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CCS Moving Again

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CCS is moving today, the company leaving the new headquarters it moved into recently. According to CCS sources, Clear Channel Entertainment Motor Sports has moved a merchandising operation that shared office and warehouse space with CCS, and was still working on a final lease agreement with the landlord anyway. The company is now looking for office space without a 100,000-square-foot warehouse attached and in the meantime, CCS employees are moving company records and equipment into the garage at CCS boss Kevin Elliott’s house. A notice posted on the company’s website, www.ccsracing.com, reads: Moving Championship Cup Series will be moving offices within the next month. We would like to thank everyone for being patient with us during our last move. Please contact us only through email until we secure a new phone number. All the new contact information will be posted after the Race of Champions. You can contact CCS and Formula USA by emailing any of the people below: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected].

Yamaha Testing With Hacking And DiSalvo At Daytona, Buell Cancels, And Haydens Are Testing Kawasakis In Japan

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Yamaha is testing Formula Xtreme racebikes with riders Jamie Hacking and Jason DiSalvo at Daytona today. The test is part of the company’s preparations for the 2006 Daytona 200 and is being subsidized by Dunlop. Buell had scheduled a test for several dealer teams yesterday but was blown out by bad weather and emergency crew scheduling problems associated with Hurricane Wilma. Meanwhile, Tommy and Roger Hayden are testing Kawasaki racebikes in Japan.

24 Hours Of Le Mans, Bol d’Or Back On World Endurance Championship Schedule In 2006

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7 Race 2006 Calendar Includes Le Mans and Bol d’Or The 2006 World Endurance Championship calendar has been announced by the FIM (Federation International de Motocyclisme). The inclusion of the two 24 Hour classic French races is a key development for the championship, creating a strong basis for future growth. 2006 World Endurance Championship Calendar April 17: Assen 500km Netherlands April 22/23: Le Mans 24 Hours France May 20: Albacete 8 Hours Spain June 18: Zolder 1000km Belgium July 30: Suzuki 8 Hours Japan August 12/13: Oschersleben 24 Hours Germany September 16/17: Bol d’Or 24 Hours (Magny Cours) France The seven events include races of four different formats and add up to a staggering 98 hours of racing over six months, six countries and two continents. The three 24 hour races at Le Mans, Oschersleben and the Bol d’Or will be classic tests of the performance and stamina of both man and machine. The two 8 hour events at Albacete and Suzuka will test competitors in gruelling heat and at Suzuka humidity. The Assen 500km (approximately three and a half hours) and Zolder 1000km (approximately six and a half hours) races will put the emphasis on lap times and faultless pit stops. The two classic French 24 Hour races rejoin the championship after a four year break. Both were cornerstones of the championship through the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s and their return will be welcomed by the competitors, spectators, sponsors and the championship organisers. The two races were last part of the World Endurance Championship in 2001. That season’s Le Mans 24 hour race was won by GMT94, who became World Endurance Champions in 2004, while the 2001 Bol d’Or was won by Suzuki Castrol, winners of the 2005 World Endurance Championship.

Updated Post: AMA President Rob Rasor Elected FIM Vice-president In Geneva, Switzerland

2005 Biennial Session The 2005 FIM Biennial Session took place from 21 to 24 October, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel near Geneva Airport. The Management Council convened on Friday 21 and Sunday afternoon, the Commission and Panels on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23. The General Assembly opened on Monday 24 in the presence of representatives of 53 National Federations. In his opening address, President Zerbi made a report on the FIM activities during the 2005 season; the report was unanimously approved by the General Assembly, as well as the 2004 accounts and balance sheet and the report of the internal auditors. The annual reports of the Presidents of the Continental Unions, Commissions and Panels were also unanimously approved. – The Nicolas Rodil del Valle Motorcycle Merit Gold Medal was awarded posthumously to former FEMA Secretary General Simon Milward, who passed away in an accident in Mali last February. The medal was awarded by President Zerbi to the mother of Simon, Mrs Milward, accompanied by his brother and FEMA Secretary General Antonio Perlot. – The candidature of the Motorcycle Federation of Guam was accepted by the General Assembly. – One post for FIM Vice-President and one post for Internal Auditor were open for votations. Mr Robert Rasor (United States) was elected FIM Vice-President, and Mr Josep Abad Pous (Spain) was elected Internal Auditor. – The FIM Environmental Award was awarded to the MSC Zschopau, organiser of the last 2004 Enduro World Championship round in Germany. – A convention of collaboration was signed between the FIM, ACEM and FEMA, during the Sunday session of the Management Council. This agreement makes official a collaboration that has been effective for several years and will increase in a near future. The agreement was signed by FEMA Secretary General Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General Jacques Compagne, President Zerbi and CEO Guy Maitre. – A contract was signed between the FIM and the company IFMXF, promoter of Freestyle events, for the organisation and promotion of a 2006 Freestyle Motocross World Championship. – The FIM Centenary book was presented to the Management Council. The book can be ordered on the FIM Internet site. – A prize-giving ceremony for the 2005 World Champions in the Motocross and SuperMoto World Championships will be organised by the promoter Youthstream in Monaco on December 2, next. Road Racing – An agreement was made between FGSport and the organisers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (ACO) and the Bol d’Or (Editions Larivière) for the inclusion of the two races in the Endurance World Championship In Endurance, Art. 1.7.2 “lighting and signaling” applies only for races taking place partly at night. Minimum weight of Superbike motorcycles: 165 kg for races not taking part partly at night; 170 kg for races taking place partly at night. Minimum weight of Superproduction motorcycles: dry weight minus 15 kg for races not taking place partly at night; dry weight minus 11 kg for races taking place partly at night. – A Dragster World Championship including the class “top fuel” with at least two events (United States and Canada) is currently under study for the 2006 season. – The protective device SPM AIR PADS of type A has been homologated by the FIM. Motocross/SuperMoto – A SuperMoto Championship for national teams, the SuperMoto of Nations, will be held in 2006. – The FIM Veterans Motocross World Cup will take place next year, within the framework of the Belgian round in Namur (August 6). – The Junior Motocross World Championship will include a classification for National teams. The number of entries is based upon the passport of the rider. In each class, the number of entries is limited to a maximum of 8 riders per country/passport. The country in which the event is organised is entitled to 2 extra riders per class. For the Championship for National teams, points are allocated according to the final standings in the Individual Junior Motocross World Championship; for this classification, the winner obtains 1 point, the second two points, etc. and the final result for teams is determined as follows: the team winner is that which has gained the lowest total number of points after having added the two best results of its riders, the best in the 80cc and the best in the 125cc (in case of a tie, the best place in the 80cc will be considered). – Following the contract signed between the FIM and IFMXF, a Freestyle Motocross World Championship will be held in 2006. Trial – Starting time: in Trial World Championship, Junior Trial Cup and Youth Trial Cup 125cc, it will be 9h00 in principle but the last rider will not leave later than 11h00. The starting order for the 1st day will be reviewed for all classes. – Indoor Trial: the minimum number of riders participating in each round of the World Championship will be of 7: 5 fixed riders (first 3 of the previous year’s classification of the Indoor Trial World Championship, and the first 2 of the previous year’s classification of the Trial World Championship), plus two wild-card riders from the CTR and the promoter. The organizer may propose an additional wild-card rider to the CTR”¦.If there are 8 participants, all will attempt the double lane section. – Women’s Trial World Championship: as from 2006, the Championship will count 3 rounds; only two rounds will be taken into consideration for the final classification. As from 2006, each round will count 2 laps of 12 to 15 sections. Two riders, of different levels and who will change in each round, will participate in the visit to the sections with the Jury. – In order to improve the level of the sections and following a proposal from TRMA, a section builder will be nominated by the CTR, for a trial period, for the first two rounds of the Trial World Championship, to help the organizers construct the course. Enduro & Cross-Country Rallies – Cross-Country Rallies: Entries to the Cross-Country Rallies World Championship will be accepted for riders who are in possession of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship licence. The riders who wish to compete in category 3 Super Production with a motorcycle of more than 600cc must have a super licence; the super licence will be delivered by the National Federations according to specific criteria of the riders’ aptitude For each stage all the riders and competitors will receive a road book and/or maps that indicate the itinerary and/or check points (no GPS). When the track is defined, it must appear on the road book as a solid line; when not defined, as a dotted line (limit of 1 km or 3 km on each side cancelled). In the first road-book, the complete list of symbols must appear (description in two languages including English) For events using GPS with partial access to the data, the organiser must communicate the releasing code permitting the normal use of the apparatus. This releasing without authorization will result in the application of the fixed penalty. – The motorcycles must have been homologated by the CTI in conformity with the rules of the CER The starting order of the prologue will be left to the initiative of the organizer; the starting order of the first section will be made in the order of the classification of the prologue if it takes place; otherwise in increasing or decreasing order of the riders’ numbers. The first ten competitors will start one by one every two minutes, the others will start (one by one or two by two) minute by minute or 30 seconds by 30 seconds. This procedure will be used for the whole of the following stages (unless it is a collective start and except the last day) Speed controls (new article):”¦1st infringement: 30 sec by km/h excess; 2nd infringement: 2 min. by km/h excess; 3rd infringement: disqualification. The penalties will be cumulated in the same area, in the same stage, during the whole rally. – Enduro rules: riders admitted to the Enduro World Championship:”¦the 5 best riders (not 20) of each class from the Continental Championship of the previous year who scored no points in the World Championship of the previous year. Technical – Discussions will be held between the CTI (International Technical Panel) and MSMA (Motorcycle Sport Manufacturers’ Association) regarding the sound level and control for Motocross and Enduro motorcycles, in order to reach a common limit for the 2007 season. Medical – Applicants for a super licence in Cross-Country Rallies must undertake a medical examination performed by a specialist in sports medicine. The examination must include an exercise tolerance electrocardiogram and echocardiography. FIM Dates – Next year’s Conference Meetings will be held in Geneva on February 17-19, 2006. – The extraordinary Management Council meeting will take place in Geneva on June 17-18, 2006. – The 2006 Congress will take place in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, from 15 to 21 October. – A proposal to hold the 2008 Congress in Durban, South Africa, was made by Mrs Beaulah Schoeman, MSA Executive Director. More, from a press release issued by AMA: AMA’S RASOR ELECTED VICE PRESIDENT OF FIM PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that AMA President Robert Rasor has been elected to the position of Vice President of the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the international governing body for motorcycle sport and touring. Rasor was elected during the 2005 FIM Biennial Session, held October 21 – 24 in Geneva, Switzerland. The AMA is the sole U.S affiliate to the FIM, which comprises nearly 70 national organizations, called federations, from countries around the world. A member of the AMA staff since 1973, Rasor served as Vice President of AMA Government Relations from the early 1980s until his appointment as the Association’s President in 2000. He’s served the FIM as the first president of its Commission on Mobility, Transport, Road Safety and Public Policy, increasing the organization’s involvement in motorcyclists’ rights, and is president of the North American Motorcycle Union, one of six such regional groups within the FIM. The Geneva-based FIM establishes and enforces rules for international motorcycle competition, and monitors motorcycling legislation and lobbying for riders’ rights. The FIM also is involved with international touring, facilitates international travel, and is taking a more active role in vintage motorcycling. Several other members of the AMA staff also serve on various FIM commissions. Through its affiliation with the FIM, the AMA licenses its riders to compete in international events and coordinates world-championship competition held in the United States. In his over 35 years of motorcycling experience, Rasor been an amateur motocross racer and has toured extensively in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

One Brake Pad Supplier Won Both The World Superbike And Supersport Championships In 2005

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WORLD CHAMPIONS USE SBS World championship-winning brake pad performance can be yours with Parts Unlimited and SBS. This year the FIM World Superbike and World Supersport championship-winning riders used SBS Dual Carbon brake pads. The consistent, powerful, fade-free performance combined with fast thermal bedding and increased initial brake pad bite means you get fingertip control and excellent feel, even under extreme use. For your next race or track day, choose the pads that world champions use, Parts Unlimited Dual Carbon brake pads by SBS. 2005 FIM WORLD SUPERBIKE RESULTS 1. Troy Corser, Alstare Suzuki 2. Chris Vermeulen, Winston Ten Kate Honda 5. Yukio Kagayama, Alstare Suzuki 7. Chris Walker, PGS-1 Kawasaki Corse 2005 FIM WORLD SUPERSPORT RESULTS 1. Sebastian Charpentier, Winston Ten Kate Honda 2. Kevin Curtain, Yamaha Motor Germany 3. Katsuaki Fujiwara, Winston Ten Kate Honda 4. Fabian Foret, Team Megabike 5. Michael Fabrizio, Team Megabike 6. Broc Parkes, Yamaha Motor Germany 7. Stephane Chambon, Gil Motor Sport 8. Javi Fores, Alstare Suzuki 2005 SUPERSTOCK 600 RESULTS 1. Claudio Corti 2005 SUPERSTOCK 1000 RESULTS 1. Didier Van Keymeulen

Report: Formula One Racer Schumacher Rides Ducati MotoGP Bike At Mugello

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According to a report from Reuters news service, seven-time Formula One World Champion racecar driver Michael Schumacher, 37, spent Monday lapping the Mugello Circuit, in Italy, on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike. Schumacher drives a Ferrari sponsored by Marlboro. The Ducati MotoGP team is sponsored by Marlboro. Reigning MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi has tested Formula One racecars several times over recent years. Rossi’s possible future involvement in Formula One is a constant topic of discussion in both MotoGP and Formula One media. Read the full report here: ~http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=motorSportsNews&storyID=URI:urn:newsml:reuters.com:20051024:MTFH50100_2005-10-24_16-23-36_B13159:1~

Jones To Join Martin On Foggy Petronas Racing For 2006 World Superbike Series

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Foggy PETRONAS Racing sign Craig Jones for 2006 Carl Fogarty has signed emerging talent Craig Jones for his Foggy PETRONAS Racing team’s World Superbike campaign in 2006. The promising 20-year-old from Northwich, Great Britain, will ride the PETRONAS FP1 alongside the experienced Steve Martin, who will miss the team’s first test in Valencia next month after surgery on a kidney damaged in a spectacular pile-up in the final race of last season. Craig was runner-up in the British Supersport championship this year and also impressed during stand-in World Supersport appearances this year. Carl said: “I wanted to put someone on the bike that is hungry and willing to learn. Craig wants to prove that he can be one of the best riders in the world and I believe he is one of the most talented riders around. Maybe I can see someone who wants to win as badly as I did. “He will be in a high-profile team, on a Superbike and on slick tyres as well as at new circuits, so he is being thrown in at the deep end to some extent. But I will be there and the whole team will be there to help him float. He is not expected to win on our bike, so that shifts the pressure from him to me – and I don’t mind that. I had to work for my big chance and it will give me so much pleasure to see someone fulfill their potential with my team. “He first caught my eye last year when, despite being on a bike that was slower than the others, he managed to win at Donington. It was one of the most impressive performances I have seen for a long time and I think his sideways over-taking manouevre was the most spectacular I have ever seen. He also comes highly recommended from a lot of people whose opinions I respect. “I considered him last year but thought that it would benefit him to have another year in the British Supersport championship. He has had a good year and, but for a couple of mistakes, could have won that title. Craig had good offers on the table for 2006, having impressed with a few rides in the World Supersport championship last season. But he wanted to come and ride for my team and that is very important for me.” Craig said: “I’m delighted and can’t wait for this new challenge. The main attraction has to be Carl, who was one of my heroes when I started racing, and someone I aspired to emulate. I also rode for Jack Valentine, the FPR race team boss, for two years and know that it is a well-run team. I am excited about getting onto a superbike for the first time and am also keen to help with the project development. I know quite a few of the circuits and we are planning tests at some of the others so I don’t think that will be too much of a disadvantage. And I rode at Brno this year for the first time on a new bike and was sixth. It might be difficult to get my lap times down straight away but I do not think it will be too difficult and I am fit and ready to go.” Craig replaces Garry McCoy in the FPR team. Carl added: “I wish Garry all the best as things didn’t work out well for him with our team last year.” Craig Jones: Factfile Age: 20 Birthplace: Northwich Lives: Peterborough Height: 5′ 7″ Weight: 66Kg Achievements 2005: 2nd in the British Supersport Championship with 7 podiums 2004: 8th in the British Supersport Championship, 2 podiums including first win 2003: Winner of the Steve Hislop Young Rider of the Year Memorial Trophy, 7th in the British Supersport Championship, 1 pole position and podium 2002: British Junior Superstock Champion with 6 wins

BBC Says Toseland To Winston Ten Kate Honda For 2006 Superbike World Series

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The BBC has reported that former World Superbike Champion James Toseland has been recruited by the Winston Ten Kate Honda team for the 2006 Superbike World Championship. Representatives from the Winston Ten Kate Honda team did not immediately return requests from Roadracingworld.com for comment. Toseland, 25, did not have his contract renewed by Ducati, the company he won the World Championship with in 2004 and rode for in 2005. Read the BBC report here: ~http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/4372906.stm~

Recent Birth: Audrey Anne Whitehouse

WSMC racer Clinton Whitehouse, III, and wife Tanya had a daughter, Audrey Anne Whitehouse, October 7 in Bakersfield, California.

Press Releases From This Past Weekend’s Races

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YOUNG DUCATI RACER WINS $10,000 IN CCS RACE OF CHAMPIONS THIS WEEKEND Ryan Andrews and Bill Keros victorious in Expert and Amateur Supertwins, respectively Cupertino, CA This weekend’s CCS Race of Champions was a fierce competition for Ducati’s $10,000 racing contingency prize in the Expert Supertwins class with Ducati 999s finishing first and second. The Amateur Supertwins class also saw two Ducati’s on the top steps of the podium with first place won by Bill Keros of Section 8 Superbike aboard a Ducati 749. Ryan Andrews, whose experience includes the AMA Formula Xtreme series racing a 749R, decided to try racing a 999 this weekend. The transition was natural for the 18-year-old resident of Waco, Texas. “The 749R that I raced in Formula Xtreme was one of the ex-HMC bikes so it’s a fully prepared racebike and a bit of a handful at times. The 999S I won with this weekend is actually much easier to ride, especially because ours was mostly stock.” The race was a true underdog story with a stock 999S against many race prepared 999R’s. However, that didn’t discourage Andrews who rode with his heart and used the draft to pass people under braking despite a horsepower disadvantage. “I had only been to Daytona once before and we tried to gear the bike for the draft. Most of the other guys would accelerate away from me out of the chicane but I had the bike geared right and I could draft them and pass on the brakes going into turn 1,” said Andrews. The young rider was quickest through the infield section and when he came upon a lapped rider he didn’t get the drive out onto the banking that he hoped. Waiting for another racer to blow past him, he took a low route on the banking and ultimately crossed the finish line in first place. Andrews said, “I knew I had a chance to win it but our main competition was sitting on the pole and I was starting from row six! I was really surprised at the end but it was also very rewarding. Everyone showed up to the race on these impressive racebikes and I was riding a 999S with a completely stock motor and only an exhaust system. This victory is sweet.” RESULTS: Expert Supertwins: 1. Ryan Andrews (Ducati 999) 2. Larry Denning (Ducati 999) 3. Aaron Clark (Aprilia) 4. Brian Stokes (Aprilia) 5. Christopher Boy (Ducati) 6. Marco Martinez (Ducati 999) 7. Thomas Fournier (Ducati 996) 8. Chales Sandoz (Aprilia) 9. Eric Moucatel (Ducati 749) 10. Douglas Gross (Ducati 999) Amateur Supertwins: 1. Bill Keros (Ducati 749) 2. Carlos Contreras (Ducati 996) 3. Eric Schnorrbusch (Aprilia) Expert Heavy Superbike: 1. Jesse Janisch (Suzuki) 2. Joe Ribeiro (Suzuki) 3. Elio Net (Ducati 996) 4. Dario Marchetti (Ducati 999) 5. R. Bryan Land (Yamaha) 6. Jones Conception (Ducati 999) Expert UltraLight Superbike: 1. Rodney Burr (Ducati SS800) 2. Daniele Lenarduzzi (Aprilia 250) 3. Duane Francis (Triumph) More, from a press release issued by Blue Springs Racing: Sipp says goodbye to the Daytona curse! Daytona, FL Walt Sipp finished 5th in the final round of the Formula USA Thunderbike Championship. Qualifying was held on Saturday in good, but humid weather conditions. After equaling his best Daytona qualifying to date; 7th 1.53.250 things appeared to be going well. “I’m a little disappointed with my position really. I was hoping for a little more. I went out by myself, but I should have hooked up with somebody. I just needed a little bit of a tow through the tri-oval. Anyway, second row isn’t too bad. I believe my race pace will be a little better,” said the Blue Springs Harley-Davidson sponsored Buell rider. Things didn’t get started too well in the race though. “I got distracted on the grid and got a horrible start. I wound up getting pasted by what felt like everybody,” said Sipp. While not everyone passed him, he was only 15th into turn one. That seemed to be the turning point though. He slowing started making his way through the field. A combination of a fast running bike and being strong on the brakes into turn one allowed him to work his way up to 5th with only a couple laps to go. Walt said, “Yeah, I kind of settled into a rhythm after I got past everybody. I could see the lead pack of four in front of me, but I knew by myself I wasn’t going to catch them. I really needed some drafting help. I’m happy though. That’s my best finish here so I’ll take it!” After a tough start to the season, the Blue Springs crew was able to turn it around at the end. The last four races saw Sipp finish 6th at VIR, 5th at Barber, 6th at Autobahn and 5th at Daytona. Sipp said, “We were on a good run of form here late in the season. We missed a top five in season points by only seven points. That’s tough, but we’ll be back strong next year.” Look for Walt and the Blue Springs crew to be back strong and to better there position next year. To find out more about more, visit www.waltsipp.com and www.bluespringsharleydavidson.com .

CCS Moving Again

CCS is moving today, the company leaving the new headquarters it moved into recently. According to CCS sources, Clear Channel Entertainment Motor Sports has moved a merchandising operation that shared office and warehouse space with CCS, and was still working on a final lease agreement with the landlord anyway. The company is now looking for office space without a 100,000-square-foot warehouse attached and in the meantime, CCS employees are moving company records and equipment into the garage at CCS boss Kevin Elliott’s house. A notice posted on the company’s website, www.ccsracing.com, reads: Moving Championship Cup Series will be moving offices within the next month. We would like to thank everyone for being patient with us during our last move. Please contact us only through email until we secure a new phone number. All the new contact information will be posted after the Race of Champions. You can contact CCS and Formula USA by emailing any of the people below: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected].

Yamaha Testing With Hacking And DiSalvo At Daytona, Buell Cancels, And Haydens Are Testing Kawasakis In Japan

Yamaha is testing Formula Xtreme racebikes with riders Jamie Hacking and Jason DiSalvo at Daytona today. The test is part of the company’s preparations for the 2006 Daytona 200 and is being subsidized by Dunlop. Buell had scheduled a test for several dealer teams yesterday but was blown out by bad weather and emergency crew scheduling problems associated with Hurricane Wilma. Meanwhile, Tommy and Roger Hayden are testing Kawasaki racebikes in Japan.

24 Hours Of Le Mans, Bol d’Or Back On World Endurance Championship Schedule In 2006

7 Race 2006 Calendar Includes Le Mans and Bol d’Or The 2006 World Endurance Championship calendar has been announced by the FIM (Federation International de Motocyclisme). The inclusion of the two 24 Hour classic French races is a key development for the championship, creating a strong basis for future growth. 2006 World Endurance Championship Calendar April 17: Assen 500km Netherlands April 22/23: Le Mans 24 Hours France May 20: Albacete 8 Hours Spain June 18: Zolder 1000km Belgium July 30: Suzuki 8 Hours Japan August 12/13: Oschersleben 24 Hours Germany September 16/17: Bol d’Or 24 Hours (Magny Cours) France The seven events include races of four different formats and add up to a staggering 98 hours of racing over six months, six countries and two continents. The three 24 hour races at Le Mans, Oschersleben and the Bol d’Or will be classic tests of the performance and stamina of both man and machine. The two 8 hour events at Albacete and Suzuka will test competitors in gruelling heat and at Suzuka humidity. The Assen 500km (approximately three and a half hours) and Zolder 1000km (approximately six and a half hours) races will put the emphasis on lap times and faultless pit stops. The two classic French 24 Hour races rejoin the championship after a four year break. Both were cornerstones of the championship through the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s and their return will be welcomed by the competitors, spectators, sponsors and the championship organisers. The two races were last part of the World Endurance Championship in 2001. That season’s Le Mans 24 hour race was won by GMT94, who became World Endurance Champions in 2004, while the 2001 Bol d’Or was won by Suzuki Castrol, winners of the 2005 World Endurance Championship.

Updated Post: AMA President Rob Rasor Elected FIM Vice-president In Geneva, Switzerland

2005 Biennial Session The 2005 FIM Biennial Session took place from 21 to 24 October, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel near Geneva Airport. The Management Council convened on Friday 21 and Sunday afternoon, the Commission and Panels on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23. The General Assembly opened on Monday 24 in the presence of representatives of 53 National Federations. In his opening address, President Zerbi made a report on the FIM activities during the 2005 season; the report was unanimously approved by the General Assembly, as well as the 2004 accounts and balance sheet and the report of the internal auditors. The annual reports of the Presidents of the Continental Unions, Commissions and Panels were also unanimously approved. – The Nicolas Rodil del Valle Motorcycle Merit Gold Medal was awarded posthumously to former FEMA Secretary General Simon Milward, who passed away in an accident in Mali last February. The medal was awarded by President Zerbi to the mother of Simon, Mrs Milward, accompanied by his brother and FEMA Secretary General Antonio Perlot. – The candidature of the Motorcycle Federation of Guam was accepted by the General Assembly. – One post for FIM Vice-President and one post for Internal Auditor were open for votations. Mr Robert Rasor (United States) was elected FIM Vice-President, and Mr Josep Abad Pous (Spain) was elected Internal Auditor. – The FIM Environmental Award was awarded to the MSC Zschopau, organiser of the last 2004 Enduro World Championship round in Germany. – A convention of collaboration was signed between the FIM, ACEM and FEMA, during the Sunday session of the Management Council. This agreement makes official a collaboration that has been effective for several years and will increase in a near future. The agreement was signed by FEMA Secretary General Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General Jacques Compagne, President Zerbi and CEO Guy Maitre. – A contract was signed between the FIM and the company IFMXF, promoter of Freestyle events, for the organisation and promotion of a 2006 Freestyle Motocross World Championship. – The FIM Centenary book was presented to the Management Council. The book can be ordered on the FIM Internet site. – A prize-giving ceremony for the 2005 World Champions in the Motocross and SuperMoto World Championships will be organised by the promoter Youthstream in Monaco on December 2, next. Road Racing – An agreement was made between FGSport and the organisers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (ACO) and the Bol d’Or (Editions Larivière) for the inclusion of the two races in the Endurance World Championship In Endurance, Art. 1.7.2 “lighting and signaling” applies only for races taking place partly at night. Minimum weight of Superbike motorcycles: 165 kg for races not taking part partly at night; 170 kg for races taking place partly at night. Minimum weight of Superproduction motorcycles: dry weight minus 15 kg for races not taking place partly at night; dry weight minus 11 kg for races taking place partly at night. – A Dragster World Championship including the class “top fuel” with at least two events (United States and Canada) is currently under study for the 2006 season. – The protective device SPM AIR PADS of type A has been homologated by the FIM. Motocross/SuperMoto – A SuperMoto Championship for national teams, the SuperMoto of Nations, will be held in 2006. – The FIM Veterans Motocross World Cup will take place next year, within the framework of the Belgian round in Namur (August 6). – The Junior Motocross World Championship will include a classification for National teams. The number of entries is based upon the passport of the rider. In each class, the number of entries is limited to a maximum of 8 riders per country/passport. The country in which the event is organised is entitled to 2 extra riders per class. For the Championship for National teams, points are allocated according to the final standings in the Individual Junior Motocross World Championship; for this classification, the winner obtains 1 point, the second two points, etc. and the final result for teams is determined as follows: the team winner is that which has gained the lowest total number of points after having added the two best results of its riders, the best in the 80cc and the best in the 125cc (in case of a tie, the best place in the 80cc will be considered). – Following the contract signed between the FIM and IFMXF, a Freestyle Motocross World Championship will be held in 2006. Trial – Starting time: in Trial World Championship, Junior Trial Cup and Youth Trial Cup 125cc, it will be 9h00 in principle but the last rider will not leave later than 11h00. The starting order for the 1st day will be reviewed for all classes. – Indoor Trial: the minimum number of riders participating in each round of the World Championship will be of 7: 5 fixed riders (first 3 of the previous year’s classification of the Indoor Trial World Championship, and the first 2 of the previous year’s classification of the Trial World Championship), plus two wild-card riders from the CTR and the promoter. The organizer may propose an additional wild-card rider to the CTR”¦.If there are 8 participants, all will attempt the double lane section. – Women’s Trial World Championship: as from 2006, the Championship will count 3 rounds; only two rounds will be taken into consideration for the final classification. As from 2006, each round will count 2 laps of 12 to 15 sections. Two riders, of different levels and who will change in each round, will participate in the visit to the sections with the Jury. – In order to improve the level of the sections and following a proposal from TRMA, a section builder will be nominated by the CTR, for a trial period, for the first two rounds of the Trial World Championship, to help the organizers construct the course. Enduro & Cross-Country Rallies – Cross-Country Rallies: Entries to the Cross-Country Rallies World Championship will be accepted for riders who are in possession of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship licence. The riders who wish to compete in category 3 Super Production with a motorcycle of more than 600cc must have a super licence; the super licence will be delivered by the National Federations according to specific criteria of the riders’ aptitude For each stage all the riders and competitors will receive a road book and/or maps that indicate the itinerary and/or check points (no GPS). When the track is defined, it must appear on the road book as a solid line; when not defined, as a dotted line (limit of 1 km or 3 km on each side cancelled). In the first road-book, the complete list of symbols must appear (description in two languages including English) For events using GPS with partial access to the data, the organiser must communicate the releasing code permitting the normal use of the apparatus. This releasing without authorization will result in the application of the fixed penalty. – The motorcycles must have been homologated by the CTI in conformity with the rules of the CER The starting order of the prologue will be left to the initiative of the organizer; the starting order of the first section will be made in the order of the classification of the prologue if it takes place; otherwise in increasing or decreasing order of the riders’ numbers. The first ten competitors will start one by one every two minutes, the others will start (one by one or two by two) minute by minute or 30 seconds by 30 seconds. This procedure will be used for the whole of the following stages (unless it is a collective start and except the last day) Speed controls (new article):”¦1st infringement: 30 sec by km/h excess; 2nd infringement: 2 min. by km/h excess; 3rd infringement: disqualification. The penalties will be cumulated in the same area, in the same stage, during the whole rally. – Enduro rules: riders admitted to the Enduro World Championship:”¦the 5 best riders (not 20) of each class from the Continental Championship of the previous year who scored no points in the World Championship of the previous year. Technical – Discussions will be held between the CTI (International Technical Panel) and MSMA (Motorcycle Sport Manufacturers’ Association) regarding the sound level and control for Motocross and Enduro motorcycles, in order to reach a common limit for the 2007 season. Medical – Applicants for a super licence in Cross-Country Rallies must undertake a medical examination performed by a specialist in sports medicine. The examination must include an exercise tolerance electrocardiogram and echocardiography. FIM Dates – Next year’s Conference Meetings will be held in Geneva on February 17-19, 2006. – The extraordinary Management Council meeting will take place in Geneva on June 17-18, 2006. – The 2006 Congress will take place in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, from 15 to 21 October. – A proposal to hold the 2008 Congress in Durban, South Africa, was made by Mrs Beaulah Schoeman, MSA Executive Director. More, from a press release issued by AMA: AMA’S RASOR ELECTED VICE PRESIDENT OF FIM PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that AMA President Robert Rasor has been elected to the position of Vice President of the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the international governing body for motorcycle sport and touring. Rasor was elected during the 2005 FIM Biennial Session, held October 21 – 24 in Geneva, Switzerland. The AMA is the sole U.S affiliate to the FIM, which comprises nearly 70 national organizations, called federations, from countries around the world. A member of the AMA staff since 1973, Rasor served as Vice President of AMA Government Relations from the early 1980s until his appointment as the Association’s President in 2000. He’s served the FIM as the first president of its Commission on Mobility, Transport, Road Safety and Public Policy, increasing the organization’s involvement in motorcyclists’ rights, and is president of the North American Motorcycle Union, one of six such regional groups within the FIM. The Geneva-based FIM establishes and enforces rules for international motorcycle competition, and monitors motorcycling legislation and lobbying for riders’ rights. The FIM also is involved with international touring, facilitates international travel, and is taking a more active role in vintage motorcycling. Several other members of the AMA staff also serve on various FIM commissions. Through its affiliation with the FIM, the AMA licenses its riders to compete in international events and coordinates world-championship competition held in the United States. In his over 35 years of motorcycling experience, Rasor been an amateur motocross racer and has toured extensively in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

One Brake Pad Supplier Won Both The World Superbike And Supersport Championships In 2005

WORLD CHAMPIONS USE SBS World championship-winning brake pad performance can be yours with Parts Unlimited and SBS. This year the FIM World Superbike and World Supersport championship-winning riders used SBS Dual Carbon brake pads. The consistent, powerful, fade-free performance combined with fast thermal bedding and increased initial brake pad bite means you get fingertip control and excellent feel, even under extreme use. For your next race or track day, choose the pads that world champions use, Parts Unlimited Dual Carbon brake pads by SBS. 2005 FIM WORLD SUPERBIKE RESULTS 1. Troy Corser, Alstare Suzuki 2. Chris Vermeulen, Winston Ten Kate Honda 5. Yukio Kagayama, Alstare Suzuki 7. Chris Walker, PGS-1 Kawasaki Corse 2005 FIM WORLD SUPERSPORT RESULTS 1. Sebastian Charpentier, Winston Ten Kate Honda 2. Kevin Curtain, Yamaha Motor Germany 3. Katsuaki Fujiwara, Winston Ten Kate Honda 4. Fabian Foret, Team Megabike 5. Michael Fabrizio, Team Megabike 6. Broc Parkes, Yamaha Motor Germany 7. Stephane Chambon, Gil Motor Sport 8. Javi Fores, Alstare Suzuki 2005 SUPERSTOCK 600 RESULTS 1. Claudio Corti 2005 SUPERSTOCK 1000 RESULTS 1. Didier Van Keymeulen

Report: Formula One Racer Schumacher Rides Ducati MotoGP Bike At Mugello

According to a report from Reuters news service, seven-time Formula One World Champion racecar driver Michael Schumacher, 37, spent Monday lapping the Mugello Circuit, in Italy, on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike. Schumacher drives a Ferrari sponsored by Marlboro. The Ducati MotoGP team is sponsored by Marlboro. Reigning MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi has tested Formula One racecars several times over recent years. Rossi’s possible future involvement in Formula One is a constant topic of discussion in both MotoGP and Formula One media. Read the full report here: ~http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=motorSportsNews&storyID=URI:urn:newsml:reuters.com:20051024:MTFH50100_2005-10-24_16-23-36_B13159:1~

Jones To Join Martin On Foggy Petronas Racing For 2006 World Superbike Series

Foggy PETRONAS Racing sign Craig Jones for 2006 Carl Fogarty has signed emerging talent Craig Jones for his Foggy PETRONAS Racing team’s World Superbike campaign in 2006. The promising 20-year-old from Northwich, Great Britain, will ride the PETRONAS FP1 alongside the experienced Steve Martin, who will miss the team’s first test in Valencia next month after surgery on a kidney damaged in a spectacular pile-up in the final race of last season. Craig was runner-up in the British Supersport championship this year and also impressed during stand-in World Supersport appearances this year. Carl said: “I wanted to put someone on the bike that is hungry and willing to learn. Craig wants to prove that he can be one of the best riders in the world and I believe he is one of the most talented riders around. Maybe I can see someone who wants to win as badly as I did. “He will be in a high-profile team, on a Superbike and on slick tyres as well as at new circuits, so he is being thrown in at the deep end to some extent. But I will be there and the whole team will be there to help him float. He is not expected to win on our bike, so that shifts the pressure from him to me – and I don’t mind that. I had to work for my big chance and it will give me so much pleasure to see someone fulfill their potential with my team. “He first caught my eye last year when, despite being on a bike that was slower than the others, he managed to win at Donington. It was one of the most impressive performances I have seen for a long time and I think his sideways over-taking manouevre was the most spectacular I have ever seen. He also comes highly recommended from a lot of people whose opinions I respect. “I considered him last year but thought that it would benefit him to have another year in the British Supersport championship. He has had a good year and, but for a couple of mistakes, could have won that title. Craig had good offers on the table for 2006, having impressed with a few rides in the World Supersport championship last season. But he wanted to come and ride for my team and that is very important for me.” Craig said: “I’m delighted and can’t wait for this new challenge. The main attraction has to be Carl, who was one of my heroes when I started racing, and someone I aspired to emulate. I also rode for Jack Valentine, the FPR race team boss, for two years and know that it is a well-run team. I am excited about getting onto a superbike for the first time and am also keen to help with the project development. I know quite a few of the circuits and we are planning tests at some of the others so I don’t think that will be too much of a disadvantage. And I rode at Brno this year for the first time on a new bike and was sixth. It might be difficult to get my lap times down straight away but I do not think it will be too difficult and I am fit and ready to go.” Craig replaces Garry McCoy in the FPR team. Carl added: “I wish Garry all the best as things didn’t work out well for him with our team last year.” Craig Jones: Factfile Age: 20 Birthplace: Northwich Lives: Peterborough Height: 5′ 7″ Weight: 66Kg Achievements 2005: 2nd in the British Supersport Championship with 7 podiums 2004: 8th in the British Supersport Championship, 2 podiums including first win 2003: Winner of the Steve Hislop Young Rider of the Year Memorial Trophy, 7th in the British Supersport Championship, 1 pole position and podium 2002: British Junior Superstock Champion with 6 wins

BBC Says Toseland To Winston Ten Kate Honda For 2006 Superbike World Series

The BBC has reported that former World Superbike Champion James Toseland has been recruited by the Winston Ten Kate Honda team for the 2006 Superbike World Championship. Representatives from the Winston Ten Kate Honda team did not immediately return requests from Roadracingworld.com for comment. Toseland, 25, did not have his contract renewed by Ducati, the company he won the World Championship with in 2004 and rode for in 2005. Read the BBC report here: ~http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/4372906.stm~

Recent Birth: Audrey Anne Whitehouse

WSMC racer Clinton Whitehouse, III, and wife Tanya had a daughter, Audrey Anne Whitehouse, October 7 in Bakersfield, California.

Press Releases From This Past Weekend’s Races

YOUNG DUCATI RACER WINS $10,000 IN CCS RACE OF CHAMPIONS THIS WEEKEND Ryan Andrews and Bill Keros victorious in Expert and Amateur Supertwins, respectively Cupertino, CA This weekend’s CCS Race of Champions was a fierce competition for Ducati’s $10,000 racing contingency prize in the Expert Supertwins class with Ducati 999s finishing first and second. The Amateur Supertwins class also saw two Ducati’s on the top steps of the podium with first place won by Bill Keros of Section 8 Superbike aboard a Ducati 749. Ryan Andrews, whose experience includes the AMA Formula Xtreme series racing a 749R, decided to try racing a 999 this weekend. The transition was natural for the 18-year-old resident of Waco, Texas. “The 749R that I raced in Formula Xtreme was one of the ex-HMC bikes so it’s a fully prepared racebike and a bit of a handful at times. The 999S I won with this weekend is actually much easier to ride, especially because ours was mostly stock.” The race was a true underdog story with a stock 999S against many race prepared 999R’s. However, that didn’t discourage Andrews who rode with his heart and used the draft to pass people under braking despite a horsepower disadvantage. “I had only been to Daytona once before and we tried to gear the bike for the draft. Most of the other guys would accelerate away from me out of the chicane but I had the bike geared right and I could draft them and pass on the brakes going into turn 1,” said Andrews. The young rider was quickest through the infield section and when he came upon a lapped rider he didn’t get the drive out onto the banking that he hoped. Waiting for another racer to blow past him, he took a low route on the banking and ultimately crossed the finish line in first place. Andrews said, “I knew I had a chance to win it but our main competition was sitting on the pole and I was starting from row six! I was really surprised at the end but it was also very rewarding. Everyone showed up to the race on these impressive racebikes and I was riding a 999S with a completely stock motor and only an exhaust system. This victory is sweet.” RESULTS: Expert Supertwins: 1. Ryan Andrews (Ducati 999) 2. Larry Denning (Ducati 999) 3. Aaron Clark (Aprilia) 4. Brian Stokes (Aprilia) 5. Christopher Boy (Ducati) 6. Marco Martinez (Ducati 999) 7. Thomas Fournier (Ducati 996) 8. Chales Sandoz (Aprilia) 9. Eric Moucatel (Ducati 749) 10. Douglas Gross (Ducati 999) Amateur Supertwins: 1. Bill Keros (Ducati 749) 2. Carlos Contreras (Ducati 996) 3. Eric Schnorrbusch (Aprilia) Expert Heavy Superbike: 1. Jesse Janisch (Suzuki) 2. Joe Ribeiro (Suzuki) 3. Elio Net (Ducati 996) 4. Dario Marchetti (Ducati 999) 5. R. Bryan Land (Yamaha) 6. Jones Conception (Ducati 999) Expert UltraLight Superbike: 1. Rodney Burr (Ducati SS800) 2. Daniele Lenarduzzi (Aprilia 250) 3. Duane Francis (Triumph) More, from a press release issued by Blue Springs Racing: Sipp says goodbye to the Daytona curse! Daytona, FL Walt Sipp finished 5th in the final round of the Formula USA Thunderbike Championship. Qualifying was held on Saturday in good, but humid weather conditions. After equaling his best Daytona qualifying to date; 7th 1.53.250 things appeared to be going well. “I’m a little disappointed with my position really. I was hoping for a little more. I went out by myself, but I should have hooked up with somebody. I just needed a little bit of a tow through the tri-oval. Anyway, second row isn’t too bad. I believe my race pace will be a little better,” said the Blue Springs Harley-Davidson sponsored Buell rider. Things didn’t get started too well in the race though. “I got distracted on the grid and got a horrible start. I wound up getting pasted by what felt like everybody,” said Sipp. While not everyone passed him, he was only 15th into turn one. That seemed to be the turning point though. He slowing started making his way through the field. A combination of a fast running bike and being strong on the brakes into turn one allowed him to work his way up to 5th with only a couple laps to go. Walt said, “Yeah, I kind of settled into a rhythm after I got past everybody. I could see the lead pack of four in front of me, but I knew by myself I wasn’t going to catch them. I really needed some drafting help. I’m happy though. That’s my best finish here so I’ll take it!” After a tough start to the season, the Blue Springs crew was able to turn it around at the end. The last four races saw Sipp finish 6th at VIR, 5th at Barber, 6th at Autobahn and 5th at Daytona. Sipp said, “We were on a good run of form here late in the season. We missed a top five in season points by only seven points. That’s tough, but we’ll be back strong next year.” Look for Walt and the Blue Springs crew to be back strong and to better there position next year. To find out more about more, visit www.waltsipp.com and www.bluespringsharleydavidson.com .