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Howard Cashes In With CMRA At Oak Hill

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Howard, Small, Young, Tan, Falt and McDonald at Oak Hill Raceway Ty Howard, Heath Small, Logan Young, Tyler McDonald, Alan Tan and Eric Falt all cashed in with big wins at round six of the CMRA Championship Roadracing Series held at Oak Hill Raceway in Henderson, Texas. Temperatures approached the century mark at the east Texas venue as 481 sprint entries filled the grids for an action-packed and crash-filled weekend of racing. Howard was the top money winner, claiming over $4000 in Kawasaki contingency money in addition to CMRA purse money after taking four wins during Sunday’s sprint action. Howard’s wins came in the Racing Performance Services B Superstock Expert race, which features a $150 purse; the C Superstock Expert race, which features a $500 purse; the Pace American Trailers Formula 1 Expert race, which features a $1000 purse; and the RaceworX C Superbike Expert race, which features a $150 purse. Howard also added $150 for taking the Mr. Corder Racing Fast Lap Award, which pays $150 for the fastest sprint lap. He turned a 1:22.918 during his win in the C Superstock Expert race. Tyler McDonald also claimed a paycheck by taking wins in the 125 GP class, which features a $250 purse, and the South Central Race Center D Superbike Expert division, which features a $150 purse. Other riders visiting the pay window included Heath Small, who took wins in the Motorcycles Unlimited A Superbike Expert race, which features a $150 purse, and the Komodo Racing B Superbike Expert race, which features a $250 purse; and Logan Young, who won the Sum of All Parts A Superstock Expert class, which features a $150 purse. Eric Falt claimed the lion’s share of the $500 purse paid in the Lightweight Twins Expert division by taking a hard-earned win in the race, while Alan Tan topped a fast field in the Formula 2 Expert race and took the winner’s share of a $250 purse. Jon Francis won the AF1 Racing Heavyweight Twins Expert race, which pays a year-end points fund. In the Novice divisions, Cory Burleson was the only multiple winner, taking wins in the D Superstock, D Superbike, B Superstock, C Superstock, A Superstock and C Superbike Novice classes. In Saturday’s Shogun Motorsport’s Mini Endurance Series, Team K&N Racing took first place in the 6-hour event, topping Team Jesus by two laps in the process. Team K&N was the top finishing Formula 4 entry, ahead of Team Jesus, while RS Express finished third overall and third in the F4 class. The top-placing Formula 5 entry was Awtooling, in fifth overall, while STD Racing 2won the F6 division in 9th overall and Excel won the F7 class in 13th overall. In Saturday’s Mini Sprint action, Tyler McDonald topped Zac Chapman to win the Formula 4 race, while Dennis Dudley beat out Conner Blevins for the Formula 6 win. In the Formula 5 race, Derek Wagnon edged Anthony Smith and Conner Blevins returned to top the Formula 7 division over Dirk Anderson. The CMRA returns to racing on July 30-31 at Texas World Speedway, in College Station, Texas for round seven of its championship series.

WERA National Challenge Series: Kieffer And Batey Beat The Heat In Las Vegas

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Racers Edge’s Dale Kieffer and Vesrah Suzuki’s Tray Batey were the big winners in the fifth round of the WERA National Challenge series at Las Vegas International Speedway’s Classic Course, Sunday, June 26th. Kieffer took flag-to-flag wins in both the A Superstock and Formula 1 races on his Suzuki GSX-R1000, while Batey battled Jack Pfeiffer for the Heavyweight Twins Supersport victory on his Suzuki SV1000, and also took his Suzuki GSX-R750 to a commanding win in the B Supestock race. Arclight Suzuki’s Chris Siglin continued to run well in the 600cc ranks, winning a close C Superstock race over Vesrah Suzuki’s Mark Junge, and finishing third in the 750cc B Superstock race on his 600. Racer Supply Co/Raceworks rider Ben Thompson had a successful weekend in Las Vegas, winning the B Superbike race, taking a close second to Kieffer in both the Formula 1 and Open Superstock races, and finished second to Batey in B Superstock. Young gun Josh Herrin used his Yamaha YZF-R6 to take the C Superbike win, and also finished fourth in the C Superstock race, while Howard Lynggard took his Yamaha YZF-R1 to the Senior Superbike victory. Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo showed up at Las Vegas, where the factory rider recently purchased a new home, to get in extra testing time on his Yamaha YZF-R1 and R6 machines prior to the upcoming Laguna Seca AMA National. Because DiSalvo had no WERA points, he was forced to start from the back of the grid. Although he was able to make his way to the front of several races, including Formula 1, DiSalvo elected to pull off on the final lap in all the races he rode so as not to take any contingency or purse money. AMA regular John Haner also made the trip to Las Vegas in hopes of getting added track time and also making some money, but a crash in Sunday morning practice put him out of the event. Haner was unhurt in the crash, but his GSX-R750 was heavily damaged. RESULTS Formula 1 Expert 1. Dale Kieffer (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Ben Thompson (Suz GSX-R1000) 3. David Weber (Suz GSX-R1000) 4. David Sanders (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Jason Curtis (Suz GSX-R1000) 6. John Jacobi (Suz GSX-R750) Formula 1 Novice 1. Jon Lawson (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 3. Tony Palarie (Suz GSX-R750) 4. Eddie Barajas (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Daniel Shaff (Kaw ZX-6RR) A Superstock Expert 1. Dale Kieffer (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Ben Thompson (Suz GSX-R1000) 3. Mark Junge (Suz GSX-R1000) 4. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Michael Beck (Yam YZF-R1) 6. Premek Glinz (Suz GSX-R1000) A Superstock Novice 1. Jon Lawson (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Tony Palarie (Suz GSX-R750) 3. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Eddie Barajas (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Scott Layman (Suz GSX-R750) B Superstock Expert 1. Tray Batey (Suz GSX-R750) 2. Ben Thompson (Suz GSX-R750) 3. Chris Siglin (Suz GSX-R600) 4. Reuben Frankenfield (Suz GSX-R750) 5. John Jacobi (Suz GSX-R750) 6. David Weber (Suz GSX-R750) B Superstock Novice 1. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 2. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 3. Tony Palarie (Suz GSX-R750 4. Terry Heard (Yam YF-R6) 5. Javier Ramirez (Yam YZF-R6) 6. Kirk Wilde (Suz GSX-R750) C Superstock Expert 1. Chris Siglin (Suz GSX-R600) 2. Mark Junge (Suz GSX-R600) 3. John Jacobi (Suz GSX-R600) 4. Josh Herrin (Yam YZF-R6) 5. David Weber (Suz GSX-R600) 6. Chad Lewin (Suz GSX-R600) C Superstock Novice 1. Nick Scoggins (Kaw ZX-6RR) 2. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 3. Curtis Cash (Kaw ZX-6RR) 4. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 5. Javier Ramirez ((Yam YZF-R6) 6. Terry Heard (Yam YZF-R6) C Superbike Expert 1. Josh Herrin (Yam YZF-R6) 2. Derek Keyes (Yam YZF-R6) 3. Brian Land (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Mark Crozier (Kaw ZX-6RR) 5. David Siminski (Suz GSX-R600) 6. Will Eikenberry (Kaw ZX-6R) C Superbike Novice 1. Nick Scoggins (Kaw ZX-6RR) 2. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 3. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Javier Ramirez (Yam YZF-R6) 5. Daniel Shaff (Kaw ZX-6RR) 6. Terry Heard (Yam YZF-R6) Heavyweight Twins Supersport Expert 1. Tray Batey (Suz SV1000) 2. Jack Pfeiffer (Apr RSV1000) 3. Vincent Chu (Duc 999) 4. Gary Schilling (Suz SV650) 5. Morgan Broadhead (Suz SV650) Heavyweight Twins Supersport Novice 1. David Nguyen (Dun 999) Heavyweight Twins Superbike Expert 1. Jack Pfeiffer (Apr RSV1000) 2. Vincent Chu (Duc 999) Heavyweight Twins Superbike Novice 1. David Nguyen (Dun 999) Lightweight Twins Supersport Expert 1. Gary Schilling (Suz SV650) Formula 2 Expert 1. John Ulrich (Yam TZ250) 2. Morgan Broadhead (Suz SV650) 3. Nicole Johnson (Hon RS125) 4. Chuma Gault (Yam FZR400) Formula 2 Novice 1. Peter Bilicki (Hon NT650) 2. Dennis Ergo (Yam FZR400) D Superbike Expert 1. Chuma Gault (Yam FZR400) D Superstock Novice 1. Peter Bilicki (Hon NT650) D Superbike Novice 1. Dennis Ergo (Hon NT650) Senior Superbike Expert 1. Howard Lynggard (Yam YZF-R1) 2. John Thomas (Suz GSX-R750) 3. Vincent Chu (Duc 999) 4. James Davis (Yam YZF-R6) Senior Superbike Novice 1. Curtis Cash (Kaw ZX-6RR) 2. Tom Trainer (Suz GSX-R600) Clubman Novice 1. Peter Bilicki (Hon NT650) Mini 50 1. Vincent Chu (Der 50) Mini 80 1. John Cagle (Yam 80)

Something To Do Next Sunday In England

‘The Sheene Run’ 3rd July 2005 www.thesheenerun.com Neil Hellings, Chief Executive Auto Cycle Union is pleased to confirm the latest, but still growing, line-up of racing motor cycles being displayed or ridden at The Sheene Run in Rugby on 3rd July 2005. The Sheene Run has managed to secure 13 motor cycles ridden by Barry Sheene, 7 of these bikes are due to be ridden around the 1 mile closed public road ‘circuit’ through Rugby’s Town Centre. Barry’s 1976 and 1977 World Championship winning Suzuki XR14 (RG500) Grand Prix bikes have been brought over from his Australian home, the first time in over 20 years they have been in this country and will be ridden at the event by Steve Parrish and Mick Grant. The latest addition to the collection is a 1975 RG500 with the engine used by Barry at Assen, Netherlands to give Suzuki and himself their first 500cc Grand Prix victory. Other Sheene bikes include; Bultaco TSS, 2 x Seeley Suzuki TR500, 3 x Fred Walmsley Manx Norton’s and a further 4 of Barry’s Suzuki RG500’s, a XR05 from 1974, a 1975 XR14, a 1983 XR40 and a1984 XR45. In addition to the superb Sheene Paddock there will be a collection of 20 racers from the 1920/30’s on display in the ‘Brooklands Paddock’. A further race bike paddock will be home to over 50 race machines, taking part in cavalcades throughout the day including; Bakker Suzuki GSXR Manx Norton 350 BSA 500 Sidecar Matchless G50 Dresda Honda 750 Rickman Metisse Kawasaki Dresda Kawasaki 900 Rudge 350 Ducati 900 SS Rob North BSA Rocket 3. Franco Morini Special 50cc Royal Enfield GP5 Honda 250/4 Seeley 500 Sidecar Honda 400/4 Seeley Suzuki TR500 Honda CR 93 Replica Suzuki GSXR 600 Honda CR110 Suzuki GSXR 750 Honda CYB 72 Suzuki RG 500 Honda Fireblade Suzuki TR500 Honda RC 145 Replica TriBSA T650 Honda RC 171 Replica Triumph Thunderbird Honda RC 181 Replica Triumph Thunderbird Outfit Honda RS125 Triumph Thunderbird Outfit Honda RS 250 Yamaha RD 350 Kawasaki 250 Yamaha TZ 250 Kawasaki AR50 Moped Racer Yamaha TZ 350 Kawasaki H1R Racer Kawasaki Z1000 Plus Mike Hailwood’s TT winning Honda 250/4 and Mick Grant’s Kawasaki 750. With this huge variety of machinery taking part and the many different sounds produced by the bikes will create an awesome atmosphere in the close confines of the Town Centre. Away from the paddocks there will be bands and solo artists performing a variety of music throughout the day on the stage alongside the Clock Towers Shopping Centre. On the same stage there will be an auction, with all proceeds going to MENCAP, items to be auctioned include many racing memorabilia, from both 70/80’s and modern day era. The day will start at approximately 1030hrs when riders participating in the National Rally are shown the chequered flag for completing their set distances and will then embark on a ‘lap’ of the Town Centre. Kevin Carmichael will be entertaining the crowds with his stunt display around part of the closed public roads circuit. In Caldecott Park, adjacent to the Sheene Paddock, Martin Crosswaite and his Team will be demonstrating their skills in the X-Treme Trials Display. On Saturday Evening many members of the public will be dining with friends and associates of Barry Sheene’s racing career at a Black Tie Dinner. VIP guests include friend and team mate Steve Parrish, Barry’s mechanic Martyn Ogbourne, Fred Walmsley owner/builder of Barry’s last racing machines, frame builder Colin Seeley and former racers John Cooper and Mick Grant. Some of Barry’s will be on display at the dinner. A few places are still available, call Tania on 01788 566415. Neil Hellings said, “This years event has come together extremely well and both Rugby Borough Council and the ACU are committed to making it a success and ensuring The Sheene Run becomes an annual event. Unfortunately, circumstances have prevented Stephanie from joining us this year, but her willingness to attend next years event will give everybody a terrific boost for raising the standard yet again”. For further enquiries on the Sheene Run please contact Tania or Becky on 01788 566415 or via e-mail [email protected].

F-USA Will Still Run At Loudon Even If AMA Returns

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According to Formula USA boss Kevin Elliott, F-USA will return to New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS) in Loudon, New Hampshire even if the Speedway’s attempts to regain its traditional Father’s Day AMA National date are successful. F-USA currently races on that weekend, which previously hosted AMA Nationals. Elliott said that he has discussed the situation with NHIS management and that F-USA would run at the track on the weekend before the AMA National, as it does at Daytona. But while local news outlets have run enthusiastic reports headlining the possible return of the AMA Superbike Series to NHIS, the track faces an uphill battle. An AMA delegation consisting of AMA Superbike Series Manager Ron Barrick, AMA Superbike Champion Mat Mladin and former 500cc World Champion Kevin Schwantz recently visited the track to discuss possible changes to the course. Mladin drew a proposed course map that would require extensive track modifications, including the use of removeable pit wall sections along the front straight, in the approach to turn one of the road course. Other proposed modifications would change the outfield section of the course and move the re-entry to the infield, providing run-off room for turn three of the road course.

Pirelli Road Racing Coordinator Quits

Pirelli Road Racing Coordinator Bob Henderson has quit and is returning to the communications industry as a sales engineer. Henderson, a club racer, gave notice last Wednesday. He spent Sunday, his last day with Pirelli, working at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Henderson started working for Pirelli in January.

Updated Post: Jensen, Jeff Wood, Estok, Barnes Win F-USA, CCS Races At VIR

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Kneedraggers.com’s Robert Jensen won two Formula USA races Sunday at Virginia International Raceway (VIR), near Danville, Virginia, while Arclight Suzuki’s Jeff Wood and Millville & Wildwood Harley-Davidson/Buell’s Dave Estok each won a single race during changeable weather conditions. Jensen won the wet Superbike race on his Michelin-rain-tire-equipped Yamaha YZF-R6, and later won the dry Formula Sportbike race on his Suzuki GSX-R750. Arclight Suzuki’s Jeff Wood finished second to Jensen in Superbike and Formula Sportbike but made a dramatic come-from-behind move to beat Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Geoff May by 0.006 second in Sportbike. The Thunderbike final was started on a wet-but-quickly-drying track. Estok made the best choice of Pirelli tires and won going away over Hal’s Performance Buell’s Dan Bilansky and CAD Racing’s Darren Danilowicz, who rode a Suzuki SV650. May and teammate Michael Barnes (who crashed out of the wet Superbike race earlier in the day) slugged it out on their GSX-R1000 AMA Superstock-spec bikes in the CCS Unlimited Grand Prix. In preparation for the AMA National at VIR later this year, each rider was testing a different compound of rear Pirelli tire, and Barnes made the most of his tire to win. May finished a close second. Jensen was a distant third on his Suzuki GSX-R750. Race Results From Virginia International Raceway (VIR): F-USA Sportbike: 1. Jeff Wood (Suz GSX-R600), 15 laps 2. Geoff May (Suz GSX-R600), -0.006 second 3. Michael Himmelsbach (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6RR) 5. Robert Jensen (Yam YZF-R6) 6. Scott Harwell (Suz GSX-R600) 7. Ryan Elleby (Suz GSX-R600) 8. Adam Dolney (Yam YZF-R6) 9. Brandon Parrish (Suz GSX-R600) 10. Brent Lilly (Hon CBR600RR) 11. Adam Swetlow (Kaw ZX-6), -1 lap 12. Jonathan Lawrence (Yam YZF-R6), -2 laps 13. Bob Michael (Suz GSX-R600), -7 laps 14. Joshua Wohlstein (Suz GSX-R600), -7 laps 15. Scott Harwood (Hon CBR600), -10 laps F-USA Superbike: 1. Robert Jensen (Yam YZF-R6), 16 laps 2. Jeff Wood (Suz GSX-R600), crash, -32.496 seconds 3. Trey Yonce (Yam YZF-R) 4. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6R) 5. Geoff May (Suz GSX-R600) 6. Michael Himmelsbach (Yam YZF-R6) 7. Adam Dolney (Yam YZF-R6) 8. Brandon Parrish (Suz GSX-R600) 9. Ryan Patterson (Yam YZF-R6), -1 lap 10. Chris Rockwell (Yam YZF-R6), -2 laps 11. Robert Lombardi (Suz GSX-R600), -2 laps 12. Scott Harwell (Suz GSX-R600), -9 laps, DNF, mechanical 13. Michael Barnes (Suz GSX-R600), -14 laps, DNF, crash F-USA Formula Sportbike: 1. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R750), 16 laps 2. Jeff Wood (Suz GSX-R750), -20.113 seconds 3. Jesse Janisch (Suz GSX-R750) 4. Scott Harwell (Suz GSX-R750) 5. Joseph Spina (Suz GSX-R750) 6. Scott Carpenter (Suz GSX-R750) 7. Joe Ribeiro (Suz GSX-R750) 8. Brandon Parrish (Suz GSX-R750), -1 lap 9. Rick Beggs (Kaw ZX-6), -8 laps, DNF, retired F-USA Thunderbike: 1. Dave Estok (Buell XB12R), 12 laps 2. Dan Bilansky (Buell XB12R), -13.719 seconds 3. Darren Danilowicz (Suz SV650) 4. David Yaakov (Suz SV650) 5. Sam Rozynski (Buell XB12R) 6. Walt Sipp (Buell XB12R) 7. Joseph Romano (Duc 748) 8. Clint Brotz (Buell XB12R) 9. Joe Rozynski (Buell XB12R) 10. Gary Bunner (Duc 748), -1 lap 11. Matthew Buck (Suz SV650), -1 lap 12. Mark Evry (Suz SV650), -1 lap 13. Russell Masecar (Suz SV650), -2 laps, DNF, crash 14. Bryan Bemisderfer (Buell XB12R), -8 laps, DNF, mechanical CCS Unlimited Grand Prix: 1. Michael Barnes (Suz GSX-R1000), 7 laps 2. Geoff May (Suz GSX-R1000), -1.69 seconds 3. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R750) 4. Jesse Janisch (Suz GSX-R750) 5. Scott Carpenter (Suz GSX-R1000) 6. Joseph Spina (Suz GSX-R750) 7. Joe Ribeiro (Suz GSX-R750) 8. Kenny Rodriguez (Hon CBR1000RR) 9. Brent Lilly (Hon CBR600RR) 10. Arnold Hastings (Suz GSX-R750) 11. Matthew Huber (Hon CBR1000RR) 12. Tony Sawyer (Duc 998) 13. Donald Martin (Hon CBR954RR)

Pirovano Wins Misano Round Of Suzuki GSX-R European Cup Series

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Italian Wild Card rider Fabrizio Pirovano won the third round of the Suzuki GSX-R European Cup at Misano today in front of 52,000 enthusiastic World Superbike fans. The 45-year-old former World Championship rider grabbed the lead on his GSX-R750 Suzuki in the closing stages from 26-year-old Spaniard Carmelo Morales to take the flag by two seconds, but was not eligible for points under the series rules. Morales led the opening lap; Pirovano took over for four laps before Morales once again hit the front. Pirovano – who hasn’t ridden competitively for four years – then shadowed the Spaniard for six laps before overtaking him with two laps remaining. By then, every rider had been experiencing tyre problems – due to the heat and high humidity at the San Marino circuit – and Morales decided to settle for second place as knew Pirovano would not earn any points. Third today was South African Hudson Kennaugh, ahead of David Salom, Andrea Masoni and Team Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra’s teenage Superstock 600 rider Xavier Simeon. Despite brake problems and an early collision in the race, which saw 14th at the end of the first lap, the Belgian fought back to take sixth place. Said Simeon: “I got hit early on and so I was only 14th at the end of lap one. I put my head down and just rode as hard as I could, but brake problems prevented me pushing even harder. Considering the start, I am pretty happy with my result today.” Top UK rider was Mike Edwards in eighth position with Magnus Houston 21st and Robert Barber a non finisher after crashing. Fast Bikes Magazine representative Edwards, who now holds eighth in the series with two rounds to go, said: “It was an excellent result for me and I had a great race in the group of riders I was with although I couldn’t match the pace of the leaders. The bike was running really well and this was the first time I’d raced on the new Pirelli tyres as I missed the last round where they changed. However, my school report to myself says ‘I must try harder’ ” Houston, who is 18th in the series, said: “I really enjoyed the race. It was interesting learning a new circuit like Misano but I need to go faster.” Barber, who still lies 14th despite his no-points score, said: “I was pleased with the way the race was going. My lap times were improving and I was really comfortable on the bike. But it was extremely hot out there and I ended up losing the front end and crashing. I suspect that I had the rebound damping set too hard for the track.” Misano Suzuki GSX-R Cup Results: 1 Fabrizio Pirovano (Italy) 21: 53.102, 2 Carmelo Morales (Spain) 21:55.213, 3 Hudson Kennaugh (South Africa) 22:05.698, 4 David Salom (Spain) 22:05.698, 5 Andrea Masoni (Italy) 22.12.171, 6 Xavier Simeon (Belgium) 22:24.603, 7 Joshua Noel Forster (Australia) 22: 25.022, 8 Mike Edwards (UK) 22:25.272, 9 Ron Van Steenbergen (Holland) 22:26.376, 10 Oliver Skatch (Germany) 22:28.652. Championship Points (after 3 of 5 Rounds): 1 Kennaugh 65, 2 Morales 58, 3 Salom 54, 4 Fouloi 32, 5 Forster 27, 6 Ortega 25, 7 Simeon 24, 8 Edwards 21, 9 Lammert 20, 10 Skach 16, 11 Mahr 16, 12 Steenbergen 15, 13 Dell’Omo 14, 14 Barber 13, 15 Taipale 10, 16 Pasini 3, 17 Brivio 3, 18 Houston 3, 19 Rodrigues 1.

Kiyonari Wins Both British Superbike Races At Knockhill

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Rizla Suzuki’s John Reynolds proved the injury that has dogged him all season is now history after claiming hard-fought sixth and seventh place finishes in today’s seventh round of the British Superbike Championship at a sun-drenched Knockhill circuit in Scotland. In front of a bumper crowd of 20,000 fans, Reynolds took seventh in the opening race after being in contention for the podium for most of the 30-laps. And in race two, he forced himself to be more aggressive and was running comfortably in fourth and challenging for third until getting tangled with back-makers. He brought his GSX-R1000 race machine home sixth for a new season personal best result. New team mate James Haydon crashed out of fourth early in the opening race and in the second event; he started on his spare bike and suffered brake problems from the outset, dropping to 12th before showing his fighting spirit and climbing back to eighth by the chequered flag. Honda’s Ryuichi Kiyonari won both races. John Reynolds: “I am proving that no matter who you are, even if you are the champion, you cannot afford to take eight months off from racing and expect to return and win races straight away. It just isn’t possible when you are racing some of the best riders in the world. “The good news is that I am on the comeback trail and have made enormous progress this weekend. I’m still not as sharp as I would like to be but that is coming back quickly – from race one to two there was a noticeable improvement. My Rizla Suzuki is great, the team has supported me through thick and thin and now we are close to getting the results we deserve. I think it could all come good at Snetterton and that’s what I am aiming for.” James Haydon: “In race one I ran into Butchers corner a bit hot and lost the front end while in fourth. That was really frustrating as my Rizla Suzuki felt great and I was up for a fight. “Right from the start in race two my front brakes were not as consistent or powerful as I was used to in the first race. It took me several laps to gauge the braking power and distance and by then was back in 12th. Once I got going I was able to move up through the field and post fast lap times, which is encouraging. I think we have made good progress with my Rizla Suzuki this weekend – roll on Snetterton.” Dave Marton – Technical Support: “Rizla Suzuki goes to Croft for a single day Dunlop test on Tuesday in a positive mood. ‘JR’ is coming back to form and in race two today he was consistently fast lap after lap and showed great aggression. More time on his bike is what he needs and that will sharpen him up for the second half of the season. “James made enormous progress throughout the weekend and is showing an incredible turn of speed on his Rizla Suzuki. At the Croft test, James will have more track time to acquaint himself with the bike and that will pay dividends. “Overall an impressive effort from both riders and the team and our best results of the season to date when you look at the meeting as a whole. We are closer to the front-runners than at any other time this year and the momentum is now moving forward. We’ll be looking for a similar step-up in performance when we race at Snetterton in two week’s time.” Race One Result: 1: Ryuichi Kiyonari (Honda) 25:04.260, 2: Michael Rutter (Honda) +12.538, 3: Michael Laverty (Honda) +24.692, 4: Glen Richards (Kawasaki) +26.361, 5: Leon Haslam (Ducati) +26.732, 6: Gregorio Lavilla (Ducati) +27.393, 7: John Reynolds (Rizla Suzuki) +30.496, 8: Karl Harris (Honda) +38.125, 9: Gary Mason (Honda) +40.659, 10: Dean Thomas (Kawasaki) +41.473. James Haydon (Rizla Suzuki) DNF. Race Two Result: 1: Kiyonari 25:06.287, 2: Rutter+7.122, 3: Lavilla +15.522, 4: Laverty +16.690, 5: Haslam +17.473, 6: John Reynolds (Rizla Suzuki) +19.148, 7: Richards +21.524, 8: James Haydon (Rizla Suzuki) +25.697, 9: Jonathan Rea (Honda) +26.633, 10: Thomas +27.074. Championship Positions (after seven rounds): 1: Rutter 275, 2: Kiyonari 232, 3: Lavilla 216, 4: Richards 160, 5: Haslam 152, 6: Harris 115, 7: Thomas 97, 8: Laverty 93, 9: Mason 82, 10: Sean Emmett (Yamaha) 79, 13: James Haydon (Rizla Suzuki) 43, 14: John Reynolds (Rizla Suzuki) 39.

Updated Post: Kcraget Sweeps 250cc, 125cc USGPRU Races At VIR

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NESBA.com’s Brian Kcraget came out of semi-retirement to ride his Speedwerks.com-sponsored Hondas to wins in the USGPRU 125cc and 250cc Grands Prix Sunday at Virginia International Raceway. In the 125cc GP, Kcraget held off Veloce Racing/Bruce Lind Racing Aprilia’s Nobi Iso and Team Stargel Aprilia’s Garrett Carter to win the 32-rider contest by 1.878 seconds on his 1996 Honda RS125. Kcraget won the 19-entry 250cc GP by 1.508 seconds on a Honda RS250, beating former AMA 250cc GP regular Sean Wray, who was closing on his Mobilesecure/A-1 Sports Center Yamaha TZ250, and Bill Himmelsbach, 56, who finished third on his Champion Sportbike Club/Martin Moto Yamaha TZ250. USGPRU Race Results: 250cc GP: 1. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS250), 12 laps 2. Sean Wray (Yam TZ250), -1.508 seconds 3. Bill Himmelsbach (Yam TZ250) 4. Josh Day (Yam TZ250) 5. Kory Gill (Yam TZ250) 6. Jim Bonner (Yam TZ250) 7. Joseph Melchionda (Yam TZ250) 8. Turu Illgen (Yam TZ250) 9. Paul Hoyt Nelson (Hon RS250) 10. David Matthews (Yam TZ250) 11. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125) 12. John Klara (Hon RS125) 13. J. Pat Bartlett (Yam TZ250), -1 lap penalty (start line infraction) 14. Ryan Clay (Apr RS125), -1 lap 15. Darrin Kuebler (Hon RS125), -1 lap 16. Shellie Matthews (Hon RS125), -1 lap 17. Nobi Iso (Yam TZ250), -2 laps, DNF, crash 18. James Whitaker (Hon RS250), -11 laps, DNF DQ. Garrett Carter (Apr RS250) (failed to report to post-race tech) 125cc GP: 1. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS250), 12 laps 2. Nobi Iso (Apr RS125), -1.878 seconds 3. Garrett Carter (Apr RS125) 4. Josh Day (Hon RS125) 5. David Celento (Hon RS125) 6. Ryan Clay (Apr RS125) 7. John Hjelm (Hon RS125) 8. Matthew Cooper (Hon RS125) 9. Joanne Sawyer (Hon RS125) 10. Merel Eschman (Hon RS125) 11. Michael Santelia (Hon RS125) 12. John Klaras (Hon RS125) 13. Steve Gorrell (Hon RS125) 14. Joseph Melchionda (Hon RS125) 15. Glen Pison (Hon RS125) 16. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125) 17. Chris Marshall (Hon RS125) 18. Paul Hoyt Nelson (Hon RS125), -1 lap 19. Richie Kjar (Hon RS125), -1 lap 20. Andre Esser (Hon RS125), -1 lap 21. Rebecca Henn (Hon RS125), -1 lap 22. Bill Clery (Hon RS125), -1 lap 23. Duane Hixon (Hon RS125), -1 lap 24. Shellie Matthews (Hon RS125), -1 lap 25. Dane Walther (Hon RS125), -1 lap 26. James Bergey (Hon RS125), -1 lap 27. Darrin Kuebler (Hon RS125), -1 lap 28. Kyurim Rhee (Hon RS125), -1 lap 29. Alessandro Acquisti (Yam TZ125), -2 laps 30. Chris Vest (Hon RS125), -3 laps 31. Brian Burton (Hon RS125), -4 laps 32. Lee Hollimon (Hon RS125), -7 laps

Team Velocity Racing Won WERA National Endurance Series 4-hour Saturday At Las Vegas

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Team Velocity Racing riders Ruben Frankenfield, Mark Crozier and Chuck Ivey took the overall and Heavyweight Superstock class win in the fifth round of the Dunlop/WERA National Endurance at Las Vegas International Speedway’s Classic Course, Saturday, June 25th.

Vesrah Suzuki led the 25-rider field at the start of the 4-hour race, followed by Red Star, Team Eclipse and Velocity Racing. Vesrah Suzuki quickly pulled away with rider Tray Batey turning laps in the low 1:19-range to put a one-lap lead on Velocity Racing at the end of the first hour.

But just past the one-hour mark the Vesrah Suzuki GSX-R1000 experienced an electrical problem, dropping the team back 15 laps on Red Star, the new leader when Velocity Racing pitted 62 minutes into the race

Yamaha YZF-R6-mounted Red Star continued to put in a strong run, leading until the just over an hour to go when Velocity Racing recovered from a slow first pit stop to retake the lead. Shortly thereafter Red Star suffered an engine failure, 130 laps into the race.

As this went on, Vesrah Suzuki reeled in the leaders at a rapid pace until the electrical gremlin showed up again, costing the team several more laps and resulting in a finish of 20th overall.

Team Velocity went on to take the overall and Heavyweight Superstock win, completing 171 laps in four hours, becoming the first team other than Vesrah Suzuki to win a WERA National Endurance Series race this season.

Velocity Racing was followed at the line by the Advance Kawasaki team of Robbie Dowie, Stuart Smith and Will Eikenberry, just over two laps back, in their second-ever WERA endurance race, while Nathan Dressman and Randy Sherman took the Bell’s ARNCHU Suzuki team to their first overall podium, finishing third, and taking first in the Heavyweight Superbike class.

Recovering from a fall mid-race, Army of Darkness riders Ben Walters, Scott Fisher and Sam Fleming took the Middleweight Superbike win, finishing fifth overall, just over five laps down. Derek Keyes, Chris Pyles and Bruce Stranford rode the Dixie Mafia Suzuki GSX-R600 to the Middleweight Superstock win, finishing just over 27 seconds behind AOD in sixth overall.

Blue Ridge Performance’s Martin Musil and Zoran Vujasinovic took the Lightweight Superbike class win, finishing 12th overall on their Suzuki SV650, 11 laps down on the overall leaders.

Howard Cashes In With CMRA At Oak Hill

Howard, Small, Young, Tan, Falt and McDonald at Oak Hill Raceway Ty Howard, Heath Small, Logan Young, Tyler McDonald, Alan Tan and Eric Falt all cashed in with big wins at round six of the CMRA Championship Roadracing Series held at Oak Hill Raceway in Henderson, Texas. Temperatures approached the century mark at the east Texas venue as 481 sprint entries filled the grids for an action-packed and crash-filled weekend of racing. Howard was the top money winner, claiming over $4000 in Kawasaki contingency money in addition to CMRA purse money after taking four wins during Sunday’s sprint action. Howard’s wins came in the Racing Performance Services B Superstock Expert race, which features a $150 purse; the C Superstock Expert race, which features a $500 purse; the Pace American Trailers Formula 1 Expert race, which features a $1000 purse; and the RaceworX C Superbike Expert race, which features a $150 purse. Howard also added $150 for taking the Mr. Corder Racing Fast Lap Award, which pays $150 for the fastest sprint lap. He turned a 1:22.918 during his win in the C Superstock Expert race. Tyler McDonald also claimed a paycheck by taking wins in the 125 GP class, which features a $250 purse, and the South Central Race Center D Superbike Expert division, which features a $150 purse. Other riders visiting the pay window included Heath Small, who took wins in the Motorcycles Unlimited A Superbike Expert race, which features a $150 purse, and the Komodo Racing B Superbike Expert race, which features a $250 purse; and Logan Young, who won the Sum of All Parts A Superstock Expert class, which features a $150 purse. Eric Falt claimed the lion’s share of the $500 purse paid in the Lightweight Twins Expert division by taking a hard-earned win in the race, while Alan Tan topped a fast field in the Formula 2 Expert race and took the winner’s share of a $250 purse. Jon Francis won the AF1 Racing Heavyweight Twins Expert race, which pays a year-end points fund. In the Novice divisions, Cory Burleson was the only multiple winner, taking wins in the D Superstock, D Superbike, B Superstock, C Superstock, A Superstock and C Superbike Novice classes. In Saturday’s Shogun Motorsport’s Mini Endurance Series, Team K&N Racing took first place in the 6-hour event, topping Team Jesus by two laps in the process. Team K&N was the top finishing Formula 4 entry, ahead of Team Jesus, while RS Express finished third overall and third in the F4 class. The top-placing Formula 5 entry was Awtooling, in fifth overall, while STD Racing 2won the F6 division in 9th overall and Excel won the F7 class in 13th overall. In Saturday’s Mini Sprint action, Tyler McDonald topped Zac Chapman to win the Formula 4 race, while Dennis Dudley beat out Conner Blevins for the Formula 6 win. In the Formula 5 race, Derek Wagnon edged Anthony Smith and Conner Blevins returned to top the Formula 7 division over Dirk Anderson. The CMRA returns to racing on July 30-31 at Texas World Speedway, in College Station, Texas for round seven of its championship series.

WERA National Challenge Series: Kieffer And Batey Beat The Heat In Las Vegas

Racers Edge’s Dale Kieffer and Vesrah Suzuki’s Tray Batey were the big winners in the fifth round of the WERA National Challenge series at Las Vegas International Speedway’s Classic Course, Sunday, June 26th. Kieffer took flag-to-flag wins in both the A Superstock and Formula 1 races on his Suzuki GSX-R1000, while Batey battled Jack Pfeiffer for the Heavyweight Twins Supersport victory on his Suzuki SV1000, and also took his Suzuki GSX-R750 to a commanding win in the B Supestock race. Arclight Suzuki’s Chris Siglin continued to run well in the 600cc ranks, winning a close C Superstock race over Vesrah Suzuki’s Mark Junge, and finishing third in the 750cc B Superstock race on his 600. Racer Supply Co/Raceworks rider Ben Thompson had a successful weekend in Las Vegas, winning the B Superbike race, taking a close second to Kieffer in both the Formula 1 and Open Superstock races, and finished second to Batey in B Superstock. Young gun Josh Herrin used his Yamaha YZF-R6 to take the C Superbike win, and also finished fourth in the C Superstock race, while Howard Lynggard took his Yamaha YZF-R1 to the Senior Superbike victory. Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo showed up at Las Vegas, where the factory rider recently purchased a new home, to get in extra testing time on his Yamaha YZF-R1 and R6 machines prior to the upcoming Laguna Seca AMA National. Because DiSalvo had no WERA points, he was forced to start from the back of the grid. Although he was able to make his way to the front of several races, including Formula 1, DiSalvo elected to pull off on the final lap in all the races he rode so as not to take any contingency or purse money. AMA regular John Haner also made the trip to Las Vegas in hopes of getting added track time and also making some money, but a crash in Sunday morning practice put him out of the event. Haner was unhurt in the crash, but his GSX-R750 was heavily damaged. RESULTS Formula 1 Expert 1. Dale Kieffer (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Ben Thompson (Suz GSX-R1000) 3. David Weber (Suz GSX-R1000) 4. David Sanders (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Jason Curtis (Suz GSX-R1000) 6. John Jacobi (Suz GSX-R750) Formula 1 Novice 1. Jon Lawson (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 3. Tony Palarie (Suz GSX-R750) 4. Eddie Barajas (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Daniel Shaff (Kaw ZX-6RR) A Superstock Expert 1. Dale Kieffer (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Ben Thompson (Suz GSX-R1000) 3. Mark Junge (Suz GSX-R1000) 4. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Michael Beck (Yam YZF-R1) 6. Premek Glinz (Suz GSX-R1000) A Superstock Novice 1. Jon Lawson (Suz GSX-R1000) 2. Tony Palarie (Suz GSX-R750) 3. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Eddie Barajas (Suz GSX-R1000) 5. Scott Layman (Suz GSX-R750) B Superstock Expert 1. Tray Batey (Suz GSX-R750) 2. Ben Thompson (Suz GSX-R750) 3. Chris Siglin (Suz GSX-R600) 4. Reuben Frankenfield (Suz GSX-R750) 5. John Jacobi (Suz GSX-R750) 6. David Weber (Suz GSX-R750) B Superstock Novice 1. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 2. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 3. Tony Palarie (Suz GSX-R750 4. Terry Heard (Yam YF-R6) 5. Javier Ramirez (Yam YZF-R6) 6. Kirk Wilde (Suz GSX-R750) C Superstock Expert 1. Chris Siglin (Suz GSX-R600) 2. Mark Junge (Suz GSX-R600) 3. John Jacobi (Suz GSX-R600) 4. Josh Herrin (Yam YZF-R6) 5. David Weber (Suz GSX-R600) 6. Chad Lewin (Suz GSX-R600) C Superstock Novice 1. Nick Scoggins (Kaw ZX-6RR) 2. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 3. Curtis Cash (Kaw ZX-6RR) 4. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 5. Javier Ramirez ((Yam YZF-R6) 6. Terry Heard (Yam YZF-R6) C Superbike Expert 1. Josh Herrin (Yam YZF-R6) 2. Derek Keyes (Yam YZF-R6) 3. Brian Land (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Mark Crozier (Kaw ZX-6RR) 5. David Siminski (Suz GSX-R600) 6. Will Eikenberry (Kaw ZX-6R) C Superbike Novice 1. Nick Scoggins (Kaw ZX-6RR) 2. Mitch Ward (Suz GSX-R600) 3. J.B. Layman (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Javier Ramirez (Yam YZF-R6) 5. Daniel Shaff (Kaw ZX-6RR) 6. Terry Heard (Yam YZF-R6) Heavyweight Twins Supersport Expert 1. Tray Batey (Suz SV1000) 2. Jack Pfeiffer (Apr RSV1000) 3. Vincent Chu (Duc 999) 4. Gary Schilling (Suz SV650) 5. Morgan Broadhead (Suz SV650) Heavyweight Twins Supersport Novice 1. David Nguyen (Dun 999) Heavyweight Twins Superbike Expert 1. Jack Pfeiffer (Apr RSV1000) 2. Vincent Chu (Duc 999) Heavyweight Twins Superbike Novice 1. David Nguyen (Dun 999) Lightweight Twins Supersport Expert 1. Gary Schilling (Suz SV650) Formula 2 Expert 1. John Ulrich (Yam TZ250) 2. Morgan Broadhead (Suz SV650) 3. Nicole Johnson (Hon RS125) 4. Chuma Gault (Yam FZR400) Formula 2 Novice 1. Peter Bilicki (Hon NT650) 2. Dennis Ergo (Yam FZR400) D Superbike Expert 1. Chuma Gault (Yam FZR400) D Superstock Novice 1. Peter Bilicki (Hon NT650) D Superbike Novice 1. Dennis Ergo (Hon NT650) Senior Superbike Expert 1. Howard Lynggard (Yam YZF-R1) 2. John Thomas (Suz GSX-R750) 3. Vincent Chu (Duc 999) 4. James Davis (Yam YZF-R6) Senior Superbike Novice 1. Curtis Cash (Kaw ZX-6RR) 2. Tom Trainer (Suz GSX-R600) Clubman Novice 1. Peter Bilicki (Hon NT650) Mini 50 1. Vincent Chu (Der 50) Mini 80 1. John Cagle (Yam 80)

Something To Do Next Sunday In England

‘The Sheene Run’ 3rd July 2005 www.thesheenerun.com Neil Hellings, Chief Executive Auto Cycle Union is pleased to confirm the latest, but still growing, line-up of racing motor cycles being displayed or ridden at The Sheene Run in Rugby on 3rd July 2005. The Sheene Run has managed to secure 13 motor cycles ridden by Barry Sheene, 7 of these bikes are due to be ridden around the 1 mile closed public road ‘circuit’ through Rugby’s Town Centre. Barry’s 1976 and 1977 World Championship winning Suzuki XR14 (RG500) Grand Prix bikes have been brought over from his Australian home, the first time in over 20 years they have been in this country and will be ridden at the event by Steve Parrish and Mick Grant. The latest addition to the collection is a 1975 RG500 with the engine used by Barry at Assen, Netherlands to give Suzuki and himself their first 500cc Grand Prix victory. Other Sheene bikes include; Bultaco TSS, 2 x Seeley Suzuki TR500, 3 x Fred Walmsley Manx Norton’s and a further 4 of Barry’s Suzuki RG500’s, a XR05 from 1974, a 1975 XR14, a 1983 XR40 and a1984 XR45. In addition to the superb Sheene Paddock there will be a collection of 20 racers from the 1920/30’s on display in the ‘Brooklands Paddock’. A further race bike paddock will be home to over 50 race machines, taking part in cavalcades throughout the day including; Bakker Suzuki GSXR Manx Norton 350 BSA 500 Sidecar Matchless G50 Dresda Honda 750 Rickman Metisse Kawasaki Dresda Kawasaki 900 Rudge 350 Ducati 900 SS Rob North BSA Rocket 3. Franco Morini Special 50cc Royal Enfield GP5 Honda 250/4 Seeley 500 Sidecar Honda 400/4 Seeley Suzuki TR500 Honda CR 93 Replica Suzuki GSXR 600 Honda CR110 Suzuki GSXR 750 Honda CYB 72 Suzuki RG 500 Honda Fireblade Suzuki TR500 Honda RC 145 Replica TriBSA T650 Honda RC 171 Replica Triumph Thunderbird Honda RC 181 Replica Triumph Thunderbird Outfit Honda RS125 Triumph Thunderbird Outfit Honda RS 250 Yamaha RD 350 Kawasaki 250 Yamaha TZ 250 Kawasaki AR50 Moped Racer Yamaha TZ 350 Kawasaki H1R Racer Kawasaki Z1000 Plus Mike Hailwood’s TT winning Honda 250/4 and Mick Grant’s Kawasaki 750. With this huge variety of machinery taking part and the many different sounds produced by the bikes will create an awesome atmosphere in the close confines of the Town Centre. Away from the paddocks there will be bands and solo artists performing a variety of music throughout the day on the stage alongside the Clock Towers Shopping Centre. On the same stage there will be an auction, with all proceeds going to MENCAP, items to be auctioned include many racing memorabilia, from both 70/80’s and modern day era. The day will start at approximately 1030hrs when riders participating in the National Rally are shown the chequered flag for completing their set distances and will then embark on a ‘lap’ of the Town Centre. Kevin Carmichael will be entertaining the crowds with his stunt display around part of the closed public roads circuit. In Caldecott Park, adjacent to the Sheene Paddock, Martin Crosswaite and his Team will be demonstrating their skills in the X-Treme Trials Display. On Saturday Evening many members of the public will be dining with friends and associates of Barry Sheene’s racing career at a Black Tie Dinner. VIP guests include friend and team mate Steve Parrish, Barry’s mechanic Martyn Ogbourne, Fred Walmsley owner/builder of Barry’s last racing machines, frame builder Colin Seeley and former racers John Cooper and Mick Grant. Some of Barry’s will be on display at the dinner. A few places are still available, call Tania on 01788 566415. Neil Hellings said, “This years event has come together extremely well and both Rugby Borough Council and the ACU are committed to making it a success and ensuring The Sheene Run becomes an annual event. Unfortunately, circumstances have prevented Stephanie from joining us this year, but her willingness to attend next years event will give everybody a terrific boost for raising the standard yet again”. For further enquiries on the Sheene Run please contact Tania or Becky on 01788 566415 or via e-mail [email protected].

F-USA Will Still Run At Loudon Even If AMA Returns

According to Formula USA boss Kevin Elliott, F-USA will return to New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS) in Loudon, New Hampshire even if the Speedway’s attempts to regain its traditional Father’s Day AMA National date are successful. F-USA currently races on that weekend, which previously hosted AMA Nationals. Elliott said that he has discussed the situation with NHIS management and that F-USA would run at the track on the weekend before the AMA National, as it does at Daytona. But while local news outlets have run enthusiastic reports headlining the possible return of the AMA Superbike Series to NHIS, the track faces an uphill battle. An AMA delegation consisting of AMA Superbike Series Manager Ron Barrick, AMA Superbike Champion Mat Mladin and former 500cc World Champion Kevin Schwantz recently visited the track to discuss possible changes to the course. Mladin drew a proposed course map that would require extensive track modifications, including the use of removeable pit wall sections along the front straight, in the approach to turn one of the road course. Other proposed modifications would change the outfield section of the course and move the re-entry to the infield, providing run-off room for turn three of the road course.

Pirelli Road Racing Coordinator Quits

Pirelli Road Racing Coordinator Bob Henderson has quit and is returning to the communications industry as a sales engineer. Henderson, a club racer, gave notice last Wednesday. He spent Sunday, his last day with Pirelli, working at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Henderson started working for Pirelli in January.

Updated Post: Jensen, Jeff Wood, Estok, Barnes Win F-USA, CCS Races At VIR

Kneedraggers.com’s Robert Jensen won two Formula USA races Sunday at Virginia International Raceway (VIR), near Danville, Virginia, while Arclight Suzuki’s Jeff Wood and Millville & Wildwood Harley-Davidson/Buell’s Dave Estok each won a single race during changeable weather conditions. Jensen won the wet Superbike race on his Michelin-rain-tire-equipped Yamaha YZF-R6, and later won the dry Formula Sportbike race on his Suzuki GSX-R750. Arclight Suzuki’s Jeff Wood finished second to Jensen in Superbike and Formula Sportbike but made a dramatic come-from-behind move to beat Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Geoff May by 0.006 second in Sportbike. The Thunderbike final was started on a wet-but-quickly-drying track. Estok made the best choice of Pirelli tires and won going away over Hal’s Performance Buell’s Dan Bilansky and CAD Racing’s Darren Danilowicz, who rode a Suzuki SV650. May and teammate Michael Barnes (who crashed out of the wet Superbike race earlier in the day) slugged it out on their GSX-R1000 AMA Superstock-spec bikes in the CCS Unlimited Grand Prix. In preparation for the AMA National at VIR later this year, each rider was testing a different compound of rear Pirelli tire, and Barnes made the most of his tire to win. May finished a close second. Jensen was a distant third on his Suzuki GSX-R750. Race Results From Virginia International Raceway (VIR): F-USA Sportbike: 1. Jeff Wood (Suz GSX-R600), 15 laps 2. Geoff May (Suz GSX-R600), -0.006 second 3. Michael Himmelsbach (Yam YZF-R6) 4. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6RR) 5. Robert Jensen (Yam YZF-R6) 6. Scott Harwell (Suz GSX-R600) 7. Ryan Elleby (Suz GSX-R600) 8. Adam Dolney (Yam YZF-R6) 9. Brandon Parrish (Suz GSX-R600) 10. Brent Lilly (Hon CBR600RR) 11. Adam Swetlow (Kaw ZX-6), -1 lap 12. Jonathan Lawrence (Yam YZF-R6), -2 laps 13. Bob Michael (Suz GSX-R600), -7 laps 14. Joshua Wohlstein (Suz GSX-R600), -7 laps 15. Scott Harwood (Hon CBR600), -10 laps F-USA Superbike: 1. Robert Jensen (Yam YZF-R6), 16 laps 2. Jeff Wood (Suz GSX-R600), crash, -32.496 seconds 3. Trey Yonce (Yam YZF-R) 4. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6R) 5. Geoff May (Suz GSX-R600) 6. Michael Himmelsbach (Yam YZF-R6) 7. Adam Dolney (Yam YZF-R6) 8. Brandon Parrish (Suz GSX-R600) 9. Ryan Patterson (Yam YZF-R6), -1 lap 10. Chris Rockwell (Yam YZF-R6), -2 laps 11. Robert Lombardi (Suz GSX-R600), -2 laps 12. Scott Harwell (Suz GSX-R600), -9 laps, DNF, mechanical 13. Michael Barnes (Suz GSX-R600), -14 laps, DNF, crash F-USA Formula Sportbike: 1. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R750), 16 laps 2. Jeff Wood (Suz GSX-R750), -20.113 seconds 3. Jesse Janisch (Suz GSX-R750) 4. Scott Harwell (Suz GSX-R750) 5. Joseph Spina (Suz GSX-R750) 6. Scott Carpenter (Suz GSX-R750) 7. Joe Ribeiro (Suz GSX-R750) 8. Brandon Parrish (Suz GSX-R750), -1 lap 9. Rick Beggs (Kaw ZX-6), -8 laps, DNF, retired F-USA Thunderbike: 1. Dave Estok (Buell XB12R), 12 laps 2. Dan Bilansky (Buell XB12R), -13.719 seconds 3. Darren Danilowicz (Suz SV650) 4. David Yaakov (Suz SV650) 5. Sam Rozynski (Buell XB12R) 6. Walt Sipp (Buell XB12R) 7. Joseph Romano (Duc 748) 8. Clint Brotz (Buell XB12R) 9. Joe Rozynski (Buell XB12R) 10. Gary Bunner (Duc 748), -1 lap 11. Matthew Buck (Suz SV650), -1 lap 12. Mark Evry (Suz SV650), -1 lap 13. Russell Masecar (Suz SV650), -2 laps, DNF, crash 14. Bryan Bemisderfer (Buell XB12R), -8 laps, DNF, mechanical CCS Unlimited Grand Prix: 1. Michael Barnes (Suz GSX-R1000), 7 laps 2. Geoff May (Suz GSX-R1000), -1.69 seconds 3. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R750) 4. Jesse Janisch (Suz GSX-R750) 5. Scott Carpenter (Suz GSX-R1000) 6. Joseph Spina (Suz GSX-R750) 7. Joe Ribeiro (Suz GSX-R750) 8. Kenny Rodriguez (Hon CBR1000RR) 9. Brent Lilly (Hon CBR600RR) 10. Arnold Hastings (Suz GSX-R750) 11. Matthew Huber (Hon CBR1000RR) 12. Tony Sawyer (Duc 998) 13. Donald Martin (Hon CBR954RR)

Pirovano Wins Misano Round Of Suzuki GSX-R European Cup Series

Italian Wild Card rider Fabrizio Pirovano won the third round of the Suzuki GSX-R European Cup at Misano today in front of 52,000 enthusiastic World Superbike fans. The 45-year-old former World Championship rider grabbed the lead on his GSX-R750 Suzuki in the closing stages from 26-year-old Spaniard Carmelo Morales to take the flag by two seconds, but was not eligible for points under the series rules. Morales led the opening lap; Pirovano took over for four laps before Morales once again hit the front. Pirovano – who hasn’t ridden competitively for four years – then shadowed the Spaniard for six laps before overtaking him with two laps remaining. By then, every rider had been experiencing tyre problems – due to the heat and high humidity at the San Marino circuit – and Morales decided to settle for second place as knew Pirovano would not earn any points. Third today was South African Hudson Kennaugh, ahead of David Salom, Andrea Masoni and Team Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra’s teenage Superstock 600 rider Xavier Simeon. Despite brake problems and an early collision in the race, which saw 14th at the end of the first lap, the Belgian fought back to take sixth place. Said Simeon: “I got hit early on and so I was only 14th at the end of lap one. I put my head down and just rode as hard as I could, but brake problems prevented me pushing even harder. Considering the start, I am pretty happy with my result today.” Top UK rider was Mike Edwards in eighth position with Magnus Houston 21st and Robert Barber a non finisher after crashing. Fast Bikes Magazine representative Edwards, who now holds eighth in the series with two rounds to go, said: “It was an excellent result for me and I had a great race in the group of riders I was with although I couldn’t match the pace of the leaders. The bike was running really well and this was the first time I’d raced on the new Pirelli tyres as I missed the last round where they changed. However, my school report to myself says ‘I must try harder’ ” Houston, who is 18th in the series, said: “I really enjoyed the race. It was interesting learning a new circuit like Misano but I need to go faster.” Barber, who still lies 14th despite his no-points score, said: “I was pleased with the way the race was going. My lap times were improving and I was really comfortable on the bike. But it was extremely hot out there and I ended up losing the front end and crashing. I suspect that I had the rebound damping set too hard for the track.” Misano Suzuki GSX-R Cup Results: 1 Fabrizio Pirovano (Italy) 21: 53.102, 2 Carmelo Morales (Spain) 21:55.213, 3 Hudson Kennaugh (South Africa) 22:05.698, 4 David Salom (Spain) 22:05.698, 5 Andrea Masoni (Italy) 22.12.171, 6 Xavier Simeon (Belgium) 22:24.603, 7 Joshua Noel Forster (Australia) 22: 25.022, 8 Mike Edwards (UK) 22:25.272, 9 Ron Van Steenbergen (Holland) 22:26.376, 10 Oliver Skatch (Germany) 22:28.652. Championship Points (after 3 of 5 Rounds): 1 Kennaugh 65, 2 Morales 58, 3 Salom 54, 4 Fouloi 32, 5 Forster 27, 6 Ortega 25, 7 Simeon 24, 8 Edwards 21, 9 Lammert 20, 10 Skach 16, 11 Mahr 16, 12 Steenbergen 15, 13 Dell’Omo 14, 14 Barber 13, 15 Taipale 10, 16 Pasini 3, 17 Brivio 3, 18 Houston 3, 19 Rodrigues 1.

Kiyonari Wins Both British Superbike Races At Knockhill

Rizla Suzuki’s John Reynolds proved the injury that has dogged him all season is now history after claiming hard-fought sixth and seventh place finishes in today’s seventh round of the British Superbike Championship at a sun-drenched Knockhill circuit in Scotland. In front of a bumper crowd of 20,000 fans, Reynolds took seventh in the opening race after being in contention for the podium for most of the 30-laps. And in race two, he forced himself to be more aggressive and was running comfortably in fourth and challenging for third until getting tangled with back-makers. He brought his GSX-R1000 race machine home sixth for a new season personal best result. New team mate James Haydon crashed out of fourth early in the opening race and in the second event; he started on his spare bike and suffered brake problems from the outset, dropping to 12th before showing his fighting spirit and climbing back to eighth by the chequered flag. Honda’s Ryuichi Kiyonari won both races. John Reynolds: “I am proving that no matter who you are, even if you are the champion, you cannot afford to take eight months off from racing and expect to return and win races straight away. It just isn’t possible when you are racing some of the best riders in the world. “The good news is that I am on the comeback trail and have made enormous progress this weekend. I’m still not as sharp as I would like to be but that is coming back quickly – from race one to two there was a noticeable improvement. My Rizla Suzuki is great, the team has supported me through thick and thin and now we are close to getting the results we deserve. I think it could all come good at Snetterton and that’s what I am aiming for.” James Haydon: “In race one I ran into Butchers corner a bit hot and lost the front end while in fourth. That was really frustrating as my Rizla Suzuki felt great and I was up for a fight. “Right from the start in race two my front brakes were not as consistent or powerful as I was used to in the first race. It took me several laps to gauge the braking power and distance and by then was back in 12th. Once I got going I was able to move up through the field and post fast lap times, which is encouraging. I think we have made good progress with my Rizla Suzuki this weekend – roll on Snetterton.” Dave Marton – Technical Support: “Rizla Suzuki goes to Croft for a single day Dunlop test on Tuesday in a positive mood. ‘JR’ is coming back to form and in race two today he was consistently fast lap after lap and showed great aggression. More time on his bike is what he needs and that will sharpen him up for the second half of the season. “James made enormous progress throughout the weekend and is showing an incredible turn of speed on his Rizla Suzuki. At the Croft test, James will have more track time to acquaint himself with the bike and that will pay dividends. “Overall an impressive effort from both riders and the team and our best results of the season to date when you look at the meeting as a whole. We are closer to the front-runners than at any other time this year and the momentum is now moving forward. We’ll be looking for a similar step-up in performance when we race at Snetterton in two week’s time.” Race One Result: 1: Ryuichi Kiyonari (Honda) 25:04.260, 2: Michael Rutter (Honda) +12.538, 3: Michael Laverty (Honda) +24.692, 4: Glen Richards (Kawasaki) +26.361, 5: Leon Haslam (Ducati) +26.732, 6: Gregorio Lavilla (Ducati) +27.393, 7: John Reynolds (Rizla Suzuki) +30.496, 8: Karl Harris (Honda) +38.125, 9: Gary Mason (Honda) +40.659, 10: Dean Thomas (Kawasaki) +41.473. James Haydon (Rizla Suzuki) DNF. Race Two Result: 1: Kiyonari 25:06.287, 2: Rutter+7.122, 3: Lavilla +15.522, 4: Laverty +16.690, 5: Haslam +17.473, 6: John Reynolds (Rizla Suzuki) +19.148, 7: Richards +21.524, 8: James Haydon (Rizla Suzuki) +25.697, 9: Jonathan Rea (Honda) +26.633, 10: Thomas +27.074. Championship Positions (after seven rounds): 1: Rutter 275, 2: Kiyonari 232, 3: Lavilla 216, 4: Richards 160, 5: Haslam 152, 6: Harris 115, 7: Thomas 97, 8: Laverty 93, 9: Mason 82, 10: Sean Emmett (Yamaha) 79, 13: James Haydon (Rizla Suzuki) 43, 14: John Reynolds (Rizla Suzuki) 39.

Updated Post: Kcraget Sweeps 250cc, 125cc USGPRU Races At VIR

NESBA.com’s Brian Kcraget came out of semi-retirement to ride his Speedwerks.com-sponsored Hondas to wins in the USGPRU 125cc and 250cc Grands Prix Sunday at Virginia International Raceway. In the 125cc GP, Kcraget held off Veloce Racing/Bruce Lind Racing Aprilia’s Nobi Iso and Team Stargel Aprilia’s Garrett Carter to win the 32-rider contest by 1.878 seconds on his 1996 Honda RS125. Kcraget won the 19-entry 250cc GP by 1.508 seconds on a Honda RS250, beating former AMA 250cc GP regular Sean Wray, who was closing on his Mobilesecure/A-1 Sports Center Yamaha TZ250, and Bill Himmelsbach, 56, who finished third on his Champion Sportbike Club/Martin Moto Yamaha TZ250. USGPRU Race Results: 250cc GP: 1. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS250), 12 laps 2. Sean Wray (Yam TZ250), -1.508 seconds 3. Bill Himmelsbach (Yam TZ250) 4. Josh Day (Yam TZ250) 5. Kory Gill (Yam TZ250) 6. Jim Bonner (Yam TZ250) 7. Joseph Melchionda (Yam TZ250) 8. Turu Illgen (Yam TZ250) 9. Paul Hoyt Nelson (Hon RS250) 10. David Matthews (Yam TZ250) 11. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125) 12. John Klara (Hon RS125) 13. J. Pat Bartlett (Yam TZ250), -1 lap penalty (start line infraction) 14. Ryan Clay (Apr RS125), -1 lap 15. Darrin Kuebler (Hon RS125), -1 lap 16. Shellie Matthews (Hon RS125), -1 lap 17. Nobi Iso (Yam TZ250), -2 laps, DNF, crash 18. James Whitaker (Hon RS250), -11 laps, DNF DQ. Garrett Carter (Apr RS250) (failed to report to post-race tech) 125cc GP: 1. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS250), 12 laps 2. Nobi Iso (Apr RS125), -1.878 seconds 3. Garrett Carter (Apr RS125) 4. Josh Day (Hon RS125) 5. David Celento (Hon RS125) 6. Ryan Clay (Apr RS125) 7. John Hjelm (Hon RS125) 8. Matthew Cooper (Hon RS125) 9. Joanne Sawyer (Hon RS125) 10. Merel Eschman (Hon RS125) 11. Michael Santelia (Hon RS125) 12. John Klaras (Hon RS125) 13. Steve Gorrell (Hon RS125) 14. Joseph Melchionda (Hon RS125) 15. Glen Pison (Hon RS125) 16. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125) 17. Chris Marshall (Hon RS125) 18. Paul Hoyt Nelson (Hon RS125), -1 lap 19. Richie Kjar (Hon RS125), -1 lap 20. Andre Esser (Hon RS125), -1 lap 21. Rebecca Henn (Hon RS125), -1 lap 22. Bill Clery (Hon RS125), -1 lap 23. Duane Hixon (Hon RS125), -1 lap 24. Shellie Matthews (Hon RS125), -1 lap 25. Dane Walther (Hon RS125), -1 lap 26. James Bergey (Hon RS125), -1 lap 27. Darrin Kuebler (Hon RS125), -1 lap 28. Kyurim Rhee (Hon RS125), -1 lap 29. Alessandro Acquisti (Yam TZ125), -2 laps 30. Chris Vest (Hon RS125), -3 laps 31. Brian Burton (Hon RS125), -4 laps 32. Lee Hollimon (Hon RS125), -7 laps

Team Velocity Racing Won WERA National Endurance Series 4-hour Saturday At Las Vegas

Team Velocity Racing riders Ruben Frankenfield, Mark Crozier and Chuck Ivey took the overall and Heavyweight Superstock class win in the fifth round of the Dunlop/WERA National Endurance at Las Vegas International Speedway’s Classic Course, Saturday, June 25th.

Vesrah Suzuki led the 25-rider field at the start of the 4-hour race, followed by Red Star, Team Eclipse and Velocity Racing. Vesrah Suzuki quickly pulled away with rider Tray Batey turning laps in the low 1:19-range to put a one-lap lead on Velocity Racing at the end of the first hour.

But just past the one-hour mark the Vesrah Suzuki GSX-R1000 experienced an electrical problem, dropping the team back 15 laps on Red Star, the new leader when Velocity Racing pitted 62 minutes into the race

Yamaha YZF-R6-mounted Red Star continued to put in a strong run, leading until the just over an hour to go when Velocity Racing recovered from a slow first pit stop to retake the lead. Shortly thereafter Red Star suffered an engine failure, 130 laps into the race.

As this went on, Vesrah Suzuki reeled in the leaders at a rapid pace until the electrical gremlin showed up again, costing the team several more laps and resulting in a finish of 20th overall.

Team Velocity went on to take the overall and Heavyweight Superstock win, completing 171 laps in four hours, becoming the first team other than Vesrah Suzuki to win a WERA National Endurance Series race this season.

Velocity Racing was followed at the line by the Advance Kawasaki team of Robbie Dowie, Stuart Smith and Will Eikenberry, just over two laps back, in their second-ever WERA endurance race, while Nathan Dressman and Randy Sherman took the Bell’s ARNCHU Suzuki team to their first overall podium, finishing third, and taking first in the Heavyweight Superbike class.

Recovering from a fall mid-race, Army of Darkness riders Ben Walters, Scott Fisher and Sam Fleming took the Middleweight Superbike win, finishing fifth overall, just over five laps down. Derek Keyes, Chris Pyles and Bruce Stranford rode the Dixie Mafia Suzuki GSX-R600 to the Middleweight Superstock win, finishing just over 27 seconds behind AOD in sixth overall.

Blue Ridge Performance’s Martin Musil and Zoran Vujasinovic took the Lightweight Superbike class win, finishing 12th overall on their Suzuki SV650, 11 laps down on the overall leaders.