According to local news reports, five-time 500cc World Champion Mick Doohan was arrested in Darwin, Australia at 3:00 a.m. Saturday for head-butting a bouncer in the nose at a strip club, The Honey Pot. Doohan was charged with assault and posted bail. On August 8, Doohan appeared in court and was fined $2500 Australian by a magistrate. Click here to read more: ~http://www.gcbulletin.com.au/news/news.htm~
Shane “Shakey” Byrne will race for the first time at Croft in North Yorkshire on a Superbike this weekend at the 10th round of the Bennetts British Championship. Byrne has plenty of experience at the 2.12-mile flat and twisty circuit though, as it is Rizla Suzuki’s nominated test track for 2006 and where much development of the GSX-R1000 has taken place. “I have never raced a Superbike at Croft before – the circuit was added to the BSB calendar after I left the series for MotoGP,” explained Shakey. “But that doesn’t bother me one bit. Rizla Suzuki has tested at Croft throughout the season and I think I could find my way round blindfolded. “I’m hoping the team’s familiarity with Croft will help give us an edge on the competition. Winning races is what it is all about for me and that’s what I want to do at Croft.” Joining Shakey at Croft will be Steve Plater, making his second appearance on the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000. Steve stood in for the injured James Haydon at the last round at Oulton Park in Cheshire and is on substitute duties again while the Rizla Suzuki regular continues to heal from injuries sustained during a race crash in mid-June. Plater said: “I’m really happy to be racing for Rizla Suzuki again. Oulton Park was a real challenge for me as I was coming back from injury, riding a new bike and getting to know a new team all at once. “The team has really made me feel at home and I’m hoping to improve on the two 11th places I scored last time out. I’m looking forward to the racing and can’t wait to get out in practice on Friday morning.” Superbike racing starts at 1355 on Sunday, August 13th, at Croft, near Darlington in North Yorkshire.
Classification revised following anti-doping control Following an anti-doping control carried out during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one sample was found not in accordance with the rules of the FIM Anti-Doping Code. The sample of the rider of the Swedish team Fägersjö-el.se Jan Hansson was containing a concentration of 180 ng/ml of salbutamol, a substance which is submitted to a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) foreseen in the FIM Anti-Doping Code. But the administrative procedure required for issuing this authorization by the FIM was not respected by the rider, and thus the International Disciplinary Court decided to exclude the team from the results of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (in which it had finished on 8th place) and to give a warning to Jan Hansson and the Swedish Federation for not having respected the procedure foreseen in the Anti-doping Code. The Endurance World Championship points’ standing, consequently revised, is the following: Classification after 5 races: 1. Suzuki Castrol Team (FRA-Suzuki), 115 points ; 2. Yamaha Austria Racing Team (AUT-Yamaha), 94; 3. Yamaha Phase One Endurance (GBR-Yamaha), 67; 4. Bolliger Team Switzerland (SUI-Kawasaki), 58; 5. Team Fägersjö-el.se Suzuki (SWE-Suzuki), 57; 6. National Motos (FRA-Honda), 35; 7. Team Endurance Moto 45 (FRA-Suzuki), 29; 8. Diablo 666 Bolliger (GBR-Kawasaki), 26; 9. No Limits & R.T. Moto Virus (ITA-Suzuki), 24; 10. RMT 21 Racing Honda (GER-Honda), 23; 11. Yamaha GMT 94 (FRA-Yamaha), 22; 12. Shell Endurance Academy (GBR-Yamaha), 20; 13. Folch Endurance 2 (SPA-Yamaha), 19; 14. Akaisanrinsy Racing Club (JPN-Honda), 16; 15. Team 18 Sapeur Pompiers (FRA-Suzuki), 16; 16. Infini Team Johann Moto Sport (FRA-Suzuki), 15; 17. Team LGT 57 (FRA-Yamaha), 15″¦ complete classification on FIM website: www.fim.ch.
CRITERIA PUTS EMPHASIS ON WINNING RACES The inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year, to be awarded in December as part of a one-hour SPEED television special honoring the top moments in motor sports for the year, will be selected by a panel including Wind Tunnel host Dave Despain, veteran broadcasters Bob Varsha and Ralph Sheheen, SPEEDtv.com writers Robin Miller and Tom Jensen and versatile racers Tommy Kendall and Dorsey Schroeder. “In selecting panelists for the inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year, we wanted a core group that had experience across multiple disciplines,” said Hunter Nickell, SPEED EVP & General Manager. “We also wanted to make sure we included voters with different perspectives “¦ we have broadcasters, journalists, racers and SPEED producers on the panel. If it’s happening in the world of motor sports, this panel knows about it.” The criteria for SPEED Performer of the Year will emphasize winning, with candidates having to score at least two victories within the season to be considered for the honor. In addition, the award will not be given to any driver suspended for any part of the racing season. “The SPEED Performer of the Year will be someone who lives for the checkered flag and behaves with the class of a champion on and off the track,” Nickell added. “We want this to be a meaningful award, not only to the drivers, but to the fans as well.” Beginning in November, SPEED will air highlights from multiple categories and multiple race series, allowing fans to vote on their favorites by visiting SPEEDtv.com or through their mobile phone. With categories still in development, “Fantastic Finish” “¦ “Unbelievable Pass” “¦ and “Outstanding Achievement in a Post-Race Celebration” are at the top of the early list. Winners from each category will also be announced as part of the year-end SPEED Performance Awards special. SPEED, celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2006, is the nation’s first and foremost cable network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 71 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest growing sports cable networks in the country and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on-demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services.
ULRICH AND PIETRI ACHIEVE MID-OHIO GOALS FOR TEAM ROADRACINGWORLD.COM SUZUKI Team Roadracingworld.com Suzuki enjoyed a highly successful outing at the eighth round of the 2006 AMA roadracing championship series, attaining the goals they had set for themselves heading into the weekend at the undulating 2.4-mile course. After knocking on the door for much of the year, Chris Ulrich picked up his first Superstock top ten of the season, while Robertino Pietri once again broke into the top 15 and stood as the fastest South American rider in attendance. After struggling somewhat in qualifying, Chris claimed the 15th spot on the Superstock grid with a lap of 1:28.442. Ulrich and his crew made some key adjustments to his Pirelli-shod GSX-R1000 during the Sunday morning warm-up. While he found the speed he was looking for, Ulrich had a big job ahead of him in the race after suffering a pair of poor starts in the once red-flagged and restarted final. On the first lap following the restart, the Californian found himself all the way down in 18th. However, he responded to the early-race frustration by putting together a stirring charge up through the field, systematically working his way up through the pack over the 16-lap final. With two laps to go, Ulrich closed in on John Haner (Suzuki) and successfully completed a bold overtaking maneuver going into the hard-braking Turn 6. After that, he pushed hard to fend off any potential counterattacks and held on for tenth at the flag. Summing up his weekend, Chris said, “It feels good to have a top ten. I’ve been working on it all year. It’s a good reward for my crew and a good reward for me. “In the race, I blew both starts big,” he admitted. “I just put my head down and once I knew where I was and figured it out, I just started passing people. I knew I could get by Haner by the way I was closing in but I also knew it was going to be difficult because he’s really good on the brakes. I just did it. I pulled up next to him and waited until he broke and I broke. I went in there and tucked the front a little bit and made it work. “One the final lap I didn’t know where he was and I didn’t care where he was, I knew as long as I got down off the back straight with him behind me there was no way I was going to let him come back by. I looked back coming out of Thunder Valley and saw he was right there. I ran the thing in there and I tucked the front coming into the Carousel. There was no way he was getting me there.” Ulrich said his charge was a nice way to go into the Virgina round of the series. “We’re going to take this momentum and move on and at VIR we’re going to try to move up a position or two.” Meanwhile, Venezuelan ace Pietri impressed with his ability to quickly learn the Ohio circuit in his first visit to the intimidating venue. He picked up 15th in Saturday’s Superbike final aboard his GSX-R1000 and then successfully leveraged what he learned in that race to score his best Superstock result of the season since his seventh-place finish at the Daytona season opener. After qualifying 18th for the Superstock race with a lap of 1:29.694, Pietri also struggled to get off the line, dropping to 20th early. But like his teammate, Robertino continued to fight and ultimately clawed his way up to 14th by the time the checkered flag was shown. Ulrich was encouraged by Pietri’s performance. “I’m happy with the whole team. Robertino, especially for this being his first time here, did very well. His crew did a very good job of getting him acclimated and keeping him going. I think he’s going to be tough here when we come back for the season finale.” Team Roadracingworld.com Suzuki will be back in action on August 18-20 at Virginia International Raceway for the ninth of eleven rounds on the 2006 AMA calendar. More, from a press release issued by Buell Motorcycle Company: TOP-TEN FINISH FOR BUELL XBRR AND CREVIER AT MID-OHIO Two Buell Dealer Teams Compete on Buell XBRR at AMA Formula Xtreme Event LEXINGTON, Ohio Deeley H-D/Buell Canada rider Steve Crevier placed ninth after a stirring ride aboard a Buell XBRR in the AMA Formula Xtreme race at round eight of the AMA Superbike Championship at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Crevier qualified a disappointing 19th for the Formula Xtreme race, a result he attributed to his unfamiliarity with the motorcycle and the course, a track he has not seen in six seasons. “We did not have a good set-up for qualifying on the repaved track,” said Crevier. “But I got more comfortable in practice and the team worked hard on the bike. We changed some suspension settings and it made a huge difference for the race.” Charging up to 13th position on the first lap, Crevier kept moving steadily forward in the first half of the 16-lap AMA national, eventually passing Opie Caylor to take ninth position on lap eight. Crevier spent the rest of the race in a tight battle with Suzuki riders Tony Meiring and Caylor, and Yamaha rider Jason Perez, fending off attacks from each as the trio behind him swapped positions. The race was won by Yamaha factory rider Eric Bostrom. “I got a good start in the race and once the field spaced out a little I was able to pick off quite a few bikes,” said Crevier. “The Buell XBRR is really coming along. With the V-Twin engine it’s easy to put down the power. It’s really exciting to ride.” Classic H-D/BuellMillville H-D/BuellInnovative Motorcycle Research rider Mike Hale qualified a Buell XBRR in 18th position for the Formula Xtreme National, ran as high as 16th and finished 17th after recovering from an off-track excursion. “It’s great to see the XBRR finish in the top-ten at two consecutive AMA Formula Xtreme events,” said Buell Motorcycle Company Chairman and Chief Technical Officer Erik Buell. “The XBRR is in its first season, as are the teams. We’re in a very early stage of development. I know the teams will keep moving up. I see it in the way they’re dealing with the challenge, the way they’re working, and in their excitement as they make progress and knock off the seconds.” Both teams racing XBRR models received support from Pirelli Tires, Sentry Insurance, Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Screamin’ Eagle SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant, and Harley-Davidson Visa. The Buell XBRR is a limited-edition production racing motorcycle based on the Firebolt XB12R, which is reworked at the factory into the XBRR for use in closed-course competition. It offers private racers a professional-level, race-ready, production-based platform. Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc., produces sport motorcycles, motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. To learn more about Buell motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer today and experience the pure streetfighter attitude, style and performance only found on board a Buell. Pull into www.buell.com for the Buell dealer nearest you. More, from a press release issued by American Suzuki Motor Corp.: SUZUKI SUPPORT RIDER MICHAEL BARNES ON THE MID-OHIO SUPERSPORT PODIUM BREA, Calif., American Suzuki Motor Corp. (ASMC) support rider, Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Michael Barnes, earned an impressive third AMA Supersport podium this season after finishing in third place in the exciting event at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, on Sunday, August 6. The 36-year-old Suzuki satellite team rider led the first nine laps of the 16-lap race aboard his M4 EMGO Suzuki GSX-R600. In addition to Mid-Ohio, Barnes has been on the Supersport podium at California Speedway in Fontana, Calif., and at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., this year. He is currently sixth overall in the AMA Supersport title chase. “I just put my head down and tried to keep on doing what I was doing,” said Barnes. “We’ll keep plugging away and see if we can’t do even better next time. I’m real proud of my guys. The M4 EMGO Suzuki team and Pirelli tires have come a long way this season and now we want to get on top of the box.” Barnes and the rest of the Suzuki support teams will next compete in AMA road racing at the Virginia International Raceway double-header event in Alton, Va., the weekend of August 18 – 20.
FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I noticed a 1 cent charge pending on my online bank activity. The vendor was www.retrobikes.com and I called the tech support number (859-215-1091) to inquire how they got my info. A prerecorded message stating that one cent charges on your account was fraudulent and to immediately close your account due to www.Authorize.net being hacked. Any motorcycle vendor using Authorize.net as their IP transaction / e commerce processor should keep an eye out! I have sent an e mail to authorize.net to inquire what company I had history with to better understand the trail. I just buy stuff like any other racer would. Sincerely yours, Steve Guanche CCS Florida Expert #15 Cooper City, Florida And now a response from Authorize.net… Would you please post this in response: At no time was the security of Authorize.Net breached or its data “hacked.” Authorize.Net employs industry-leading encryption hardware, software and security protocols to protect its data. We are certified compliant with the Payment Card Data Security Standard (PCI) which incorporates the Visa Cardholder Information Security Program (CISP), MasterCard’s Site Data Protection (SDP) standard, and Discover Card Information Security and Compliance (DISC). We consider the security of our platform to be one of the highest possible priorities for the company, and are well aware that any such breach in security could have devastating effects both for our merchants and Authorize.Net. Over the past few years we have invested a very significant amount of money enhancing our security and continue to do so on an ongoing basis. During the merchant enrollment process, Authorize.Net recommends to each merchant that it implement necessary standard payment gateway fraud prevention solutions and practices. Several basic fraud prevention tools are built-in to Authorize.Net’s payment gateway account and are made available to merchants, without charge. However, it is necessary for the merchant to take certain proactive steps to integrate the tools into its gateway account. These tools include, without limitation, (a) Address Verification Systems which compare the billing address information provided by the online customer with the billing address on file at the customer’s credit card bank; (b) Card Code Verification that minimizes fraud by requiring the customer to input a three-digit security code that is printed on the back of its credit card; and (c) Password-Required Mode which blocks transactions from being processed without the merchant first providing the correct password. In addition to these complimentary tools, Authorize.Net offers merchants the opportunity to enroll in other advanced fraud detection solutions such as FraudScreen.Net and Fraud Detection Suite, both of which are tools to assist merchants in detecting, managing and preventing suspicious and potentially fraudulent transactions. By implementing any of these solutions, a merchant significantly minimizes its fraud risk. Unfortunately, not all merchants take the time to implement even the most minimal of fraud prevention tools and then seek out scapegoats when they are impacted by fraud. Authorize.Net regrets any confusion or concern that has been generated as a result of this erroneous information. Thank you in advance. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you have any questions. David Schwartz Director of Marketing Site Manager Authorize.Net® 10800 NE 8th St | Suite 600 | Bellevue, WA 98004 Tel 425.586.6039 | Cell 425.213.4063 | Fax 425.586.6005 [email protected] | http://www.authorize.net
PICKERINGTON, OHIO- Motorcycling history was made as a record crowd gathered at The Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum to celebrate the opening of “SuperMann,” an all-new exhibit honoring the legendary career of Dick Mann, one of motorcycling’s most versatile and successful competitors. Mann, who was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998, returned as the guest of honor on Thursday, July 27, 2006 to personally cut the ribbon during the “SuperMann” exhibit dedication ceremony. Many of Mann’s friends, motorcycling legends in their own right, including Gary Nixon, Brad Lackey, Bill Werner, and Jim Rice, were in attendance for the opening. “SuperMann,” the third in a series of exhibits in the Hall of Legends at the Museum, celebrates the highlights of Mann’s numerous championship seasons as well as his professional achievements and contributions to the sport, including his current work for the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA). Featured exhibit bikes include a BSA Gold Star dirt tracker, his Daytona-winning BSA Rocket 3, a Matchless G50 road racer, a Triumph and Matchless G50 in dirt track trim, a Yankee and four Ossas all raced or developed by Dick Mann. Exhibit visitors can also enjoy artifacts and memorabilia from Mann’s prolific career, many of them on loan from Mann as well as from private collections. Ephemera includes Mann’s Grand National Championship leathers, trophies, references to his design work for Yankee Motorcycles, and other unique items that help tell the story of “SuperMann.” Mann was indeed a competitor with Superman-like qualities. He was the first individual in history to win every category of AMA Grand National competition, is a two-time Daytona 200 winner, a two-time AMA Grand National Champion and a 24-time AMA National race winner. Not only did Mann win more races in more categories than anyone else, he brought home the trophies for longer than most. Competing in over 230 AMA nationals, including dirt track, road racing and motocross, Mann was in hot pursuit of the checkered flag for over 25 years, scoring top ten finishes when other racers were long retired. Mann was a natural choice for a Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum exhibit, notes Mark Mederski, the Museum’s executive director. “Dick wasn’t just a fierce and multi-talented competitor who mastered virtually every type of motorcycle he ever threw his leg over, but his mechanical expertise also made him that rare breed of racer who could build a fast bike by himself, race and win with it.” Mann also inspired and mentored legions of competitors, such as 2001 Hall of Fame inductee Jim Rice, who joined the celebration to accept his Hall of Fame gold medal belatedly from the hands of Dick Mann. Rice said of Mann, “He’s been my hero since I began racing.” Rice’s memories of racing alongside Mann and Mann’s own tales were only a small sampling of the memorable benchracing that is a highlight of every Museum gathering as well as the philosophy behind every Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum exhibit. “SuperMann” doesn’t simply present the hardware it delves deep into the stories behind the legend. This mission is expertly accomplished by “SuperMann” curator, Motorcycle Hall of Fame member and historian Ed Youngblood. Youngblood, an award-winning author, who also penned the Dick Mann biography, “Mann of His Time.” For a complete online biography of Dick Mann as well as exhibit opening coverage and photos, visit the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum web site at www.motorcyclemuseum.org About the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum The goal of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Motorcycle Hall of Fame honors those who have contributed notably to the sport, and three major exhibition halls showcase the machines and memorabilia that have shaped motorcycling. The Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; and is closed on New Year’s, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Adult admission is $10 per person; students 12 17, $3. AMA members $5. Seniors receive a $2 discount and members of motorcycle clubs and organizations are eligible for a $1 discount per ticket. A $25.00 family rate and group rates are also available. For more information, call (614) 856-2222, or visit the Museum’s website at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.
Cupertino, CA August 7th, 2006 Ducati North America has entered into a partnership with WyoTech; the leading motorcycle technical training institution in the United States. The partnership is designed to expand the availability and effectiveness of technical training for Ducati Service Specialists. WyoTech is developing an advanced level Ducati motorcycle curriculum for its Daytona Beach, Florida and Fremont, California campuses. The curriculum will include technical and service training, as well as instruction in Ducati Diagnostic Systems. To establish the partnership, WyoTech has invested and expanded both the campuses in Florida and California, with construction scheduled to be completed by October 2006. The state of the art technical labs will be equipped with motorcycles and special tools supplied by Ducati North America, freely available for students and professionals alike and will be part of the core Ducati curriculum. “This is a very positive step for Ducati and our dealers. We manufacture technically unique motorcycles and our owners always expect the best in service and experience. This partnership will enhance and teach to a higher standard” commented Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. “Ducati is a very well respected and increasingly recognized name in the world of high-end motorcycles,” said Tim Schutz, President and Chief Operating Officer of Titan Schools, Inc., the operating division of Corinthian Colleges to which the WyoTech schools belong. “We look forward to expanding our curriculum, as well as our facilities, to offer Ducati motorcycle technical training, including an advanced concentration course for European motorcycles. This new program will be offered beginning in October 2006, which will coincide with the expected completion of the new training facilities in Daytona Beach.” The new labs will open to registered students in the Fall of 2006. For further information on how to register for the programs, please visit ~http://www.wyotech.com/~ WyoTech has seven institutions nationwide, with more than 6,000 students. WyoTech’s programs include technical training for automotive, diesel, collision/refinishing, aviation, motorcycle and marine technologies. Campus locations include Blairsville, PA, Boston, MA, Daytona Beach, FL, Fremont, CA, Laramie, WY, Oakland, CA, and Sacramento, CA. WyoTech is part of Corinthian Colleges, Inc., one of the largest post-secondary education companies in North America. Founded in 1926, Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport, Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and the new SportClassic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European, Japan and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.ducatiusa.com.
Top Twenty For Tunstall at Brands Hatch Tom Tunstall put in a strong weekend performance in the eighth round of the World Supersport Championship at Brands Hatch to secure 20th place in front of an impressive weekend crowd of over 115,000 spectators. Riding the Hardinge Ice Valley Motorsport Honda CBR600RR, Tom was in good form throughout the three day event, posting his fastest ever lap around the spectacular Brands Hatch and gaining good crowd support as one of only a few British riders competing in the tough championship. Qualifying for the scheduled 23 lap race went well for the team and although Tom was slightly disappointed with his grid position of 23rd, he remained confident in his race pace. Unlike many of his rivals, he was able to put in runs of consistently quick lap times as opposed to a one off quick lap. With the Hardinge Ice Valley Motorsport team and bike working well, Tom approached the race, confident that he could secure more world championship points and finish in the top 15. A good start and determined riding in the opening laps soon propelled Tom into the top twenty, but then the Huddersfield rider became involved in a tough battle for position which ruined his rhythm. In the closing stages, Tom made a committed pass at the Druids hairpin on Spaniard Carlos Checa and had a hard fight with former World Endurance Champion Mathew Lagrive that went right down to the wire on the final lap. “The weekend was good and I feel that I rode well, but I’m gutted with the actual result. Brands Hatch is our home race and I put myself under pressure to score some points. I felt confident for the race because the I was able to do consistent times in qualifying, but for some reason we weren’t able to replicate them on race day. I was having grip problems with the front tyre, which is frustrating because otherwise I think we definitely had the pace and the bike set-up to get some points today.” “The race itself was actually good and it was amazing to be racing in front of so many spectators. The level of riders we’re having to battle against is high and I spent the race fighting with European Supersport and World Endurance Champions. It’s positive that we’re on the pace and running with these guys but I wanted to be higher up this weekend.” The World Supersport Championship now enters a four week summer break with the next round of the championship taking place in Assen, The Netherlands on 1st to 3rd September 2006. Tom and the Hardinge Ice Valley Motorsport team have previously raced at the historic Assen track, but will have to re learn parts of the track after recent revisions to the circuit were made by the track owners.
The vital work of Riders for Health is to be highlighted this weekend in ‘Where have all the parents gone?’ a new documentary from CNN’s chief international correspondent, Christiane Amanpour. In the hour-long programme, Amanpour travels to the slums and villages of Kenya, where more than one million children have been orphaned by AIDS. “For some children, their parents’ disease is their only inheritance” Amanpour explains. “This enemy, AIDS, is a tragedy which bears down on families. It’s a truly shocking story.” But it is not all bad news. Amanpour also meets those who are working to help these families build a better life and receive the treatment they so desperately need including the staff of non-profit organisations Riders for Health and AID Village Clinics. AID Village Clinics (AVC), founded by American philanthropist Ann Lurie, serves 12,000 indigenous Maasai living on the Mbirikani Group Ranch. Typical of many rural communities throughout Africa, the Maasai live in poverty and isolation with no access to medical care. Riders for Health’s work with AVC has provided a vital resource reliable, motorised transport which has allowed the clinic to send outreach health workers right out to the remote communities. Riders’ experts have trained the AVC staff to teach their colleagues and fellow health workers to ride safely in the unforgiving African conditions, and to keep the vehicles maintained so they don’t break down. In the documentary, Amanpour met with Barry Coleman, co-founder and joint CEO of Riders, who gave her a demonstration of the vital need for reliable transport by teaching her to ride a motorcycle in the unforgiving African terrain. “The entire continent of Africa is more or less grounded when it comes to health outreach,” said Barry Coleman, “which is a pretty big problem when you think of the effort that goes into sending drugs and sending health care expertise and it doesn’t reach the people who need it. People are just dying for absolutely no reason at all.” “We have been working with AID Village Clinics for several years to ensure that all the resources at their disposal actually reach the rural communities on a regular basis,” continued Andrea Coleman. “The impact that has been achieved by AVC and their fleets of zero-breakdown ambulances and motorcycles is quite unique in Africa. The health levels of the 200,000 plus people that they reach with education, advice and care on an almost daily basis are astonishing. And the point of this breakthrough is that there is absolutely no reason why it should not be replicated, very quickly indeed, throughout Africa.” The programme will be broadcast in the USA on the 12th and 13th of August check local listings for full details.
According to local news reports, five-time 500cc World Champion Mick Doohan was arrested in Darwin, Australia at 3:00 a.m. Saturday for head-butting a bouncer in the nose at a strip club, The Honey Pot. Doohan was charged with assault and posted bail. On August 8, Doohan appeared in court and was fined $2500 Australian by a magistrate. Click here to read more: ~http://www.gcbulletin.com.au/news/news.htm~
Shane “Shakey” Byrne will race for the first time at Croft in North Yorkshire on a Superbike this weekend at the 10th round of the Bennetts British Championship. Byrne has plenty of experience at the 2.12-mile flat and twisty circuit though, as it is Rizla Suzuki’s nominated test track for 2006 and where much development of the GSX-R1000 has taken place. “I have never raced a Superbike at Croft before – the circuit was added to the BSB calendar after I left the series for MotoGP,” explained Shakey. “But that doesn’t bother me one bit. Rizla Suzuki has tested at Croft throughout the season and I think I could find my way round blindfolded. “I’m hoping the team’s familiarity with Croft will help give us an edge on the competition. Winning races is what it is all about for me and that’s what I want to do at Croft.” Joining Shakey at Croft will be Steve Plater, making his second appearance on the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000. Steve stood in for the injured James Haydon at the last round at Oulton Park in Cheshire and is on substitute duties again while the Rizla Suzuki regular continues to heal from injuries sustained during a race crash in mid-June. Plater said: “I’m really happy to be racing for Rizla Suzuki again. Oulton Park was a real challenge for me as I was coming back from injury, riding a new bike and getting to know a new team all at once. “The team has really made me feel at home and I’m hoping to improve on the two 11th places I scored last time out. I’m looking forward to the racing and can’t wait to get out in practice on Friday morning.” Superbike racing starts at 1355 on Sunday, August 13th, at Croft, near Darlington in North Yorkshire.
Classification revised following anti-doping control Following an anti-doping control carried out during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one sample was found not in accordance with the rules of the FIM Anti-Doping Code. The sample of the rider of the Swedish team Fägersjö-el.se Jan Hansson was containing a concentration of 180 ng/ml of salbutamol, a substance which is submitted to a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) foreseen in the FIM Anti-Doping Code. But the administrative procedure required for issuing this authorization by the FIM was not respected by the rider, and thus the International Disciplinary Court decided to exclude the team from the results of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (in which it had finished on 8th place) and to give a warning to Jan Hansson and the Swedish Federation for not having respected the procedure foreseen in the Anti-doping Code. The Endurance World Championship points’ standing, consequently revised, is the following: Classification after 5 races: 1. Suzuki Castrol Team (FRA-Suzuki), 115 points ; 2. Yamaha Austria Racing Team (AUT-Yamaha), 94; 3. Yamaha Phase One Endurance (GBR-Yamaha), 67; 4. Bolliger Team Switzerland (SUI-Kawasaki), 58; 5. Team Fägersjö-el.se Suzuki (SWE-Suzuki), 57; 6. National Motos (FRA-Honda), 35; 7. Team Endurance Moto 45 (FRA-Suzuki), 29; 8. Diablo 666 Bolliger (GBR-Kawasaki), 26; 9. No Limits & R.T. Moto Virus (ITA-Suzuki), 24; 10. RMT 21 Racing Honda (GER-Honda), 23; 11. Yamaha GMT 94 (FRA-Yamaha), 22; 12. Shell Endurance Academy (GBR-Yamaha), 20; 13. Folch Endurance 2 (SPA-Yamaha), 19; 14. Akaisanrinsy Racing Club (JPN-Honda), 16; 15. Team 18 Sapeur Pompiers (FRA-Suzuki), 16; 16. Infini Team Johann Moto Sport (FRA-Suzuki), 15; 17. Team LGT 57 (FRA-Yamaha), 15″¦ complete classification on FIM website: www.fim.ch.
CRITERIA PUTS EMPHASIS ON WINNING RACES The inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year, to be awarded in December as part of a one-hour SPEED television special honoring the top moments in motor sports for the year, will be selected by a panel including Wind Tunnel host Dave Despain, veteran broadcasters Bob Varsha and Ralph Sheheen, SPEEDtv.com writers Robin Miller and Tom Jensen and versatile racers Tommy Kendall and Dorsey Schroeder. “In selecting panelists for the inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year, we wanted a core group that had experience across multiple disciplines,” said Hunter Nickell, SPEED EVP & General Manager. “We also wanted to make sure we included voters with different perspectives “¦ we have broadcasters, journalists, racers and SPEED producers on the panel. If it’s happening in the world of motor sports, this panel knows about it.” The criteria for SPEED Performer of the Year will emphasize winning, with candidates having to score at least two victories within the season to be considered for the honor. In addition, the award will not be given to any driver suspended for any part of the racing season. “The SPEED Performer of the Year will be someone who lives for the checkered flag and behaves with the class of a champion on and off the track,” Nickell added. “We want this to be a meaningful award, not only to the drivers, but to the fans as well.” Beginning in November, SPEED will air highlights from multiple categories and multiple race series, allowing fans to vote on their favorites by visiting SPEEDtv.com or through their mobile phone. With categories still in development, “Fantastic Finish” “¦ “Unbelievable Pass” “¦ and “Outstanding Achievement in a Post-Race Celebration” are at the top of the early list. Winners from each category will also be announced as part of the year-end SPEED Performance Awards special. SPEED, celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2006, is the nation’s first and foremost cable network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 71 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest growing sports cable networks in the country and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on-demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services.
ULRICH AND PIETRI ACHIEVE MID-OHIO GOALS FOR TEAM ROADRACINGWORLD.COM SUZUKI Team Roadracingworld.com Suzuki enjoyed a highly successful outing at the eighth round of the 2006 AMA roadracing championship series, attaining the goals they had set for themselves heading into the weekend at the undulating 2.4-mile course. After knocking on the door for much of the year, Chris Ulrich picked up his first Superstock top ten of the season, while Robertino Pietri once again broke into the top 15 and stood as the fastest South American rider in attendance. After struggling somewhat in qualifying, Chris claimed the 15th spot on the Superstock grid with a lap of 1:28.442. Ulrich and his crew made some key adjustments to his Pirelli-shod GSX-R1000 during the Sunday morning warm-up. While he found the speed he was looking for, Ulrich had a big job ahead of him in the race after suffering a pair of poor starts in the once red-flagged and restarted final. On the first lap following the restart, the Californian found himself all the way down in 18th. However, he responded to the early-race frustration by putting together a stirring charge up through the field, systematically working his way up through the pack over the 16-lap final. With two laps to go, Ulrich closed in on John Haner (Suzuki) and successfully completed a bold overtaking maneuver going into the hard-braking Turn 6. After that, he pushed hard to fend off any potential counterattacks and held on for tenth at the flag. Summing up his weekend, Chris said, “It feels good to have a top ten. I’ve been working on it all year. It’s a good reward for my crew and a good reward for me. “In the race, I blew both starts big,” he admitted. “I just put my head down and once I knew where I was and figured it out, I just started passing people. I knew I could get by Haner by the way I was closing in but I also knew it was going to be difficult because he’s really good on the brakes. I just did it. I pulled up next to him and waited until he broke and I broke. I went in there and tucked the front a little bit and made it work. “One the final lap I didn’t know where he was and I didn’t care where he was, I knew as long as I got down off the back straight with him behind me there was no way I was going to let him come back by. I looked back coming out of Thunder Valley and saw he was right there. I ran the thing in there and I tucked the front coming into the Carousel. There was no way he was getting me there.” Ulrich said his charge was a nice way to go into the Virgina round of the series. “We’re going to take this momentum and move on and at VIR we’re going to try to move up a position or two.” Meanwhile, Venezuelan ace Pietri impressed with his ability to quickly learn the Ohio circuit in his first visit to the intimidating venue. He picked up 15th in Saturday’s Superbike final aboard his GSX-R1000 and then successfully leveraged what he learned in that race to score his best Superstock result of the season since his seventh-place finish at the Daytona season opener. After qualifying 18th for the Superstock race with a lap of 1:29.694, Pietri also struggled to get off the line, dropping to 20th early. But like his teammate, Robertino continued to fight and ultimately clawed his way up to 14th by the time the checkered flag was shown. Ulrich was encouraged by Pietri’s performance. “I’m happy with the whole team. Robertino, especially for this being his first time here, did very well. His crew did a very good job of getting him acclimated and keeping him going. I think he’s going to be tough here when we come back for the season finale.” Team Roadracingworld.com Suzuki will be back in action on August 18-20 at Virginia International Raceway for the ninth of eleven rounds on the 2006 AMA calendar. More, from a press release issued by Buell Motorcycle Company: TOP-TEN FINISH FOR BUELL XBRR AND CREVIER AT MID-OHIO Two Buell Dealer Teams Compete on Buell XBRR at AMA Formula Xtreme Event LEXINGTON, Ohio Deeley H-D/Buell Canada rider Steve Crevier placed ninth after a stirring ride aboard a Buell XBRR in the AMA Formula Xtreme race at round eight of the AMA Superbike Championship at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Crevier qualified a disappointing 19th for the Formula Xtreme race, a result he attributed to his unfamiliarity with the motorcycle and the course, a track he has not seen in six seasons. “We did not have a good set-up for qualifying on the repaved track,” said Crevier. “But I got more comfortable in practice and the team worked hard on the bike. We changed some suspension settings and it made a huge difference for the race.” Charging up to 13th position on the first lap, Crevier kept moving steadily forward in the first half of the 16-lap AMA national, eventually passing Opie Caylor to take ninth position on lap eight. Crevier spent the rest of the race in a tight battle with Suzuki riders Tony Meiring and Caylor, and Yamaha rider Jason Perez, fending off attacks from each as the trio behind him swapped positions. The race was won by Yamaha factory rider Eric Bostrom. “I got a good start in the race and once the field spaced out a little I was able to pick off quite a few bikes,” said Crevier. “The Buell XBRR is really coming along. With the V-Twin engine it’s easy to put down the power. It’s really exciting to ride.” Classic H-D/BuellMillville H-D/BuellInnovative Motorcycle Research rider Mike Hale qualified a Buell XBRR in 18th position for the Formula Xtreme National, ran as high as 16th and finished 17th after recovering from an off-track excursion. “It’s great to see the XBRR finish in the top-ten at two consecutive AMA Formula Xtreme events,” said Buell Motorcycle Company Chairman and Chief Technical Officer Erik Buell. “The XBRR is in its first season, as are the teams. We’re in a very early stage of development. I know the teams will keep moving up. I see it in the way they’re dealing with the challenge, the way they’re working, and in their excitement as they make progress and knock off the seconds.” Both teams racing XBRR models received support from Pirelli Tires, Sentry Insurance, Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Screamin’ Eagle SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant, and Harley-Davidson Visa. The Buell XBRR is a limited-edition production racing motorcycle based on the Firebolt XB12R, which is reworked at the factory into the XBRR for use in closed-course competition. It offers private racers a professional-level, race-ready, production-based platform. Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc., produces sport motorcycles, motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. To learn more about Buell motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer today and experience the pure streetfighter attitude, style and performance only found on board a Buell. Pull into www.buell.com for the Buell dealer nearest you. More, from a press release issued by American Suzuki Motor Corp.: SUZUKI SUPPORT RIDER MICHAEL BARNES ON THE MID-OHIO SUPERSPORT PODIUM BREA, Calif., American Suzuki Motor Corp. (ASMC) support rider, Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Michael Barnes, earned an impressive third AMA Supersport podium this season after finishing in third place in the exciting event at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, on Sunday, August 6. The 36-year-old Suzuki satellite team rider led the first nine laps of the 16-lap race aboard his M4 EMGO Suzuki GSX-R600. In addition to Mid-Ohio, Barnes has been on the Supersport podium at California Speedway in Fontana, Calif., and at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., this year. He is currently sixth overall in the AMA Supersport title chase. “I just put my head down and tried to keep on doing what I was doing,” said Barnes. “We’ll keep plugging away and see if we can’t do even better next time. I’m real proud of my guys. The M4 EMGO Suzuki team and Pirelli tires have come a long way this season and now we want to get on top of the box.” Barnes and the rest of the Suzuki support teams will next compete in AMA road racing at the Virginia International Raceway double-header event in Alton, Va., the weekend of August 18 – 20.
FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I noticed a 1 cent charge pending on my online bank activity. The vendor was www.retrobikes.com and I called the tech support number (859-215-1091) to inquire how they got my info. A prerecorded message stating that one cent charges on your account was fraudulent and to immediately close your account due to www.Authorize.net being hacked. Any motorcycle vendor using Authorize.net as their IP transaction / e commerce processor should keep an eye out! I have sent an e mail to authorize.net to inquire what company I had history with to better understand the trail. I just buy stuff like any other racer would. Sincerely yours, Steve Guanche CCS Florida Expert #15 Cooper City, Florida And now a response from Authorize.net… Would you please post this in response: At no time was the security of Authorize.Net breached or its data “hacked.” Authorize.Net employs industry-leading encryption hardware, software and security protocols to protect its data. We are certified compliant with the Payment Card Data Security Standard (PCI) which incorporates the Visa Cardholder Information Security Program (CISP), MasterCard’s Site Data Protection (SDP) standard, and Discover Card Information Security and Compliance (DISC). We consider the security of our platform to be one of the highest possible priorities for the company, and are well aware that any such breach in security could have devastating effects both for our merchants and Authorize.Net. Over the past few years we have invested a very significant amount of money enhancing our security and continue to do so on an ongoing basis. During the merchant enrollment process, Authorize.Net recommends to each merchant that it implement necessary standard payment gateway fraud prevention solutions and practices. Several basic fraud prevention tools are built-in to Authorize.Net’s payment gateway account and are made available to merchants, without charge. However, it is necessary for the merchant to take certain proactive steps to integrate the tools into its gateway account. These tools include, without limitation, (a) Address Verification Systems which compare the billing address information provided by the online customer with the billing address on file at the customer’s credit card bank; (b) Card Code Verification that minimizes fraud by requiring the customer to input a three-digit security code that is printed on the back of its credit card; and (c) Password-Required Mode which blocks transactions from being processed without the merchant first providing the correct password. In addition to these complimentary tools, Authorize.Net offers merchants the opportunity to enroll in other advanced fraud detection solutions such as FraudScreen.Net and Fraud Detection Suite, both of which are tools to assist merchants in detecting, managing and preventing suspicious and potentially fraudulent transactions. By implementing any of these solutions, a merchant significantly minimizes its fraud risk. Unfortunately, not all merchants take the time to implement even the most minimal of fraud prevention tools and then seek out scapegoats when they are impacted by fraud. Authorize.Net regrets any confusion or concern that has been generated as a result of this erroneous information. Thank you in advance. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you have any questions. David Schwartz Director of Marketing Site Manager Authorize.Net® 10800 NE 8th St | Suite 600 | Bellevue, WA 98004 Tel 425.586.6039 | Cell 425.213.4063 | Fax 425.586.6005 [email protected] | http://www.authorize.net
PICKERINGTON, OHIO- Motorcycling history was made as a record crowd gathered at The Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum to celebrate the opening of “SuperMann,” an all-new exhibit honoring the legendary career of Dick Mann, one of motorcycling’s most versatile and successful competitors. Mann, who was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998, returned as the guest of honor on Thursday, July 27, 2006 to personally cut the ribbon during the “SuperMann” exhibit dedication ceremony. Many of Mann’s friends, motorcycling legends in their own right, including Gary Nixon, Brad Lackey, Bill Werner, and Jim Rice, were in attendance for the opening. “SuperMann,” the third in a series of exhibits in the Hall of Legends at the Museum, celebrates the highlights of Mann’s numerous championship seasons as well as his professional achievements and contributions to the sport, including his current work for the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA). Featured exhibit bikes include a BSA Gold Star dirt tracker, his Daytona-winning BSA Rocket 3, a Matchless G50 road racer, a Triumph and Matchless G50 in dirt track trim, a Yankee and four Ossas all raced or developed by Dick Mann. Exhibit visitors can also enjoy artifacts and memorabilia from Mann’s prolific career, many of them on loan from Mann as well as from private collections. Ephemera includes Mann’s Grand National Championship leathers, trophies, references to his design work for Yankee Motorcycles, and other unique items that help tell the story of “SuperMann.” Mann was indeed a competitor with Superman-like qualities. He was the first individual in history to win every category of AMA Grand National competition, is a two-time Daytona 200 winner, a two-time AMA Grand National Champion and a 24-time AMA National race winner. Not only did Mann win more races in more categories than anyone else, he brought home the trophies for longer than most. Competing in over 230 AMA nationals, including dirt track, road racing and motocross, Mann was in hot pursuit of the checkered flag for over 25 years, scoring top ten finishes when other racers were long retired. Mann was a natural choice for a Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum exhibit, notes Mark Mederski, the Museum’s executive director. “Dick wasn’t just a fierce and multi-talented competitor who mastered virtually every type of motorcycle he ever threw his leg over, but his mechanical expertise also made him that rare breed of racer who could build a fast bike by himself, race and win with it.” Mann also inspired and mentored legions of competitors, such as 2001 Hall of Fame inductee Jim Rice, who joined the celebration to accept his Hall of Fame gold medal belatedly from the hands of Dick Mann. Rice said of Mann, “He’s been my hero since I began racing.” Rice’s memories of racing alongside Mann and Mann’s own tales were only a small sampling of the memorable benchracing that is a highlight of every Museum gathering as well as the philosophy behind every Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum exhibit. “SuperMann” doesn’t simply present the hardware it delves deep into the stories behind the legend. This mission is expertly accomplished by “SuperMann” curator, Motorcycle Hall of Fame member and historian Ed Youngblood. Youngblood, an award-winning author, who also penned the Dick Mann biography, “Mann of His Time.” For a complete online biography of Dick Mann as well as exhibit opening coverage and photos, visit the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum web site at www.motorcyclemuseum.org About the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum The goal of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Motorcycle Hall of Fame honors those who have contributed notably to the sport, and three major exhibition halls showcase the machines and memorabilia that have shaped motorcycling. The Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; and is closed on New Year’s, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Adult admission is $10 per person; students 12 17, $3. AMA members $5. Seniors receive a $2 discount and members of motorcycle clubs and organizations are eligible for a $1 discount per ticket. A $25.00 family rate and group rates are also available. For more information, call (614) 856-2222, or visit the Museum’s website at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.
Cupertino, CA August 7th, 2006 Ducati North America has entered into a partnership with WyoTech; the leading motorcycle technical training institution in the United States. The partnership is designed to expand the availability and effectiveness of technical training for Ducati Service Specialists. WyoTech is developing an advanced level Ducati motorcycle curriculum for its Daytona Beach, Florida and Fremont, California campuses. The curriculum will include technical and service training, as well as instruction in Ducati Diagnostic Systems. To establish the partnership, WyoTech has invested and expanded both the campuses in Florida and California, with construction scheduled to be completed by October 2006. The state of the art technical labs will be equipped with motorcycles and special tools supplied by Ducati North America, freely available for students and professionals alike and will be part of the core Ducati curriculum. “This is a very positive step for Ducati and our dealers. We manufacture technically unique motorcycles and our owners always expect the best in service and experience. This partnership will enhance and teach to a higher standard” commented Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. “Ducati is a very well respected and increasingly recognized name in the world of high-end motorcycles,” said Tim Schutz, President and Chief Operating Officer of Titan Schools, Inc., the operating division of Corinthian Colleges to which the WyoTech schools belong. “We look forward to expanding our curriculum, as well as our facilities, to offer Ducati motorcycle technical training, including an advanced concentration course for European motorcycles. This new program will be offered beginning in October 2006, which will coincide with the expected completion of the new training facilities in Daytona Beach.” The new labs will open to registered students in the Fall of 2006. For further information on how to register for the programs, please visit ~http://www.wyotech.com/~ WyoTech has seven institutions nationwide, with more than 6,000 students. WyoTech’s programs include technical training for automotive, diesel, collision/refinishing, aviation, motorcycle and marine technologies. Campus locations include Blairsville, PA, Boston, MA, Daytona Beach, FL, Fremont, CA, Laramie, WY, Oakland, CA, and Sacramento, CA. WyoTech is part of Corinthian Colleges, Inc., one of the largest post-secondary education companies in North America. Founded in 1926, Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport, Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and the new SportClassic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European, Japan and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.ducatiusa.com.
Top Twenty For Tunstall at Brands Hatch Tom Tunstall put in a strong weekend performance in the eighth round of the World Supersport Championship at Brands Hatch to secure 20th place in front of an impressive weekend crowd of over 115,000 spectators. Riding the Hardinge Ice Valley Motorsport Honda CBR600RR, Tom was in good form throughout the three day event, posting his fastest ever lap around the spectacular Brands Hatch and gaining good crowd support as one of only a few British riders competing in the tough championship. Qualifying for the scheduled 23 lap race went well for the team and although Tom was slightly disappointed with his grid position of 23rd, he remained confident in his race pace. Unlike many of his rivals, he was able to put in runs of consistently quick lap times as opposed to a one off quick lap. With the Hardinge Ice Valley Motorsport team and bike working well, Tom approached the race, confident that he could secure more world championship points and finish in the top 15. A good start and determined riding in the opening laps soon propelled Tom into the top twenty, but then the Huddersfield rider became involved in a tough battle for position which ruined his rhythm. In the closing stages, Tom made a committed pass at the Druids hairpin on Spaniard Carlos Checa and had a hard fight with former World Endurance Champion Mathew Lagrive that went right down to the wire on the final lap. “The weekend was good and I feel that I rode well, but I’m gutted with the actual result. Brands Hatch is our home race and I put myself under pressure to score some points. I felt confident for the race because the I was able to do consistent times in qualifying, but for some reason we weren’t able to replicate them on race day. I was having grip problems with the front tyre, which is frustrating because otherwise I think we definitely had the pace and the bike set-up to get some points today.” “The race itself was actually good and it was amazing to be racing in front of so many spectators. The level of riders we’re having to battle against is high and I spent the race fighting with European Supersport and World Endurance Champions. It’s positive that we’re on the pace and running with these guys but I wanted to be higher up this weekend.” The World Supersport Championship now enters a four week summer break with the next round of the championship taking place in Assen, The Netherlands on 1st to 3rd September 2006. Tom and the Hardinge Ice Valley Motorsport team have previously raced at the historic Assen track, but will have to re learn parts of the track after recent revisions to the circuit were made by the track owners.
The vital work of Riders for Health is to be highlighted this weekend in ‘Where have all the parents gone?’ a new documentary from CNN’s chief international correspondent, Christiane Amanpour. In the hour-long programme, Amanpour travels to the slums and villages of Kenya, where more than one million children have been orphaned by AIDS. “For some children, their parents’ disease is their only inheritance” Amanpour explains. “This enemy, AIDS, is a tragedy which bears down on families. It’s a truly shocking story.” But it is not all bad news. Amanpour also meets those who are working to help these families build a better life and receive the treatment they so desperately need including the staff of non-profit organisations Riders for Health and AID Village Clinics. AID Village Clinics (AVC), founded by American philanthropist Ann Lurie, serves 12,000 indigenous Maasai living on the Mbirikani Group Ranch. Typical of many rural communities throughout Africa, the Maasai live in poverty and isolation with no access to medical care. Riders for Health’s work with AVC has provided a vital resource reliable, motorised transport which has allowed the clinic to send outreach health workers right out to the remote communities. Riders’ experts have trained the AVC staff to teach their colleagues and fellow health workers to ride safely in the unforgiving African conditions, and to keep the vehicles maintained so they don’t break down. In the documentary, Amanpour met with Barry Coleman, co-founder and joint CEO of Riders, who gave her a demonstration of the vital need for reliable transport by teaching her to ride a motorcycle in the unforgiving African terrain. “The entire continent of Africa is more or less grounded when it comes to health outreach,” said Barry Coleman, “which is a pretty big problem when you think of the effort that goes into sending drugs and sending health care expertise and it doesn’t reach the people who need it. People are just dying for absolutely no reason at all.” “We have been working with AID Village Clinics for several years to ensure that all the resources at their disposal actually reach the rural communities on a regular basis,” continued Andrea Coleman. “The impact that has been achieved by AVC and their fleets of zero-breakdown ambulances and motorcycles is quite unique in Africa. The health levels of the 200,000 plus people that they reach with education, advice and care on an almost daily basis are astonishing. And the point of this breakthrough is that there is absolutely no reason why it should not be replicated, very quickly indeed, throughout Africa.” The programme will be broadcast in the USA on the 12th and 13th of August check local listings for full details.
