Thursday’s Provisional 125cc GP Qualifying Results: 1. Mattia PASINI, Aprilia, 2:12.742 2. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 2:12.745 3. Sergio GADEA, Aprilia, 2:13.170 4. Marco SIMONCELLI, Aprilia, 2:13.370 5. Julian SIMON, KTM, 2:13.403 6. Alexis MASBOU, Honda, 2:13.407 7. Hector FAUBEL, Aprilia, 2:13.459 8. Mike DI MEGLIO, Honda, 2:13.926 9. Manuel POGGIALI, Gilera, 2:13.938 10. Thomas LUTHI, Honda, 2:13.957
Thursday Morning MotoGP Practice Times: 1. Valentino ROSSI, Yamaha, 2:01.003 2. Sete GIBERNAU, Honda, 2:01.736 3. Loris CAPIROSSI, Ducati, 2:01.758 4. Nicky HAYDEN, Honda, 2:01.946 5. Marco MELANDRI, Honda, 2:02.077 6. Colin EDWARDS, Yamaha, 2:02.117 7. Alex HOFMANN, Kawasaki, 2:02.409 8. Carlos CHECA, Ducati, 2:02.449 9. Alex BARROS, Honda, 2:02.628 10. Shinya NAKANO, Kawasaki, 2:02.862 11. Ruben XAUS, Yamaha, 2:02.986 12. Max BIAGGI, Honda, 2:03.015 13. John HOPKINS, Suzuki, 2:03.116 14. Troy BAYLISS, Honda, 2:03.360 15. Kenny ROBERTS, Suzuki, 2:04.297 16. Makoto TAMADA, Honda, 2:04.766 17. David CHECA, Yamaha, 2:05.055 18. Roberto ROLFO, Ducati, 2:06.437 19. Shane BYRNE, Proton KR, 2:07.188 20. Franco BATTAINI, Blata, 2:08.079 21. James ELLISON, Blata, 2:08.756
Screwing with confirmed hotel reservations for a race weekend at Laguna Seca is nothing new. Here’s a local newspaper’s story on a case from a couple of years ago… ~http://www.montereyherald.com/mld/montereyherald/news/local/4879176.htm~
CAROLINA GP JAM 2005 presented by BMW-Ducati Motorcycles of Charlotte Sunday July 10, 7:00-7:00 Carolina Motorsports Park Kershaw SC Come and enjoy a special day at the track with BMW-Ducati of Charlotte. The event will feature a full day of track riding, a BBQ lunch, and the live viewing of the Red Bull USGP from Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on SIX widescreen TVs, all in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort! We will also have free camping in the track infield Saturday night, a DJ to set a festive party mood, interactive video games, Continental breakfast on Sunday morning, and even some cool door prizes. We will also have professional cornerworkers, two ambulances and skilled on-track staff to ensure safety. For more information, rules, downloadable forms and tech and safety requirements please visit www.bmw-ducati.com or call 704-882-6106 for more information. We plan to make a sizeable donation ($3000-$5000) to the Roadracing World Action Fund (for Airfence) with the surplus from this event.
Chicago, IL June 24-26 Chicago Cycle Grand Opening! 100,000 square foot facility! Las Vegas Extremes is coming to ~http://www.ChicagoCycle.com~ Chicago Cycle, Chicago IL, June 24-26th, 2005. Raffles, Door Prizes, Giveaways FREE FOOD and DRINK!!! There will also be very Hot Deals on Bikes and Accessories! Come meet and hang out with Pauly and the Las Vegas Extremes. Introducing Kydd, the newest female member of Las Vegas Extremes.
Special Advance-Ticket Offers for Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals at VIR Alton, Va. (June 22) – When the AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited returns to VIRginia International Raceway this year, a lot will be different. The event will have a new name, the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals, a new date, August 26-28, a new promoter in RPM Promotions and lots of added features including trackside jumbotron screens, an expanded vendor village, stunt shows, a fan party and more. Another new feature will be the Tiki Man Promotion offered to fans who purchase their tickets early. While supplies last, each fan who purchases an admission ticket prior to July 8 can choose from one of four free items: free parking (cars only), a free official event t-shirt, a free official event program or a free parade lap of the VIR circuit. “We’re really excited about promoting the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals at VIR,” said RPM Promotions vice-president Cameron Gray. “We plan to make this the premier event on the AMA Superbike circuit, and we’re making this offer to our fans to let them know that we mean business. We have the best motorcycle road racing in America at one of the world’s most beautiful racing facilities. We have the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable fans in all of motorsport, and this offer is just the first step in showing our appreciation to them. “We will have more announcements in the weeks to come regarding extra features that we will be providing to our fans, and they will be spectacular, so stay tuned!” There are a number of advance ticket packages available for the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals at VIR. Advance packages include the Flag Room (three-day admission, paddock access, car parking pass, official event program and hospitality on Saturday and Sunday), for $140; Youth Flag Room (5-12 years of age) for $50; the Big Kahuna Super Ticket (three-day admission, paddock and pit walk pass, lap of track, car parking pass and official 2005 Big Kahuna t-shirt) for $99; three-day general admission with paddock access for $55; and pit walk passes (limited availability, good for all practice and qualifying sessions, requires closed-toe shoes) for $30. At the gate, ticket availability will be limited to three-day passes for $60, single-day tickets (Friday only) for $10 and pit walk passes for $40. To purchase advance tickets, visit www.virclub.com or www.rpmcolorado.com. The event schedule will include three days of racing action, including two feature races for the headlining AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited as well as feature races for the supporting classes including the Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei, AMA Repsol Lubricants Superstock Series and Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Series. VIRginia International Raceway is a multi-purpose road racing facility, located on the Dan River between Danville and South Boston, Va., and just north of historic Milton, N.C. In addition to its 3.27-mile natural-terrain road racing circuit (designed to be operated as two autonomous, full-service courses), VIR is the cornerstone of VIR Club, America’s first motorsports country club; the VIR Raceplex Industrial Park; the VIR Gallery, which is a sales showroom for high-end collector and racing cars; the VIR Safety and Security Institute, which provides specialized training for U.S. Government and military groups; The Lodge at VIR, a 27-room hotel overlooking the track; and the Oak Tree Tavern, a full-service restaurant located within the circa-1840 Plantation Clubhouse. VIR made history from 1957 to 1974 and is doing so again. The 2.25-mile VIR North Course circuit on which the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals will take place has 17 challenging turns and 130 feet of elevation change. In addition to spectator events, the track is also available to rent for testing, driving schools and club days. For more information on VIRginia International Raceway, visit the track’s website at www.virclub.com or contact VIR at 434-822-7700. For more information on RPM Promotions, visit their website at www.rpmcolorado.com or contact them via telephone at 303-377-3278. For more information on the AMA Superbike Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited, visit their website at www.ussuperbike.com.
JR focused on the podium at Knockhill RIZLA SUZUKI’S John Reynolds knows exactly what he needs to do to get on the podium when he races in the seventh round of the British Superbike Championship at Knockhill in Scotland this Sunday, June 26th. The reigning British Superbike Champion completed a productive test day at Donington Park last week and plans to use the second half of the racing season to prove he is a force to be reckoned with. “I am now completely focused on fighting for podium places at Knockhill and for the rest of the season,” explained JR. “And I know where I can find a lot of performance straight away – from within myself. “I have not really raced all season because of my leg injury and now it is healed and it is not a factor any more. I have the ability, I have my Rizla Suzuki and now I need to dig very, very deep and make that extra commitment that is required to be a Champion. I’ve done it before and I’ll do it again and Knockhill is the race meeting where I am coming out more determined than ever before.” Alongside a revitalized JR is new Rizla Suzuki rider James Haydon. He has stepped into the team for the rest of the season to replace Scott Smart and is keen to see what he can achieve with his GSX-R1000 after setting competitive lap times in last week’s Donington test. James said: “This for me is the start of my season. I now belong to the best team, have a bike that is mine and mine alone and I have an opportunity to prove myself. I absolutely cannot wait to get racing at Knockhill. “Last year I won and finished second in the races at Knockhill and I like the circuit, it’s just ace. I’m going to do my talking on track and would advise the fans to come and watch the racing – it’s going to be worth it.” Superbike racing starts at 1:15pm on Sunday, June 26th, at Knockhill, near Edinburgh in Scotland. It will be shown on Sky Sports 3 at 18:30 on the same day. A highlights package will be broadcast by Channel 4 one week later.
AMA Superbike Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca – July 8-10, 2005 Friday, July 8 8:00am-8:30am Pro Honda Oils Supersport presented by Shoei Helmets Practice 9:00am-11:00am Moto GP Free Practice 1 11:10am-11:40am Superstars of Super Karts Practice 11:55am-12:45pm AMA Superbike presented by Parts Unlimited Practice 12:45pm-1:30pm Lunch Break 1:00pm Mandatory Rider Briefing at Tech Inspection 1:30pm-3:00pm Moto GP Free Practice 2 3:15pm-3:50pm Superstars of Super Karts Practice 4:00pm-5:00pm Repsol Lubricants Superstock Practice Saturday, July 9 8:30am-8:50am Superstars of Super Karts Warm-up 9:00am-9:30am Repsol Lubricants Superstock Qualifying 10:00am-11:00am Moto GP Free Practice 3 11:15am-11:40am Superstars of Super Karts Qualifying 11:50am-12:30pm AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Qualifying 12:30pm-1:30pm Lunch Break 2:00pm-3:00pm Moto GP Qualifying 3:10pm-3:35pm Superstars of Super Karts Race 3:45pm-4:20pm Pro Honda Oils Supersport presented by Shoei Helmets Practice 4:35pm AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Race (28 laps, 100k) Sunday, July 10 9:00am-9:30am Repsol Lubricants Superstock Practice 10:00am-10:20am Moto GP Warm-up 10:40am-11:10am Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Qualifying 11:30am Repsol Lubricants Superstock Race (17 laps, 60k) Noon-12:30pm Track Entertainment 12:35pm-1:30pm Lunch Break 2:00pm Moto GP Race (28 laps) 3:30pm Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Race (17 laps, 60k)
Virginia Festival of Speed Returns to VIR This Weekend Alton, Va. (June 22) Two-wheeled enthusiasts in the Southside Virginia area have a treat in store this weekend, June 24-26, as Formula USA and the Championship Cup Series return to beautiful VIRginia International Raceway for the fifth annual Virginia Festival of Speed. Formula USA is a premier motorcycle road racing organization for professional riders. The Championship Cup Series has been the leader in Sportsman level motorcycle road racing since 1984. The Virginia Festival of Speed will provide a combination of the best sportsman and professional motorcycle road racers going handlebar-to-handlebar at up to 160mph over the 2.25-mile VIR North Course for their share of more than $190,000 in purse and prizes. “VIR is truly one of the favorite venues for the competitors in the Championship Cup Series and Formula USA,” said series promotions manager Ryan Hoyler. “The facility is just beautiful, and the track layout demands that our riders have both finesse and horsepower if they hope for a win. Formula USA events always provide the highest level of competition as pros dash for cash and prizes, and the fans are in for a great weekend of racing.” Jeff Wood has dominated Formula USA this season, as he seems to break lap records and climb to the top of the podium at every track. Wood had to squeeze a little more from his Suzuki last weekend at New Hampshire International Speedway when Robert Jensen’s Yamaha shadowed him almost every race. Jensen, the 2004 Formula USA Champion, stole the checkered flag in the Formula Sportbike event. Fans can expect fierce competition between these two at VIR. The action will get underway on Friday morning with practice sessions for all groups. Racing will start at noon with a 250km race for the FUSA Team Challenge competitors, followed by sprint races for the CCS groups. Saturday’s schedule includes warm-ups in the morning, with seven-lap CCS feature races starting at noon. The day will conclude with 15-minute qualifying sessions for the Formula USA groups. Sunday morning will have warm-ups followed by another group of seven-lap CCS sprint races, with the Formula USA feature races commencing at noon. Tickets for the Virginia Festival of Speed will be available at the gate, priced at $35 for a three-day ticket, $25 for a two-day (Saturday and Sunday) ticket and $15 for a single-day (Sunday) ticket. Children under 12 are admitted free with a paying adult. Ticket prices include onsite parking and pedestrian paddock access. Camping fees are $25 for the weekend. VIRginia International Raceway is a multi-purpose road racing facility, located on the Dan River between Danville and South Boston, Va., and just north of historic Milton, N.C. In addition to its 3.27-mile natural-terrain road racing circuit (designed to be operated as two autonomous, full-service courses), VIR is the cornerstone of VIR Club, America’s first motorsports country club; the VIR Raceplex Industrial Park; the VIR Gallery, which is a sales showroom for high-end collector and racing cars; the VIR Safety and Security Institute, which provides specialized training for U.S. Government and military groups; The Lodge at VIR, a 27-room hotel overlooking the track; and the Oak Tree Tavern, a full-service restaurant located within the circa-1840 Plantation Clubhouse. VIR made history from 1957 to 1974 and is doing so again. The renovated original circuit has 17 challenging turns and 130 feet of elevation change. In addition to spectator events, the track is also available to rent for testing, driving schools and club days. For more information, visit the track’s website at www.virclub.com or contact VIR at 434-822-7700. For more information on Formula USA and the Championship Cup Series, visit their website at www.formulausa.com.
SPEED CHANNEL RENEWS LIFESTYLE SHOWS UNIQUE WHIPS, BUILD OR BUST PINKS, TEXAS HARDTAILS DEBUT NEXT WEEK SPEED Channel VP of Programming Robert Ecker announced today the network has renewed both Unique Whips and Build or Bust for second seasons. “We are extremely pleased that both Unique Whips and Build or Bust will be returning to the SPEED lineup with all-new episodes beginning next spring,” Ecker said. “Audience response to these enthusiast-themed programs has been very gratifying, and with the impending launch of both Pinks (June 29, 8 p.m. ET) and Texas Hardtails (June 28, 8:30 p.m. ET) we continue to affirm our commitment to this segment of our viewership. Looking ahead, we currently are identifying additional properties for future seasons that will further bolster the SPEED brand within this category.” Unique Whips (Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET), shot on location at the New York celebrity car customizing shop of Will Castro, featured season-one appearances by A-list athletes and entertainers, including tennis great Jennifer Capriati, NY Yankees sluggers Jason Giambi and Ruben Sierra, NBA stars Carmelo Anthony, Marcus Camby and Jermaine O’Neal, NFL standouts Lavar Arrington and Byron Leftwich and hip-hop artists Jadakiss and Fat Joe. “Season one was a hell of an experience — I didn’t realize what kind of impact the show would have on the industry,” said Castro, owner of Long Island’s Unique Autosports. “But getting out there on SPEED took our work mainstream and introduced our style and our crew to the entire country. “We were a little nervous about putting our business out there in season one, but I think the entire crew is looking forward to season two,” Castro added. “The SPEED viewers are going to see a lot more of the Unique craftsmanship that goes into celebrity cars. I think everyone, including our clients, will be a lot more comfortable with the cameras around and by the end of season two, there will be no doubt as to why Unique stands head and shoulders above some of the other customizing shops.” The 12 new Unique Whips episodes planned for season two will give viewers a look at even more stars and their Unique cars, with plans to include appearances by entertainers Jessica Simpson, Pamela Anderson and Busta Rhymes and NBA standout Vince Carter. Build or Bust, created and produced by A Band Apart’s Scott Gillen, also was given the green light on 11 new episodes to begin next spring. The one-hour show takes an average person with an interest in designing and building his or her own motorcycle, matches them up with a renowned master builder and gives them 30 days to build a bike from the ground up. If the job is completed to the master builder’s satisfaction within the allotted time, they get to keep the bike. If not, they walk away bruised and empty-handed. Beginning June 28, Build or Bust moves to Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET, strategically positioning it with SPEED Channel’s other motorcycle enthusiast fare, including 2 Wheel Tuesday (7:30 p.m. ET), American Thunder (8 p.m. ET) and the first season of Texas Hardtails (8:30 p.m. ET). “I am thrilled by the show’s success and excited about our plans for a second season on SPEED,” Gillen said. “Build or Bust is sometimes raw, sometimes a little harsh, but that’s because it’s real — and that’s why people love the show. In the new season, we plan to introduce Build or Bust’s very own shop that will feature everything a custom motorcycle builder might need to create the bike of his or her dreams. We look forward to a long run.” Exile Cycles master builder Russell Mitchell, who starred in most of the season-one episodes, plans to return for season two. “The first season of Build or Bust was a lot of fun,” Mitchell said. “I had a great time working with the wide array of interesting characters who participated. I particularly enjoyed watching their efforts to do in 30 days what it has taken me a lifetime to learn.” SPEED Channel is the nation’s first and foremost cable network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED Channel delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in nearly 70 million homes in North America, SPEED Channel is among the fastest growing sports cable networks in the country.
Thursday’s Provisional 125cc GP Qualifying Results: 1. Mattia PASINI, Aprilia, 2:12.742 2. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 2:12.745 3. Sergio GADEA, Aprilia, 2:13.170 4. Marco SIMONCELLI, Aprilia, 2:13.370 5. Julian SIMON, KTM, 2:13.403 6. Alexis MASBOU, Honda, 2:13.407 7. Hector FAUBEL, Aprilia, 2:13.459 8. Mike DI MEGLIO, Honda, 2:13.926 9. Manuel POGGIALI, Gilera, 2:13.938 10. Thomas LUTHI, Honda, 2:13.957
Thursday Morning MotoGP Practice Times: 1. Valentino ROSSI, Yamaha, 2:01.003 2. Sete GIBERNAU, Honda, 2:01.736 3. Loris CAPIROSSI, Ducati, 2:01.758 4. Nicky HAYDEN, Honda, 2:01.946 5. Marco MELANDRI, Honda, 2:02.077 6. Colin EDWARDS, Yamaha, 2:02.117 7. Alex HOFMANN, Kawasaki, 2:02.409 8. Carlos CHECA, Ducati, 2:02.449 9. Alex BARROS, Honda, 2:02.628 10. Shinya NAKANO, Kawasaki, 2:02.862 11. Ruben XAUS, Yamaha, 2:02.986 12. Max BIAGGI, Honda, 2:03.015 13. John HOPKINS, Suzuki, 2:03.116 14. Troy BAYLISS, Honda, 2:03.360 15. Kenny ROBERTS, Suzuki, 2:04.297 16. Makoto TAMADA, Honda, 2:04.766 17. David CHECA, Yamaha, 2:05.055 18. Roberto ROLFO, Ducati, 2:06.437 19. Shane BYRNE, Proton KR, 2:07.188 20. Franco BATTAINI, Blata, 2:08.079 21. James ELLISON, Blata, 2:08.756
Screwing with confirmed hotel reservations for a race weekend at Laguna Seca is nothing new. Here’s a local newspaper’s story on a case from a couple of years ago… ~http://www.montereyherald.com/mld/montereyherald/news/local/4879176.htm~
CAROLINA GP JAM 2005 presented by BMW-Ducati Motorcycles of Charlotte Sunday July 10, 7:00-7:00 Carolina Motorsports Park Kershaw SC Come and enjoy a special day at the track with BMW-Ducati of Charlotte. The event will feature a full day of track riding, a BBQ lunch, and the live viewing of the Red Bull USGP from Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on SIX widescreen TVs, all in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort! We will also have free camping in the track infield Saturday night, a DJ to set a festive party mood, interactive video games, Continental breakfast on Sunday morning, and even some cool door prizes. We will also have professional cornerworkers, two ambulances and skilled on-track staff to ensure safety. For more information, rules, downloadable forms and tech and safety requirements please visit www.bmw-ducati.com or call 704-882-6106 for more information. We plan to make a sizeable donation ($3000-$5000) to the Roadracing World Action Fund (for Airfence) with the surplus from this event.
Chicago, IL June 24-26 Chicago Cycle Grand Opening! 100,000 square foot facility! Las Vegas Extremes is coming to ~http://www.ChicagoCycle.com~ Chicago Cycle, Chicago IL, June 24-26th, 2005. Raffles, Door Prizes, Giveaways FREE FOOD and DRINK!!! There will also be very Hot Deals on Bikes and Accessories! Come meet and hang out with Pauly and the Las Vegas Extremes. Introducing Kydd, the newest female member of Las Vegas Extremes.
Special Advance-Ticket Offers for Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals at VIR Alton, Va. (June 22) – When the AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited returns to VIRginia International Raceway this year, a lot will be different. The event will have a new name, the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals, a new date, August 26-28, a new promoter in RPM Promotions and lots of added features including trackside jumbotron screens, an expanded vendor village, stunt shows, a fan party and more. Another new feature will be the Tiki Man Promotion offered to fans who purchase their tickets early. While supplies last, each fan who purchases an admission ticket prior to July 8 can choose from one of four free items: free parking (cars only), a free official event t-shirt, a free official event program or a free parade lap of the VIR circuit. “We’re really excited about promoting the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals at VIR,” said RPM Promotions vice-president Cameron Gray. “We plan to make this the premier event on the AMA Superbike circuit, and we’re making this offer to our fans to let them know that we mean business. We have the best motorcycle road racing in America at one of the world’s most beautiful racing facilities. We have the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable fans in all of motorsport, and this offer is just the first step in showing our appreciation to them. “We will have more announcements in the weeks to come regarding extra features that we will be providing to our fans, and they will be spectacular, so stay tuned!” There are a number of advance ticket packages available for the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals at VIR. Advance packages include the Flag Room (three-day admission, paddock access, car parking pass, official event program and hospitality on Saturday and Sunday), for $140; Youth Flag Room (5-12 years of age) for $50; the Big Kahuna Super Ticket (three-day admission, paddock and pit walk pass, lap of track, car parking pass and official 2005 Big Kahuna t-shirt) for $99; three-day general admission with paddock access for $55; and pit walk passes (limited availability, good for all practice and qualifying sessions, requires closed-toe shoes) for $30. At the gate, ticket availability will be limited to three-day passes for $60, single-day tickets (Friday only) for $10 and pit walk passes for $40. To purchase advance tickets, visit www.virclub.com or www.rpmcolorado.com. The event schedule will include three days of racing action, including two feature races for the headlining AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited as well as feature races for the supporting classes including the Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei, AMA Repsol Lubricants Superstock Series and Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Series. VIRginia International Raceway is a multi-purpose road racing facility, located on the Dan River between Danville and South Boston, Va., and just north of historic Milton, N.C. In addition to its 3.27-mile natural-terrain road racing circuit (designed to be operated as two autonomous, full-service courses), VIR is the cornerstone of VIR Club, America’s first motorsports country club; the VIR Raceplex Industrial Park; the VIR Gallery, which is a sales showroom for high-end collector and racing cars; the VIR Safety and Security Institute, which provides specialized training for U.S. Government and military groups; The Lodge at VIR, a 27-room hotel overlooking the track; and the Oak Tree Tavern, a full-service restaurant located within the circa-1840 Plantation Clubhouse. VIR made history from 1957 to 1974 and is doing so again. The 2.25-mile VIR North Course circuit on which the Suzuki Big Kahuna Nationals will take place has 17 challenging turns and 130 feet of elevation change. In addition to spectator events, the track is also available to rent for testing, driving schools and club days. For more information on VIRginia International Raceway, visit the track’s website at www.virclub.com or contact VIR at 434-822-7700. For more information on RPM Promotions, visit their website at www.rpmcolorado.com or contact them via telephone at 303-377-3278. For more information on the AMA Superbike Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited, visit their website at www.ussuperbike.com.
JR focused on the podium at Knockhill RIZLA SUZUKI’S John Reynolds knows exactly what he needs to do to get on the podium when he races in the seventh round of the British Superbike Championship at Knockhill in Scotland this Sunday, June 26th. The reigning British Superbike Champion completed a productive test day at Donington Park last week and plans to use the second half of the racing season to prove he is a force to be reckoned with. “I am now completely focused on fighting for podium places at Knockhill and for the rest of the season,” explained JR. “And I know where I can find a lot of performance straight away – from within myself. “I have not really raced all season because of my leg injury and now it is healed and it is not a factor any more. I have the ability, I have my Rizla Suzuki and now I need to dig very, very deep and make that extra commitment that is required to be a Champion. I’ve done it before and I’ll do it again and Knockhill is the race meeting where I am coming out more determined than ever before.” Alongside a revitalized JR is new Rizla Suzuki rider James Haydon. He has stepped into the team for the rest of the season to replace Scott Smart and is keen to see what he can achieve with his GSX-R1000 after setting competitive lap times in last week’s Donington test. James said: “This for me is the start of my season. I now belong to the best team, have a bike that is mine and mine alone and I have an opportunity to prove myself. I absolutely cannot wait to get racing at Knockhill. “Last year I won and finished second in the races at Knockhill and I like the circuit, it’s just ace. I’m going to do my talking on track and would advise the fans to come and watch the racing – it’s going to be worth it.” Superbike racing starts at 1:15pm on Sunday, June 26th, at Knockhill, near Edinburgh in Scotland. It will be shown on Sky Sports 3 at 18:30 on the same day. A highlights package will be broadcast by Channel 4 one week later.
AMA Superbike Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca – July 8-10, 2005 Friday, July 8 8:00am-8:30am Pro Honda Oils Supersport presented by Shoei Helmets Practice 9:00am-11:00am Moto GP Free Practice 1 11:10am-11:40am Superstars of Super Karts Practice 11:55am-12:45pm AMA Superbike presented by Parts Unlimited Practice 12:45pm-1:30pm Lunch Break 1:00pm Mandatory Rider Briefing at Tech Inspection 1:30pm-3:00pm Moto GP Free Practice 2 3:15pm-3:50pm Superstars of Super Karts Practice 4:00pm-5:00pm Repsol Lubricants Superstock Practice Saturday, July 9 8:30am-8:50am Superstars of Super Karts Warm-up 9:00am-9:30am Repsol Lubricants Superstock Qualifying 10:00am-11:00am Moto GP Free Practice 3 11:15am-11:40am Superstars of Super Karts Qualifying 11:50am-12:30pm AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Qualifying 12:30pm-1:30pm Lunch Break 2:00pm-3:00pm Moto GP Qualifying 3:10pm-3:35pm Superstars of Super Karts Race 3:45pm-4:20pm Pro Honda Oils Supersport presented by Shoei Helmets Practice 4:35pm AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Race (28 laps, 100k) Sunday, July 10 9:00am-9:30am Repsol Lubricants Superstock Practice 10:00am-10:20am Moto GP Warm-up 10:40am-11:10am Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Qualifying 11:30am Repsol Lubricants Superstock Race (17 laps, 60k) Noon-12:30pm Track Entertainment 12:35pm-1:30pm Lunch Break 2:00pm Moto GP Race (28 laps) 3:30pm Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Race (17 laps, 60k)
Virginia Festival of Speed Returns to VIR This Weekend Alton, Va. (June 22) Two-wheeled enthusiasts in the Southside Virginia area have a treat in store this weekend, June 24-26, as Formula USA and the Championship Cup Series return to beautiful VIRginia International Raceway for the fifth annual Virginia Festival of Speed. Formula USA is a premier motorcycle road racing organization for professional riders. The Championship Cup Series has been the leader in Sportsman level motorcycle road racing since 1984. The Virginia Festival of Speed will provide a combination of the best sportsman and professional motorcycle road racers going handlebar-to-handlebar at up to 160mph over the 2.25-mile VIR North Course for their share of more than $190,000 in purse and prizes. “VIR is truly one of the favorite venues for the competitors in the Championship Cup Series and Formula USA,” said series promotions manager Ryan Hoyler. “The facility is just beautiful, and the track layout demands that our riders have both finesse and horsepower if they hope for a win. Formula USA events always provide the highest level of competition as pros dash for cash and prizes, and the fans are in for a great weekend of racing.” Jeff Wood has dominated Formula USA this season, as he seems to break lap records and climb to the top of the podium at every track. Wood had to squeeze a little more from his Suzuki last weekend at New Hampshire International Speedway when Robert Jensen’s Yamaha shadowed him almost every race. Jensen, the 2004 Formula USA Champion, stole the checkered flag in the Formula Sportbike event. Fans can expect fierce competition between these two at VIR. The action will get underway on Friday morning with practice sessions for all groups. Racing will start at noon with a 250km race for the FUSA Team Challenge competitors, followed by sprint races for the CCS groups. Saturday’s schedule includes warm-ups in the morning, with seven-lap CCS feature races starting at noon. The day will conclude with 15-minute qualifying sessions for the Formula USA groups. Sunday morning will have warm-ups followed by another group of seven-lap CCS sprint races, with the Formula USA feature races commencing at noon. Tickets for the Virginia Festival of Speed will be available at the gate, priced at $35 for a three-day ticket, $25 for a two-day (Saturday and Sunday) ticket and $15 for a single-day (Sunday) ticket. Children under 12 are admitted free with a paying adult. Ticket prices include onsite parking and pedestrian paddock access. Camping fees are $25 for the weekend. VIRginia International Raceway is a multi-purpose road racing facility, located on the Dan River between Danville and South Boston, Va., and just north of historic Milton, N.C. In addition to its 3.27-mile natural-terrain road racing circuit (designed to be operated as two autonomous, full-service courses), VIR is the cornerstone of VIR Club, America’s first motorsports country club; the VIR Raceplex Industrial Park; the VIR Gallery, which is a sales showroom for high-end collector and racing cars; the VIR Safety and Security Institute, which provides specialized training for U.S. Government and military groups; The Lodge at VIR, a 27-room hotel overlooking the track; and the Oak Tree Tavern, a full-service restaurant located within the circa-1840 Plantation Clubhouse. VIR made history from 1957 to 1974 and is doing so again. The renovated original circuit has 17 challenging turns and 130 feet of elevation change. In addition to spectator events, the track is also available to rent for testing, driving schools and club days. For more information, visit the track’s website at www.virclub.com or contact VIR at 434-822-7700. For more information on Formula USA and the Championship Cup Series, visit their website at www.formulausa.com.
SPEED CHANNEL RENEWS LIFESTYLE SHOWS UNIQUE WHIPS, BUILD OR BUST PINKS, TEXAS HARDTAILS DEBUT NEXT WEEK SPEED Channel VP of Programming Robert Ecker announced today the network has renewed both Unique Whips and Build or Bust for second seasons. “We are extremely pleased that both Unique Whips and Build or Bust will be returning to the SPEED lineup with all-new episodes beginning next spring,” Ecker said. “Audience response to these enthusiast-themed programs has been very gratifying, and with the impending launch of both Pinks (June 29, 8 p.m. ET) and Texas Hardtails (June 28, 8:30 p.m. ET) we continue to affirm our commitment to this segment of our viewership. Looking ahead, we currently are identifying additional properties for future seasons that will further bolster the SPEED brand within this category.” Unique Whips (Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET), shot on location at the New York celebrity car customizing shop of Will Castro, featured season-one appearances by A-list athletes and entertainers, including tennis great Jennifer Capriati, NY Yankees sluggers Jason Giambi and Ruben Sierra, NBA stars Carmelo Anthony, Marcus Camby and Jermaine O’Neal, NFL standouts Lavar Arrington and Byron Leftwich and hip-hop artists Jadakiss and Fat Joe. “Season one was a hell of an experience — I didn’t realize what kind of impact the show would have on the industry,” said Castro, owner of Long Island’s Unique Autosports. “But getting out there on SPEED took our work mainstream and introduced our style and our crew to the entire country. “We were a little nervous about putting our business out there in season one, but I think the entire crew is looking forward to season two,” Castro added. “The SPEED viewers are going to see a lot more of the Unique craftsmanship that goes into celebrity cars. I think everyone, including our clients, will be a lot more comfortable with the cameras around and by the end of season two, there will be no doubt as to why Unique stands head and shoulders above some of the other customizing shops.” The 12 new Unique Whips episodes planned for season two will give viewers a look at even more stars and their Unique cars, with plans to include appearances by entertainers Jessica Simpson, Pamela Anderson and Busta Rhymes and NBA standout Vince Carter. Build or Bust, created and produced by A Band Apart’s Scott Gillen, also was given the green light on 11 new episodes to begin next spring. The one-hour show takes an average person with an interest in designing and building his or her own motorcycle, matches them up with a renowned master builder and gives them 30 days to build a bike from the ground up. If the job is completed to the master builder’s satisfaction within the allotted time, they get to keep the bike. If not, they walk away bruised and empty-handed. Beginning June 28, Build or Bust moves to Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET, strategically positioning it with SPEED Channel’s other motorcycle enthusiast fare, including 2 Wheel Tuesday (7:30 p.m. ET), American Thunder (8 p.m. ET) and the first season of Texas Hardtails (8:30 p.m. ET). “I am thrilled by the show’s success and excited about our plans for a second season on SPEED,” Gillen said. “Build or Bust is sometimes raw, sometimes a little harsh, but that’s because it’s real — and that’s why people love the show. In the new season, we plan to introduce Build or Bust’s very own shop that will feature everything a custom motorcycle builder might need to create the bike of his or her dreams. We look forward to a long run.” Exile Cycles master builder Russell Mitchell, who starred in most of the season-one episodes, plans to return for season two. “The first season of Build or Bust was a lot of fun,” Mitchell said. “I had a great time working with the wide array of interesting characters who participated. I particularly enjoyed watching their efforts to do in 30 days what it has taken me a lifetime to learn.” SPEED Channel is the nation’s first and foremost cable network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED Channel delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in nearly 70 million homes in North America, SPEED Channel is among the fastest growing sports cable networks in the country.
