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Porto Tops 250cc Free Practice At Rio

0

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.


1. Sebastian PORTO, Aprilia, 1:54.392
2. Daniel PEDROSA, Honda,1:54.467
3. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 1:54.591
4. Joan OLIVE, Aprilia, 1:54.655
5. Franco BATTAINI, Aprilia, 1:54.670
6. Fonsi NIETO, Aprilia, 1:54.682
7. Toni ELIAS, Honda, 1:54.796
8. Randy DE PUNIET, Aprilia, 1:54.799
9. Manuel POGGIALI, Aprilia, 1:54.908
10. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 1:54.929
11. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 1:54.987
12. Roberto ROLFO, Honda, 1:55.132
13. Eric BATAILLE, Honda, 1:55.748
14. Alex DEBON, Honda, 1:55.852
15. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 1:55.966

Giansanti Fastest In 125cc Practice In Brazil

0


Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.


1. Mirko GIANSANTI, Aprilia, 1:58.959
2. Casey STONER, KTM, 1:58.983
3. Roberto LOCATELLI, Aprilia, 1:59.171
4. Pablo NIETO, Aprilia, 1:59.380
5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO, Honda, 1:59.412
6. Jorge LORENZO, Derbi, 1:59.416
7. Gabor TALMACSI, Malaguti, 1:59.519
8. Simone CORSI, Honda, 1:59.582
9. Youichi UI, Aprilia, 1:59.787
10. Gino BORSOI, Aprilia, 1:59.833
11. Hector BARBERA, Aprilia, 1:59.950
12. Mike DI MEGLIO, Aprilia, 2:00.019
13. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Aprilia, 2:00.163
14. Steve JENKNER, Aptilia, 2:00.209
15. Marco SIMONCELLI, Aprilia, 2:00.239


AMA Pro Racing Institutes New Policy Of Publicizing Competition Bulletins

0

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA Pro Racing Refines Sound Testing at Motocross

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (July 2, 2004) — The following Technical Bulletin was distributed to all AMA Chevrolet Motocross Championship credential holders on Friday, July 2.

According to series manager Steve Whitelock, the plan is designed to ensure that all competitors are in compliance for sound and allows for a “phasing in” of tighter testing procedures.

“The 102dB/A limit is already in the AMA Motocross Rulebook,” said Whitelock. “This multi-step compliance procedure simply allows competitors a reasonable time frame to ensure they are within the existing guidelines. With so many four-stroke motorcycles comprising the field now it’s clear we have to take steps to ensure everyone’s following the sound rules.”

TO: All Licensed Motocross/Supercross Riders and Season Credential Holders

FROM: Rob King, Technical Manager

DATE: July 2, 2004

SUBJECT: Sound

AMA Pro Racing has been conducting sound tests at selected rounds of the 2004 AMA Motocross Championship. Effective immediately, we will begin implementing new measures to ensure all competitors are in compliance with existing sound rules.

In order to provide everyone with a reasonable time frame to understand the testing methodology and to ensure that all motorcycles are in compliance, the following will be implemented:

1. At Round Six (Unadilla, July 17, 18) we will be conducting sound tests randomly throughout the race weekend. Sound levels will be recorded and any competitor exceeding the 102dB/A sound level will be issued a warning.

2. Beginning at Round Seven (Kenworthy’s, July 24, 25) and at subsequent rounds, we will continue to conduct sound tests randomly throughout race weekends. If, during pre-race tech inspection, a motorcycle is not in compliance for sound, that competitor will be required to bring his/her motorcycle into compliance to pass tech. If a motorcycle is not tested for sound during tech inspection but fails a sound test administered at any other time throughout the race weekend, that competitor may be required to bring his/her motorcycle into compliance before returning to competition.

3. AMA Pro Racing technical staff will be available throughout race weekends so competitors can voluntarily submit their motorcycles for sound testing.

4. AMA Pro Racing will follow SAE J1287 guidelines. AMA Pro Racing will be the sole determining factor on whether or not motorcycles are in compliance for sound.

It is our intention to make it as easy as possible for competitors to determine the sound levels of their motorcycles and bring them into compliance as necessary. It is in the best interest of our sport to ensure that everyone is proactively observing existing sound rules and we expect full cooperation.

Should you have any questions concerning this information, please contact Technical Manager Rob King at (614) 856-1910, extension 1230 or [email protected].


Successful Collarbone Surgery For Hacking

0

From a press release issued by Yamaha:

JAMIE HACKING ON THE MEND

He’ll “wait and see” for Laguna Seca Race Weekend

CYPRESS, Calif., July 2, 2004 – Factory Yamaha road racer Jamie Hacking underwent a 55-minute surgery in Northern California yesterday to repair his right collarbone which he broke on Wednesday in a practice crash at Mid-Ohio. According to Hacking, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ting used eight pins and a plate to secure the break.

Hacking explains, “The surgery went great, everything went together well, and I already have good range of motion. I’ll take it easy this weekend and see how it looks and feels next week.” Hacking said it was too early to say if he’ll be racing at Laguna Seca next week. “I’ll be at the track and we’ll see how my shoulder feels.”

Hacking is the current points leader in the AMA Superstock series and is third in the AMA Supersport class.



Attention Photographers: Did You Send Us A Crash Page Sequence Of Robert Jensen At Daytona?

0

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Roadracing World is attempting to identify the photographer who shot a sequence of Robert Jensen crashing out of the F-USA Sportbike race at Daytona, taken in the International Horseshoe.

If you took the photos and sent them to us, please describe the first and last shots in the sequence and give us your name and contact information, to ensure you are properly credited and paid.

Call (800) 464-8336 or e-mail [email protected]

OMS Hires Mark Johnson

0

From a press release issued by OMS Sports:

OMS Sports Hires Mark Johnson As New Managing Director

Former Kawasaki team manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of OMS Sports

ANAHEIM, Calif., (July 2, 2004) – OMS Sports has hired longtime motorcycle industry expert Mark Johnson to run the day-to-day operations of its company, effective immediately.

Johnson, who most recently was the team manager for the Chevy Trucks/Kawasaki motocross/supercross program, brings to OMS Sports a wealth of knowledge of motorsports and the motorcycle industry that’s second-to-none, according to OMS Sports President Fred Bramblett.

“I have known Mark for a number of years and have always been highly impressed with his professionalism and understanding of marketing and professional motorsports sponsorship,” said Bramblett. “He is one of the few people I’m aware of that has a strong understanding of our industry in addition to having worked with sponsors in both NASCAR and open wheel auto racing. Everyone at OMS is very excited to see Mark join our agency and apply his professional marketing and management expertise to our company and clients.”

Johnson began his career in the motorcycle industry in 1978 working as a motocross technician for U.S. Suzuki and rising star Mark Barnett. In 1979 Johnson moved to Kawasaki Motors Corporation to work as a technician with another rising star, Jeff Ward. During 1982-’83 Johnson also worked the road racing side of the industry, handling the mechanical duties for Kawasaki bikes raced by Eddie Lawson and Wayne Rainey. In 1983 Johnson was promoted to manager of the legendary Kawasaki “Team Green” program and over the years recruited and worked closely with most every successful name in motocross/supercross and off-road racing including: Jeremy McGrath, Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Larry Roeseler, Danny Hamel and Jeff Fredette.

The Southern California transplant also spent a seven-year stint working with in the auto racing community. Johnson made the transition from two to four wheels in 1996, serving as the General Manager and Vice President of Precision Preparation Incorporated (PPI) through the year 2000. His responsibilities included managing the day-to-day activities of the company while growing the business to include two CHAMP car entries in the CART/FedEx Championship Series, two entries in the CART Formula Atlantic Championship and fielding the Toyota Factory Off Road Racing Program – with the famed Ivan “Ironman” Stewart. In 1999 Johnson’s responsibilities expanded again as he formed one of the NASCAR Winston Cup Series’ entries, as well as a NASCAR Busch Series entry for the 2000 season. During his tenure with PPI, Johnson was fortunate to work on the sponsorship side of the business with global giants such as Toyota Motor Sales, MCI, Panasonic, Pioneer Electronics, McDonalds Corporation and Proctor & Gamble.

In 2001 Johnson moved to the position of Director of Operations for the legendary Team Rahal, working directly for team owners Bobby Rahal and David Letterman. Johnson oversaw the day-to-day technical activities of the CART/FedEx Championship Series team while working closely with team sponsors Ford Motor Company, Shell and Miller Brewing. Johnson rewarded Team Rahal with its most successful season to date – coming up just a number of points shy of the series title. In that season the team scored its most race wins ever, won the most pole positions, led the most laps and held the prestigious pit stop competition title for two straight years.

In 2002 Johnson returned to manage the Chevy Trucks/Kawasaki motocross/supercross program.

“Throughout my career I’ve been fortunate to be involved with a wide range of duties in the entire spectrum of the motorsports industry,” said Johnson. “I’m confident this experience and versatility will allow me to step right into the managing director position at OMS Sports and immediately help strengthen an already successful company and its clients in a number of areas, including the technical side of the business, managerial duties, athlete relations and sponsorship acquisition. I am genuinely impressed with the quality and dedication of the entire OMS Sports staff. I sincerely look forward to working shoulder-to-shoulder with Fred and the new challenges that await me at OMS Sports.”

Johnson will be based out of OMS Sports’ headquarters in Anaheim, Calif., and can be reached at (714) 935-0790 or via email at [email protected].



DePuniet Sets Provisional 250cc Pole At Rio

0


Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.

1. Randy DE PUNIET, Aprilia, 1:52.929
2. Manuel POGGIALI, Aprilia, 1:52.981
3. Sebastian PORTO, Aprilia, 1:53.076
4. Daniel PEDROSA, Honda, 1:53.227
5. Toni ELIAS, Honda, 1:53.313
6. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 1:53.602
7. Franco BATTAINI, Aprilia, 1:53.732
8. Roberto ROLFO, Honda, 1:53.776
9. Fonsi NIETO, Aprilia, 1:53.971
10. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 1:54.0912
11. Alex DEBON, Honda, 1:54.392
12. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 1:54.665
13. Naoki MATSUDO, Yamaha, 1:54.666
14. Hiroshi AOYAMA, Honda, 1:54.782
15. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 1:54.791


Sidecars In Scotland

From a press release:

EASTERN AIRWAYS CHAMPIONSHIP SET TO SHINE IN SCOTLAND

The Eastern Airways Sidecar Championship heads for Scotland this weekend and round five of the spectacular series, at the Knockhill circuit near Dunfermline, Fife.

Record-breaking Steve Webster heads the championship chase ­ all after setting a new outright lap record at the Croft circuit in North Yorkshire last Sunday.

Webster set the pace in Friday afternoon’s qualifying session at Knockhill but the Yorkshireman is far from confident about victory in the two races ­ on Saturday and Sunday – at the hill-top venue.

“All the teams have tested at Knockhill earlier in the season so they’re all on the pace straight away,” reports Webster. “But it’s the start of the races I’m concerned about. I’ve not been good off the startline this year and Knockhill is a tricky circuit to overtake.

“I’ll be giving it my all but it was obvious at Croft last weekend that quite a few teams have now moved up a gear and I don’t think it will be too long before Tim Reeves, Richard Gatt, Bill Philp and Greg Lambert are pushing me hard.”

The Eastern Airways Championship teams will conclude qualifying on Saturday morning at Knockhill. Their first race is on Saturday afternoon with a second, 20-lap battle on Sunday afternoon.

Eastern Airways Sidecar Championship ­ Friday qualifying times:
1 Steve Webster Suzuki 56.284s
2 Tim Reeves Suzuki 56.654s
3 Richard Gatt Suzuki 57.238s
4 Derek Brindley Suzuki 57.575s
5 Bryan Pedder Suzuki 57.903s
6 Stuart Muldoon Suzuki 58.117s
7 Bill Philp Yamaha 58.271s
8 Andy Peach Suzuki 58.681s
9 Ben Birchall Yamaha 59.123s
10 Chris Founds Yamaha 59.544s

Eastern Airways Sidecar Championship points after four rounds

1 Steve Webster / Paul Woodhead Castrol Suzuki 145

2 Tim Reeves / Tristan Reeves M & M Suzuki 101

3 Derek Brindley / Neil Miller Readymix Suzuki 76

4 Greg Lambert / James Sirrell Dalepak Suzuki 68

5 Richard Gatt / Paul Randall GRS Suzuki 64

6 Bill Philp / Rick Long 155 Yamaha 63

7 Bryan Pedder / Rod Steadman Roberts Suzuki 46

8 Stuart Muldoon / John Briggs SMR Suzuki 40

9 Stuart Woodard / Paul Knapton Woodard Yamaha 33

10 Ben Birchall / Tom Birchall Richards Yamaha 33

11 Chris Founds / Mark Cox Founds Yamaha 29

12 Andy Laidlow / Patrick Farrance TLF Suzuki 29

13 Andy Peach / Nick Webb Readymix Suzuki 28

14 Steve Norbury / Scott Parnell Lockside Yamaha 21

15 Jorg Steinhausen / Trevor Hopkinson Q8 Suzuki 20

16 Stefan Dodd / David Dodd Dodd Yamaha 11

17 Gary Horspole / Andy Smith Horspole Suzuki 10

18 Mike Ibbotson / Steve Wilson Ibbotson Suzuki 5

19 Ian Ashley / Paul Cowley Willmakers Yamaha 4

20 Dean Henry / Ian Smith Magnam Yamaha 3

21 John Clarke / Geoff Smale JCR Yamaha 2

AMA Docks Two Riders For Illegal Fuel At Dirt Track

0

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

Two Riders Penalized for Using Illegal Fuel at Lima Flat Track

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (July 2, 2004) — AMA Pro Racing has announced that two riders have been penalized 23 points each for using illegal fuel at round six of the AMA Progressive Insurance Flat Track Championship at Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio on June 26.

Riders receiving the penalty were race winner Joe Kopp and 17th place finisher Kevin Atherton. In announcing the penalties, series manager Bruce Bober said that the fuel from six motorcycles was tested; the top four finishers and two selected at random. “It is our procedure to test a number of bikes at every round,” said Bober. “Additionally, any competitor can choose to have fuel tested at any time during the event.”

Bober confirmed that the field test at Lima indicated the fuel was out of compliance. It was sent to an independent lab for confirmation. Results were sent back to AMA Pro Racing on Thursday. Both riders have been notified of the penalty.

There has not been a fuel penalty in AMA Flat Track racing since the 2001 season.


More TV For Canadian Superbike Series

0

From a press release issued by series organizers:

TORONTO, ON The Parts Canada Superbike Championship has secured additional television coverage for its 2004 season with a deal that also sees the series make a major breakthrough in its mainstream media exposure.

Each round of the national motorcycle road racing series will be shown this season on TORONTO 1, as well as the A-Channel stations in Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton. All four stations are owned by Craig Media Inc.

The stations will show one hour of coverage from each of the eight rounds of the series, packaging them with coverage of the NASCAR Nextel Cup stock car series. Craig Media owns the Canadian rights to the Nextel Cup races shown on NBC in the U.S.

Each round of the Parts Canada Superbike series is already shown in a half-hour highlights package on The Sports Network (TSN) and Reseau des sports (RDS).

The arrangement opens with coverage of the May 23 Parts Canada Superbike opener from Shannonville Motorsport Park, which will be shown in conjunction with the Tropicana 400 Nextel Cup race from Chicagoland Speedway on July 11.

“This presents a tremendous opportunity for the Parts Canada Superbike Championship,” said series organizer Colin Fraser of Professional Motorsports Productions. “This package of coverage on the Craig Media stations gives our series added exposure in four major Canadian markets and allows us to introduce our exciting brand of racing to a whole new audience of sports fans.”

The second round of the Parts Canada Superbike Championship from Calgary’s Race City Motorsport Park will air on Aug. 8, the same day as the Nextel Cup Brickyard 400.

The remaining rounds will be shown on Sundays in October and November, beginning Oct. 3, when NASCAR is in the midst of its “Quest for the Nextel Cup”, a 10-race showdown for the overall series championship.

“We think the series will be a good fit with our NBC NASCAR telecasts,” said Michael Taylor, vice president, programming for Craig Media. “It’s nice to be able to promote Canadian motorsport and PMP can deliver the high quality programming we want.”

The Parts Canada Superbike Championship resumes this weekend at Race City Motorsport Park with a doubleheader weekend. Six-time series champion Steve Crevier leads the point standings after winning the opening round at Shannonville.

Porto Tops 250cc Free Practice At Rio

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.


1. Sebastian PORTO, Aprilia, 1:54.392
2. Daniel PEDROSA, Honda,1:54.467
3. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 1:54.591
4. Joan OLIVE, Aprilia, 1:54.655
5. Franco BATTAINI, Aprilia, 1:54.670
6. Fonsi NIETO, Aprilia, 1:54.682
7. Toni ELIAS, Honda, 1:54.796
8. Randy DE PUNIET, Aprilia, 1:54.799
9. Manuel POGGIALI, Aprilia, 1:54.908
10. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 1:54.929
11. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 1:54.987
12. Roberto ROLFO, Honda, 1:55.132
13. Eric BATAILLE, Honda, 1:55.748
14. Alex DEBON, Honda, 1:55.852
15. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 1:55.966

Giansanti Fastest In 125cc Practice In Brazil


Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.


1. Mirko GIANSANTI, Aprilia, 1:58.959
2. Casey STONER, KTM, 1:58.983
3. Roberto LOCATELLI, Aprilia, 1:59.171
4. Pablo NIETO, Aprilia, 1:59.380
5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO, Honda, 1:59.412
6. Jorge LORENZO, Derbi, 1:59.416
7. Gabor TALMACSI, Malaguti, 1:59.519
8. Simone CORSI, Honda, 1:59.582
9. Youichi UI, Aprilia, 1:59.787
10. Gino BORSOI, Aprilia, 1:59.833
11. Hector BARBERA, Aprilia, 1:59.950
12. Mike DI MEGLIO, Aprilia, 2:00.019
13. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Aprilia, 2:00.163
14. Steve JENKNER, Aptilia, 2:00.209
15. Marco SIMONCELLI, Aprilia, 2:00.239


AMA Pro Racing Institutes New Policy Of Publicizing Competition Bulletins

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA Pro Racing Refines Sound Testing at Motocross

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (July 2, 2004) — The following Technical Bulletin was distributed to all AMA Chevrolet Motocross Championship credential holders on Friday, July 2.

According to series manager Steve Whitelock, the plan is designed to ensure that all competitors are in compliance for sound and allows for a “phasing in” of tighter testing procedures.

“The 102dB/A limit is already in the AMA Motocross Rulebook,” said Whitelock. “This multi-step compliance procedure simply allows competitors a reasonable time frame to ensure they are within the existing guidelines. With so many four-stroke motorcycles comprising the field now it’s clear we have to take steps to ensure everyone’s following the sound rules.”

TO: All Licensed Motocross/Supercross Riders and Season Credential Holders

FROM: Rob King, Technical Manager

DATE: July 2, 2004

SUBJECT: Sound

AMA Pro Racing has been conducting sound tests at selected rounds of the 2004 AMA Motocross Championship. Effective immediately, we will begin implementing new measures to ensure all competitors are in compliance with existing sound rules.

In order to provide everyone with a reasonable time frame to understand the testing methodology and to ensure that all motorcycles are in compliance, the following will be implemented:

1. At Round Six (Unadilla, July 17, 18) we will be conducting sound tests randomly throughout the race weekend. Sound levels will be recorded and any competitor exceeding the 102dB/A sound level will be issued a warning.

2. Beginning at Round Seven (Kenworthy’s, July 24, 25) and at subsequent rounds, we will continue to conduct sound tests randomly throughout race weekends. If, during pre-race tech inspection, a motorcycle is not in compliance for sound, that competitor will be required to bring his/her motorcycle into compliance to pass tech. If a motorcycle is not tested for sound during tech inspection but fails a sound test administered at any other time throughout the race weekend, that competitor may be required to bring his/her motorcycle into compliance before returning to competition.

3. AMA Pro Racing technical staff will be available throughout race weekends so competitors can voluntarily submit their motorcycles for sound testing.

4. AMA Pro Racing will follow SAE J1287 guidelines. AMA Pro Racing will be the sole determining factor on whether or not motorcycles are in compliance for sound.

It is our intention to make it as easy as possible for competitors to determine the sound levels of their motorcycles and bring them into compliance as necessary. It is in the best interest of our sport to ensure that everyone is proactively observing existing sound rules and we expect full cooperation.

Should you have any questions concerning this information, please contact Technical Manager Rob King at (614) 856-1910, extension 1230 or [email protected].


Successful Collarbone Surgery For Hacking

From a press release issued by Yamaha:

JAMIE HACKING ON THE MEND

He’ll “wait and see” for Laguna Seca Race Weekend

CYPRESS, Calif., July 2, 2004 – Factory Yamaha road racer Jamie Hacking underwent a 55-minute surgery in Northern California yesterday to repair his right collarbone which he broke on Wednesday in a practice crash at Mid-Ohio. According to Hacking, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ting used eight pins and a plate to secure the break.

Hacking explains, “The surgery went great, everything went together well, and I already have good range of motion. I’ll take it easy this weekend and see how it looks and feels next week.” Hacking said it was too early to say if he’ll be racing at Laguna Seca next week. “I’ll be at the track and we’ll see how my shoulder feels.”

Hacking is the current points leader in the AMA Superstock series and is third in the AMA Supersport class.



Attention Photographers: Did You Send Us A Crash Page Sequence Of Robert Jensen At Daytona?

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Roadracing World is attempting to identify the photographer who shot a sequence of Robert Jensen crashing out of the F-USA Sportbike race at Daytona, taken in the International Horseshoe.

If you took the photos and sent them to us, please describe the first and last shots in the sequence and give us your name and contact information, to ensure you are properly credited and paid.

Call (800) 464-8336 or e-mail [email protected]

OMS Hires Mark Johnson

From a press release issued by OMS Sports:

OMS Sports Hires Mark Johnson As New Managing Director

Former Kawasaki team manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of OMS Sports

ANAHEIM, Calif., (July 2, 2004) – OMS Sports has hired longtime motorcycle industry expert Mark Johnson to run the day-to-day operations of its company, effective immediately.

Johnson, who most recently was the team manager for the Chevy Trucks/Kawasaki motocross/supercross program, brings to OMS Sports a wealth of knowledge of motorsports and the motorcycle industry that’s second-to-none, according to OMS Sports President Fred Bramblett.

“I have known Mark for a number of years and have always been highly impressed with his professionalism and understanding of marketing and professional motorsports sponsorship,” said Bramblett. “He is one of the few people I’m aware of that has a strong understanding of our industry in addition to having worked with sponsors in both NASCAR and open wheel auto racing. Everyone at OMS is very excited to see Mark join our agency and apply his professional marketing and management expertise to our company and clients.”

Johnson began his career in the motorcycle industry in 1978 working as a motocross technician for U.S. Suzuki and rising star Mark Barnett. In 1979 Johnson moved to Kawasaki Motors Corporation to work as a technician with another rising star, Jeff Ward. During 1982-’83 Johnson also worked the road racing side of the industry, handling the mechanical duties for Kawasaki bikes raced by Eddie Lawson and Wayne Rainey. In 1983 Johnson was promoted to manager of the legendary Kawasaki “Team Green” program and over the years recruited and worked closely with most every successful name in motocross/supercross and off-road racing including: Jeremy McGrath, Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Larry Roeseler, Danny Hamel and Jeff Fredette.

The Southern California transplant also spent a seven-year stint working with in the auto racing community. Johnson made the transition from two to four wheels in 1996, serving as the General Manager and Vice President of Precision Preparation Incorporated (PPI) through the year 2000. His responsibilities included managing the day-to-day activities of the company while growing the business to include two CHAMP car entries in the CART/FedEx Championship Series, two entries in the CART Formula Atlantic Championship and fielding the Toyota Factory Off Road Racing Program – with the famed Ivan “Ironman” Stewart. In 1999 Johnson’s responsibilities expanded again as he formed one of the NASCAR Winston Cup Series’ entries, as well as a NASCAR Busch Series entry for the 2000 season. During his tenure with PPI, Johnson was fortunate to work on the sponsorship side of the business with global giants such as Toyota Motor Sales, MCI, Panasonic, Pioneer Electronics, McDonalds Corporation and Proctor & Gamble.

In 2001 Johnson moved to the position of Director of Operations for the legendary Team Rahal, working directly for team owners Bobby Rahal and David Letterman. Johnson oversaw the day-to-day technical activities of the CART/FedEx Championship Series team while working closely with team sponsors Ford Motor Company, Shell and Miller Brewing. Johnson rewarded Team Rahal with its most successful season to date – coming up just a number of points shy of the series title. In that season the team scored its most race wins ever, won the most pole positions, led the most laps and held the prestigious pit stop competition title for two straight years.

In 2002 Johnson returned to manage the Chevy Trucks/Kawasaki motocross/supercross program.

“Throughout my career I’ve been fortunate to be involved with a wide range of duties in the entire spectrum of the motorsports industry,” said Johnson. “I’m confident this experience and versatility will allow me to step right into the managing director position at OMS Sports and immediately help strengthen an already successful company and its clients in a number of areas, including the technical side of the business, managerial duties, athlete relations and sponsorship acquisition. I am genuinely impressed with the quality and dedication of the entire OMS Sports staff. I sincerely look forward to working shoulder-to-shoulder with Fred and the new challenges that await me at OMS Sports.”

Johnson will be based out of OMS Sports’ headquarters in Anaheim, Calif., and can be reached at (714) 935-0790 or via email at [email protected].



DePuniet Sets Provisional 250cc Pole At Rio


Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.

1. Randy DE PUNIET, Aprilia, 1:52.929
2. Manuel POGGIALI, Aprilia, 1:52.981
3. Sebastian PORTO, Aprilia, 1:53.076
4. Daniel PEDROSA, Honda, 1:53.227
5. Toni ELIAS, Honda, 1:53.313
6. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 1:53.602
7. Franco BATTAINI, Aprilia, 1:53.732
8. Roberto ROLFO, Honda, 1:53.776
9. Fonsi NIETO, Aprilia, 1:53.971
10. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 1:54.0912
11. Alex DEBON, Honda, 1:54.392
12. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 1:54.665
13. Naoki MATSUDO, Yamaha, 1:54.666
14. Hiroshi AOYAMA, Honda, 1:54.782
15. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 1:54.791


Sidecars In Scotland

From a press release:

EASTERN AIRWAYS CHAMPIONSHIP SET TO SHINE IN SCOTLAND

The Eastern Airways Sidecar Championship heads for Scotland this weekend and round five of the spectacular series, at the Knockhill circuit near Dunfermline, Fife.

Record-breaking Steve Webster heads the championship chase ­ all after setting a new outright lap record at the Croft circuit in North Yorkshire last Sunday.

Webster set the pace in Friday afternoon’s qualifying session at Knockhill but the Yorkshireman is far from confident about victory in the two races ­ on Saturday and Sunday – at the hill-top venue.

“All the teams have tested at Knockhill earlier in the season so they’re all on the pace straight away,” reports Webster. “But it’s the start of the races I’m concerned about. I’ve not been good off the startline this year and Knockhill is a tricky circuit to overtake.

“I’ll be giving it my all but it was obvious at Croft last weekend that quite a few teams have now moved up a gear and I don’t think it will be too long before Tim Reeves, Richard Gatt, Bill Philp and Greg Lambert are pushing me hard.”

The Eastern Airways Championship teams will conclude qualifying on Saturday morning at Knockhill. Their first race is on Saturday afternoon with a second, 20-lap battle on Sunday afternoon.

Eastern Airways Sidecar Championship ­ Friday qualifying times:
1 Steve Webster Suzuki 56.284s
2 Tim Reeves Suzuki 56.654s
3 Richard Gatt Suzuki 57.238s
4 Derek Brindley Suzuki 57.575s
5 Bryan Pedder Suzuki 57.903s
6 Stuart Muldoon Suzuki 58.117s
7 Bill Philp Yamaha 58.271s
8 Andy Peach Suzuki 58.681s
9 Ben Birchall Yamaha 59.123s
10 Chris Founds Yamaha 59.544s

Eastern Airways Sidecar Championship points after four rounds

1 Steve Webster / Paul Woodhead Castrol Suzuki 145

2 Tim Reeves / Tristan Reeves M & M Suzuki 101

3 Derek Brindley / Neil Miller Readymix Suzuki 76

4 Greg Lambert / James Sirrell Dalepak Suzuki 68

5 Richard Gatt / Paul Randall GRS Suzuki 64

6 Bill Philp / Rick Long 155 Yamaha 63

7 Bryan Pedder / Rod Steadman Roberts Suzuki 46

8 Stuart Muldoon / John Briggs SMR Suzuki 40

9 Stuart Woodard / Paul Knapton Woodard Yamaha 33

10 Ben Birchall / Tom Birchall Richards Yamaha 33

11 Chris Founds / Mark Cox Founds Yamaha 29

12 Andy Laidlow / Patrick Farrance TLF Suzuki 29

13 Andy Peach / Nick Webb Readymix Suzuki 28

14 Steve Norbury / Scott Parnell Lockside Yamaha 21

15 Jorg Steinhausen / Trevor Hopkinson Q8 Suzuki 20

16 Stefan Dodd / David Dodd Dodd Yamaha 11

17 Gary Horspole / Andy Smith Horspole Suzuki 10

18 Mike Ibbotson / Steve Wilson Ibbotson Suzuki 5

19 Ian Ashley / Paul Cowley Willmakers Yamaha 4

20 Dean Henry / Ian Smith Magnam Yamaha 3

21 John Clarke / Geoff Smale JCR Yamaha 2

AMA Docks Two Riders For Illegal Fuel At Dirt Track

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

Two Riders Penalized for Using Illegal Fuel at Lima Flat Track

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (July 2, 2004) — AMA Pro Racing has announced that two riders have been penalized 23 points each for using illegal fuel at round six of the AMA Progressive Insurance Flat Track Championship at Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio on June 26.

Riders receiving the penalty were race winner Joe Kopp and 17th place finisher Kevin Atherton. In announcing the penalties, series manager Bruce Bober said that the fuel from six motorcycles was tested; the top four finishers and two selected at random. “It is our procedure to test a number of bikes at every round,” said Bober. “Additionally, any competitor can choose to have fuel tested at any time during the event.”

Bober confirmed that the field test at Lima indicated the fuel was out of compliance. It was sent to an independent lab for confirmation. Results were sent back to AMA Pro Racing on Thursday. Both riders have been notified of the penalty.

There has not been a fuel penalty in AMA Flat Track racing since the 2001 season.


More TV For Canadian Superbike Series

From a press release issued by series organizers:

TORONTO, ON The Parts Canada Superbike Championship has secured additional television coverage for its 2004 season with a deal that also sees the series make a major breakthrough in its mainstream media exposure.

Each round of the national motorcycle road racing series will be shown this season on TORONTO 1, as well as the A-Channel stations in Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton. All four stations are owned by Craig Media Inc.

The stations will show one hour of coverage from each of the eight rounds of the series, packaging them with coverage of the NASCAR Nextel Cup stock car series. Craig Media owns the Canadian rights to the Nextel Cup races shown on NBC in the U.S.

Each round of the Parts Canada Superbike series is already shown in a half-hour highlights package on The Sports Network (TSN) and Reseau des sports (RDS).

The arrangement opens with coverage of the May 23 Parts Canada Superbike opener from Shannonville Motorsport Park, which will be shown in conjunction with the Tropicana 400 Nextel Cup race from Chicagoland Speedway on July 11.

“This presents a tremendous opportunity for the Parts Canada Superbike Championship,” said series organizer Colin Fraser of Professional Motorsports Productions. “This package of coverage on the Craig Media stations gives our series added exposure in four major Canadian markets and allows us to introduce our exciting brand of racing to a whole new audience of sports fans.”

The second round of the Parts Canada Superbike Championship from Calgary’s Race City Motorsport Park will air on Aug. 8, the same day as the Nextel Cup Brickyard 400.

The remaining rounds will be shown on Sundays in October and November, beginning Oct. 3, when NASCAR is in the midst of its “Quest for the Nextel Cup”, a 10-race showdown for the overall series championship.

“We think the series will be a good fit with our NBC NASCAR telecasts,” said Michael Taylor, vice president, programming for Craig Media. “It’s nice to be able to promote Canadian motorsport and PMP can deliver the high quality programming we want.”

The Parts Canada Superbike Championship resumes this weekend at Race City Motorsport Park with a doubleheader weekend. Six-time series champion Steve Crevier leads the point standings after winning the opening round at Shannonville.