Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Local Monterey, California news reports say the 2005 U.S. GP at Laguna Seca will be held on the weekend of July 8-10.
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Local News Reports: Date Of 2005 U.S. GP At Laguna Seca Will Be July 8-10
More On What Happened With USGPRU At Barber Last Weekend
From a press release issued by USGPRU:
USGPRU National Championship Round 10 Barber Motorsports GP Results
BIRMINGHAM, AL. – August 18, 2004 – Barber Motorsports Park served as a spectacular venue for Round 10 of the USGPRU national championship series which was run in conjunction with the Formula USA series. In the 125GP ranks, Brian Kcraget needed only to ride his Honda RS125 to a conservative finish to claim the regional title while Todd Puckett, also on a Honda RS125 was hoping for a last minute upset. The field for the event was massive as 42 riders took to the track for qualifying. The combination of a beautiful track, unseasonably temperate weather, and the promise of close competition drew riders from all across the country. Texas teen Will Gruy rode his Honda RS125 to a scintillating 1:35.92 lap time and pushed Kcraget to respond with 1:35.79 lap to claim pole. Garrett Carter, recently returned from a summer vacation of racing in England, rode his Honda RS125 to a strong third followed by Scott Moxey on a Honda RS125 and JD Schendel on a Yamaha TZ125.
When the green flag dropped for the 125GP final, the front runners hacked their way through the first turn and set off after leaders Kcraget and Gruy. Giving chase to the lead two were Garrett Carter, Scott Moxey, JD Schendel, and Todd Puckett. Kcraget pushed Gruy to the limit and late in the race the torrid pace took its toll as Gruy tucked the front end and crashed out. This sealed the victory for Kcraget with Carter and Moxey chasing hard to claim the remaining spots on the podium. After showing everyone the fast line, Kcraget instructed Carter in the proper technique for opening of a champagne bottle, a skill that Garrett may put to good use in his future racing career. Kcraget was crowned the eastern region champ followed by Todd Puckett in second and Josh Herrin third.
In 250GP action, the regional championship was down to a two horse race between Brian Kcraget on his Honda RS250 and Steve Wenner, also RS mounted. In what has become a leitmotif of the USGPRU, the field for the event was exceptionally deep with 40 riders entered. Barret Long threw down the quickest qualifying lap on his TZ250 at 1:34.01 while Sean Wray, also TZ250 mounted, followed closely behind with a time of 1:34.91. Bill Himmelsbach edged out Brian Kcraget for third with western region champ Sean McNew rounding out the top five spots on the grid.
In the 250GP final Kcraget got the hole-shot followed by Scott McNew on his RS250. After the first lap Barrett Long charged to the front and he and Kcraget began to stretch a lead as times plummeted below the qualifying pace. McNew fought off Bill Himmelsbach and Sean Wray for much of the race but a near crash in the closing laps allowed the pair past. The finishing order remained that way with Long taking first from Kcraget and Himmelsbach climbing the final podium rung. Kcraget was also crowned eastern region champ for the 250GP class followed by Steve Wenner in second and Stewart Aitken-Cade in third contesting the class aboard a Honda RS125.
The USGPRU Final Championship round is scheduled at Virginia International Raceway in Alton, VA on September 26th, 2004.
About USGPRU
The USGPRU is the officially recognized Motorcycle Grand Prix Road Racing US National Championship series. The USGPRU emulates true World MotoGP racing experience and serves to attract young riders to gain experience in a professional environment and provide a path to world-class motorcycle racing. The USGPRU structures events with extended length grand prix racing exclusive to the GP machines, timed qualifying and strong contingency and sponsor support. For additional details, visit www.USGPRU.net
Full Results:
125GP – 12 Laps
1. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS125)
2. Garrett Carter (Hon RS125)
3. Scott Moxey (Hon RS125)
4. Jonathan Schendel (Yam TZ125)
5. Josh Herrin (Hon RS125)
6. Todd Puckett (Hon RS125)
7. James Boudreau (Hon RS125)
8. John Hjelm (Hon RS125)
9. Steve Wenner (Hon RS125)
10. Stewart Aitken-Cade (Hon RS125)
11. Gregor Halenda (Hon RS125)
12. Andrew Brown (Hon RS125)
13. Tyler Reiswig (Hon RS125)
14. Chris Consentino (Hon RS125)
15. Ryan Ferris (Yam TZ125)
16. Scott McNew (Hon RS125)
17. Michael Santelia (Hon RS125)
18. Dale Greenwood, Jr. (Hon RS125)
19. Tyler McDonald (Hon RS125)
20. John Klaras (Hon RS125)
21. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125)
22. Turu Illgen (Hon RS125)
23. Jonathan Giddens (Hon RS125)
24. Mark Johnson (Hon RS125)
25. Chris Doktor (Yam TZ125), -1 lap
26. Joanne Sawyer (Hon RS125), -1 lap
27. Mark Dennis (Hon RS125), -1 lap
28. Miguel Chirino (Hon RS125), -1 lap
29. Frank Pate (Hon RS125), -1 lap
30. Rebecca Henn (Yam TZ125), -1 lap
31. Ayrton Arwood (Hon RS125), -1 lap
32. Lee Hollimon (Hon RS125), -1 lap
33. Don Roberts (Yam TZ125), -2 laps
34. James Lovejoy (Hon RS125), -5 laps
35. David Celento (Yam TZ125), -5 laps
36. Will Gruy (Hon RS125), -6 laps, DNF, crash
37. Ryan Clay (Apr RSV125), -6 laps, DNF
38. Hector St. John (Yam TZ125), -7 laps, DNF
39. Philip Bangle (Hon RS125), -9 laps, DNF
40. Scott Smallwood (Hon RS125), -10 laps, DNF
250GP – 12 Laps
1. Barrett Long (Yam TZ250), 12 laps
2. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS250)
3. Bill Himmelsbach (Yam TZ250)
4. Sean Wray (Yam TZ250)
5. Scott McNew (Hon RS250)
6. Steve Wenner (Hon RS250)
7. Bruce Lind (Yam TZ250)
8. Mark Stiles (Yam TZ250)
9. Nobi Iso (Yam TZ250)
10. John Long (Yam TZ250)
11. Garrett Carter (Hon RS125)
12. Josh Herrin (Hon RS125)
13. Andrew Brown (Hon RS125)
14. Patrick Dowd (Yam TZ250)
15. Stewart Aitken-Cade (Hon RS125)
16. Jonathan Schendel (Yam TZ125)
17. Tyler Reiswig (Hon RS125)
18. Kory Gill (Yam TZ250)
19. Ryan Clay (Apr RSV125)
20. Matt Hall (Yam TZ250)
21. Justin Long (Yam TZ250)
22. James Hillis (Apr RS250)
23. J. Pat Bartlett (Yam TZ250)
24. Ryan Ferris (Yam TZ125)
25. David Celetino (Yam TZ125)
26. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125)
27. Jonathan Giddens (Hon RS125), -1 lap
28. Mike Wright (Yam TZ250), -1 lap
29. Chris Doktor (Yam TZ125), -1 lap
30. Meghan Stiles (Yam TZ250), -1 lap
31. Chad Hinton (Apr RS250), -1 lap
32. Charles Cofer (Hon RS250), -4 laps
33. Frank Pate (Hon RS125), -4 laps
34. Andrew Surber (Yam TZ250), -6 laps
35. Scott Martin (Hon RS125), -9 laps, DNF
36. Philip Bangle (Hon RS125), -10 laps, DNF
Recent Marriage
Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Former CCS Southwest (#191) racer and current Air Force Staff Sergeant Leonard Novak, III, married Amanda Foss August 10 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Foss is stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
Honda Previews The Czech Republic Grand Prix
From a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:
GIBERNAU AND BIAGGI POISED TO REEL IN ROSSI
The pulsating 2004 MotoGP season resumes this weekend at Brno in the Czech Republic with Honda riders Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda RC211V) and Max Biaggi (Camel Honda RC211V) locked together on 142 points as they chase MotoGP series leader Valentino Rossi (Yamaha) who has 164 points.
With seven races of this 16-race season left to run, there are 175 points up for grabs more than enough to suggest that even beyond the halfway point of this compelling season nothing can be taken for granted.
Even Colin Edwards (Telefonica MoviStar Honda RC211V) who had been having a wretched season up until the British Grand Prix at the end of July is now likely to be a factor in the title run-in. It may be too late for him to nurse title dreams in fourth overall on 95 points, but his results are likely to have a bearing on the final outcome if he can maintain his Donington form and steal points from other riders.
The most consistent riders in the Championship are Biaggi and Edwards. They are the only two to have scored points at every round so far. As a result they lie third and fourth in the points table. Gibernau has failed to finish twice, Rossi once. Further DNFs for any title aspirant will now prove disastrous as Brno and the six races beyond become a reality after the summer break.
Brno lies 200km south-east of Prague and the area is steeped in the rich history of Grand Prix racing. Races were run on an imposing closed roads course before the dedicated circuit was built in 1987. The 5.403km track is a spectacular environment for motorcycle racing and its plunging turns and a power-sapping climb demand a maximum from riders and machines.
The track drops 73m from its highest to its lowest point and this gradient is felt chiefly by way of downhill corner entries that that ask a lot from the front tyre. Some of these tricky entries are compounded by negative camber that further increases demands for dependable front-end grip. And from turn four to turn 11 it’s all downhill.
There are fast chicanes requiring a chassis set up for rapid changes of direction. Precise steering is a must here even though the track is exceptionally wide at 15m without accurate turn-in at the high sustained speeds achieved here not even this super-wide circuit can accommodate wayward exits resulting from inaccurate turn-in.
Another factor is the huge, enthusiastic crowd, The Czechs love their motorcycle racing and tens of thousands flock to Brno where the viewing facilities are excellent. The event won’t quite attract the crowds of 250,000 who used to watch in the 1970s, but Brno, like the best tracks, always has a charged atmosphere.
One of the most successful riders here in recent times is Max Biaggi. The Roman maestro has won here four times (back-to-back) on a 250 between 1994 and 1997, and he has also scored three premier class wins here too in 1998, 2000 and 2002. Of all the riders hoping for a victory here this weekend, perhaps Max is man best qualified to reasonably expect one…
“This season has already proved however that nothing is decided until the end, and it is with this spirit that I will take on the second part of the year. I’m delighted that we kick off again with Brno, because it is a track that I like without a doubt, but I will approach it as I do any other. In the end every track is great when you feel at one with your bike. And every track can be a pitfall when you don’t think it will be. So, it’s good to go to Brno, but the job more importantly than ever is to work well with the team, with Honda and with Michelin to get ourselves into the best shape technically by Sunday so we can fight for victory.” he said
His team-mate Makoto Tamada (Camel Honda RC211V) riding on Bridgestone tyres said, “The Brno track is one of my favourites; the design and the track’s rhythm are very special. I really think I can go well there. During the summer break the tyre development will have moved on, and with the right choice to suit the climate in the Czech Republic we can feature prominently in this race.”
For Sete the battle begins again. “We are going to fight for this World Championship,” he said. “And Brno is a track I love a lot, it’s one of my favourites. Both the setting and layout of the track are excellent. It has good grip and very few bumps. From the first corners to about three fourths the length of the track the circuit descends, while for the last quarter the ascent is very pronounced with two chicanes, a very slow one and another very fast one which brings you to the straightaway. I always like racing in Brno.”
Colin Edwards too is ready for the challenge of Brno. “It’s a great place and full of character. The best bit is about halfway round where there’s a mini-stadium section. It’s really difficult but it’s good. It’s a nice flowing track, and you’ve got to pick the right lines every time. After Donington I can’t wait to get back racing, to show people the real Colin Edwards again.”
Alex Barros (Repsol Honda RC211V) currently lies fifth in the overall points standings and said, “I’m really looking forward to getting back on the bike on Friday and pushing hard. This season has been very frustrating for me so far. The team is working very hard but there are times when things don’t seem to go my way. But I think we should go well in Brno. The new exhaust system helps with traction out of slower corners and this circuit has several second gear turns where it is important to get the power down smoothly. I’m looking to make this race the start of the best half of the season.”
Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda RC211V) in sixth overall is another rider in need of a stronger second half to his season. “I was ready to get back racing half way through the break I’m so excited about the rest of the season! We’re working real tight as a unit and we’ve had a few good sessions and races but no weekend has been 100% yet and this is the goal. In my first year I finished fifth in the championship and any racer’s goal is to go better with every season.”
In the 250cc category Dani Pedrosa (Telefonica MoviStar Junior Team RS250RW) has simply set the class alight in his rookie year and the young Spanish flyer leads his nearest rival Randy de Puniet (Aprilia) by 34 points with Sebastian Porto (Aprilia) in third 18 points behind de Puniet.
Again consistency is the key and de Puniet has finished every race in the points and despite his single win to Pedrosa’s four the Frenchman is ahead of Portoin third who’s scored two wins but twice failed to finish. But Pedrosa’s rookie record so far is astonishing; four wins, four seconds and just one DNF from his first nine races in the class.
Dani said, “We’ve had a good first half to the season, better than we expected, but the end will be very tough and we have to be ready. I’m glad we’re starting off in Brno because it is a circuit that has always been good for me with the 125. There are only two races left in Europe, other than the last round at Valencia, and the ‘flyaways’ will be stressful, with a circuit that we don’t know thrown in at Qatar. I’m very motivated and I’m looking forward to getting back on track.”
“I was looking forward to going home to Japan after so long away,” said Hiroshi Aoyama (Telefonica MoviStar Junior Team RS250RW), “Although I am very happy in Barcelona. The holidays were really nice, I was able to relax and recharge the batteries for the rest of the season. At the start of this year everything was new for me but now I feel more and more at home in the category and in the competition, although every Grand Prix represents a new adventure for me. I think I have had some good races, although I still need a little extra. I have been close to the podium on two occasions and I would like to be up there before the end of the season.”
Tony Elias (Fortuna Honda RS250RW) said, “I like racing at Brno, it’s fast with corners you can do something with and I’m looking forward to it after the break. The remaining races are very important for me and I have to win to improve my position in the Championship. The bike is fast but we need to work more on the rolling chassis to get the very best out of the machine now.”
Andrea Dovizioso (Team Kopron Scot Honda RS125R) currently heads the 125cc table just as he has done all season. He has finished every race in the points so far and with three wins among those finishes, the young Italian is showing the combination of speed and discretion that defines a potential World Champion.
But seasoned campaigner Roberto Locatelli (Aprilia) is on his tail and hungry Hector Barbera (Aprilia) is only two points behind him. And even sitting on a considerable points cushion, ‘Dovi’ is in no mood to discount the challenges ahead of him.
“I’m going to Brno in good condition, said Dovi. “I have been training hard to improve my physique while on holiday in Sardegna. Running long distance and riding my CR450 Supermotard, a gift from our sponsors. Brno is not one of my favourite tracks and last year I had trouble getting the bike to turn as precisely as I needed on the wide corners. Even though I don’t really like the circuit I’m confident I will have a good race there. The team is working very hard for me, the bike is really good and I rode well at Donington.”
Promotion, New Hires At Helmet House
From a press release issued by PR firm Plummer-Menapace Group on behalf of Helmet House:
HELMET HOUSE GROWS AGAIN
Three New Management Hires And A Promotion
(Calabasas Hills, CA) Helmet House, one of the industry’s premier distributors, continues to grow with the addition of three new management people and the promotion of a third.
Eli Whitney, a 27-year Helmet House veteran, has been promoted to Tour Master Brand Sales Manager. It marks the first time in the company’s 35-year history that a sales manager has been appointed solely for the rapidly-growing and expanding Tour Master® and Cortech® lines of riding apparel, gloves, soft bags and luggage, and rainsuits. Whitney spent his first 22 years as a Helmet House sales representative in the Southern California market. Five years ago he was promoted to Field Sales Trainer and then, in 2001, to Regional Sales Manager.
Described as someone who “eats, sleeps, and breathes Tour Master”, Whitney’s new role will see him working more closely with the New Products department, assisting with product improvements and new-product development and testing. He will also aid the Regional Sales Managers in continuing to build the Tour Master and Cortech brands and further increase their market shares, along with conducting dealer and consumer seminars. A serious motorhead, Whitney has owned and ridden “countless” motorcycles, has put over 53,000 miles on his Honda ST1100 in the past year and a half, is a former open-wheel and stock-car racer, and has devoted decades to the building and restoration of street rods.
To fill Whitney’s former position, Helmet House has hired Scott McBrien as a Regional Sales Manager. McBrien comes to the company with an extensive background in sales, sales management, and sales training. An avid rider himself, he is “extremely passionate about bikes and the motorcycle industry, and this ‘passion’ for the sport and his work is something we actively seek in Helmet House personnel,” said David Kane, National Sales Manager. McBrien, his wife and two children are currently re-locating from Phoenix, AZ.
Jim Reznik is another new Regional Sales Manager added to the Helmet House roster. And while he may be new to our industry, he has an extremely solid background in sales, coming in with over 20 years as an independent sales representative in the golf equipment industry (which is going to make him really popular with a lot of bike-industry people). For the past eight years, Reznik was the Sales Manager of Sayco International, a golf equipment distributor in the Midwest. Of course, motorcycles are a major part of his life: “The reason I was drawn to the position at Helmet House was my enthusiasm for motorsports dating to my pre-teen years. I am an active Enduro and Hare-Scramble rider, and have participated in the Michigan CCC, 7-day Enduro for over 13 years, as well as the Colorado Trail Ride of the Rookies, and other riding events.”
Randy Hutchings is the other addition to the management staff, in the position of Chief Financial Officer. Hutchings is no stranger to Helmet House; for the past eleven years he has been with the company’s accounting firm, which gives him a uniquely-thorough knowledge of Helmet House’s financial operations. A CPA and native southern Californian, Hutchings received his accounting degree from the University of Southern California. “During my last 15 years in accounting, I have worked with numerous companies, and I have always admired the organization, professionalism, and bright future that make Helmet House so distinctive and successful,” Hutchings said. When not “crunching numbers”, he added that he enjoys spending time with his wife, Linda, and sons, Zachary and Ian, along with sports and travel.
Founded in 1969, Helmet House is a full-service national motorcycle-products distributor. Its core brands are Shoei and HJC Helmets, Tour Master and Cortech. Shoei, Tour Master, and Cortech are exclusive with Helmet House. The company maintains two distribution centers in Calabasas, CA and Memphis, TN. Its headquarters are at 26855 Malibu Hills Road, Calabasas Hills, CA, 91301.
The Latest From Fastrack Riders And WERA West
From a press release:
Fastrack Riders & WERA West August Events
Fastrack Riders will have a track day on Saturday, August 28th on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Infield / Oval combination track which is approximately 2.5 miles in length. All riders will have access to air cooled garages to keep cool while not riding. The price is $195 per rider for the day with the Novice Rider School being an additional $100 for first timers to the track. Register on line @ www.fastrackriders.com or call 877-560-2233 to reserve a spot.
WERA West is staging their fifth event of their first season Sunday, August 29th at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on the 2.5 mile Infield / Oval track. There will be eighteen Sportsman Event races run that day with points going towards the WERA West overall championship series. The top fifteen riders in points in each class for each Region will be invited to the Grand National Final held at Road Atlanta October 12th through the 17th. There will be a $10 per person gate fee for the August 29th race day.
The final WERA West race of the season will again be at Las Vegas Motor Speedway but on the exterior 2.5 mile Classic Road Course run in the same configuration as the WERA West May event on Sunday, October 3rd.
WERA West is in the process of negotiating dates for 2005 and look to expand the series to a seven to eight race one day Sportsman events. Fastrack Riders will have a track day on each Saturday before a WERA West race event in 2005.
WERA Heads To Talladega This Weekend
From a press release issued for WERA Motorcycle Roadracing by Raven Communications:
WERA NATIONAL SERIES HEADS SOUTH TO TALLADEGA
OXFORD, Ala.- The WERA National Challenge Series and the Dunlop/WERA National Endurance Series will head south to Talladega Gran Prix Raceway this weekend, August 21-22, for round seven of the season.
At only 1.35 miles in length, Talladega is one of the shortest tracks that the series runs. The tight circuit is a popular venue for fans, who benefit from being able to see all of the racing action from the grandstands or pit lane. The short track also fosters exciting racing, with daring passes and close competition.
The four-hour Dunlop/WERA National Endurance Series race will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 21. Vesrah Suzuki won the Talladega round last season on a Suzuki GSX-R1000 and they currently lead the points, but Team Velocity Racing was at the top of podium at Summit Point two weeks ago on their Yamaha YZF-R1.
Army of Darkness will also be a favored team at Talladega on their Mediumweight Superbike Suzuki GSX-R600. The team finished second overall during last year’s race, and they have the advantage of using Talladega as their test track during the winter months.
The WERA National Challenge Series sprint races get started at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 22. Each race will be 12 laps in length.
Tray Batey has been the man to beat in the expert classes this season, but this weekend Mike Smith is returning to the series with his eye on the top of the podium. Batey and Smith each won two races when they competed at Talladega last year, and both will be anxious to break the tie.
Fans can catch three days of on-track action, including a practice day on Friday, for only $30. A two-day ticket costs just $20, and Sunday-only admission is $15. Camping for the weekend is also available.
The track is less than a two-hour drive from both Atlanta and Birmingham. Take I-20 to exit 185 (Hwy. 21- Anniston/Oxford). Go south for 10 miles, and the track is on the left. More information about Talladega Gran Prix Raceway can be found at www.TGPRace.com.
More information about WERA, including a full schedule for the WERA National at Talladega, can be found at www.WERA.com.
Updated Post: Josh Hayes Won WSMC F1 Race At Willow Last Weekend
Josh Hayes and Attack Kawasaki showed up for the August round of the WSMC Series at Willow Springs, practicing for October’s $50,000-to-win Toyota 200. Hayes used his ZX-10R to win the Solo GTO, Open Superbike and F-1 races; he beat current King Of Willow Jeremy Toye in Open Superbike and had an easier time of it in F1 when Toye lost the front while challenging Hayes in turn one and crashed, later blaming the fall on a tire problem.
Marc Palazzo, disheartened by a crash and injuries suffered in July, said a few days after the fall that he wasn’t sure he’d race again, let alone come out in August to defend his overall WSMC points lead. But apparently Palazzo was feeling better a month later, because he showed up and won the 600cc Modified Production, F2 and 600cc Superstock races, maintaining his points lead over Will Eikenberry, who won the 750cc Modified Production, Formula 40 Lightweight and 650cc Superbike races.
Dave Molitor won the Formula 50 race for the second month running, and Pete Ellis won the Roadracingworld.com 250cc GP race.
WSMC Results August 14-15, 2004 Willow Springs Raceway, Rosamond, California (In chronological order)
SOLO GT-GP:
1. Roger Baker (Yam TZ250)
2. Michael Janzen (Yam TZ250)
3. Joel Manes (Hon RS250)
4. Jamie Lenore (Apr RS250)
SOLO GT-LIGHTS:
1. Ritchie Thorup (Yam FZR400)
2. Kurt Whitington (Suz)
3. Nick Ramchandani (Hon)
4. Martin Hackworth (Yam)
5. Craig Smith (Apr RS250)
SOLO GTO:
1. Josh Hayes (Kaw ZX-10R)
2. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Rich Gann (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Paul Ozgunduz (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Rick May (Suz GSX-R1000)
SOLO GTU:
1. Tim Knutson (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Mark Hargis (Yam YZF-R6)
3. Scott Garner (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Matthias Jezek (Kaw ZX-6R)
5. David Brown (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Dustin Coyner (Suz GSX-R600)
SANTA BARBARA MOTORSPORTS BOTT MIDDLEWEIGHT:
1. Kenny Kopecky (Duc 749R)
2. Richy Headley (Duc 749R)
3. Bob Setbacken (Duc 748)
4. Bradley Adams (Suz SV650)
5. Eric Pinson (H-D 1200)
6. Jonsthon Lowery (Duc 748)
VINTAGE LIGHTWEIGHT DINOSAURS:
1. James Dobson (Yam)
2. Barry King (Yam)
3. Warren Spradlin Jr. (Yam)
4. Larry Cochran (Hon)
5. Steven Baker (Yam)
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS INC. OPEN SUPERBIKE:
1. Josh Hayes (Kaw ZX-10R)
2. Jeremy Toye (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R1)
6. Mark Simon (Suz GSX-R100)
RACER’S EDGE 750cc SUPERSTOCK:
1. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R750)
2. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636 ZX-6R)
3. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Skye Girard (Suz GSX-R750)
5. Ruben Munoz Jr. (Suz GSX-R750)
6. Jason Caldwell (Suz GSX-R750)
BOTT HEAVYWEIGHT:
1. Kenny Kopecky (Duc 999R)
2. John-Mark Arechiga (Apr RSV1000)
3. Warren Luciano (Suz)
4. Eric Pinson (H-D 1200)
5. Alan Lee (Yam)
500cc MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. J.C Gibbs (Yam FZR400)
2. Horace Knight (Yam FZR400)
3. Clinton Whitehouse III (Yam)
4. Chris Shadoan (Kaw)
5. Dean Chin (Yam FZR400)
6. Barry King (Yam)
L&L MOTORSPORTS 750cc SUPERBIKE:
1. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R750)
2. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R750)
3. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Mark Watts (Hon RC30)
5. Ruben Munoz Jr. (Suz GSX-R750)
6. Skye Girard (Suz GSX-R750)
OPEN MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
2. Stephen Hewitt (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Mark Simon (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Marcel Graeber (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Premysi Glinz (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Phillip Davidson (Yam YZF-R1)
REDLINE MOTORSPORTS 600cc MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. Marc Palazzo (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Mickey Lane (Yam YZF-R6)
3. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
4. William Clarke (Yam YZf-R6)
5. Joe Shelton (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Blair Sullenger (Yam YZF-R6)
PERFORMANCE UNLIMITED/GOLDEN CANTINA FORMULA TWINS:
1. Kenny Kopecky (Duc 999R)
2. Claudio Szyszkowski (Duc)
3. Richy Headley (Duc 749R)
4. Bob Setbacken (Duc 748)
5. Eric Pinson (H-D 1200)
6. Alan Lee (Yam)
500cc SUPERSTOCK:
1. J.C. Gibbs (Yam FZR400)
2. Clinton Whitehouse III (Yam)
3. Chris Shadoan (Kaw)
4. Dean Chin (Yam FZR400)
5. Alan Rodriguez (Yam)
6. Mark Guzman (Yam)
FORMULA SINGLES:
1. Jim Rau (MZ)
2. Jeff Rheaume (Suz)
GRAVES MOTORSPORTS OPEN SUPERSTOCK
1. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R1)
2. John Chen (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Clinton Whitehouse III (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Mark Simon (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Marcel Graeber (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Premysi Glinz (Suz GSX-R1000)
750cc MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636 ZX-6R)
2. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R750)
3. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Ruben Munoz Jr. (Suz GSX-R750)
5. Skye Girard (Suz GSX-R750)
6. Jason Caldwell (Suz GSX-R750)
550cc SUPERBIKE:
1. Ritchie Thorup (Yam FZR400)
2. Bradley Adams (Suz SV650)
3. Brienne Thomson (Suz SV650)
4. Horace Knight (Hon)
5. James Dobson (Yam)
6. J.C. Gibbs (Yam FZR400)
660cc SINGLES:
1. Jim Rau (MZ)
500cc SINGLES:
1. Larry Cochran (Hon)
FORMULA 40 HEAVYWEIGHT:
1. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R1000)
2. Richard Headley (Hon CBR1000RR)
3. Stephen Hewitt (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Claudio Szyszkowski (Duc)
5. Clinton Whitehouse III (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Phillip Davidson (Yam)
FORMULA 40 LIGHTWEIGHT:
1. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636 ZX-6R)
2. Mark Watts (Yam TZ250)
3. Jay Tanner (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Mark Hargis (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Pete Ellis (Yam TZ250)
6. Tom Sera (Yam YZF-R6)
FORMULA 50:
1. David Molitor (Suz GSX-R1000)
2. John Thomas (Suz GSX-R750)
3. Mitchell Wissner (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Dan Liota (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Jeff Carter (Yam YZF-R1)
6. Erwin Glanzl (Suz GSX-R1000)
ROADRACINGWORLD.COM 250cc GP:
1. Pete Ellis (Yam TZ250)
2. Vincent Rolleri (Yam TZ250)
3. Mark Wilson (Hon RS250)
4. Mike Lytle (Yam TZ250)
5. John Dalton (Hon RS250)
6. Patrick Tracey (Apr RS250)
APEX PREDATOR 125cc GRAND PRIX:
1. Jay Pilster (Hon RS125)
2. Kevin Murray (Yam TZ125)
3. Britt Arechiga (Hon RS125)
4. Clint Solomon (Hon RS125)
5. James Wilberger (Hon RS125)
6. Brian Heess (Hon RS125)
CALIFORNIA RACE SERVICES 600cc SUPERSTOCK:
1. Marc Palazzo (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R6)
3. James Mann (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Blair Sullenger (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Joe Shelton (Yam YZF-R6)
TOYOTA CUP UMLIMITED FORMULA 1:
1. Josh Hayes (Kaw ZX-10R)
2. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R)
4. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R1)
5. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
651cc-OPEN HEAVYWEIGHT NOVICE:
1. Kalon Welch (Suz GSX-R)
2. Ben Hubmer (Duc)
3. Tyler Ojala (Yam YZF-R1)
4. Mike Martin (Yam YZF-R1)
5. Warren Luciano (Suz GSX-R)
6. Rodney Monroe (Suz GSX-R)
GOLDEN WEST TRAILERS FORMULA 2:
1. Marc Palazzo (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636cc ZX-6R)
3. Mickey Lane (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Michael Beck (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Mark Allen (Yam YZF-R6)
APRILIA CHALLENGE (All Apr RS250):
1. Patrick Tracey
2. Ruben Archilla
3. Robert Gosney
4. Jamie Lenore
5. David Steinhoff
6. Anthony Digati
VINTAGE HEAVYWEIGHT DINOSAURS:
1. James Dobson (Yam)
2. Scott Fabbro (Suz GS1000)
3. Russ Lomanto (Hon)
BOTT LIGHTWEIGHT:
1. Jim Rau (MZ)
2. Chris Shadoan (Kaw)
3. Steven Baker (Yam)
4. Larry Cochran (Hon)
5. Tom Nichols (Kaw)
0-500cc LIGHTWEIGHT NOVICE:
1. Axel Alvarez (Hon)
2. Melissa Paris (Hon RS125)
3. Marlena Gerhard (Apr RS250)
4. Steve Verschoor (Yam)
5. Keith Bobrosky (Kaw)
6. Jane Schwartzkopf (Yam)
650cc SUPERBIKE:
1. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636cc ZX-6R)
2. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R6)
3. Mickey Lane (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Michael Beck (Yam YZF-R6)
6. William Clarke (Yam YZF-R6)
501-650cc MIDDLEWEIGHT NOVICE:
1. Chad Lewin (Suz)
2. Jim Bird (Yam)
3. Brant Wiwi (Kaw)
4. Dawn Champion (Kaw)
5. Albert Medina (Hon)
6. Magoo Fidanian (Yam)
And now some reader (and racer) reaction:
FIRST PERSON/OPINION
Via e-mail:
Letter to the Editor:
I read your posting of the results of the WSMC races this last weekend at Willow Springs. I believe the finishing order that was submitted to you for Formula 1 was incorrect. According to my understanding, the official result was Corey Eaton 7th and Stephen Hewitt 6th. It was a very close finish. Also, I did not see the results for the Formula 40 heavyweight race in your posting. It was an exciting three way battle to the finish line between Richard Headley 1st, Jeff Stern 2nd and Stephen Hewitt 3rd.
Stephen Hewitt, Esq.
North Hollywood, California
We received two sets of official results via FAX from WSMC, one labeled results and one labeled revised results. We posted the revised results, which did not include Formula 40 Heavyweight, an oversight we didn’t catch. We have now added Formula 40 Heavyweight results from the first FAXed batch. As for your F1 results, we posted what WSMC supplied…Editor.
Suzuki Mourns McCarthy’s Death
From a press release issued by Team Suzuki:
KIRK McCARTHY: THE PASSING OF A CHAMPION
Suzuki is today mourning the death of former Australian Superbike Champion, Kirk McCarthy.
Racing in the Supersport class of the Shell Advance Australian Superbike Championship, the 35 year-old rider was critically injured in a tragic accident during round six at Queensland Raceway on Sunday 15 August.
“Everyone at Suzuki is greatly saddened by Kirk’s death,” Perry Morison, General Manager – Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia said.
“Kirk was one of our sport’s most colourful and talented racing stars and his passing is a great loss to the Australian motorcycle industry – he will be greatly missed.
Kirk rode for the factory Suzuki World Superbike Team in 1996.
Suzuki Australia extends its deepest sympathies to Kirk’s family, friends and fans both nationally and internationally.
Camel Honda Previews The Czech Grand Prix
From a press release issued by Camel Honda Pons:
MotoGP restarts after summer break. Max, Makoto and the Camel Honda team ready for Brno GP
With nearly a month having passed since the British GP, the last race before the recent summer rest period, the world championships has been able to take a breath before setting out on the second, frenetic half of the season. Seven races across four continents, beginning with this weekend’s Czech GP, will decide the outcome of one of the most exciting MotoGP seasons ever to take place over the next ten weeks. Max Biaggi makes his way to Brno after having undergone a rollercoaster of emotions over recent races, which nonetheless have had a common denominator; his determination to fight to the end and to always look ahead, even when fortune has not been on his side. That’s also how Biaggi is looking at this Brno race, despite the technical problems at Donington he is calm and confident in his own and his team’s capabilities. In much the same way Tamada, who travels straight to the Czech Republic from his holidays back home in Japan, is preparing for the second half of the season looking to repeat the success of Rio at a track that he already performed well on last year.
Sito Pons – Camel Honda (Team Principal)
“I think that this summer break has allowed everyone who works in the world championships, including riders and engineers, to enjoy a well-earned rest after a frankly intense and challenging period. It will allow us all to attack the second part of the season with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Brno is a track where Max has always got top results and which also works well for Makoto, who loves the fast circuits. I’m sure that after Donington, where a technical problem prevented us from showing our true potential, we can find our way back to victory, as we did in Brazil and Germany beforehand. Our team has everything it takes to take the title challenge to the very end.”
Max Biaggi #3: (Michelin Tyres)
“I have rested over the last few weeks, I got in some sunshine and did some sport whilst holidaying with friends. My thoughts have tracked back to the race, I admit it, just because what happened in Britain is still getting to me, how can that have happened? This season has already proved however that nothing is decided until the end, and it is with this spirit that I will take on the second part of the year. I’m delighted that we kick off again with Brno, because it is a track that I like without a doubt, but I will approach it as I do any other. In the end every track is great when you feel at one with your bike and every track can be a pitfall when you don’t think it will be. So, it’s good to go to Brno, but the job more importantly than ever is to work well with the team, with Honda and with Michelin to get ourselves into the best shape technically by Sunday so we can fight for victory.”
Luca Montiron – Camel Honda (Makoto Tamada Team Manager)
Makoto was in Japan during the summer vacation, and we hope he returns rested and refreshed so he can take on the second half of the season in perfect condition, as the rest of the team is ready to do. During the break, Bridgestone has continued its own work and we are hoping ultimately to reduce the gap to our rivals to firmly establish our position amongst the top riders. It is because of this work that we look forward to Brno with great anxiety and we are sure that the second part of the season will be fundamental for us.
Makoto Tamada #6: (Bridgestone Tyres)
“The Brno track is one of my favourites; the design and the track’s rhythm are very special. I really think I can go well there. During the summer break the tyre development will have moved on, and with the right choice to suit the climate in the Czech Republic we can feature prominently in this race.”
2003 Podium
1. V. Rossi (Honda)
2. S. Gibernau (Honda)
3. T. Bayliss (Ducati)
Pole Position Record
V. Rossi (Honda – 2003)
1:58.769
Official Record
V. Rossi (Honda – 2003)
1:59.966
No. of Laps
22 (118.866km)
MotoGP timetable:
14.00 (GMT + 2)
*European Summer Time
Characteristics
Length: 5,403 m
Width: 15m
Right corners: 8
Left corners: 6
Constructed in: 1987
Last Modified: 1996
Local News Reports: Date Of 2005 U.S. GP At Laguna Seca Will Be July 8-10
Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Local Monterey, California news reports say the 2005 U.S. GP at Laguna Seca will be held on the weekend of July 8-10.
More On What Happened With USGPRU At Barber Last Weekend
From a press release issued by USGPRU:
USGPRU National Championship Round 10 Barber Motorsports GP Results
BIRMINGHAM, AL. – August 18, 2004 – Barber Motorsports Park served as a spectacular venue for Round 10 of the USGPRU national championship series which was run in conjunction with the Formula USA series. In the 125GP ranks, Brian Kcraget needed only to ride his Honda RS125 to a conservative finish to claim the regional title while Todd Puckett, also on a Honda RS125 was hoping for a last minute upset. The field for the event was massive as 42 riders took to the track for qualifying. The combination of a beautiful track, unseasonably temperate weather, and the promise of close competition drew riders from all across the country. Texas teen Will Gruy rode his Honda RS125 to a scintillating 1:35.92 lap time and pushed Kcraget to respond with 1:35.79 lap to claim pole. Garrett Carter, recently returned from a summer vacation of racing in England, rode his Honda RS125 to a strong third followed by Scott Moxey on a Honda RS125 and JD Schendel on a Yamaha TZ125.
When the green flag dropped for the 125GP final, the front runners hacked their way through the first turn and set off after leaders Kcraget and Gruy. Giving chase to the lead two were Garrett Carter, Scott Moxey, JD Schendel, and Todd Puckett. Kcraget pushed Gruy to the limit and late in the race the torrid pace took its toll as Gruy tucked the front end and crashed out. This sealed the victory for Kcraget with Carter and Moxey chasing hard to claim the remaining spots on the podium. After showing everyone the fast line, Kcraget instructed Carter in the proper technique for opening of a champagne bottle, a skill that Garrett may put to good use in his future racing career. Kcraget was crowned the eastern region champ followed by Todd Puckett in second and Josh Herrin third.
In 250GP action, the regional championship was down to a two horse race between Brian Kcraget on his Honda RS250 and Steve Wenner, also RS mounted. In what has become a leitmotif of the USGPRU, the field for the event was exceptionally deep with 40 riders entered. Barret Long threw down the quickest qualifying lap on his TZ250 at 1:34.01 while Sean Wray, also TZ250 mounted, followed closely behind with a time of 1:34.91. Bill Himmelsbach edged out Brian Kcraget for third with western region champ Sean McNew rounding out the top five spots on the grid.
In the 250GP final Kcraget got the hole-shot followed by Scott McNew on his RS250. After the first lap Barrett Long charged to the front and he and Kcraget began to stretch a lead as times plummeted below the qualifying pace. McNew fought off Bill Himmelsbach and Sean Wray for much of the race but a near crash in the closing laps allowed the pair past. The finishing order remained that way with Long taking first from Kcraget and Himmelsbach climbing the final podium rung. Kcraget was also crowned eastern region champ for the 250GP class followed by Steve Wenner in second and Stewart Aitken-Cade in third contesting the class aboard a Honda RS125.
The USGPRU Final Championship round is scheduled at Virginia International Raceway in Alton, VA on September 26th, 2004.
About USGPRU
The USGPRU is the officially recognized Motorcycle Grand Prix Road Racing US National Championship series. The USGPRU emulates true World MotoGP racing experience and serves to attract young riders to gain experience in a professional environment and provide a path to world-class motorcycle racing. The USGPRU structures events with extended length grand prix racing exclusive to the GP machines, timed qualifying and strong contingency and sponsor support. For additional details, visit www.USGPRU.net
Full Results:
125GP – 12 Laps
1. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS125)
2. Garrett Carter (Hon RS125)
3. Scott Moxey (Hon RS125)
4. Jonathan Schendel (Yam TZ125)
5. Josh Herrin (Hon RS125)
6. Todd Puckett (Hon RS125)
7. James Boudreau (Hon RS125)
8. John Hjelm (Hon RS125)
9. Steve Wenner (Hon RS125)
10. Stewart Aitken-Cade (Hon RS125)
11. Gregor Halenda (Hon RS125)
12. Andrew Brown (Hon RS125)
13. Tyler Reiswig (Hon RS125)
14. Chris Consentino (Hon RS125)
15. Ryan Ferris (Yam TZ125)
16. Scott McNew (Hon RS125)
17. Michael Santelia (Hon RS125)
18. Dale Greenwood, Jr. (Hon RS125)
19. Tyler McDonald (Hon RS125)
20. John Klaras (Hon RS125)
21. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125)
22. Turu Illgen (Hon RS125)
23. Jonathan Giddens (Hon RS125)
24. Mark Johnson (Hon RS125)
25. Chris Doktor (Yam TZ125), -1 lap
26. Joanne Sawyer (Hon RS125), -1 lap
27. Mark Dennis (Hon RS125), -1 lap
28. Miguel Chirino (Hon RS125), -1 lap
29. Frank Pate (Hon RS125), -1 lap
30. Rebecca Henn (Yam TZ125), -1 lap
31. Ayrton Arwood (Hon RS125), -1 lap
32. Lee Hollimon (Hon RS125), -1 lap
33. Don Roberts (Yam TZ125), -2 laps
34. James Lovejoy (Hon RS125), -5 laps
35. David Celento (Yam TZ125), -5 laps
36. Will Gruy (Hon RS125), -6 laps, DNF, crash
37. Ryan Clay (Apr RSV125), -6 laps, DNF
38. Hector St. John (Yam TZ125), -7 laps, DNF
39. Philip Bangle (Hon RS125), -9 laps, DNF
40. Scott Smallwood (Hon RS125), -10 laps, DNF
250GP – 12 Laps
1. Barrett Long (Yam TZ250), 12 laps
2. Brian Kcraget (Hon RS250)
3. Bill Himmelsbach (Yam TZ250)
4. Sean Wray (Yam TZ250)
5. Scott McNew (Hon RS250)
6. Steve Wenner (Hon RS250)
7. Bruce Lind (Yam TZ250)
8. Mark Stiles (Yam TZ250)
9. Nobi Iso (Yam TZ250)
10. John Long (Yam TZ250)
11. Garrett Carter (Hon RS125)
12. Josh Herrin (Hon RS125)
13. Andrew Brown (Hon RS125)
14. Patrick Dowd (Yam TZ250)
15. Stewart Aitken-Cade (Hon RS125)
16. Jonathan Schendel (Yam TZ125)
17. Tyler Reiswig (Hon RS125)
18. Kory Gill (Yam TZ250)
19. Ryan Clay (Apr RSV125)
20. Matt Hall (Yam TZ250)
21. Justin Long (Yam TZ250)
22. James Hillis (Apr RS250)
23. J. Pat Bartlett (Yam TZ250)
24. Ryan Ferris (Yam TZ125)
25. David Celetino (Yam TZ125)
26. Dennis Woods (Hon RS125)
27. Jonathan Giddens (Hon RS125), -1 lap
28. Mike Wright (Yam TZ250), -1 lap
29. Chris Doktor (Yam TZ125), -1 lap
30. Meghan Stiles (Yam TZ250), -1 lap
31. Chad Hinton (Apr RS250), -1 lap
32. Charles Cofer (Hon RS250), -4 laps
33. Frank Pate (Hon RS125), -4 laps
34. Andrew Surber (Yam TZ250), -6 laps
35. Scott Martin (Hon RS125), -9 laps, DNF
36. Philip Bangle (Hon RS125), -10 laps, DNF
Recent Marriage
Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Former CCS Southwest (#191) racer and current Air Force Staff Sergeant Leonard Novak, III, married Amanda Foss August 10 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Foss is stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
Honda Previews The Czech Republic Grand Prix
From a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:
GIBERNAU AND BIAGGI POISED TO REEL IN ROSSI
The pulsating 2004 MotoGP season resumes this weekend at Brno in the Czech Republic with Honda riders Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda RC211V) and Max Biaggi (Camel Honda RC211V) locked together on 142 points as they chase MotoGP series leader Valentino Rossi (Yamaha) who has 164 points.
With seven races of this 16-race season left to run, there are 175 points up for grabs more than enough to suggest that even beyond the halfway point of this compelling season nothing can be taken for granted.
Even Colin Edwards (Telefonica MoviStar Honda RC211V) who had been having a wretched season up until the British Grand Prix at the end of July is now likely to be a factor in the title run-in. It may be too late for him to nurse title dreams in fourth overall on 95 points, but his results are likely to have a bearing on the final outcome if he can maintain his Donington form and steal points from other riders.
The most consistent riders in the Championship are Biaggi and Edwards. They are the only two to have scored points at every round so far. As a result they lie third and fourth in the points table. Gibernau has failed to finish twice, Rossi once. Further DNFs for any title aspirant will now prove disastrous as Brno and the six races beyond become a reality after the summer break.
Brno lies 200km south-east of Prague and the area is steeped in the rich history of Grand Prix racing. Races were run on an imposing closed roads course before the dedicated circuit was built in 1987. The 5.403km track is a spectacular environment for motorcycle racing and its plunging turns and a power-sapping climb demand a maximum from riders and machines.
The track drops 73m from its highest to its lowest point and this gradient is felt chiefly by way of downhill corner entries that that ask a lot from the front tyre. Some of these tricky entries are compounded by negative camber that further increases demands for dependable front-end grip. And from turn four to turn 11 it’s all downhill.
There are fast chicanes requiring a chassis set up for rapid changes of direction. Precise steering is a must here even though the track is exceptionally wide at 15m without accurate turn-in at the high sustained speeds achieved here not even this super-wide circuit can accommodate wayward exits resulting from inaccurate turn-in.
Another factor is the huge, enthusiastic crowd, The Czechs love their motorcycle racing and tens of thousands flock to Brno where the viewing facilities are excellent. The event won’t quite attract the crowds of 250,000 who used to watch in the 1970s, but Brno, like the best tracks, always has a charged atmosphere.
One of the most successful riders here in recent times is Max Biaggi. The Roman maestro has won here four times (back-to-back) on a 250 between 1994 and 1997, and he has also scored three premier class wins here too in 1998, 2000 and 2002. Of all the riders hoping for a victory here this weekend, perhaps Max is man best qualified to reasonably expect one…
“This season has already proved however that nothing is decided until the end, and it is with this spirit that I will take on the second part of the year. I’m delighted that we kick off again with Brno, because it is a track that I like without a doubt, but I will approach it as I do any other. In the end every track is great when you feel at one with your bike. And every track can be a pitfall when you don’t think it will be. So, it’s good to go to Brno, but the job more importantly than ever is to work well with the team, with Honda and with Michelin to get ourselves into the best shape technically by Sunday so we can fight for victory.” he said
His team-mate Makoto Tamada (Camel Honda RC211V) riding on Bridgestone tyres said, “The Brno track is one of my favourites; the design and the track’s rhythm are very special. I really think I can go well there. During the summer break the tyre development will have moved on, and with the right choice to suit the climate in the Czech Republic we can feature prominently in this race.”
For Sete the battle begins again. “We are going to fight for this World Championship,” he said. “And Brno is a track I love a lot, it’s one of my favourites. Both the setting and layout of the track are excellent. It has good grip and very few bumps. From the first corners to about three fourths the length of the track the circuit descends, while for the last quarter the ascent is very pronounced with two chicanes, a very slow one and another very fast one which brings you to the straightaway. I always like racing in Brno.”
Colin Edwards too is ready for the challenge of Brno. “It’s a great place and full of character. The best bit is about halfway round where there’s a mini-stadium section. It’s really difficult but it’s good. It’s a nice flowing track, and you’ve got to pick the right lines every time. After Donington I can’t wait to get back racing, to show people the real Colin Edwards again.”
Alex Barros (Repsol Honda RC211V) currently lies fifth in the overall points standings and said, “I’m really looking forward to getting back on the bike on Friday and pushing hard. This season has been very frustrating for me so far. The team is working very hard but there are times when things don’t seem to go my way. But I think we should go well in Brno. The new exhaust system helps with traction out of slower corners and this circuit has several second gear turns where it is important to get the power down smoothly. I’m looking to make this race the start of the best half of the season.”
Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda RC211V) in sixth overall is another rider in need of a stronger second half to his season. “I was ready to get back racing half way through the break I’m so excited about the rest of the season! We’re working real tight as a unit and we’ve had a few good sessions and races but no weekend has been 100% yet and this is the goal. In my first year I finished fifth in the championship and any racer’s goal is to go better with every season.”
In the 250cc category Dani Pedrosa (Telefonica MoviStar Junior Team RS250RW) has simply set the class alight in his rookie year and the young Spanish flyer leads his nearest rival Randy de Puniet (Aprilia) by 34 points with Sebastian Porto (Aprilia) in third 18 points behind de Puniet.
Again consistency is the key and de Puniet has finished every race in the points and despite his single win to Pedrosa’s four the Frenchman is ahead of Portoin third who’s scored two wins but twice failed to finish. But Pedrosa’s rookie record so far is astonishing; four wins, four seconds and just one DNF from his first nine races in the class.
Dani said, “We’ve had a good first half to the season, better than we expected, but the end will be very tough and we have to be ready. I’m glad we’re starting off in Brno because it is a circuit that has always been good for me with the 125. There are only two races left in Europe, other than the last round at Valencia, and the ‘flyaways’ will be stressful, with a circuit that we don’t know thrown in at Qatar. I’m very motivated and I’m looking forward to getting back on track.”
“I was looking forward to going home to Japan after so long away,” said Hiroshi Aoyama (Telefonica MoviStar Junior Team RS250RW), “Although I am very happy in Barcelona. The holidays were really nice, I was able to relax and recharge the batteries for the rest of the season. At the start of this year everything was new for me but now I feel more and more at home in the category and in the competition, although every Grand Prix represents a new adventure for me. I think I have had some good races, although I still need a little extra. I have been close to the podium on two occasions and I would like to be up there before the end of the season.”
Tony Elias (Fortuna Honda RS250RW) said, “I like racing at Brno, it’s fast with corners you can do something with and I’m looking forward to it after the break. The remaining races are very important for me and I have to win to improve my position in the Championship. The bike is fast but we need to work more on the rolling chassis to get the very best out of the machine now.”
Andrea Dovizioso (Team Kopron Scot Honda RS125R) currently heads the 125cc table just as he has done all season. He has finished every race in the points so far and with three wins among those finishes, the young Italian is showing the combination of speed and discretion that defines a potential World Champion.
But seasoned campaigner Roberto Locatelli (Aprilia) is on his tail and hungry Hector Barbera (Aprilia) is only two points behind him. And even sitting on a considerable points cushion, ‘Dovi’ is in no mood to discount the challenges ahead of him.
“I’m going to Brno in good condition, said Dovi. “I have been training hard to improve my physique while on holiday in Sardegna. Running long distance and riding my CR450 Supermotard, a gift from our sponsors. Brno is not one of my favourite tracks and last year I had trouble getting the bike to turn as precisely as I needed on the wide corners. Even though I don’t really like the circuit I’m confident I will have a good race there. The team is working very hard for me, the bike is really good and I rode well at Donington.”
Promotion, New Hires At Helmet House
From a press release issued by PR firm Plummer-Menapace Group on behalf of Helmet House:
HELMET HOUSE GROWS AGAIN
Three New Management Hires And A Promotion
(Calabasas Hills, CA) Helmet House, one of the industry’s premier distributors, continues to grow with the addition of three new management people and the promotion of a third.
Eli Whitney, a 27-year Helmet House veteran, has been promoted to Tour Master Brand Sales Manager. It marks the first time in the company’s 35-year history that a sales manager has been appointed solely for the rapidly-growing and expanding Tour Master® and Cortech® lines of riding apparel, gloves, soft bags and luggage, and rainsuits. Whitney spent his first 22 years as a Helmet House sales representative in the Southern California market. Five years ago he was promoted to Field Sales Trainer and then, in 2001, to Regional Sales Manager.
Described as someone who “eats, sleeps, and breathes Tour Master”, Whitney’s new role will see him working more closely with the New Products department, assisting with product improvements and new-product development and testing. He will also aid the Regional Sales Managers in continuing to build the Tour Master and Cortech brands and further increase their market shares, along with conducting dealer and consumer seminars. A serious motorhead, Whitney has owned and ridden “countless” motorcycles, has put over 53,000 miles on his Honda ST1100 in the past year and a half, is a former open-wheel and stock-car racer, and has devoted decades to the building and restoration of street rods.
To fill Whitney’s former position, Helmet House has hired Scott McBrien as a Regional Sales Manager. McBrien comes to the company with an extensive background in sales, sales management, and sales training. An avid rider himself, he is “extremely passionate about bikes and the motorcycle industry, and this ‘passion’ for the sport and his work is something we actively seek in Helmet House personnel,” said David Kane, National Sales Manager. McBrien, his wife and two children are currently re-locating from Phoenix, AZ.
Jim Reznik is another new Regional Sales Manager added to the Helmet House roster. And while he may be new to our industry, he has an extremely solid background in sales, coming in with over 20 years as an independent sales representative in the golf equipment industry (which is going to make him really popular with a lot of bike-industry people). For the past eight years, Reznik was the Sales Manager of Sayco International, a golf equipment distributor in the Midwest. Of course, motorcycles are a major part of his life: “The reason I was drawn to the position at Helmet House was my enthusiasm for motorsports dating to my pre-teen years. I am an active Enduro and Hare-Scramble rider, and have participated in the Michigan CCC, 7-day Enduro for over 13 years, as well as the Colorado Trail Ride of the Rookies, and other riding events.”
Randy Hutchings is the other addition to the management staff, in the position of Chief Financial Officer. Hutchings is no stranger to Helmet House; for the past eleven years he has been with the company’s accounting firm, which gives him a uniquely-thorough knowledge of Helmet House’s financial operations. A CPA and native southern Californian, Hutchings received his accounting degree from the University of Southern California. “During my last 15 years in accounting, I have worked with numerous companies, and I have always admired the organization, professionalism, and bright future that make Helmet House so distinctive and successful,” Hutchings said. When not “crunching numbers”, he added that he enjoys spending time with his wife, Linda, and sons, Zachary and Ian, along with sports and travel.
Founded in 1969, Helmet House is a full-service national motorcycle-products distributor. Its core brands are Shoei and HJC Helmets, Tour Master and Cortech. Shoei, Tour Master, and Cortech are exclusive with Helmet House. The company maintains two distribution centers in Calabasas, CA and Memphis, TN. Its headquarters are at 26855 Malibu Hills Road, Calabasas Hills, CA, 91301.
The Latest From Fastrack Riders And WERA West
From a press release:
Fastrack Riders & WERA West August Events
Fastrack Riders will have a track day on Saturday, August 28th on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Infield / Oval combination track which is approximately 2.5 miles in length. All riders will have access to air cooled garages to keep cool while not riding. The price is $195 per rider for the day with the Novice Rider School being an additional $100 for first timers to the track. Register on line @ www.fastrackriders.com or call 877-560-2233 to reserve a spot.
WERA West is staging their fifth event of their first season Sunday, August 29th at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on the 2.5 mile Infield / Oval track. There will be eighteen Sportsman Event races run that day with points going towards the WERA West overall championship series. The top fifteen riders in points in each class for each Region will be invited to the Grand National Final held at Road Atlanta October 12th through the 17th. There will be a $10 per person gate fee for the August 29th race day.
The final WERA West race of the season will again be at Las Vegas Motor Speedway but on the exterior 2.5 mile Classic Road Course run in the same configuration as the WERA West May event on Sunday, October 3rd.
WERA West is in the process of negotiating dates for 2005 and look to expand the series to a seven to eight race one day Sportsman events. Fastrack Riders will have a track day on each Saturday before a WERA West race event in 2005.
WERA Heads To Talladega This Weekend
From a press release issued for WERA Motorcycle Roadracing by Raven Communications:
WERA NATIONAL SERIES HEADS SOUTH TO TALLADEGA
OXFORD, Ala.- The WERA National Challenge Series and the Dunlop/WERA National Endurance Series will head south to Talladega Gran Prix Raceway this weekend, August 21-22, for round seven of the season.
At only 1.35 miles in length, Talladega is one of the shortest tracks that the series runs. The tight circuit is a popular venue for fans, who benefit from being able to see all of the racing action from the grandstands or pit lane. The short track also fosters exciting racing, with daring passes and close competition.
The four-hour Dunlop/WERA National Endurance Series race will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 21. Vesrah Suzuki won the Talladega round last season on a Suzuki GSX-R1000 and they currently lead the points, but Team Velocity Racing was at the top of podium at Summit Point two weeks ago on their Yamaha YZF-R1.
Army of Darkness will also be a favored team at Talladega on their Mediumweight Superbike Suzuki GSX-R600. The team finished second overall during last year’s race, and they have the advantage of using Talladega as their test track during the winter months.
The WERA National Challenge Series sprint races get started at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 22. Each race will be 12 laps in length.
Tray Batey has been the man to beat in the expert classes this season, but this weekend Mike Smith is returning to the series with his eye on the top of the podium. Batey and Smith each won two races when they competed at Talladega last year, and both will be anxious to break the tie.
Fans can catch three days of on-track action, including a practice day on Friday, for only $30. A two-day ticket costs just $20, and Sunday-only admission is $15. Camping for the weekend is also available.
The track is less than a two-hour drive from both Atlanta and Birmingham. Take I-20 to exit 185 (Hwy. 21- Anniston/Oxford). Go south for 10 miles, and the track is on the left. More information about Talladega Gran Prix Raceway can be found at www.TGPRace.com.
More information about WERA, including a full schedule for the WERA National at Talladega, can be found at www.WERA.com.
Updated Post: Josh Hayes Won WSMC F1 Race At Willow Last Weekend
Josh Hayes and Attack Kawasaki showed up for the August round of the WSMC Series at Willow Springs, practicing for October’s $50,000-to-win Toyota 200. Hayes used his ZX-10R to win the Solo GTO, Open Superbike and F-1 races; he beat current King Of Willow Jeremy Toye in Open Superbike and had an easier time of it in F1 when Toye lost the front while challenging Hayes in turn one and crashed, later blaming the fall on a tire problem.
Marc Palazzo, disheartened by a crash and injuries suffered in July, said a few days after the fall that he wasn’t sure he’d race again, let alone come out in August to defend his overall WSMC points lead. But apparently Palazzo was feeling better a month later, because he showed up and won the 600cc Modified Production, F2 and 600cc Superstock races, maintaining his points lead over Will Eikenberry, who won the 750cc Modified Production, Formula 40 Lightweight and 650cc Superbike races.
Dave Molitor won the Formula 50 race for the second month running, and Pete Ellis won the Roadracingworld.com 250cc GP race.
WSMC Results August 14-15, 2004 Willow Springs Raceway, Rosamond, California (In chronological order)
SOLO GT-GP:
1. Roger Baker (Yam TZ250)
2. Michael Janzen (Yam TZ250)
3. Joel Manes (Hon RS250)
4. Jamie Lenore (Apr RS250)
SOLO GT-LIGHTS:
1. Ritchie Thorup (Yam FZR400)
2. Kurt Whitington (Suz)
3. Nick Ramchandani (Hon)
4. Martin Hackworth (Yam)
5. Craig Smith (Apr RS250)
SOLO GTO:
1. Josh Hayes (Kaw ZX-10R)
2. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Rich Gann (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Paul Ozgunduz (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Rick May (Suz GSX-R1000)
SOLO GTU:
1. Tim Knutson (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Mark Hargis (Yam YZF-R6)
3. Scott Garner (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Matthias Jezek (Kaw ZX-6R)
5. David Brown (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Dustin Coyner (Suz GSX-R600)
SANTA BARBARA MOTORSPORTS BOTT MIDDLEWEIGHT:
1. Kenny Kopecky (Duc 749R)
2. Richy Headley (Duc 749R)
3. Bob Setbacken (Duc 748)
4. Bradley Adams (Suz SV650)
5. Eric Pinson (H-D 1200)
6. Jonsthon Lowery (Duc 748)
VINTAGE LIGHTWEIGHT DINOSAURS:
1. James Dobson (Yam)
2. Barry King (Yam)
3. Warren Spradlin Jr. (Yam)
4. Larry Cochran (Hon)
5. Steven Baker (Yam)
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS INC. OPEN SUPERBIKE:
1. Josh Hayes (Kaw ZX-10R)
2. Jeremy Toye (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R1)
6. Mark Simon (Suz GSX-R100)
RACER’S EDGE 750cc SUPERSTOCK:
1. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R750)
2. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636 ZX-6R)
3. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Skye Girard (Suz GSX-R750)
5. Ruben Munoz Jr. (Suz GSX-R750)
6. Jason Caldwell (Suz GSX-R750)
BOTT HEAVYWEIGHT:
1. Kenny Kopecky (Duc 999R)
2. John-Mark Arechiga (Apr RSV1000)
3. Warren Luciano (Suz)
4. Eric Pinson (H-D 1200)
5. Alan Lee (Yam)
500cc MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. J.C Gibbs (Yam FZR400)
2. Horace Knight (Yam FZR400)
3. Clinton Whitehouse III (Yam)
4. Chris Shadoan (Kaw)
5. Dean Chin (Yam FZR400)
6. Barry King (Yam)
L&L MOTORSPORTS 750cc SUPERBIKE:
1. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R750)
2. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R750)
3. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Mark Watts (Hon RC30)
5. Ruben Munoz Jr. (Suz GSX-R750)
6. Skye Girard (Suz GSX-R750)
OPEN MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
2. Stephen Hewitt (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Mark Simon (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Marcel Graeber (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Premysi Glinz (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Phillip Davidson (Yam YZF-R1)
REDLINE MOTORSPORTS 600cc MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. Marc Palazzo (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Mickey Lane (Yam YZF-R6)
3. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
4. William Clarke (Yam YZf-R6)
5. Joe Shelton (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Blair Sullenger (Yam YZF-R6)
PERFORMANCE UNLIMITED/GOLDEN CANTINA FORMULA TWINS:
1. Kenny Kopecky (Duc 999R)
2. Claudio Szyszkowski (Duc)
3. Richy Headley (Duc 749R)
4. Bob Setbacken (Duc 748)
5. Eric Pinson (H-D 1200)
6. Alan Lee (Yam)
500cc SUPERSTOCK:
1. J.C. Gibbs (Yam FZR400)
2. Clinton Whitehouse III (Yam)
3. Chris Shadoan (Kaw)
4. Dean Chin (Yam FZR400)
5. Alan Rodriguez (Yam)
6. Mark Guzman (Yam)
FORMULA SINGLES:
1. Jim Rau (MZ)
2. Jeff Rheaume (Suz)
GRAVES MOTORSPORTS OPEN SUPERSTOCK
1. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R1)
2. John Chen (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Clinton Whitehouse III (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Mark Simon (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Marcel Graeber (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Premysi Glinz (Suz GSX-R1000)
750cc MODIFIED PRODUCTION:
1. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636 ZX-6R)
2. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R750)
3. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
4. Ruben Munoz Jr. (Suz GSX-R750)
5. Skye Girard (Suz GSX-R750)
6. Jason Caldwell (Suz GSX-R750)
550cc SUPERBIKE:
1. Ritchie Thorup (Yam FZR400)
2. Bradley Adams (Suz SV650)
3. Brienne Thomson (Suz SV650)
4. Horace Knight (Hon)
5. James Dobson (Yam)
6. J.C. Gibbs (Yam FZR400)
660cc SINGLES:
1. Jim Rau (MZ)
500cc SINGLES:
1. Larry Cochran (Hon)
FORMULA 40 HEAVYWEIGHT:
1. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R1000)
2. Richard Headley (Hon CBR1000RR)
3. Stephen Hewitt (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Claudio Szyszkowski (Duc)
5. Clinton Whitehouse III (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Phillip Davidson (Yam)
FORMULA 40 LIGHTWEIGHT:
1. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636 ZX-6R)
2. Mark Watts (Yam TZ250)
3. Jay Tanner (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Mark Hargis (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Pete Ellis (Yam TZ250)
6. Tom Sera (Yam YZF-R6)
FORMULA 50:
1. David Molitor (Suz GSX-R1000)
2. John Thomas (Suz GSX-R750)
3. Mitchell Wissner (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Dan Liota (Suz GSX-R1000)
5. Jeff Carter (Yam YZF-R1)
6. Erwin Glanzl (Suz GSX-R1000)
ROADRACINGWORLD.COM 250cc GP:
1. Pete Ellis (Yam TZ250)
2. Vincent Rolleri (Yam TZ250)
3. Mark Wilson (Hon RS250)
4. Mike Lytle (Yam TZ250)
5. John Dalton (Hon RS250)
6. Patrick Tracey (Apr RS250)
APEX PREDATOR 125cc GRAND PRIX:
1. Jay Pilster (Hon RS125)
2. Kevin Murray (Yam TZ125)
3. Britt Arechiga (Hon RS125)
4. Clint Solomon (Hon RS125)
5. James Wilberger (Hon RS125)
6. Brian Heess (Hon RS125)
CALIFORNIA RACE SERVICES 600cc SUPERSTOCK:
1. Marc Palazzo (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R6)
3. James Mann (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Blair Sullenger (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Joe Shelton (Yam YZF-R6)
TOYOTA CUP UMLIMITED FORMULA 1:
1. Josh Hayes (Kaw ZX-10R)
2. Robbie Dowie (Suz GSX-R1000)
3. Jacob West (Suz GSX-R)
4. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R1)
5. Jeff Stern (Suz GSX-R1000)
6. Corey Eaton (Suz GSX-R750)
651cc-OPEN HEAVYWEIGHT NOVICE:
1. Kalon Welch (Suz GSX-R)
2. Ben Hubmer (Duc)
3. Tyler Ojala (Yam YZF-R1)
4. Mike Martin (Yam YZF-R1)
5. Warren Luciano (Suz GSX-R)
6. Rodney Monroe (Suz GSX-R)
GOLDEN WEST TRAILERS FORMULA 2:
1. Marc Palazzo (Yam YZF-R6)
2. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636cc ZX-6R)
3. Mickey Lane (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Michael Beck (Yam YZF-R6)
6. Mark Allen (Yam YZF-R6)
APRILIA CHALLENGE (All Apr RS250):
1. Patrick Tracey
2. Ruben Archilla
3. Robert Gosney
4. Jamie Lenore
5. David Steinhoff
6. Anthony Digati
VINTAGE HEAVYWEIGHT DINOSAURS:
1. James Dobson (Yam)
2. Scott Fabbro (Suz GS1000)
3. Russ Lomanto (Hon)
BOTT LIGHTWEIGHT:
1. Jim Rau (MZ)
2. Chris Shadoan (Kaw)
3. Steven Baker (Yam)
4. Larry Cochran (Hon)
5. Tom Nichols (Kaw)
0-500cc LIGHTWEIGHT NOVICE:
1. Axel Alvarez (Hon)
2. Melissa Paris (Hon RS125)
3. Marlena Gerhard (Apr RS250)
4. Steve Verschoor (Yam)
5. Keith Bobrosky (Kaw)
6. Jane Schwartzkopf (Yam)
650cc SUPERBIKE:
1. Will Eikenberry (Kaw 636cc ZX-6R)
2. Chris Siglin (Yam YZF-R6)
3. Mickey Lane (Yam YZF-R6)
4. Sam Carnibucci (Yam YZF-R6)
5. Michael Beck (Yam YZF-R6)
6. William Clarke (Yam YZF-R6)
501-650cc MIDDLEWEIGHT NOVICE:
1. Chad Lewin (Suz)
2. Jim Bird (Yam)
3. Brant Wiwi (Kaw)
4. Dawn Champion (Kaw)
5. Albert Medina (Hon)
6. Magoo Fidanian (Yam)
And now some reader (and racer) reaction:
FIRST PERSON/OPINION
Via e-mail:
Letter to the Editor:
I read your posting of the results of the WSMC races this last weekend at Willow Springs. I believe the finishing order that was submitted to you for Formula 1 was incorrect. According to my understanding, the official result was Corey Eaton 7th and Stephen Hewitt 6th. It was a very close finish. Also, I did not see the results for the Formula 40 heavyweight race in your posting. It was an exciting three way battle to the finish line between Richard Headley 1st, Jeff Stern 2nd and Stephen Hewitt 3rd.
Stephen Hewitt, Esq.
North Hollywood, California
We received two sets of official results via FAX from WSMC, one labeled results and one labeled revised results. We posted the revised results, which did not include Formula 40 Heavyweight, an oversight we didn’t catch. We have now added Formula 40 Heavyweight results from the first FAXed batch. As for your F1 results, we posted what WSMC supplied…Editor.
Suzuki Mourns McCarthy’s Death
From a press release issued by Team Suzuki:
KIRK McCARTHY: THE PASSING OF A CHAMPION
Suzuki is today mourning the death of former Australian Superbike Champion, Kirk McCarthy.
Racing in the Supersport class of the Shell Advance Australian Superbike Championship, the 35 year-old rider was critically injured in a tragic accident during round six at Queensland Raceway on Sunday 15 August.
“Everyone at Suzuki is greatly saddened by Kirk’s death,” Perry Morison, General Manager – Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia said.
“Kirk was one of our sport’s most colourful and talented racing stars and his passing is a great loss to the Australian motorcycle industry – he will be greatly missed.
Kirk rode for the factory Suzuki World Superbike Team in 1996.
Suzuki Australia extends its deepest sympathies to Kirk’s family, friends and fans both nationally and internationally.
Camel Honda Previews The Czech Grand Prix
From a press release issued by Camel Honda Pons:
MotoGP restarts after summer break. Max, Makoto and the Camel Honda team ready for Brno GP
With nearly a month having passed since the British GP, the last race before the recent summer rest period, the world championships has been able to take a breath before setting out on the second, frenetic half of the season. Seven races across four continents, beginning with this weekend’s Czech GP, will decide the outcome of one of the most exciting MotoGP seasons ever to take place over the next ten weeks. Max Biaggi makes his way to Brno after having undergone a rollercoaster of emotions over recent races, which nonetheless have had a common denominator; his determination to fight to the end and to always look ahead, even when fortune has not been on his side. That’s also how Biaggi is looking at this Brno race, despite the technical problems at Donington he is calm and confident in his own and his team’s capabilities. In much the same way Tamada, who travels straight to the Czech Republic from his holidays back home in Japan, is preparing for the second half of the season looking to repeat the success of Rio at a track that he already performed well on last year.
Sito Pons – Camel Honda (Team Principal)
“I think that this summer break has allowed everyone who works in the world championships, including riders and engineers, to enjoy a well-earned rest after a frankly intense and challenging period. It will allow us all to attack the second part of the season with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Brno is a track where Max has always got top results and which also works well for Makoto, who loves the fast circuits. I’m sure that after Donington, where a technical problem prevented us from showing our true potential, we can find our way back to victory, as we did in Brazil and Germany beforehand. Our team has everything it takes to take the title challenge to the very end.”
Max Biaggi #3: (Michelin Tyres)
“I have rested over the last few weeks, I got in some sunshine and did some sport whilst holidaying with friends. My thoughts have tracked back to the race, I admit it, just because what happened in Britain is still getting to me, how can that have happened? This season has already proved however that nothing is decided until the end, and it is with this spirit that I will take on the second part of the year. I’m delighted that we kick off again with Brno, because it is a track that I like without a doubt, but I will approach it as I do any other. In the end every track is great when you feel at one with your bike and every track can be a pitfall when you don’t think it will be. So, it’s good to go to Brno, but the job more importantly than ever is to work well with the team, with Honda and with Michelin to get ourselves into the best shape technically by Sunday so we can fight for victory.”
Luca Montiron – Camel Honda (Makoto Tamada Team Manager)
Makoto was in Japan during the summer vacation, and we hope he returns rested and refreshed so he can take on the second half of the season in perfect condition, as the rest of the team is ready to do. During the break, Bridgestone has continued its own work and we are hoping ultimately to reduce the gap to our rivals to firmly establish our position amongst the top riders. It is because of this work that we look forward to Brno with great anxiety and we are sure that the second part of the season will be fundamental for us.
Makoto Tamada #6: (Bridgestone Tyres)
“The Brno track is one of my favourites; the design and the track’s rhythm are very special. I really think I can go well there. During the summer break the tyre development will have moved on, and with the right choice to suit the climate in the Czech Republic we can feature prominently in this race.”
2003 Podium
1. V. Rossi (Honda)
2. S. Gibernau (Honda)
3. T. Bayliss (Ducati)
Pole Position Record
V. Rossi (Honda – 2003)
1:58.769
Official Record
V. Rossi (Honda – 2003)
1:59.966
No. of Laps
22 (118.866km)
MotoGP timetable:
14.00 (GMT + 2)
*European Summer Time
Characteristics
Length: 5,403 m
Width: 15m
Right corners: 8
Left corners: 6
Constructed in: 1987
Last Modified: 1996