From a press release:

For Release:

American racer John Pearson gets podium finish “Down Under”

American road racer John Pearson finished 3rd overall in the Formula 1 class during round 1 of the RB Racing series held at Wakefield Park Raceway located in Goulburn, New South Wales, about 2 hours outside Sydney, Australia, on February 29.

John commented, “Wakefield Park reminded me a lot of Streets of Willow, the front straight, right hand kink and the first turn are almost exactly the same.

“I’m really pleased with my result, considering it was my first time here, and quite a few fast locals were out. The track is pretty tight, really bumpy and is probably best suited for 600’s.

“I actually had a little get-off in one of my heat races while I was running in second position; it was a slow speed, low side from trail-braking in across some bumps in turn four a little too much. It was no big deal and I was able to remount and finish. I was getting great starts all day long, I led a few laps, and my 815cc Lee’s Cycles’-built GSX-R750 had no problem with all the 1000cc bikes out there.”

The second round of the RB Racing series will be a 5-hour team endurance race held on April 10th. John will be teamed with 3 other riders from the Doin’ Bikes race team and will be competing in the Formula 1 class again.

John Pearson is sponsored by Maxima Oils, Lee’s Cycle Racing, Dunlop, Wintex/Moto-Heaven, GPR Stabilizers, Fox Shox, and Intuitive Race Products.



Editor’s note: Pearson, former Chief Sonar Technician, Undersea Warfare Commander, U.S.S. Nimitz Battle Group, is currently stationed in Australia as part of an exchange program between the U.S. Navy and the Australian Navy.

From a press release issued by Daytona International Speedway:

James ‘Bubba’ Stewart To Make Daytona Debut In Inaugural Nighttime Running Of The Daytona Supercross By Honda

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., (March 2, 2004) — This year’s Daytona Supercross By Honda at historic Daytona International Speedway will mark two debuts.

For the first time in event history, the 34th Daytona Supercross By Honda will be held under the lights on Friday night, March 5. The Daytona Supercross By Honda has traditionally been held on a Saturday afternoon in the tri-oval grass.

The Daytona Supercross By Honda also marks the much-anticipated debut of rising Supercross star James “Bubba” Stewart at Daytona International Speedway in the 125 East race.

The 18-year-old racing star from the Central Florida community of Haines City is considered the fastest rising star in the sport. He’s looking forward to racing for the first time at Daytona International Speedway and will most likely have a legion of friends and family at the race.

“Everybody and their brother are calling me asking for tickets to Daytona,” said Stewart, who’ll be riding a Kawasaki. “I told them they’re on their own. I can barely get in the place myself.”

Another major twist in the Daytona Supercross By Honda is the absence of Honda rider Ricky Carmichael, who has won the last four Daytona Supercross By Hondas. The three-time AMA THQ Supercross Series champion had knee surgery this winter and is sitting out the entire season.

But Carmichael will be attending the Daytona Supercross By Honda. He’ll serve as Grand Marshal and will make an appearance in the Classic Cycle Club, the Speedway fan hospitality package.

With Carmichael not competing, the 20-lap 250 main event should be wide open.

Chad Reed is hoping to give Yamaha its first win in the Daytona Supercross since the legendary Jeremy McGrath won on a Yamaha in 1999. Other race favorites include Kevin Windham, Mike LaRocco and David Vuillemin.

Travis Pastrana could throw another twist into the 250 main event. Suzuki Team Manager Roger DeCoster confirmed Tuesday that Travis Pastrana is testing in Florida, and could race in the 250 class at Daytona. The determination if he will race will be made based on how Pastrana feels after testing. It would mark Pastrana’s comeback after suffering a reoccurring knee injury almost a year ago.

The Supercross schedule on Friday begins at 3 p.m. with qualifying heats. The 125cc main event, a 15-lap race, is scheduled for 9:15 p.m. followed by the main 250cc race at 10 p.m.

Fans will have a new way to watch all the high-flying Supercross action. With the new “$10 “Track Side Add-On ticket,” fans can watch all of the race from the Speedway’s banked tri-oval. You must purchase the Track Side Add-on Ticket ($10) in addition to a General Admission Grandstand Ticket ($30) or another admission ticket.

Tickets for the inaugural Daytona Supercross By Honda are available online at http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.



More, from a press release issued by Clear Channel Entertainment–Motor Sports:

Travis Pastrana Enters THQ World Supercross GP/THQ AMA Supercross Series Race in St. Louis

AURORA, Ill. (March 2, 2004) – Clear Channel Entertainment’s Motor Sports division announced today that Suzuki-backed Travis Pastrana will race in the 250cc division of THQ World Supercross GP/THQ AMA Supercross Series at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis March 13.

Pastrana, the 2000 125cc outdoor motocross champion and 2001 125cc Eastern Regional Supercross champion, has taken some time off of racing to heal some nagging injuries and is now ready to challenge series hot shoes Chad Reed and Kevin Windham.

“March 13 will be one of the first races of the season for Travis Pastrana and the fans are very excited to see him,” said Anita Helmin, director of marketing, Clear Channel Entertainment – Motor Sports. “Travis is definitely a fan favorite and they have been anxiously waiting for him to get back on the track.”

“I am truly excited to be racing in St. Louis,” said Pastrana. “I have never lost a race in St. Louis, and I plan on having equal success this year. I have been training for the past few months and feel that I am ready to put on a great show for the fans of St. Louis.”

The winner of seven 125cc supercross races since his professional career began in 2000, Pastrana has made it to the podium three times in the 250cc class.

Tickets for the St. Louis race of THQ World Supercross GP/AMA Supercross Series are available at the Edward Jones Dome, www.sxgp.com , www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (314) 241-1888.

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

LAURA PERRY NAMED AMA CHEVROLET SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP CHIEF STEWARD

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (March 2, 2004) — Laura Perry has been named Chief Steward for the AMA Chevrolet Superbike Championship. Perry replaces Jerry Derhammer who has retired after many years of service.

“Laura has done a great job and we’re happy to elevate her to a position of added responsibility,” said Ron Barrick, Road Race Series Manager, AMA Pro Racing. “Laura has an excellent overall grasp of the various race official roles and we’re confident she brings the necessary skills to succeed in her new job.”

The primary role of the Chief Steward is to assist the Race Manager in the supervision and organization of race officials as well as assist in event preparation and management.

Perry has worked at AMA road races since 1996. Her past jobs included stints in technical inspection and starting grid work. For the last several years she served as Pit Steward.

“I’m looking forward to coming to Daytona and getting started in my new position,” said Perry. “Ron (Barrick) is working closely with the promoters and television crews and I’ll be more visible with the teams and riders.”

In addition to her work with AMA Pro Racing, Perry is also a racer herself. She rides a Honda NSR250 GP bike and is a member of the Sirens, all female, WERA National Endurance squad. Racing is a family affair for the Perrys. Her husband, Keith Perry, is the longtime Crew Chief for the Valvoline EMGO Suzuki team.

From a press release issued by FIM:

2004 FIM Endurance World Championship Entry List:

1, Yamaha GB Phase 1 End., GBR, Notman (GBR), Mertens (BEL), Ellison (GBR), YAMAHA YZF-R1, SBK

2, Benelli X-One, ITA, Perselli (ITA), Bargiacchi (ITA), Tessari (ITA), BENELLI TORNADO, SBK

3, Suzuki Castrol Team, FRA, Philippe (FRA) Cogan (FRA), Four (FRA), SUZUKI GSX-R1000, SBK

4, Jet Suzuki Team, SUI, Jaggi (SUI), Monot (FRA), Pelleriti (SUI), SUZUKI GSX-R1000, SBK

5, Wrt Honda Austria, AUT, Wilding (AUT), Truchsess (AUT), Ulm (AUT), HONDA CBR1000RR, SBK

6, Yamaha Shell End. Academy, GBR, Ficher (GBR), Rohtlaan (EST), Buseski (POL), YAMAHA YZF-R1, SPR

7, Yamaha Austria R. Team, AUT, Saiger (AUT), Jerman (SLO), Hinterreiter (AUT), YAMAHA YZF-R1, SBK

8, Kawasaki Bolliger Team, SUI, Kellenberger (SUI), Stamm (SUI), Briant (FRA), KAWASAKI ZX-10R, SBK

10, Ducati Team Spring, ITA, Colombo (ITA), Mauri (ITA), tbc, DUCATI 999R, SBK

11, MV Agusta Burger King-Lust Rac.Team, GER, Meyer P.(GER), Meyer S. (GER), Wehran (GER), MV AGUSTA 1000, STK

12, Suzuki Fagersjo-el.se Team, SWE, Andersson (SWE), Greven (SWE), Carlbark (SWE), SUZUKI GSX-R1060, SPR

14, Yamaha Maco Moto Racing, SVK, Kuzma (SVK), Drazdak (SVK), Mazolli (SVK), YAMAHA YZF-R1, SPR

15, Suzuki Team Innodrom Racing, GER, Bitter(HUN), Spenner(GER), Schmassmann(SUI), SUZUKI GSX-R1000, SPR

16, Suzuki No Limits, ITA, Ruozi (ITA), Codeluppi (ITA), tbc, SUZUKI GSX-R1000, SBK

18, Suzuki Road Race Promotion, NED, Peeters (BEL), Westra (BEL), De la Rouelle (BEL), SUZUKI GSX-R1000, SBK

21, Kawasaki Endurance Germany, GER, Sebrich (GER), Hahn (GER), Bantli (SUI), KAWASAKI ZX-10R, SPR

38, Yamaha Endurance Moto, 38, FRA, Giabbani (FRA), Dobé (FRA), Cazade (FRA), YAMAHA YZF-R1, SPR

51, Suzuki Fabi Corse, ITA, Capriotti (ITA), Fabi (ITA), SUZUKI GSX-R1000, SPR

76, Yamaha Team, 76, AUT, Klein (AUT), Raunegger (SWE), tbc, YAMAHA RI, SBK

94, Yamaha GMT 94, FRA, Costes (FRA), Gimbert (FRA), Checa (SPA), YAMAHA YZF-R1, SBK

666, Kawasaki Diablo – Bolliger, GBR, Hutchins (GBR), Falcke (GBR), KAWASAKI ZX-10R, SBK

From a press release issued by Norm Viano, Lawdog Sports Management:

Ben and Eric Bostrom will be guests of Dave Despain’s Wind Tunnel this Wednesday evening, which will be broadcast live from Victory Lane at Daytona International Speedway. The two brothers will kick off their season by taking questions from callers, emailers, and from Dave himself.

Fans are encouraged to either email their questions to [email protected] right now, or to call 1-866-W-TUNNEL from 10pm-11pm (ET) on Wednesday.

For more information, please visit www.speedtv.com

From a press release issued by Harley-Davidson:

Harley-Davidson INTRODUCES Training Course for Current MOTORCYCLE Riders

Rider’s Edge Skilled Rider Course offers motorcyclists the chance to hone skills

MILWAUKEE – Rider’s Edge, the Harley-Davidson Academy of Motorcycling, introduces a new course aimed at further developing the riding skills of current motorcyclists. The Rider’s Edge Skilled Rider Course offers motorcyclists additional training and practice to give riders more confidence and make the riding experience more enjoyable.

“Every motorcycle rider can benefit from additional training and development of riding skills,” said Dave Koenings, Harley-Davidson director of Rider’s Edge. “Whether you’re an existing rider, a returning rider or a newer rider, the Skilled Rider Course gives all motorcyclists a way to improve riding skills in a controlled setting.”

Several Harley-Davidson dealers, who currently offer the Rider’s Edge New Rider Course, are preparing to offer the Skilled Rider Course starting this summer. Similar to the Rider’s Edge New Rider Course, the Skilled Rider Course uses the proven curriculum of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) Experienced Rider Course (ERC) Suite. Additionally, all Skilled Rider Course instructors are MSF and Harley-Davidson certified.

“Harley-Davidson wants to help equip riders at every skill level for a safe riding experience,” said Koenings. “Offering continued rider training is one of the steps the company has taken to accomplish that end.”

The Rider’s Edge Skilled Rider Course takes place in the dealership and at nearby range facilities, with class sizes ranging from six to twelve students. Lasting approximately seven hours, the course includes interactive exercises and plenty of riding practice.

To enroll in the course, riders must have access to a motorcycle to use for training, their own protective riding gear, such as a helmet and footwear and be able to demonstrate basic motorcycle control skills. Other requirements for enrollment vary by state. Students who complete the course will be issued MSF completion cards, and may be eligible for a discount on motorcycle insurance coverage, depending on their state of residence and insurance provider. The cost to participate in the Skilled Rider Course is determined by each participating dealership.

Rider’s Edge, the Harley-Davidson Academy of Motorcycling, currently offers three training courses: the New Rider Course, the Skilled Rider Course and the Group Riding Course. For more information on Rider’s Edge courses throughout the country, please visit www.ridersedge.com.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s web site at www.harley-davidson.com

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Talented but trouble-prone racer Anthony Gobert may not race his Erion Honda CBR1000RR in the AMA Superstock race at Daytona International Speedway due to visa troubles.

“I understand he hasn’t got his visa stuff straightened out,” Erion Honda team owner Kevin Erion told Roadracingworld.com Tuesday morning in the Daytona paddock. “We knew when we put the deal together that he hadn’t gotten his visa and that he may or may not have it for here. We were obviously hoping he would.”

Erion said he believed Gobert was still in Australia and said he needed to arrive in Daytona by Wednesday morning, the start of AMA practice, to be able to race.

Erion said he did not know if he would put a replacement rider on Gobert’s machines if the Aussie did not make it to Florida in time.

From a press release issued by FGSport Group:

Toseland and Haga Share Spoils in Round One

With bizarre weather conditions affecting the morning of raceday at Valencia Regis Laconi (Ducati Fila 999F04) took an early lead in the first race, only to fall and lose a possible 25 points. His team-mate James Toseland was the man to capitalize most and he duly took the win in the first 23-lap contest. In the second race Laconi’s luck continued on its downward spiral, as his chain jumped the sprockets and he had to pull out of the second contest in one day. Noriyuki Haga, from the Renegade Ducati team, rookies in SBK as they are, duly rode like his old self to win the second race convincingly, from second place Toseland.

With all riders on the same spec Pirelli tyres this season the competition in each race, the frequently wet first race and the dry second, the competition was levelled out to a great degree, with riding talent and machine set-up the determining factors overall.

In the first race, some riders opted for slicks, a combination of wets and slicks, or full wets with most of the quickest riders proving to have opted for the full wet combo. Pierfrancesco Chili (PSG-1 Ducati) ripped his way to an immensely satisfying second place after a winter of extreme discontent, and rode his ‘old’ 998 Ducati to second place in race one, fourth in race two. Steve Martin (DFX Ducati) was desperately unhappy to be dropped out of contention by a mechanical problem in race one, but made up for his disappointment to secure a career best third place in race two.

A historic moment came to Chris Walker and the Petronas team, with the English rider delivering them their first podium finish, third in race one. Walker went seventh in the dry race two, while his team-mate Troy Corser fell while making a charge in the leading position in race one, easing his way to 11th in the final leg.

Chris Vermeulen had an eventful induction into World Superbike, as did his Ten Kate Honda team, after he had to pit in wet conditions, restart and finish 12th. In race two a terrible start saw him well down the order, only for him to charge back into contention and finish fifth on his CBR1000RR.

A great day in many ways for race two winner Noriyuki Haga started badly in race one, as he was forced to retire with gear selection problems. His team-mate Leon Haslam made up for it in some regards by finishing a battling fifth. He ran off track in race two fighting back to ninth place.

A brilliant result in the changeable race one conditions delivered a sixth place to class rookie Gianluca Nannelli (Pedercini Ducati). Running slick tyres in race one Garry McCoy (Xerox Ducati NCR 999RS) went seventh and then sixth on his SBK debut. Local rider Sergio Fuertes sent the local fans’ hearts a flutter with his strong front running in the first race, and his eventual eighth place was a personal best for the Spaniard.

In the World Championship itself, Toseland is a clear leader, 45 points to Chili’s 33. Haga’s win and DNF scored him 25 points, for joint third with Chris Walker.

Van Den Goorbergh Takes Supersport Win – In the first round of the World Supersport Championship, a 1-2 finish for the Yamaha Italia team gave Jurgen van den Goorbergh the race win, and Fabien Foret second place, after an outstgandingly unpredictable 23-lap race. Held in the dry after the rains of the morning, the competition was intense, with multiple changes of the lead and a waxing and waning in fortunes for many of the top contenders. Broc Parkes (Ten Kate Honda) fell from an early leading position, and after a Honda-Honda fight between pole man Karl Muggeridge and Klaffi Honda rider Sebastien Charpentier, the Yamaha riders came to the fore at just the right time. The all-new Suzuki of Katsuaki Fujiwara took third place after working his way up as other riders slipped back. An outstanding ride from Lorenzo Lanzi pushed the Ducati 749R rider from a lowly qualifying position to fourth place.

From a press release issued by Mat Mladin Motorsports:

MLADIN’S CHASE FOR FIFTH AMERICAN SUPERBIKE TITLE COMMENCES THIS WEEKEND AT DAYTONA

Daytona Beach, Florida, USA (Tuesday, 2 March) – The famed high speed banks of the Daytona International Speedway will this Saturday (March 6) play host to the opening round of the 2004 American AMA Chevrolet Superbike Championship and will become the starting point for Mat Mladin’s quest of winning an unprecedented fifth AMA Superbike crown.

Mladin and his Yoshimura Suzuki team arrive in Florida as the defending series champion but the 63rd running of the Daytona 200 by Arai will bring with it a different focus to that of years gone past.

A winner at Daytona in 2000 and 2001, Mladin acknowledges the importance of the race, but knows it is just one race on the championship calendar.

“Daytona is the first race of eighteen in this championship and that’s the way my planning for this event has been,” said a relaxed, yet confident Mladin. “It is a very unique racetrack and one that is completely different in requirements to all of the other tracks that make up the championship. A lot of people will put a lot of importance on this one race, but our team is focused on the result we want at the end of the year and that’s the championship.”

“We need to leave here with the most amount of points that we can and if a win comes our way, great. That will then give us a basis to work from not only the second round at Fontana, but for the rest of the season.”

The off-season has proven to be very productive for Mladin’s team. Rule changes for this year’s championship have seen them working overtime to ensure their championship winning Suzuki GSX-R1000 remains competitive throughout the season. Changes to fuel injection throttle bodies and air boxes will witness a drop in horsepower and to counter that loss, the team will ensure they have the best possible chassis set up that will allow Mladin to put together consistent fast laps in any conditions.

“Yes we head into the weekend with a bike that has a season’s worth of development done to it and proved it was a championship winner, but the rule changes which have been applied for the year will see it perform differently, especially here at Daytona. We have worked hard in the pre-season getting our chassis set up as best we can and we feel we have some very good suspension settings that will get us around the racetrack in the best possible time.”

For the first time, the 57-lap Daytona 200 mile classic will be conducted on a Saturday. Rain delays in recent years have forced race organisers to bring the race forward as a precaution, and to allow the rescheduling of television and spectator ticketing.

Qualifying for the Daytona 200 begins on Wednesday with the opening sessions determining pole position and the front row of the grid, while Thursday’s qualifying will determine the starting grid for the remainder of the field.