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Jessica Zalusky Testing At Barber

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Jessica Zalusky Testing At Barber

TEAM GREEN RIDER, JESSICA ZALUSKY, PREPARES FOR THE 2005 SEASON After a busy snowboarding season, Jessica Zalusky has set her sights and focus on her racing for 2005. She has left Minnesota for the warmer climates of Alabama to prepare for the upcoming racing season. Zalusky has been training and testing at Barber Motorsports Park aboard her Kawasaki Ninja® ZX-10R and ZX-6RR. Zalusky will also be a guest rider at the upcoming NESBA track day event at Barber Motorsports Park from March 25-26. NESBA is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that provides track time and riding instruction at premier racetracks across the country. For more information about Jessica Zalusky, visit her website at www.roadracinggirl.com.

Trooper Suspended For Inappropriate Handling Of 911 Call Reporting Fatal Motorcycle Crash

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Trooper Suspended For Inappropriate Handling Of 911 Call Reporting Fatal Motorcycle Crash

A Connecticut State Trooper has been suspended for 15 days without pay for the “unprofessional, rude and inappropriate” manner in which he responded to a 911 call reporting that a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a crash last August. Justin Sawyer, 21, died of severe head injuries a few days after the accident. Sawyer crashed August 17 in Taftville, Connecticut. While he laid motionless on the pavement with blood running from his ear, his friend Russell Shepard called 911. The call was answered by Trooper Robert Peasley, who responded to Shepard’s report of the accident with, “Yeah”¦too bad,” before hanging up on Shepard. Peasley then answered another 911 call from another of Sawyer’s friends, saying, “Yeah. Help will get there. Shouldn’t be playing games.” After receiving a copy of the 911 calls, Sawyer’s family filed a complaint with the Connecticut State Police, which launched a months-long investigation. “The internal investigation revealed that despite the Trooper’s unprofessional, rude and inappropriate comments, both State Police and EMS personnel were dispatched promptly to the crash scene,” read a press release issued by the Connecticut State Police Department March 22. “Nevertheless, there is no doubt that the desk trooper, Tfc. Robert Peasley, fell far short of conduct that Connecticut residents and visitors rightly expect from the Connecticut State Police and the State Police demands from its Troopers. For that reason, TFC. Peasley who has had a 18-year unblemished career, has been suspended from duty for 15 days without pay.” “I am absolutely outraged every time I hear that ‘too bad’ and that click.” Sawyer’s father Jim Sawyer said in an interview broadcast by WTNH News Channel 8. “It will play over and over and over in my mind for the rest of my life. What I want to see is this officer should be removed from his position as a state police officer. He is not fit to wear the uniform.” David LeBlanc, President of the Connecticut State Police Union, told the Hartford Courant, “It’s a tragedy. But the discipline imposed is extremely harsh and not warranted.”

Racing Performance Services Signs Shannon Ball

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Racing Performance Services Signs Shannon Ball

Racing Performance Services is excited to announce the signing of Shannon Ball to the Racing Performance Services Racing Team. Shannon debuted the team’s GSXR-600 motorcycle this past weekend at Motorsport Ranch during the CMRA sprint races. He ran impressively during his inaugural team run. This is a new endeavor for the company that is made possible by funding from part time Texas road racer and full time fan David Starks. Shannon Ball is without a doubt one of the most talented road racers in the country. The goal of this effort is to provide Shannon with equipment capable of winning at the local and national level. The team will compete at AMA nationals and Suzuki Cup Qualifying events with the intent to provide Shannon equipment that will win. Shannon Ball was really impressed with what the team provided for him during his debut and commented, “This is probably the best equipment I have ever had. I can’t believe this. A month ago I thought I wasn’t going to be riding this year and now I have a fully sponsored ride. I look forward to working with the team to get the setup even better for me.” RPS owner Marcus McBain is probably more excited that Shannon. A former on-track competitor with Ball, McBain has always been amazed at what Shannon can do on a racebike. McBain noted, “This is awesome. I have been watching Shannon for years and he absolutely one of the most amazing riders to watch. I mean just a blast to watch. I know my company can give him the equipment he needs to win and capture the national attention he deserves. With the AK-20 cartridges just released by Traxxion Dynamics, we should have suspension that is unmatched at any event he goes to. That is no bull either. When John Haner came down with some of the high dollar Ohlins cartridges this past weekend at Motorsport Ranch, I told Ty Howard that we better have our best suspension setup of the season. Truthfully, no one was even close to Ty and I think these AK-20’s were the main reason. I am promising Shannon that we should have everything he ever wanted from a racebike. I felt really lucky to be working with Ty Howard before and now I have Shannon too! It really makes the business a lot of fun.” The team will set its schedule shortly and should make its AMA debut with Shannon at Pikes Peak. RPS will continue to support Ricky Orlando and Ty Howard at AMA nationals additionally. Racing Performance Services is a leading trackside suspension solutions provider in the Texas and Colorado markets and regularly puts riders in the top-10 of AMA professional competition. For more information, call 713 304 5509 or go to www.roadracinghelp.com. Komodo Racing Apparel is a new racing apparel provider. For more information go to www.racekomodo.com

Ducati’s Checa To Miss MotoGP Test At Jerez Due To Shoulder Injury

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Ducati’s Checa To Miss MotoGP Test At Jerez Due To Shoulder Injury

A dislocated left shoulder will prevent the Spanish rider from taking part in the second and final IRTA official MotoGP test session at Jerez de la Frontera. The consequences of Carlos Checa’s crash on Saturday 19 March during the IRTA test session at Barcelona are more serious than first thought. What appeared to be bruising to his left shoulder is now affecting the final pre-season tests of the Ducati Marlboro Team rider, who will be forced to rest for a few more days. Despite intense physiotherapy, the Spanish rider, who also missed last Sunday’s final session at Barcelona for the same reason, will not be fit for the forthcoming IRTA test, scheduled for March 25-27 at Jerez. The medical team at the Deux Eus hospital in Barcelona carried out an MRI scan on Checa to evaluate the state of his current injuries, and noted evidence of a dislocation of the left shoulder. The medical report refers to a period of rest of at least two weeks, during which time the Spanish rider will continue with the physiotherapy he is already carrying out at the C.A.R. fitness centre in S. Cugat. “I am really sorry that I can’t take part in the final test session before the start of the championship. I wanted to test on the track that will be the venue for the first round of the season but the doctors advised me against it and I prefer not to run the risk of worsening the situation” declared Carlos Checa. “My leg is not giving me any problems but my shoulder is not yet healed: when it’s at rest it doesn’t bother me, but as soon as I move it I can feel a lot of pain. Luckily in November we already did some testing at Jerez, with positive results, and this is some consolation in view of the first round which will be held there. I will continue the physiotherapy every day because I want to be fully fit for April 10”. As a result Loris Capirossi will be the only rider from the Ducati Marlboro Team to take part in the final winter test and carry on the development work of the Desmosedici GP5 and Bridgestone tyres in view of the opening round. Test rider Vittoriano Guareschi and the Development Team will also be present at Jerez.

California Speedway President Miller Resigns

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California Speedway President Miller Resigns

William G. Miller, President of California Speedway since Sept. 2000, announced his resignation from the speedway effective March 31, 2005. No permanent replacement for Miller has been named at this time. Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan Sperber will oversee operations of the speedway until a replacement is named. “There is never a perfect time to leave an organization, but I thought now would be best for me and my family,” Miller said. “It also gives the team here time to work toward its two upcoming events in April and prepare for the Labor Day NASCAR NEXTEL Cup event. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to work with this team and our family of sponsors and partners.” John Saunders, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of International Speedway Corporation (ISC) stated, “Bill’s reputation of leadership, integrity and credibility within the industry is exemplary. While we respect his desire to capitalize on this as well as his extensive experience, we also regret seeing someone of Bill’s caliber leave our team and wish him and his family nothing but the best.” During his tenure as President, the speedway experienced unprecedented growth in the event schedule and facility usage, including two NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series weekends, bringing the total to six major spectator events promoted by the speedway. With the opening of the road course and drag strip in 2001, the facility quickly gained the reputation as one of the most multi-purpose venues in the country. In 2004, the facility was in use over 330 calendar days. “It was my dream to manage a top-tier professional motorsports facility. I’ve lived and enjoyed that experience to the fullest,” Miller said. “I’ve learned and worked for some of the best in the business. ISC and Penske Motorsports gave me the tools and the opportunity to be successful and grow the sport. I am grateful for their support and proud of all that my team and I have accomplished. It’s time to focus on new challenges and opportunities to apply my leadership skills and add value to a new organization.” Miller began his career in 1990 at Michigan International Speedway. In 1996, Miller launched the sales, marketing and branding efforts for California Speedway, which opened in June of 1997. He was named President at Nazareth Speedway in 1999 and in 2000 served as Senior Director of Consumer Marketing at ISC in Daytona Beach for a brief time before returning to Southern California as President of California Speedway.

KTM 125cc GP Team Happy With Final Test At Jerez

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KTM 125cc GP Team Happy With Final Test At Jerez

In an impressive final pre-season workout Red Bull KTM GP 125 riders Mika Kallio and Gabor Talmacsi both finished in the top six at the IRTA Jerez test (March 21/22). Flying Finn Kallio was fourth fastest, just 0.4s behind the best lap produced by Marco Simoncelli, and is now very confident in advance of the first race, the Spanish GP on April 10. Kallio, 22, was in sparkling form and completed a marathon 181 laps over two days, the most of any rider at the Jerez test. The weather was mostly warm and sunny with some rain showers late on day one and in the morning of day two. Both Kallio and Talmacsi were able to concentrate on set-up work with the ignition software problems that were encountered in Barcelona now fixed. Spanish teenager Julian Simon did not ride at the Jerez test and was rested by team manager Harald Bartol as he recovers from a cracked bone in his wrist. The injury was suffered at last week’s Barcelona test however the 17 year-old will be fit for the opening race on April 10. Talmacsi was less than a second behind the fastest time at Jerez and delighted to be in top six despite a harmless crash on the afternoon of day two. Talmacsi later returned to the track on his spare bike. MIKA KALLIO #36 – Fourth – (1:47.752) : 181 laps “On my fastest lap I came across a couple of slow riders and that cost me some time so I know we have a good set-up, both engine and chassis. I am confident for the season and we are now ready to go racing, the bikes ran perfectly after our problems last week. I did a lot of set-up work to prepare for the first race. The new KTM has more balanced handling and turn-in than last year and it is easier to set-up for my riding style.” GABOR TALMACSI #14 – Sixth – (1:48.138) : 126 laps “I had a good feeling with the bike and a comfortable set-up but in the fast left-hander behind the paddock I opened the throttle and the rear started to slide and I lost control. It was just a big slide and I wasn’t hurt. Later the data showed that I was going 10 kph faster than before, but it didn’t feel like it! But I’m not worried going into the first race, I’m very satisfied, although my spare bike wasn’t quite set-up the same as the bike I crashed. The engine is strong now and I think if I am in the top six I can be up at the front in the first race here at Jerez although there a lot of fast riders.” HARALD BARTOL – Team Manager “Everything is now running smoothly with the engine as we have solved the ignition software problem which was causing some detonation at the Barcelona test and it was difficult for the riders to feel the problem. It was this situation which contributed to Julian Simon’s crash and it was better for him to rest for this test. He will be fit for the first race. We did a lot of excellent set-up work with the new chassis at Jerez, I think we are in a very competitive position for the first race with two riders in the top six at this test.”

Website To Sponsor Reyes In Seattle 100 Charity Event

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Website To Sponsor Reyes In Seattle 100 Charity Event

CBR600RR.com announces rider sponsorship for the 3rd annual Seattle 100. On Saturday, July 30th, 2005, motorcycle enthusiasts are expected to turn out for a completely different kind of fundraiser, the Seattle 100. Hosted by 2Fast Motorcycle Track Days & Instruction (www.2-fast.org), the event has a single purpose: to raise money for the fight against kidney disease, particularly those that affect children. Participants raise monies through per lap pledges or fixed donations in their quest to circle Pacific Raceway’s road course 100 times by the end of the day. Jeff Kufalk, owner of Kufalk Media LLC (parent company of CBR600RR.com) will be placing Emmanuel “J.R.” Reyes aboard a 2003 Honda CBR600RR for this event, expected to raise over $100,000 for the NephCure Foundation (www.nephcure.org). “We’re very excited to be helping out with such a great cause, and proud to be of support within the sportbike community.” Kufalk says. Joining participants in this great effort for 2005 will be Jake Zemke, Jason Disalvo, comedian David Alan Grier and others. They will be in attendance to ride with Seattle 100 participants, sign autographs, and lend support to this Northwest event now gaining national exposure. Additional information on this event can be found in the forum of cbr600rr.com at www.cbr600rr.com/forum

Piaggio Looking To Grow Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Laverda Brands In U.S. Market

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Piaggio Looking To Grow Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Laverda Brands In U.S. Market

(Woodstock, GA) Piaggio Group, the importer and distributor of leading Italian scooter and motorcycle brands, is on a fast pace to introduce an even greater number of American consumers to its unique range of memorable brands. The different product lines are significantly expanded for 2005, due to Piaggio’s acquisition of the Aprilia Group in December 2004. While that purchase created Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, and the world’s fourth largest, the new organization is taking advantage of many more benefits than just increased purchasing and distribution efficiencies. With Aprilia and Moto Guzzi dealer networks, say executives, the new group is poised to make an impact in virtually every segment of the growing U.S. scooter and motorcycle market. “Separately, both companies certainly enjoyed their individual success stories,” said Paolo Timoni, Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing, Piaggio & C. S.p.A. , “but together, we present a formidable challenge to our competition and exciting synergies exist that allow for certain efficiencies of business. Even though the brands are separate and distinct there may be opportunities in a few markets, where not all the brands currently exist, that allows for future growth of our dealer network”. Timoni, who personally welcomed the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi teams during a recent visit to company headquarters in Woodstock, Georgia, said that new opportunities in the sport bike, touring and cruiser markets with award-winning brands like Aprilia and Moto Guzzi presented intriguing growth opportunities for the Piaggio Group in the U.S. marketplace. To achieve its growth goals, said Timoni, the new organization will maintain two operational footprints in the U.S. market. In addition to Piaggio USA’s corporate headquarters in New York, the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi USA corporate offices, as well as warehouse operations for both companies, will remain in Atlanta. “This country’s immense geography calls for more than a single-point location. All of our brands are fully focused on responsive service to customers and dealers, and we feel that this is best served by continuing the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi teams’ great work from the existing Atlanta location.” Vice President and General Manager of Aprilia World Service USA, Inc., Tom McDonald stated he “ was pleased with the decisiveness of Piaggio management and excited about the future market growth potential of the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands. This is an exciting time for the employees at our office in Georgia and we look forward to working closely with Piaggio and Aprilia SpA to further build the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands and introduce the new models of both brands this year”. About Aprilia World Services USA Aprilia World Services USA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aprilia S.p.A., a member of the Piaggio portfolio of motorcycle and scooter brands. Piaggio, which acquired Aprilia S.p.A. in December 2004, is Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, with over 6,000 employees engineering, producing and marketing over 600,000 vehicles each year in over 50 countries. The group’s portfolio of brands includes Aprilia, Derbi, Gilera, Laverda, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio and Vespa. Founded in 1998 Aprilia USA is the company’s U.S. importer and distributor. The subsidiary is headquarted in Woodstock, Georgia, just a few miles north of metro Atlanta and at the entrance to some of the best riding roads in America. Aprilia USA’s 120 U.S. dealerships offer a full line of performance motorcycles and scooters, as well as electric bicycles. For information on Aprilia’s complete model line, visit www.apriliausa.com.

Reynolds Will Race This Weekend In British Superbike Season-opener

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Reynolds Will Race This Weekend In British Superbike Season-opener

RIZLA SUZUKI British Superbike Champion John Reynolds will race at the opening round of the 2005 British Superbike Championship at Brands Hatch on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th, only 39-days after breaking his right leg in five places in a testing accident. Famous for his typically British fighting spirit, JR was given the go-ahead to race by his specialist doctor yesterday. Today he rode his Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 at Mallory Park and told his team that he is going to start the defence of his title at Brands Hatch. The 39-year-old Nottingham-based Champion has made a miraculous recovery from the four breaks to his tibia and single break to the fibula that he suffered at a team test at Valencia on February 18th. This type of injury can take many months to heal but thanks to the support of his team as well as expert care using a pure-oxygen hyperbaric chamber, lazer treatment and a specially made Alpinestars race boot, JR will be back in action this weekend. Rizla Suzuki racer Scott Smart is fired up for the start of the 2005 Championship after a successful pre-season test programme. With riding time on the GSX-R1000K5 on his side and a comfortable set-up, Scott is keen to make a successful debut for his Rizla Suzuki team. The first round of the British Superbike Championship takes place at the Brands Hatch Indy circuit in Kent on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th. It will be shown live on Sky Sports. Highlights will be shown on Channel 4 the following weekend. John Reynolds: “I completed 15-laps of Mallory Park today and I am pretty happy that I can ride at Brands Hatch this weekend. I’m going to defend my title from the off and my rivals had better be ready. “I have asked my team technicians to alter my right foot brake settings so I can move around the bike more easily, but apart from that I am ready. I am not at full fitness, but I want to ride and more importantly, race. See you all at Brands Hatch.” Scott Smart: “I am properly looking forward to Brands Hatch and getting the season underway. It’s great news for Rizla Suzuki and all the race fans that JR is going to be lining up at Brands – it’s probably not so much good news for his rivals. “My Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 is a really strong bike and I’ve enjoyed some very good tests on it. I am comfortable and it’s time to show what I can do, I can’t wait!” Robert Wicks, Rizla Suzuki Team Manager: “It’s nothing short of miraculous that JR has recovered sufficiently in just over five weeks to race at the opening round. Let me be the first to call him a hero, because the British Bulldog determination and effort he has put into healing has been truly inspirational. “Thanks to everyone who has made his recovery possible, including the Rizla Suzuki team, JR’s surgeon David Hahn at Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham, Brian Simpson who has been treating him in Ipswich, to Jonathan Palmer from Motor Sport Vision for assiting with a plane to bring him home to the UK from Valencia and the pilots John Daly and John Scurr who flew him back so quickly and comfortably, as well as Stuart Higgs at the MCRCB for arranging an ambulance to transport him from the airport to hospital. “JR is so fast at Brands Hatch that we hope he’ll score some decent points and that’s the main aim for this weekend. “Scott is on top form and is happy with the set-up of his Rizla Suzuki. He’s going to be very hard to beat and now has the tools to prove what we already know – that he’s a world class rider with the ability to win Championships.”

Racers4kids To Sponsor Zalusky And Other Young Female Racers

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Racers4kids To Sponsor Zalusky And Other Young Female Racers

Racers4Kids announces sponsorship of female motorcycle roadracer Jessica Zalusky for the 2005 race season. Zalusky will ride Kawasaki equipment in select AMA Superstock, Formula Extreme, and Superbike events, as well as select CRA, Formula USA, and WERA events. Racers4Kids Director Rick Lawson believes that Zalusky is an outstanding role model for women interested in motorcycling and her ambition to introduce more young women to motorcycle racing will benefit the sport. “Jessica’s ambitions tie in perfectly with the goals of the Racers4Kids program, which is dedicated to helping young riders and racers in all forms of motorsports to pursue their passions.” Racers4Kids is expecting to award 50% of their sponsorship funds and program assistance to young female enthusiasts to help involve more women in motorsports. Young motorcycle racers are invited to visit the R4K website at www.racers4kids.com to learn more about receiving sponsorship assistance from Racers4Kids.

Jessica Zalusky Testing At Barber

TEAM GREEN RIDER, JESSICA ZALUSKY, PREPARES FOR THE 2005 SEASON After a busy snowboarding season, Jessica Zalusky has set her sights and focus on her racing for 2005. She has left Minnesota for the warmer climates of Alabama to prepare for the upcoming racing season. Zalusky has been training and testing at Barber Motorsports Park aboard her Kawasaki Ninja® ZX-10R and ZX-6RR. Zalusky will also be a guest rider at the upcoming NESBA track day event at Barber Motorsports Park from March 25-26. NESBA is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that provides track time and riding instruction at premier racetracks across the country. For more information about Jessica Zalusky, visit her website at www.roadracinggirl.com.

Trooper Suspended For Inappropriate Handling Of 911 Call Reporting Fatal Motorcycle Crash

A Connecticut State Trooper has been suspended for 15 days without pay for the “unprofessional, rude and inappropriate” manner in which he responded to a 911 call reporting that a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a crash last August. Justin Sawyer, 21, died of severe head injuries a few days after the accident. Sawyer crashed August 17 in Taftville, Connecticut. While he laid motionless on the pavement with blood running from his ear, his friend Russell Shepard called 911. The call was answered by Trooper Robert Peasley, who responded to Shepard’s report of the accident with, “Yeah”¦too bad,” before hanging up on Shepard. Peasley then answered another 911 call from another of Sawyer’s friends, saying, “Yeah. Help will get there. Shouldn’t be playing games.” After receiving a copy of the 911 calls, Sawyer’s family filed a complaint with the Connecticut State Police, which launched a months-long investigation. “The internal investigation revealed that despite the Trooper’s unprofessional, rude and inappropriate comments, both State Police and EMS personnel were dispatched promptly to the crash scene,” read a press release issued by the Connecticut State Police Department March 22. “Nevertheless, there is no doubt that the desk trooper, Tfc. Robert Peasley, fell far short of conduct that Connecticut residents and visitors rightly expect from the Connecticut State Police and the State Police demands from its Troopers. For that reason, TFC. Peasley who has had a 18-year unblemished career, has been suspended from duty for 15 days without pay.” “I am absolutely outraged every time I hear that ‘too bad’ and that click.” Sawyer’s father Jim Sawyer said in an interview broadcast by WTNH News Channel 8. “It will play over and over and over in my mind for the rest of my life. What I want to see is this officer should be removed from his position as a state police officer. He is not fit to wear the uniform.” David LeBlanc, President of the Connecticut State Police Union, told the Hartford Courant, “It’s a tragedy. But the discipline imposed is extremely harsh and not warranted.”

Racing Performance Services Signs Shannon Ball

Racing Performance Services is excited to announce the signing of Shannon Ball to the Racing Performance Services Racing Team. Shannon debuted the team’s GSXR-600 motorcycle this past weekend at Motorsport Ranch during the CMRA sprint races. He ran impressively during his inaugural team run. This is a new endeavor for the company that is made possible by funding from part time Texas road racer and full time fan David Starks. Shannon Ball is without a doubt one of the most talented road racers in the country. The goal of this effort is to provide Shannon with equipment capable of winning at the local and national level. The team will compete at AMA nationals and Suzuki Cup Qualifying events with the intent to provide Shannon equipment that will win. Shannon Ball was really impressed with what the team provided for him during his debut and commented, “This is probably the best equipment I have ever had. I can’t believe this. A month ago I thought I wasn’t going to be riding this year and now I have a fully sponsored ride. I look forward to working with the team to get the setup even better for me.” RPS owner Marcus McBain is probably more excited that Shannon. A former on-track competitor with Ball, McBain has always been amazed at what Shannon can do on a racebike. McBain noted, “This is awesome. I have been watching Shannon for years and he absolutely one of the most amazing riders to watch. I mean just a blast to watch. I know my company can give him the equipment he needs to win and capture the national attention he deserves. With the AK-20 cartridges just released by Traxxion Dynamics, we should have suspension that is unmatched at any event he goes to. That is no bull either. When John Haner came down with some of the high dollar Ohlins cartridges this past weekend at Motorsport Ranch, I told Ty Howard that we better have our best suspension setup of the season. Truthfully, no one was even close to Ty and I think these AK-20’s were the main reason. I am promising Shannon that we should have everything he ever wanted from a racebike. I felt really lucky to be working with Ty Howard before and now I have Shannon too! It really makes the business a lot of fun.” The team will set its schedule shortly and should make its AMA debut with Shannon at Pikes Peak. RPS will continue to support Ricky Orlando and Ty Howard at AMA nationals additionally. Racing Performance Services is a leading trackside suspension solutions provider in the Texas and Colorado markets and regularly puts riders in the top-10 of AMA professional competition. For more information, call 713 304 5509 or go to www.roadracinghelp.com. Komodo Racing Apparel is a new racing apparel provider. For more information go to www.racekomodo.com

Ducati’s Checa To Miss MotoGP Test At Jerez Due To Shoulder Injury

A dislocated left shoulder will prevent the Spanish rider from taking part in the second and final IRTA official MotoGP test session at Jerez de la Frontera. The consequences of Carlos Checa’s crash on Saturday 19 March during the IRTA test session at Barcelona are more serious than first thought. What appeared to be bruising to his left shoulder is now affecting the final pre-season tests of the Ducati Marlboro Team rider, who will be forced to rest for a few more days. Despite intense physiotherapy, the Spanish rider, who also missed last Sunday’s final session at Barcelona for the same reason, will not be fit for the forthcoming IRTA test, scheduled for March 25-27 at Jerez. The medical team at the Deux Eus hospital in Barcelona carried out an MRI scan on Checa to evaluate the state of his current injuries, and noted evidence of a dislocation of the left shoulder. The medical report refers to a period of rest of at least two weeks, during which time the Spanish rider will continue with the physiotherapy he is already carrying out at the C.A.R. fitness centre in S. Cugat. “I am really sorry that I can’t take part in the final test session before the start of the championship. I wanted to test on the track that will be the venue for the first round of the season but the doctors advised me against it and I prefer not to run the risk of worsening the situation” declared Carlos Checa. “My leg is not giving me any problems but my shoulder is not yet healed: when it’s at rest it doesn’t bother me, but as soon as I move it I can feel a lot of pain. Luckily in November we already did some testing at Jerez, with positive results, and this is some consolation in view of the first round which will be held there. I will continue the physiotherapy every day because I want to be fully fit for April 10”. As a result Loris Capirossi will be the only rider from the Ducati Marlboro Team to take part in the final winter test and carry on the development work of the Desmosedici GP5 and Bridgestone tyres in view of the opening round. Test rider Vittoriano Guareschi and the Development Team will also be present at Jerez.

California Speedway President Miller Resigns

William G. Miller, President of California Speedway since Sept. 2000, announced his resignation from the speedway effective March 31, 2005. No permanent replacement for Miller has been named at this time. Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan Sperber will oversee operations of the speedway until a replacement is named. “There is never a perfect time to leave an organization, but I thought now would be best for me and my family,” Miller said. “It also gives the team here time to work toward its two upcoming events in April and prepare for the Labor Day NASCAR NEXTEL Cup event. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to work with this team and our family of sponsors and partners.” John Saunders, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of International Speedway Corporation (ISC) stated, “Bill’s reputation of leadership, integrity and credibility within the industry is exemplary. While we respect his desire to capitalize on this as well as his extensive experience, we also regret seeing someone of Bill’s caliber leave our team and wish him and his family nothing but the best.” During his tenure as President, the speedway experienced unprecedented growth in the event schedule and facility usage, including two NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series weekends, bringing the total to six major spectator events promoted by the speedway. With the opening of the road course and drag strip in 2001, the facility quickly gained the reputation as one of the most multi-purpose venues in the country. In 2004, the facility was in use over 330 calendar days. “It was my dream to manage a top-tier professional motorsports facility. I’ve lived and enjoyed that experience to the fullest,” Miller said. “I’ve learned and worked for some of the best in the business. ISC and Penske Motorsports gave me the tools and the opportunity to be successful and grow the sport. I am grateful for their support and proud of all that my team and I have accomplished. It’s time to focus on new challenges and opportunities to apply my leadership skills and add value to a new organization.” Miller began his career in 1990 at Michigan International Speedway. In 1996, Miller launched the sales, marketing and branding efforts for California Speedway, which opened in June of 1997. He was named President at Nazareth Speedway in 1999 and in 2000 served as Senior Director of Consumer Marketing at ISC in Daytona Beach for a brief time before returning to Southern California as President of California Speedway.

KTM 125cc GP Team Happy With Final Test At Jerez

In an impressive final pre-season workout Red Bull KTM GP 125 riders Mika Kallio and Gabor Talmacsi both finished in the top six at the IRTA Jerez test (March 21/22). Flying Finn Kallio was fourth fastest, just 0.4s behind the best lap produced by Marco Simoncelli, and is now very confident in advance of the first race, the Spanish GP on April 10. Kallio, 22, was in sparkling form and completed a marathon 181 laps over two days, the most of any rider at the Jerez test. The weather was mostly warm and sunny with some rain showers late on day one and in the morning of day two. Both Kallio and Talmacsi were able to concentrate on set-up work with the ignition software problems that were encountered in Barcelona now fixed. Spanish teenager Julian Simon did not ride at the Jerez test and was rested by team manager Harald Bartol as he recovers from a cracked bone in his wrist. The injury was suffered at last week’s Barcelona test however the 17 year-old will be fit for the opening race on April 10. Talmacsi was less than a second behind the fastest time at Jerez and delighted to be in top six despite a harmless crash on the afternoon of day two. Talmacsi later returned to the track on his spare bike. MIKA KALLIO #36 – Fourth – (1:47.752) : 181 laps “On my fastest lap I came across a couple of slow riders and that cost me some time so I know we have a good set-up, both engine and chassis. I am confident for the season and we are now ready to go racing, the bikes ran perfectly after our problems last week. I did a lot of set-up work to prepare for the first race. The new KTM has more balanced handling and turn-in than last year and it is easier to set-up for my riding style.” GABOR TALMACSI #14 – Sixth – (1:48.138) : 126 laps “I had a good feeling with the bike and a comfortable set-up but in the fast left-hander behind the paddock I opened the throttle and the rear started to slide and I lost control. It was just a big slide and I wasn’t hurt. Later the data showed that I was going 10 kph faster than before, but it didn’t feel like it! But I’m not worried going into the first race, I’m very satisfied, although my spare bike wasn’t quite set-up the same as the bike I crashed. The engine is strong now and I think if I am in the top six I can be up at the front in the first race here at Jerez although there a lot of fast riders.” HARALD BARTOL – Team Manager “Everything is now running smoothly with the engine as we have solved the ignition software problem which was causing some detonation at the Barcelona test and it was difficult for the riders to feel the problem. It was this situation which contributed to Julian Simon’s crash and it was better for him to rest for this test. He will be fit for the first race. We did a lot of excellent set-up work with the new chassis at Jerez, I think we are in a very competitive position for the first race with two riders in the top six at this test.”

Website To Sponsor Reyes In Seattle 100 Charity Event

CBR600RR.com announces rider sponsorship for the 3rd annual Seattle 100. On Saturday, July 30th, 2005, motorcycle enthusiasts are expected to turn out for a completely different kind of fundraiser, the Seattle 100. Hosted by 2Fast Motorcycle Track Days & Instruction (www.2-fast.org), the event has a single purpose: to raise money for the fight against kidney disease, particularly those that affect children. Participants raise monies through per lap pledges or fixed donations in their quest to circle Pacific Raceway’s road course 100 times by the end of the day. Jeff Kufalk, owner of Kufalk Media LLC (parent company of CBR600RR.com) will be placing Emmanuel “J.R.” Reyes aboard a 2003 Honda CBR600RR for this event, expected to raise over $100,000 for the NephCure Foundation (www.nephcure.org). “We’re very excited to be helping out with such a great cause, and proud to be of support within the sportbike community.” Kufalk says. Joining participants in this great effort for 2005 will be Jake Zemke, Jason Disalvo, comedian David Alan Grier and others. They will be in attendance to ride with Seattle 100 participants, sign autographs, and lend support to this Northwest event now gaining national exposure. Additional information on this event can be found in the forum of cbr600rr.com at www.cbr600rr.com/forum

Piaggio Looking To Grow Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Laverda Brands In U.S. Market

(Woodstock, GA) Piaggio Group, the importer and distributor of leading Italian scooter and motorcycle brands, is on a fast pace to introduce an even greater number of American consumers to its unique range of memorable brands. The different product lines are significantly expanded for 2005, due to Piaggio’s acquisition of the Aprilia Group in December 2004. While that purchase created Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, and the world’s fourth largest, the new organization is taking advantage of many more benefits than just increased purchasing and distribution efficiencies. With Aprilia and Moto Guzzi dealer networks, say executives, the new group is poised to make an impact in virtually every segment of the growing U.S. scooter and motorcycle market. “Separately, both companies certainly enjoyed their individual success stories,” said Paolo Timoni, Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing, Piaggio & C. S.p.A. , “but together, we present a formidable challenge to our competition and exciting synergies exist that allow for certain efficiencies of business. Even though the brands are separate and distinct there may be opportunities in a few markets, where not all the brands currently exist, that allows for future growth of our dealer network”. Timoni, who personally welcomed the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi teams during a recent visit to company headquarters in Woodstock, Georgia, said that new opportunities in the sport bike, touring and cruiser markets with award-winning brands like Aprilia and Moto Guzzi presented intriguing growth opportunities for the Piaggio Group in the U.S. marketplace. To achieve its growth goals, said Timoni, the new organization will maintain two operational footprints in the U.S. market. In addition to Piaggio USA’s corporate headquarters in New York, the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi USA corporate offices, as well as warehouse operations for both companies, will remain in Atlanta. “This country’s immense geography calls for more than a single-point location. All of our brands are fully focused on responsive service to customers and dealers, and we feel that this is best served by continuing the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi teams’ great work from the existing Atlanta location.” Vice President and General Manager of Aprilia World Service USA, Inc., Tom McDonald stated he “ was pleased with the decisiveness of Piaggio management and excited about the future market growth potential of the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands. This is an exciting time for the employees at our office in Georgia and we look forward to working closely with Piaggio and Aprilia SpA to further build the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands and introduce the new models of both brands this year”. About Aprilia World Services USA Aprilia World Services USA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aprilia S.p.A., a member of the Piaggio portfolio of motorcycle and scooter brands. Piaggio, which acquired Aprilia S.p.A. in December 2004, is Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, with over 6,000 employees engineering, producing and marketing over 600,000 vehicles each year in over 50 countries. The group’s portfolio of brands includes Aprilia, Derbi, Gilera, Laverda, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio and Vespa. Founded in 1998 Aprilia USA is the company’s U.S. importer and distributor. The subsidiary is headquarted in Woodstock, Georgia, just a few miles north of metro Atlanta and at the entrance to some of the best riding roads in America. Aprilia USA’s 120 U.S. dealerships offer a full line of performance motorcycles and scooters, as well as electric bicycles. For information on Aprilia’s complete model line, visit www.apriliausa.com.

Reynolds Will Race This Weekend In British Superbike Season-opener

RIZLA SUZUKI British Superbike Champion John Reynolds will race at the opening round of the 2005 British Superbike Championship at Brands Hatch on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th, only 39-days after breaking his right leg in five places in a testing accident. Famous for his typically British fighting spirit, JR was given the go-ahead to race by his specialist doctor yesterday. Today he rode his Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 at Mallory Park and told his team that he is going to start the defence of his title at Brands Hatch. The 39-year-old Nottingham-based Champion has made a miraculous recovery from the four breaks to his tibia and single break to the fibula that he suffered at a team test at Valencia on February 18th. This type of injury can take many months to heal but thanks to the support of his team as well as expert care using a pure-oxygen hyperbaric chamber, lazer treatment and a specially made Alpinestars race boot, JR will be back in action this weekend. Rizla Suzuki racer Scott Smart is fired up for the start of the 2005 Championship after a successful pre-season test programme. With riding time on the GSX-R1000K5 on his side and a comfortable set-up, Scott is keen to make a successful debut for his Rizla Suzuki team. The first round of the British Superbike Championship takes place at the Brands Hatch Indy circuit in Kent on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th. It will be shown live on Sky Sports. Highlights will be shown on Channel 4 the following weekend. John Reynolds: “I completed 15-laps of Mallory Park today and I am pretty happy that I can ride at Brands Hatch this weekend. I’m going to defend my title from the off and my rivals had better be ready. “I have asked my team technicians to alter my right foot brake settings so I can move around the bike more easily, but apart from that I am ready. I am not at full fitness, but I want to ride and more importantly, race. See you all at Brands Hatch.” Scott Smart: “I am properly looking forward to Brands Hatch and getting the season underway. It’s great news for Rizla Suzuki and all the race fans that JR is going to be lining up at Brands – it’s probably not so much good news for his rivals. “My Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 is a really strong bike and I’ve enjoyed some very good tests on it. I am comfortable and it’s time to show what I can do, I can’t wait!” Robert Wicks, Rizla Suzuki Team Manager: “It’s nothing short of miraculous that JR has recovered sufficiently in just over five weeks to race at the opening round. Let me be the first to call him a hero, because the British Bulldog determination and effort he has put into healing has been truly inspirational. “Thanks to everyone who has made his recovery possible, including the Rizla Suzuki team, JR’s surgeon David Hahn at Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham, Brian Simpson who has been treating him in Ipswich, to Jonathan Palmer from Motor Sport Vision for assiting with a plane to bring him home to the UK from Valencia and the pilots John Daly and John Scurr who flew him back so quickly and comfortably, as well as Stuart Higgs at the MCRCB for arranging an ambulance to transport him from the airport to hospital. “JR is so fast at Brands Hatch that we hope he’ll score some decent points and that’s the main aim for this weekend. “Scott is on top form and is happy with the set-up of his Rizla Suzuki. He’s going to be very hard to beat and now has the tools to prove what we already know – that he’s a world class rider with the ability to win Championships.”

Racers4kids To Sponsor Zalusky And Other Young Female Racers

Racers4Kids announces sponsorship of female motorcycle roadracer Jessica Zalusky for the 2005 race season. Zalusky will ride Kawasaki equipment in select AMA Superstock, Formula Extreme, and Superbike events, as well as select CRA, Formula USA, and WERA events. Racers4Kids Director Rick Lawson believes that Zalusky is an outstanding role model for women interested in motorcycling and her ambition to introduce more young women to motorcycle racing will benefit the sport. “Jessica’s ambitions tie in perfectly with the goals of the Racers4Kids program, which is dedicated to helping young riders and racers in all forms of motorsports to pursue their passions.” Racers4Kids is expecting to award 50% of their sponsorship funds and program assistance to young female enthusiasts to help involve more women in motorsports. Young motorcycle racers are invited to visit the R4K website at www.racers4kids.com to learn more about receiving sponsorship assistance from Racers4Kids.

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