds which we tested with each of our five teams in Sepang this week. We took a total of 1,200 tyres including new rears, new fronts and new qualifiers – to test with a total of 12 riders. In addition to the GP riders, we also worked extensively with test riders Shinichi Ito and Nobu Aoki. We were able to get through the bulk of our test programme and our teams provided us with a lot of valuable data with which we can further develop the tyres.” Is the testing programme different because of the introduction of 800cc bikes? “We have developed the tyres to work with the characteristics of the new 800cc, most importantly to cope with the higher cornering speeds. However, the test programme is no more extensive than it has been in previous years. The increased number of teams that we supply this season means that we take larger quantities of tyres to each test, but we are always looking at new constructions, shapes and compounds irrespective of the bike specification.” Does the Sepang Circuit, traditionally a strong Bridgestone track, offer a realistic indication of tyre performance at this early stage of the season? “It is true that Sepang has traditionally been a strong track for Bridgestone, so we must always be realistic in our assessment, however the performance this week has been very encouraging. The championship is 18 races long and we have also worked hard to address specific issues with some circuits that have been less favourable to Bridgestone in the past. The riders have been particularly complimentary about our tyres this week, so I think we have reason to be optimistic. The lap times during race simulations would certainly indicate that good progress has been made so far.” What conclusions can be drawn from this first test of the season? “I do not believe it is possible or even sensible to try and draw definite conclusions from winter testing given the number of parameters involved. While we are trying to find the direction for tyre development, the teams are also working on fine-tuning their new bikes. At the same time some riders are settling into new teams with different bike characteristics and even new tyres. Testing is all about finding a balance between all these factors, which is why we must conduct our tyre evaluation work in controlled conditions to enable us to accurately assess the differences between each tyre specification. We will continue to test at Phillip Island next week in order to gain more understanding of the tyre behaviour as the teams progress with honing the set-up of their new bikes.”

2007 Endurance World Championship Permanent Teams Announced, Including American Will Gruy

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Endurance World Championship 2007 Permanent Teams The list of 17 permanent teams which undertake to participate in the entire 2007 Endurance World Championship is published below. The FIM is currently studying the possibility of increasing the number of permanent teams. In this case, a new list will be published as soon as possible. Order Ranking, Team Name, Team Number, Riders, Machine 1. Suzuki Castrol Team, #1, Vincent Philippe (FRA), Matthieu Lagrive (FRA), Julien Da Costa (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 2. Yamaha Austria Racing Team, #7, Igor Jerman (SLO), Sebastien Scarnato (FRA), Thomas Hinterreiter (AUT), Yamaha YZF-R1 3. Yamaha Phase One Endurance, #3, Warwick Nowland (AUS), Richard Glenn (GB), Dider van Keymeulen (BEL), Yamaha YZF-R1 4. Bolliger Team Switzerland, #8, David Morillon (FRA), Patric Muff (SUI), Horst Saiger (AUT), Kawasaki ZX-10R 5. Suzuki Sweden, #12, Tobias Andersson (SWE), Lars Carlbark (SWE), Andi Notman (SWE), Nicklas Carlberg (SWE), Suzuki GSX-R1000 6. Diablo 666 Bolliger Kawasaki, #666, James Hutchins (GBR), Olivier Ulmann (FRA), Alexander Cudlin (AUS), Kawasaki ZX-10R 7. No Limits, #44, Moreno Codeluppi (ITA), Stefano Gugliotta (SUI), Andrea Fanotto (ITA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 8. Endurance Moto 45, #100, Nicolas Duprez (FRA), Frederic Bernon (FRA), Thomas Perreau (FRA), Nicolas Jaulneau (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 9. Zone Rouge, #6, Oliver Depoorter (BEL), Wim Van den Broeck (BEL), Nicolas Pirot (BEL), Michel Nickmans (BEL), Yamaha YZF-R1 10. Team Amadeaus X One, #9, Paolo Tessari (ITA), Will Gruy (USA), Riccardo Ricci (ITA), Yamaha YZF-R1 11. Kawasaki France, #11, Steve Plater (GBR), Gwen Giabbani (FRA), Ivan Silva (SPA), Frederic Moreira (FRA), Kawasaki ZX-10R 12. Endurance Moto 38 Yamaha, #38, Erwan Nigon (FRA), Julien Millet Joao (FRA), Fernandes Contente (POR), Yamaha YZF-R1 13. Primo Verboven Racing, #4, Hans Westra (BEL), Leroy Verboven (BEL), Patrick de la Ruelle (BEL), Suzuki GSX-R1000 14. Raffin Motos Kawasaki, #16, Damien Chene (FRA), Stephane Kokes (FRA), Pascal Grosjean (FRA), Kawasaki ZX-10R 15. Genous Team Racing, #30, A. Lagrive (FRA), Y. Genestier (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 16. ABG Performance #134, #134, Christophe Alluard (FRA), Franck Giroguy (FRA), Guillaume Greleaud (FRA), Franck Gaziello (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 17. EWC Team Endurance Eurosport Benelux, #5, Emiel Bosma (NED), Ruud Van Stralen (NED), MV Agusta F4-1000R

Details Released For 2007 North West 200 In Northern Ireland

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KENNEDY GROUP INTERNATIONAL NORTH WEST 200 GETS SET FOR 2007 The 2007 Kennedy Group International North West 200 launched today with plans to make Ireland’s largest sporting event bigger and better than ever. Saturday 12th May is the date for this year’s Race Day and organisers are once again looking forward to a top line-up of local and international riders. Along with many local riders, top UK riders Michael Rutter, John McGuinness, Steve Plater, Ian Hutchinson along with Isle of Man rider Conor Cummins and Scotland’s Keith Amor were in attendance as Clerk of Course Mervyn Whyte announced that, while there may be some minor upgrades to the course, there will be no major changes. “Coleraine & District Motor Club and Coleraine Borough Council invested heavily in major upgrades to the course, paddock and trade village areas in 2006. The changes to the course this year will be slight but we’re continuously looking at the course to ensure it is as safe as possible. Many people described last year’s event as the best ever so we plan to build on that,” said Mervyn Whyte. Coleraine based construction and development firm Kennedy Group is once again title sponsor of the event. The company, which has supported the International North West 200 in-kind for many years, last year agreed a three year contract worth in excess of £200,000. Commercial director of Kennedy Group, Alistair Kennedy, said, “Kennedy Group has a long association with the North West 200 and we’re delighted to offer our support in such a tangible way. We have been a main sponsor of the North West 200 since 2003 both through the Kennedy brand and through Junction One International Outlet Centre. We believe it is most important to back an event which brings much to the community in terms of tourism and economic wealth.” Race Week will take place from 7th 12th May with practice nights on Tuesday 8th and Thursday 10th May. Roads will be closed from 5pm 9.30pm on practice nights and 10am 6.30pm on Race Day with the first race starting at 11am. There will once again be a separate practice session for Newcomers on Tuesday evening. The format on Race Day will remain the same as last year with a seven race programme to include two Superbike races, two 600 Supersport races, Superstock, 125/400 and 250 race. Entry forms/ regulations will be available from Friday 26th January. The Secretary of State Peter Hain MP also attended the launch and highlighted the major contribution that the North West 200 makes to Northern Ireland’ s economy, tourism and international sporting image. He said, “The International North West 200 is one of the key events in Northern Ireland’s sporting calendar and it is the thrill of road racing which attracts competitors and spectators from Ireland, UK, Europe and beyond. The North West 200 brings huge economic benefits to Northern Ireland. It is the extraordinary achievements and the history of the race over its 76 years that continues to draw record crowds. I wish the organisers every success for a terrific day’s racing.” BBC Sport Northern Ireland is the official media partner for the Kennedy Group International North West 200 for the next three years. Coverage will include preview and highlights programmes on television, live commentary on Radio Ulster as well as a dedicated website. BBC Northern Ireland’s head of sport, Mike Edgar, said the three-year deal will provide fans with enhanced coverage throughout Race Week. “The North West 200 is a massive event and we’re thrilled to have secured this partnership. North West 200 fans can look forward to the event’s most extensive coverage ever,” said BBC’s Mike Edgar. Shackleton Crean Event Management, incorporating Bridgestone Catering, is the hospitality partner for the Kennedy Group International North West 200 2007. The company, which last year assisted Northern Ireland Events Company (NIEC) in running hospitality at the North West 200, will be managing all aspects of hospitality at this year’s event. Northern Ireland Events Company came onboard in 2003 to encourage the North West 200 towards self-sustainability. Mervyn Whyte said, “We are grateful to NIEC for their guidance, expertise and help in previous years. The hospitality at the North West 200 has improved significantly in recent years to a world-class standard. The Shackleton Crean team are no strangers to the International North West 200 and this year will be no exception.” John McNally of Shackleton Crean said, “Following on from last year’s hugely successful event, we are diversifying and expanding the hospitality products offered at the Kennedy Group International North West 200. For example, we will be fully utilising the two tier hospitality marquee throughout Race Week until lunchtime on Race Day, offering lunch and dinner to 9pm, exclusive events, live entertainment and corporate hospitality.” As well as managing the fully serviced adult campsite for up to 2,000 people at Islandtasserty Road, Shackleton Crean will also manage the family campsite on the Ballyreagh Road and the food and beverage outlets in the paddock area, available from Tuesday 8th May. The prestigious two tier hospitality marquee will host lunch and dinner through until lunchtime on Race Day, live charity entertainment party on Wednesday evening (ticket only) and a live entertainments programme from Tuesday to Saturday. The sponsor’s/stewards dinner will be held for the first time on the second floor of the hospitality marquee on Wednesday evening. Corporate hospitality on Race Day will include breakfast on arrival, champagne reception and a gourmet four course lunch with excellent views of the course. Race Day will end with what is already being dubbed the hottest party in town, held in the hospitality marquee on Race Day evening (ticket only event). As with last year, two levels of corporate hospitality will be available with prices starting at £90 + vat. For more information on campsites and hospitality, contact [email protected] or telephone 028 3752 8080. Mayor of Coleraine Borough Council, Cllr William King MBE, said, “This spectacular event attracts many thousands of visitors to the Borough throughout the Race Week and makes a significant contribution to our local economy. Coleraine Borough Council is delighted to be involved with what is one of the largest and most popular annual sporting events in Ireland. “There has been a lot of collaboration between the Club and Council staff on the organisation of the North West 200 and we applaud the huge amount of work and commitment that is sustained by the Coleraine and District Motor Club. The road races generate a significant amount of income for the local economy and Council will continue to support the Club both financially and in-kind to stage a quality event that attracts pure motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world as well as a very broad family audience.” Macmillan Cancer Support is the official charity of this year’s Kennedy Group International North West 200. Lisa Brockerton, Fundraising Manager from Macmillan Cancer Support said, “We are absolutely delighted to be nominated as the official charity for the 2007 event and we are really looking forward to working with all the organisers over the coming months on what promises to be a fun-packed programme during the Race Week Festival. All the funds raised during the event will be used locally to help improve the quality of life for people affected by cancer and their families.” The New Year saw a new title for Clerk of Course Mervyn Whyte who was awarded a MBE in the New Year’s Honours List. Mervyn was also presented with the Services to Sport award at the Irish Racer Magazine Motorcycle Awards 2007 on Friday evening. Mervyn has been involved in the North West 200 for over 35 years and has served the Motorcycle Union of Ireland for 25 years. The North West 200 programme will again be published by Careva Publishing, one of Ireland’s leading motorcycle publishers and producers of Irish Racer magazine. This will be Careva’s fifth year handling the North West 200 programme. Clerk of Course Mervyn Whyte MBE concluded, “It has been a privilege to see the International North West 200 grow from strength to strength since its early beginnings in 1929. Today, it stands as Ireland’s biggest sporting event and we’re determined to grow and improve it year-on-year and ensure that the international status of the North West 200 is reflected in all aspects of the event. We look forward to another year where the safety of the riders and spectators will be our number one priority. “The International North West 200 owes its success to the support of key organisations and individuals. Our title sponsor, the Kennedy Group, has been an invaluable support to the event. Not only is their sponsorship worth in excess of £200,000, the personal commitment of Alistair and Adele Kennedy and the company’s in-kind support is deeply appreciated. The Supporters Club have done a superb job fundraising and are already hard at work fundraising for this year. Coleraine and District Motor Club will make every effort to ensure the 2007 Kennedy Group International North West 200 is a success,” said Mervyn Whyte.

American Natalie Jackson To Race In Thundersprint Event In Center Of Northwich, England

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Brains, Beauty and a Brilliant Biker Natalie Jackson Rides at Thundersprint 2007 Natalie Jackson, one of America’s top female bike racers, is heading for this year’s Thundersprint which will be held in Northwich town centre (near Manchester Airport in Britain) on Sunday 13 May. After winning the American Southern Supermotard Championship in the lightweight class, Natalie took a year off from racing to become a Mum and is now looking forward to re-launching her career at the Thundersprint. Natalie said: “I have heard so much about the Thundersprint and it sounded a fascinating event. I love every form of racing and in everyone’s life, whether it is a career in motorcycles, race cars or interior decorating, there comes a moment in time when you stop for a moment and say, “This is it, this is why I do what I do”. And the Thundersprint was the one event that I knew I had to do.” As well as being brilliant on a bike, Natalie is also a highly respected journalist and TV presenter and will be filming in Northwich for one of her American programmes. Thundersprint organiser Frank Melling said: “We’re delighted to have Natalie join us along with her husband Matthew and baby son Colton. The Thundersprint is a family event and it will be great to have Natalie’s whole family with us as a team. “I knew Natalie by reputation before contacting her and we have had extensive conversations for over a year now. What comes across so very clearly is her tremendous enthusiasm for bikes combined with a delightful attitude: truly, brains, beauty and biking prowess. “Natalie will make a big impact at this year’s Thundersprint and we are delighted to have her join us.” More information is available at Thundersprint.com .

USGPRU Releases 2007 Schedule

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USGPRU Announces 2007 Event Calendar ODENTON, MD. January 24, 2007 The United States Grand Prix Riders Union released the calendar of events for the 2007 National Series. As with previous years, the 2007 season is comprised of five East Coast and five West Coast Regional races, with a final National Championship race. The USGPRU will run both the 125GP and 250GP classes again in 2007. We will again be allowing racers as young as 14 to compete on the 125GP machines. If the kids have a strong racing record, we will make exceptions to this rule and allow kids as young as 12 to compete. The only exception to that rule is the Streets of Willow event where 13 years old is the youngest we can allow. Eastern Region Apr 27-29 Heartland Park May 27-28 Summit Point Jun 15-17 Loudon Jul 07-08 Road America Aug 11-12 Barber Motorsports Park Western Region Mar 24-25 Firebird Raceway May 05-06 Streets of Willow May 19-19 Las Vegas Classic course Jul 13-15 Portland International Raceway Aug 25-26 Miller Motorsports Park National Championship final Sep 22-23 Mid-Ohio Sportscar Course About USGPRU The USGPRU is the officially recognized Motorcycle 125 Grand Prix National Championship ® and 250 Grand Prix National Championship TM series. The USGPRU emulates true World MotoGP racing experience and serves to attract young riders to gain experience in a professional environment and provide a path to world-class motorcycle racing. The USGPRU structures events with extended length grand prix racing exclusive to the GP machines, timed qualifying and strong contingency and sponsor support. For additional details, visit www.USGPRU.net

VP Adds To Tech Support

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VP RACING FUELS BOLSTERS TECH SUPPORT SAN ANTONIO, TX (January 24, 2007) VP Racing Fuels, Inc., an industry leader in the production and distribution of racing fuels and other performance products, has created a new position titled Technical Director, described by Steve Burns, VP’s President and CEO, as “critical not only to our effort to stay on the leading edge of race fuel technology but to ensure our customer support remains unsurpassed.” Burns continued, “While I will continue to lead VP’s R&D efforts, the primary role of this new position will be to oversee the introduction and support of our new and existing technology in the marketplace via hands-on applications testing of new technology and maintenance of a database of technical product information. “The importance of the technical support this makes available to our customers can’t be overemphasized,” Burns said. “When you lead an industry in technological development as we do, people look to you for guidance and support to ensure they can effectively implement that technology. And although VP’s custom blending has always been its strength, with more than 60 blends of racing fuel now available, it’s understandable our product line can appear somewhat intimidating to customers just getting started. VP’s customers have always had direct access to its regional offices for technical assistance in this regard, but now they’ll have another ready resource from whom they can obtain application-specific support on a timely and ongoing basis.” Named to the new Technical Director position is Jay Farnsworth, previously VP’s Regional Manager for its Midwest Region. According to Burns, Farnsworth has been actively involved in VP’s R&D efforts for many years ” not only for racing fuels but VP’s traction adhesives. Like most of us at VP, Jay was first a racer who now has lived and breathed racing fuels for almost 19 years, not to mention years of experience with automotive and aftermarket parts prior to joining VP. I’m happy we’re able to turn to someone with Jay’s experience and passion to fill this critical role and I expect customers will come to appreciate his responsiveness and the insight he can provide.” “We encourage customers who require fuel recommendations or other technical support to direct questions initially to our Technical Support line, which we intend to staff from 8 a.m.-10 p.m., seven days a week,” said Farnsworth. “At that point, customers will be walked through their application to determine the most appropriate fuel and how to tune for it, before being referred to the appropriate VP regional office for product delivery.” VP Technical Support can be reached at 812.878.2025 or [email protected]. For more than 30 years, VP’s fuels have enjoyed a well-deserved reputation for superior power and consistency, fueling champions in virtually every form of motorsports from drag racing, circle track and road racing to motorcycle, off road, off shore and even airplane racing. VP’s product line also includes performance chemicals, specialty lubricants, traction adhesives and fuel handling accessories. VP Racing is the Official Racing Fuel of NHRA Championship Drag Racing, as well as exclusive fuel supplier and/or sponsor of AMA (American Motorcycle Association); Champ Car Atlantic; Championship Off Road Racing (CORR); National Muscle Car Association; National Mustang Racing Association ; Star Mazda; and Stars of Karting among many others. More information about VP Racing can found on its website at vpracingfuels.com.

Matt Hall Honored As 2006 CCS-sanctioned TrackAddix GP Regional Series Champion

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Matt Hall Wins TrackAddix GP Overall Championship By Jason Jenkins Big smiles, loud applause, and bench racing filled Cinzetti’s restaurant in Overland Park, Kansas January 20 as TrackAddix wrapped up its inaugural season with the 2006 Awards Banquet. Over 80 people were in attendance despite heavy snow and treacherous driving conditions throughout the Midwest. Although there are many champions for ’06, one name rang out louder than any other; Matt Hall. Every racer in the paddock would recognize the back end of his #7 Yamaha YZF-R6, as the man was virtually untouchable from the drop of the green to the checkered flag. We asked the new champion a few questions to give you a closer look at his ’06 season and plans for the coming year. TrackAddix: What was the largest obstacle you had to overcome in ’06 to win this championship? Matt Hall: The largest obstacle came early in the season. I crashed at Road America and broke my clavicle with the next round of TrackAddix GP region just two weeks away at Heartland Park. I was concerned about not being able to race and losing points. On top of being injured, I did not have enough time to get my Yamaha back together and was forced to ride my less competitive back up bike. I went out for practice and was able to get around the track but it was not easy. Every blip of the throttle combined with the pressure of braking sent sharp pain shooting through my clavicle. I knew I had to race so I toughed it out. It was a painful weekend but I made it through, and still managed some solid finishes and kept my points where they needed to be. TA: What are your plans for the ’07 season? MH: We plan to run the full AMA series in 2007. We will be racing Supersport on a 2006 Yamaha R6 and Superstock on a new 2007 Yamaha R1. Both bikes have been prepared by Lee’s Performance Center out of Charlotte North Carolina to give us the competitive edge that we will need to compete against the best in the nation. We will be running the traditional red, black, and white Two Wheel Connection paint scheme with #174 for all AMA events. We will return to the TrackAddix Great Plains region for select events that don’t conflict with the AMA schedule, proudly running the #1 plate. We will also compete in other select regional events with CRA, CMRA, MRA and WERA. We are fortunate to have AT Industries Inc. continuing support in our efforts for the 2007 season as well as a couple of new faces. Kissick Construction Co. out of Kansas City, Missouri and Bazzaz Performance Design have joined with TWC Racing for the coming year. We are very thankful for the support that we have received for the new season and look forward to a great year. TA: Are there any people you’d like to thank that aren’t on your sponsor list? MH: I owe a lot to all of my sponsors for their support, but most importantly I want to thank my family. Thanks to my mom for allowing me to participate in this sport and my dad for getting me into it. He is a former AMA racer from the late 70’s and early 80’s, racing Yamaha TZ250’s, which is the same bike I started on. He used his knowledge to give me the best when I took my 1989 Yamaha TZ250 to my first championship in 2004. He has made it to every event, races and track days, with me since my first track day in 2000. He is always going the extra mile to make sure that we look and act as professional as we can, no matter where we are. I also owe a big thanks to my older brother Jamie for his support. He is a racer as well, look for him to join me at select AMA rounds. We will be another set of brothers racing in the AMA ranks hoping to make a name for ourselves such as the Hayden’s and Bostrom’s have. Another guy that I owe is a very close friend of our family; Hector St. John. He is pretty much family. He has given me a lot of advice about racing and life in general. I met him when I went through licensing school in 2002 and he has been there for me ever since; always willing to give me a hand whenever needed. I also need to thank Dr. Peter Vilkins, my orthopedic surgeon, for taking care of me in my less fortunate moments. He has been able to literally screw me back together and get me back out on the track ASAP. He has dubbed me, “His permanent patient”. I will be visiting him this year, but it will be because I want to and not because I have to. Matt’s sponsors through the ’06 season were: Two Wheel Connection, AT Industries Inc., Cafe Racer Inc., Yamaha, Advantage PowerSports, B and H Automotive, Welds Supply Inc., K.C., Ruff Ryders.com, Michelin, Vortex, Catalyst Composite, Chicken Hawk Racing. Any parties interested in being a part of his ’07 season can contact Matt directly at [email protected] We all wish Matt the best of luck in the upcoming season. You are a true Champion, Mr. Hall. Not only is this man incredibly quick and cunning on the track; he also displays the sportsmanship we all wish we could possess. Matt and his family are always more than willing to lend a hand in times of trouble and are friends with everyone at the track. He also gives back to the racing community as an instructor for newcomers to the TrackAddix racing and trackday community. Matt is a humble, hard working, racer who takes advantage of every minute of practice and gives all at every race. It is no wonder he finished on top. Godspeed and good luck in your ’07 season. Congratulations to all of the TrackAddix GP Champions! Expert Champions: Matt Hall””Overall Points, Middleweight Supersport, Middleweight Superbike, Middleweight Gran Prix, Heavyweight Superbike Mark Nudelman””Unlimited Supersport, Unlimited Superbike, Unlimited Gran Prix, GTO Rich Wu””Lightweight Supersport, Lightweight Superbike Nick Spooner””Heavyweight Supersport, GTU Jamie Hall””Lightweight Gran Prix Greg Williams””GT Lights Hector St. John””125 Gran Prix Walt Sipp””Thunderbike, Supertwins Kevin Clark””Lightweight Formula 40 Dean Rumfola””Formula 40 Amateur Champions: Curt Henderson””Overall Points Chris Chase””Lightweight Supersport, GT Lights, Thunderbike R. John Deuser””Middleweight Supersport, Middleweight Superbike, GTU Randy Sullinger””Heavyweight Supersport, Heavyweight Superbike, Formula 40 Kris Pippin””Unlimited Supersport, Unlimited Superbike, Unlimited Gran Prix, GTO Rebecca Caudle””Lightweight Superbike Matt McNall””Lightweight Gran Prix, Lightweight Formula 40, Supertwins James Rich””Middleweight Gran Prix 2006 Overall Top 10: 1- Matt Hall 2- Andy Feuersthaler 3- Mark Nudelman 4- Nick Spooner 5- Brian Hall 6- Ed Key 7- Jason Jenkins 8- Jason Temme 9- Rich Wu 10- Rob Oliva

Updated: AMA Pro Racing Opens Up Thursday Practice, Replaces Stop-and-go Penalty With Ride-through, Modifies Numberplate Rules

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AMA Pro Racing has issued a trio of road racing Competition Bulletins dated January 22. The first allows all AMA licensed riders to participate in Thursday practice, eliminating the ban on ill-defined “factory riders;” sets the pit-road maximum speed at 50 mph for all events, including Daytona; and requires primary and spare racebikes to be marked as such before tech inspection. The second allows the use of a single number on the front and rear of motorcycles with large ram-air ducts and low profile tailsections. The third deals with the new ride-through penalty.

Competition Bulletins

Practice – ~/files/Combul500-RRProcedFor07.pdf~ Number Display – ~/files/Combul501-RRNumberDisplay.pdf~ Stop and Go – ~/files/Combul503-RRStopAndGo.pdf~

Something About Racebikes At Another Foreign Motorcycle Show

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Alexandra Palace – 26th 28th January 2007 Hawk Kawasaki will be displaying at ‘The Ally Pally Motorcycle Show’, which takes place at London’s historic Alexandra Palace, from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th January 2007 – ~http://www.superbike.co.uk/allypally/~ Hawk Kawasaki’s race truck will be parked outside the main entrance and their stand W310 is situated in the main hall, ~http://www.superbike.co.uk/allypally/floorplan.pdf~. On display they will have eight machines ranging from Historic Kawasakis through to the modern-day racebike. Also the all-stylish JBL Sound bike will be on with Superbike Magazine stand as their centre piece. Zion Motorsport Supplies will also be part of the stand with a full range of Bitubo Suspension, Threebond Products, Brembo Brakes, Dymag Wheels, Renthal Sprockets, Tsubaki Chain, Pro Bolt, Rock Oil, Hawk Clothing and accessories, the Official BSB Calendar and the Hawk Kawasaki Playstation 2 Game. Orders will be taken for the new 2007 ZX6-RR Bodywork and Rearsets. Hawk Kawasaki riders Peter Hickman and David Hallett will be on hand to sign autographs throughout the weekend. For more details see www.hawkkawasaki.co.uk

Clothing Company Extends Sponsorship Of Assen And Motegi GP Races Through 2009

A-STYLE EXTEND TITLE SPONSORSHIP FOR TT ASSEN AND GRAND PRIX OF JAPAN UNTIL 2009 Popular Italian fashion brand A-Style has signed with Dorna Sports, commercial rights-holders for the MotoGP World Championship, to extend their title sponsorship agreements of the TT Assen and Grand Prix of Japan until 2009. The deal follows on from a successful initial partnership that began last season, when the familiar logo first appeared at MotoGP circuits as A-Style became title sponsors for the Dutch and Japanese events – securing the right to name the event as well as trackside brand exposure. The TT Assen is the MotoGP World Championship’s longest serving race, having been on the series calendar ever since its inception in 1949, and is regarded as the ‘Cathedral’ of motorcycling. Twin Ring Motegi is one of the most modern venues in motorsport and it has been home to MotoGP since its opening in 2000, initially hosting the Pacific Grand Prix before taking over as the venue for the Grand Prix of Japan in 2004. A-Style gained popularity over a decade ago, when graphic designer Marco Bruns conceived and patented the ‘world’s funkiest “A”’ and it became a popular sticker and print for surf, skate and urban orientated gear. Clothing designer Simone Sidoti was later to join forces with Bruns, and the logo became a lifestyle brand with a full collection of men’s and women’s fashion which has since become popular with celebrities and sportsmen in 1440 stores across the world. In 2007 the A-Style TT Assen takes its traditional slot on the last Saturday in June, the 30th, and is the eighth event on the eighteen-round MotoGP World Championship 2007 calendar. The A-Style Grand Prix of Japan is round fifteen and takes place on the 23rd September. A-Style will also have a brand presence at the MotoGP Official Test which takes place at Jerez on February 23rd-25th.

More From MotoGP Testing In Malaysia

BRIDGESTONE MOTOGP: MALAYSIA TEST DEBRIEF Q+A with Hiroshi Yamada – Bridgestone Motorsport – Manager Motorcycle Racing The first test of the 2007 season concluded at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on Wednesday with several Bridgestone-shod riders frequenting the top half of the timesheets throughout the three-day session. Bridgestone Motorsport’s Manager of Motorcycle Racing, Hiroshi Yamada, reviews the opening week of Bridgestone’s sixth year of participation in MotoGP and looks ahead to the coming season with cautious optimism. Was it good to be back in action at Sepang this week? “It was great to be back at the race track after seven weeks away but development work has been ongoing since the last test of 2006. Our engineers have spent the winter break analysing the data we collected in November tests in order to finalise the direction for tyre development ahead of this new season.” What was Bridgestone’s programme for this opening week of testing in Malaysia? “Using the data from the post-season tests last year, we developed a range of new constructions, shapes and compounds which we tested with each of our five teams in Sepang this week. We took a total of 1,200 tyres including new rears, new fronts and new qualifiers – to test with a total of 12 riders. In addition to the GP riders, we also worked extensively with test riders Shinichi Ito and Nobu Aoki. We were able to get through the bulk of our test programme and our teams provided us with a lot of valuable data with which we can further develop the tyres.” Is the testing programme different because of the introduction of 800cc bikes? “We have developed the tyres to work with the characteristics of the new 800cc, most importantly to cope with the higher cornering speeds. However, the test programme is no more extensive than it has been in previous years. The increased number of teams that we supply this season means that we take larger quantities of tyres to each test, but we are always looking at new constructions, shapes and compounds irrespective of the bike specification.” Does the Sepang Circuit, traditionally a strong Bridgestone track, offer a realistic indication of tyre performance at this early stage of the season? “It is true that Sepang has traditionally been a strong track for Bridgestone, so we must always be realistic in our assessment, however the performance this week has been very encouraging. The championship is 18 races long and we have also worked hard to address specific issues with some circuits that have been less favourable to Bridgestone in the past. The riders have been particularly complimentary about our tyres this week, so I think we have reason to be optimistic. The lap times during race simulations would certainly indicate that good progress has been made so far.” What conclusions can be drawn from this first test of the season? “I do not believe it is possible or even sensible to try and draw definite conclusions from winter testing given the number of parameters involved. While we are trying to find the direction for tyre development, the teams are also working on fine-tuning their new bikes. At the same time some riders are settling into new teams with different bike characteristics and even new tyres. Testing is all about finding a balance between all these factors, which is why we must conduct our tyre evaluation work in controlled conditions to enable us to accurately assess the differences between each tyre specification. We will continue to test at Phillip Island next week in order to gain more understanding of the tyre behaviour as the teams progress with honing the set-up of their new bikes.”

2007 Endurance World Championship Permanent Teams Announced, Including American Will Gruy

Endurance World Championship 2007 Permanent Teams The list of 17 permanent teams which undertake to participate in the entire 2007 Endurance World Championship is published below. The FIM is currently studying the possibility of increasing the number of permanent teams. In this case, a new list will be published as soon as possible. Order Ranking, Team Name, Team Number, Riders, Machine 1. Suzuki Castrol Team, #1, Vincent Philippe (FRA), Matthieu Lagrive (FRA), Julien Da Costa (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 2. Yamaha Austria Racing Team, #7, Igor Jerman (SLO), Sebastien Scarnato (FRA), Thomas Hinterreiter (AUT), Yamaha YZF-R1 3. Yamaha Phase One Endurance, #3, Warwick Nowland (AUS), Richard Glenn (GB), Dider van Keymeulen (BEL), Yamaha YZF-R1 4. Bolliger Team Switzerland, #8, David Morillon (FRA), Patric Muff (SUI), Horst Saiger (AUT), Kawasaki ZX-10R 5. Suzuki Sweden, #12, Tobias Andersson (SWE), Lars Carlbark (SWE), Andi Notman (SWE), Nicklas Carlberg (SWE), Suzuki GSX-R1000 6. Diablo 666 Bolliger Kawasaki, #666, James Hutchins (GBR), Olivier Ulmann (FRA), Alexander Cudlin (AUS), Kawasaki ZX-10R 7. No Limits, #44, Moreno Codeluppi (ITA), Stefano Gugliotta (SUI), Andrea Fanotto (ITA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 8. Endurance Moto 45, #100, Nicolas Duprez (FRA), Frederic Bernon (FRA), Thomas Perreau (FRA), Nicolas Jaulneau (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 9. Zone Rouge, #6, Oliver Depoorter (BEL), Wim Van den Broeck (BEL), Nicolas Pirot (BEL), Michel Nickmans (BEL), Yamaha YZF-R1 10. Team Amadeaus X One, #9, Paolo Tessari (ITA), Will Gruy (USA), Riccardo Ricci (ITA), Yamaha YZF-R1 11. Kawasaki France, #11, Steve Plater (GBR), Gwen Giabbani (FRA), Ivan Silva (SPA), Frederic Moreira (FRA), Kawasaki ZX-10R 12. Endurance Moto 38 Yamaha, #38, Erwan Nigon (FRA), Julien Millet Joao (FRA), Fernandes Contente (POR), Yamaha YZF-R1 13. Primo Verboven Racing, #4, Hans Westra (BEL), Leroy Verboven (BEL), Patrick de la Ruelle (BEL), Suzuki GSX-R1000 14. Raffin Motos Kawasaki, #16, Damien Chene (FRA), Stephane Kokes (FRA), Pascal Grosjean (FRA), Kawasaki ZX-10R 15. Genous Team Racing, #30, A. Lagrive (FRA), Y. Genestier (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 16. ABG Performance #134, #134, Christophe Alluard (FRA), Franck Giroguy (FRA), Guillaume Greleaud (FRA), Franck Gaziello (FRA), Suzuki GSX-R1000 17. EWC Team Endurance Eurosport Benelux, #5, Emiel Bosma (NED), Ruud Van Stralen (NED), MV Agusta F4-1000R

Details Released For 2007 North West 200 In Northern Ireland

KENNEDY GROUP INTERNATIONAL NORTH WEST 200 GETS SET FOR 2007 The 2007 Kennedy Group International North West 200 launched today with plans to make Ireland’s largest sporting event bigger and better than ever. Saturday 12th May is the date for this year’s Race Day and organisers are once again looking forward to a top line-up of local and international riders. Along with many local riders, top UK riders Michael Rutter, John McGuinness, Steve Plater, Ian Hutchinson along with Isle of Man rider Conor Cummins and Scotland’s Keith Amor were in attendance as Clerk of Course Mervyn Whyte announced that, while there may be some minor upgrades to the course, there will be no major changes. “Coleraine & District Motor Club and Coleraine Borough Council invested heavily in major upgrades to the course, paddock and trade village areas in 2006. The changes to the course this year will be slight but we’re continuously looking at the course to ensure it is as safe as possible. Many people described last year’s event as the best ever so we plan to build on that,” said Mervyn Whyte. Coleraine based construction and development firm Kennedy Group is once again title sponsor of the event. The company, which has supported the International North West 200 in-kind for many years, last year agreed a three year contract worth in excess of £200,000. Commercial director of Kennedy Group, Alistair Kennedy, said, “Kennedy Group has a long association with the North West 200 and we’re delighted to offer our support in such a tangible way. We have been a main sponsor of the North West 200 since 2003 both through the Kennedy brand and through Junction One International Outlet Centre. We believe it is most important to back an event which brings much to the community in terms of tourism and economic wealth.” Race Week will take place from 7th 12th May with practice nights on Tuesday 8th and Thursday 10th May. Roads will be closed from 5pm 9.30pm on practice nights and 10am 6.30pm on Race Day with the first race starting at 11am. There will once again be a separate practice session for Newcomers on Tuesday evening. The format on Race Day will remain the same as last year with a seven race programme to include two Superbike races, two 600 Supersport races, Superstock, 125/400 and 250 race. Entry forms/ regulations will be available from Friday 26th January. The Secretary of State Peter Hain MP also attended the launch and highlighted the major contribution that the North West 200 makes to Northern Ireland’ s economy, tourism and international sporting image. He said, “The International North West 200 is one of the key events in Northern Ireland’s sporting calendar and it is the thrill of road racing which attracts competitors and spectators from Ireland, UK, Europe and beyond. The North West 200 brings huge economic benefits to Northern Ireland. It is the extraordinary achievements and the history of the race over its 76 years that continues to draw record crowds. I wish the organisers every success for a terrific day’s racing.” BBC Sport Northern Ireland is the official media partner for the Kennedy Group International North West 200 for the next three years. Coverage will include preview and highlights programmes on television, live commentary on Radio Ulster as well as a dedicated website. BBC Northern Ireland’s head of sport, Mike Edgar, said the three-year deal will provide fans with enhanced coverage throughout Race Week. “The North West 200 is a massive event and we’re thrilled to have secured this partnership. North West 200 fans can look forward to the event’s most extensive coverage ever,” said BBC’s Mike Edgar. Shackleton Crean Event Management, incorporating Bridgestone Catering, is the hospitality partner for the Kennedy Group International North West 200 2007. The company, which last year assisted Northern Ireland Events Company (NIEC) in running hospitality at the North West 200, will be managing all aspects of hospitality at this year’s event. Northern Ireland Events Company came onboard in 2003 to encourage the North West 200 towards self-sustainability. Mervyn Whyte said, “We are grateful to NIEC for their guidance, expertise and help in previous years. The hospitality at the North West 200 has improved significantly in recent years to a world-class standard. The Shackleton Crean team are no strangers to the International North West 200 and this year will be no exception.” John McNally of Shackleton Crean said, “Following on from last year’s hugely successful event, we are diversifying and expanding the hospitality products offered at the Kennedy Group International North West 200. For example, we will be fully utilising the two tier hospitality marquee throughout Race Week until lunchtime on Race Day, offering lunch and dinner to 9pm, exclusive events, live entertainment and corporate hospitality.” As well as managing the fully serviced adult campsite for up to 2,000 people at Islandtasserty Road, Shackleton Crean will also manage the family campsite on the Ballyreagh Road and the food and beverage outlets in the paddock area, available from Tuesday 8th May. The prestigious two tier hospitality marquee will host lunch and dinner through until lunchtime on Race Day, live charity entertainment party on Wednesday evening (ticket only) and a live entertainments programme from Tuesday to Saturday. The sponsor’s/stewards dinner will be held for the first time on the second floor of the hospitality marquee on Wednesday evening. Corporate hospitality on Race Day will include breakfast on arrival, champagne reception and a gourmet four course lunch with excellent views of the course. Race Day will end with what is already being dubbed the hottest party in town, held in the hospitality marquee on Race Day evening (ticket only event). As with last year, two levels of corporate hospitality will be available with prices starting at £90 + vat. For more information on campsites and hospitality, contact [email protected] or telephone 028 3752 8080. Mayor of Coleraine Borough Council, Cllr William King MBE, said, “This spectacular event attracts many thousands of visitors to the Borough throughout the Race Week and makes a significant contribution to our local economy. Coleraine Borough Council is delighted to be involved with what is one of the largest and most popular annual sporting events in Ireland. “There has been a lot of collaboration between the Club and Council staff on the organisation of the North West 200 and we applaud the huge amount of work and commitment that is sustained by the Coleraine and District Motor Club. The road races generate a significant amount of income for the local economy and Council will continue to support the Club both financially and in-kind to stage a quality event that attracts pure motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world as well as a very broad family audience.” Macmillan Cancer Support is the official charity of this year’s Kennedy Group International North West 200. Lisa Brockerton, Fundraising Manager from Macmillan Cancer Support said, “We are absolutely delighted to be nominated as the official charity for the 2007 event and we are really looking forward to working with all the organisers over the coming months on what promises to be a fun-packed programme during the Race Week Festival. All the funds raised during the event will be used locally to help improve the quality of life for people affected by cancer and their families.” The New Year saw a new title for Clerk of Course Mervyn Whyte who was awarded a MBE in the New Year’s Honours List. Mervyn was also presented with the Services to Sport award at the Irish Racer Magazine Motorcycle Awards 2007 on Friday evening. Mervyn has been involved in the North West 200 for over 35 years and has served the Motorcycle Union of Ireland for 25 years. The North West 200 programme will again be published by Careva Publishing, one of Ireland’s leading motorcycle publishers and producers of Irish Racer magazine. This will be Careva’s fifth year handling the North West 200 programme. Clerk of Course Mervyn Whyte MBE concluded, “It has been a privilege to see the International North West 200 grow from strength to strength since its early beginnings in 1929. Today, it stands as Ireland’s biggest sporting event and we’re determined to grow and improve it year-on-year and ensure that the international status of the North West 200 is reflected in all aspects of the event. We look forward to another year where the safety of the riders and spectators will be our number one priority. “The International North West 200 owes its success to the support of key organisations and individuals. Our title sponsor, the Kennedy Group, has been an invaluable support to the event. Not only is their sponsorship worth in excess of £200,000, the personal commitment of Alistair and Adele Kennedy and the company’s in-kind support is deeply appreciated. The Supporters Club have done a superb job fundraising and are already hard at work fundraising for this year. Coleraine and District Motor Club will make every effort to ensure the 2007 Kennedy Group International North West 200 is a success,” said Mervyn Whyte.

American Natalie Jackson To Race In Thundersprint Event In Center Of Northwich, England

Brains, Beauty and a Brilliant Biker Natalie Jackson Rides at Thundersprint 2007 Natalie Jackson, one of America’s top female bike racers, is heading for this year’s Thundersprint which will be held in Northwich town centre (near Manchester Airport in Britain) on Sunday 13 May. After winning the American Southern Supermotard Championship in the lightweight class, Natalie took a year off from racing to become a Mum and is now looking forward to re-launching her career at the Thundersprint. Natalie said: “I have heard so much about the Thundersprint and it sounded a fascinating event. I love every form of racing and in everyone’s life, whether it is a career in motorcycles, race cars or interior decorating, there comes a moment in time when you stop for a moment and say, “This is it, this is why I do what I do”. And the Thundersprint was the one event that I knew I had to do.” As well as being brilliant on a bike, Natalie is also a highly respected journalist and TV presenter and will be filming in Northwich for one of her American programmes. Thundersprint organiser Frank Melling said: “We’re delighted to have Natalie join us along with her husband Matthew and baby son Colton. The Thundersprint is a family event and it will be great to have Natalie’s whole family with us as a team. “I knew Natalie by reputation before contacting her and we have had extensive conversations for over a year now. What comes across so very clearly is her tremendous enthusiasm for bikes combined with a delightful attitude: truly, brains, beauty and biking prowess. “Natalie will make a big impact at this year’s Thundersprint and we are delighted to have her join us.” More information is available at Thundersprint.com .

USGPRU Releases 2007 Schedule

USGPRU Announces 2007 Event Calendar ODENTON, MD. January 24, 2007 The United States Grand Prix Riders Union released the calendar of events for the 2007 National Series. As with previous years, the 2007 season is comprised of five East Coast and five West Coast Regional races, with a final National Championship race. The USGPRU will run both the 125GP and 250GP classes again in 2007. We will again be allowing racers as young as 14 to compete on the 125GP machines. If the kids have a strong racing record, we will make exceptions to this rule and allow kids as young as 12 to compete. The only exception to that rule is the Streets of Willow event where 13 years old is the youngest we can allow. Eastern Region Apr 27-29 Heartland Park May 27-28 Summit Point Jun 15-17 Loudon Jul 07-08 Road America Aug 11-12 Barber Motorsports Park Western Region Mar 24-25 Firebird Raceway May 05-06 Streets of Willow May 19-19 Las Vegas Classic course Jul 13-15 Portland International Raceway Aug 25-26 Miller Motorsports Park National Championship final Sep 22-23 Mid-Ohio Sportscar Course About USGPRU The USGPRU is the officially recognized Motorcycle 125 Grand Prix National Championship ® and 250 Grand Prix National Championship TM series. The USGPRU emulates true World MotoGP racing experience and serves to attract young riders to gain experience in a professional environment and provide a path to world-class motorcycle racing. The USGPRU structures events with extended length grand prix racing exclusive to the GP machines, timed qualifying and strong contingency and sponsor support. For additional details, visit www.USGPRU.net

VP Adds To Tech Support

VP RACING FUELS BOLSTERS TECH SUPPORT SAN ANTONIO, TX (January 24, 2007) VP Racing Fuels, Inc., an industry leader in the production and distribution of racing fuels and other performance products, has created a new position titled Technical Director, described by Steve Burns, VP’s President and CEO, as “critical not only to our effort to stay on the leading edge of race fuel technology but to ensure our customer support remains unsurpassed.” Burns continued, “While I will continue to lead VP’s R&D efforts, the primary role of this new position will be to oversee the introduction and support of our new and existing technology in the marketplace via hands-on applications testing of new technology and maintenance of a database of technical product information. “The importance of the technical support this makes available to our customers can’t be overemphasized,” Burns said. “When you lead an industry in technological development as we do, people look to you for guidance and support to ensure they can effectively implement that technology. And although VP’s custom blending has always been its strength, with more than 60 blends of racing fuel now available, it’s understandable our product line can appear somewhat intimidating to customers just getting started. VP’s customers have always had direct access to its regional offices for technical assistance in this regard, but now they’ll have another ready resource from whom they can obtain application-specific support on a timely and ongoing basis.” Named to the new Technical Director position is Jay Farnsworth, previously VP’s Regional Manager for its Midwest Region. According to Burns, Farnsworth has been actively involved in VP’s R&D efforts for many years ” not only for racing fuels but VP’s traction adhesives. Like most of us at VP, Jay was first a racer who now has lived and breathed racing fuels for almost 19 years, not to mention years of experience with automotive and aftermarket parts prior to joining VP. I’m happy we’re able to turn to someone with Jay’s experience and passion to fill this critical role and I expect customers will come to appreciate his responsiveness and the insight he can provide.” “We encourage customers who require fuel recommendations or other technical support to direct questions initially to our Technical Support line, which we intend to staff from 8 a.m.-10 p.m., seven days a week,” said Farnsworth. “At that point, customers will be walked through their application to determine the most appropriate fuel and how to tune for it, before being referred to the appropriate VP regional office for product delivery.” VP Technical Support can be reached at 812.878.2025 or [email protected]. For more than 30 years, VP’s fuels have enjoyed a well-deserved reputation for superior power and consistency, fueling champions in virtually every form of motorsports from drag racing, circle track and road racing to motorcycle, off road, off shore and even airplane racing. VP’s product line also includes performance chemicals, specialty lubricants, traction adhesives and fuel handling accessories. VP Racing is the Official Racing Fuel of NHRA Championship Drag Racing, as well as exclusive fuel supplier and/or sponsor of AMA (American Motorcycle Association); Champ Car Atlantic; Championship Off Road Racing (CORR); National Muscle Car Association; National Mustang Racing Association ; Star Mazda; and Stars of Karting among many others. More information about VP Racing can found on its website at vpracingfuels.com.

Matt Hall Honored As 2006 CCS-sanctioned TrackAddix GP Regional Series Champion

Matt Hall Wins TrackAddix GP Overall Championship By Jason Jenkins Big smiles, loud applause, and bench racing filled Cinzetti’s restaurant in Overland Park, Kansas January 20 as TrackAddix wrapped up its inaugural season with the 2006 Awards Banquet. Over 80 people were in attendance despite heavy snow and treacherous driving conditions throughout the Midwest. Although there are many champions for ’06, one name rang out louder than any other; Matt Hall. Every racer in the paddock would recognize the back end of his #7 Yamaha YZF-R6, as the man was virtually untouchable from the drop of the green to the checkered flag. We asked the new champion a few questions to give you a closer look at his ’06 season and plans for the coming year. TrackAddix: What was the largest obstacle you had to overcome in ’06 to win this championship? Matt Hall: The largest obstacle came early in the season. I crashed at Road America and broke my clavicle with the next round of TrackAddix GP region just two weeks away at Heartland Park. I was concerned about not being able to race and losing points. On top of being injured, I did not have enough time to get my Yamaha back together and was forced to ride my less competitive back up bike. I went out for practice and was able to get around the track but it was not easy. Every blip of the throttle combined with the pressure of braking sent sharp pain shooting through my clavicle. I knew I had to race so I toughed it out. It was a painful weekend but I made it through, and still managed some solid finishes and kept my points where they needed to be. TA: What are your plans for the ’07 season? MH: We plan to run the full AMA series in 2007. We will be racing Supersport on a 2006 Yamaha R6 and Superstock on a new 2007 Yamaha R1. Both bikes have been prepared by Lee’s Performance Center out of Charlotte North Carolina to give us the competitive edge that we will need to compete against the best in the nation. We will be running the traditional red, black, and white Two Wheel Connection paint scheme with #174 for all AMA events. We will return to the TrackAddix Great Plains region for select events that don’t conflict with the AMA schedule, proudly running the #1 plate. We will also compete in other select regional events with CRA, CMRA, MRA and WERA. We are fortunate to have AT Industries Inc. continuing support in our efforts for the 2007 season as well as a couple of new faces. Kissick Construction Co. out of Kansas City, Missouri and Bazzaz Performance Design have joined with TWC Racing for the coming year. We are very thankful for the support that we have received for the new season and look forward to a great year. TA: Are there any people you’d like to thank that aren’t on your sponsor list? MH: I owe a lot to all of my sponsors for their support, but most importantly I want to thank my family. Thanks to my mom for allowing me to participate in this sport and my dad for getting me into it. He is a former AMA racer from the late 70’s and early 80’s, racing Yamaha TZ250’s, which is the same bike I started on. He used his knowledge to give me the best when I took my 1989 Yamaha TZ250 to my first championship in 2004. He has made it to every event, races and track days, with me since my first track day in 2000. He is always going the extra mile to make sure that we look and act as professional as we can, no matter where we are. I also owe a big thanks to my older brother Jamie for his support. He is a racer as well, look for him to join me at select AMA rounds. We will be another set of brothers racing in the AMA ranks hoping to make a name for ourselves such as the Hayden’s and Bostrom’s have. Another guy that I owe is a very close friend of our family; Hector St. John. He is pretty much family. He has given me a lot of advice about racing and life in general. I met him when I went through licensing school in 2002 and he has been there for me ever since; always willing to give me a hand whenever needed. I also need to thank Dr. Peter Vilkins, my orthopedic surgeon, for taking care of me in my less fortunate moments. He has been able to literally screw me back together and get me back out on the track ASAP. He has dubbed me, “His permanent patient”. I will be visiting him this year, but it will be because I want to and not because I have to. Matt’s sponsors through the ’06 season were: Two Wheel Connection, AT Industries Inc., Cafe Racer Inc., Yamaha, Advantage PowerSports, B and H Automotive, Welds Supply Inc., K.C., Ruff Ryders.com, Michelin, Vortex, Catalyst Composite, Chicken Hawk Racing. Any parties interested in being a part of his ’07 season can contact Matt directly at [email protected] We all wish Matt the best of luck in the upcoming season. You are a true Champion, Mr. Hall. Not only is this man incredibly quick and cunning on the track; he also displays the sportsmanship we all wish we could possess. Matt and his family are always more than willing to lend a hand in times of trouble and are friends with everyone at the track. He also gives back to the racing community as an instructor for newcomers to the TrackAddix racing and trackday community. Matt is a humble, hard working, racer who takes advantage of every minute of practice and gives all at every race. It is no wonder he finished on top. Godspeed and good luck in your ’07 season. Congratulations to all of the TrackAddix GP Champions! Expert Champions: Matt Hall””Overall Points, Middleweight Supersport, Middleweight Superbike, Middleweight Gran Prix, Heavyweight Superbike Mark Nudelman””Unlimited Supersport, Unlimited Superbike, Unlimited Gran Prix, GTO Rich Wu””Lightweight Supersport, Lightweight Superbike Nick Spooner””Heavyweight Supersport, GTU Jamie Hall””Lightweight Gran Prix Greg Williams””GT Lights Hector St. John””125 Gran Prix Walt Sipp””Thunderbike, Supertwins Kevin Clark””Lightweight Formula 40 Dean Rumfola””Formula 40 Amateur Champions: Curt Henderson””Overall Points Chris Chase””Lightweight Supersport, GT Lights, Thunderbike R. John Deuser””Middleweight Supersport, Middleweight Superbike, GTU Randy Sullinger””Heavyweight Supersport, Heavyweight Superbike, Formula 40 Kris Pippin””Unlimited Supersport, Unlimited Superbike, Unlimited Gran Prix, GTO Rebecca Caudle””Lightweight Superbike Matt McNall””Lightweight Gran Prix, Lightweight Formula 40, Supertwins James Rich””Middleweight Gran Prix 2006 Overall Top 10: 1- Matt Hall 2- Andy Feuersthaler 3- Mark Nudelman 4- Nick Spooner 5- Brian Hall 6- Ed Key 7- Jason Jenkins 8- Jason Temme 9- Rich Wu 10- Rob Oliva

Updated: AMA Pro Racing Opens Up Thursday Practice, Replaces Stop-and-go Penalty With Ride-through, Modifies Numberplate Rules

AMA Pro Racing has issued a trio of road racing Competition Bulletins dated January 22. The first allows all AMA licensed riders to participate in Thursday practice, eliminating the ban on ill-defined “factory riders;” sets the pit-road maximum speed at 50 mph for all events, including Daytona; and requires primary and spare racebikes to be marked as such before tech inspection. The second allows the use of a single number on the front and rear of motorcycles with large ram-air ducts and low profile tailsections. The third deals with the new ride-through penalty.

Competition Bulletins

Practice – ~/files/Combul500-RRProcedFor07.pdf~ Number Display – ~/files/Combul501-RRNumberDisplay.pdf~ Stop and Go – ~/files/Combul503-RRStopAndGo.pdf~

Something About Racebikes At Another Foreign Motorcycle Show

Alexandra Palace – 26th 28th January 2007 Hawk Kawasaki will be displaying at ‘The Ally Pally Motorcycle Show’, which takes place at London’s historic Alexandra Palace, from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th January 2007 – ~http://www.superbike.co.uk/allypally/~ Hawk Kawasaki’s race truck will be parked outside the main entrance and their stand W310 is situated in the main hall, ~http://www.superbike.co.uk/allypally/floorplan.pdf~. On display they will have eight machines ranging from Historic Kawasakis through to the modern-day racebike. Also the all-stylish JBL Sound bike will be on with Superbike Magazine stand as their centre piece. Zion Motorsport Supplies will also be part of the stand with a full range of Bitubo Suspension, Threebond Products, Brembo Brakes, Dymag Wheels, Renthal Sprockets, Tsubaki Chain, Pro Bolt, Rock Oil, Hawk Clothing and accessories, the Official BSB Calendar and the Hawk Kawasaki Playstation 2 Game. Orders will be taken for the new 2007 ZX6-RR Bodywork and Rearsets. Hawk Kawasaki riders Peter Hickman and David Hallett will be on hand to sign autographs throughout the weekend. For more details see www.hawkkawasaki.co.uk