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Moore Hit A Tree After Sliding 230 Yards At BIR

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

According to Corona Extra Suzuki spokesman Tim Saunders, Jimmy Moore was injured when he hit a tree outside turn one at Brainerd, after crashing and sliding along on his back for about 230 yards.

“They measured it off,” said Saunders Friday morning. “He said he remembered everything, watching the woods coming up. He was fine until he hit the tree.”

Saunders said the tree Moore hit was about 4.0 inches in diameter.

Moore suffered a badly broken arm, broken ribs, a ruptured spleen and a broken hip in the incident.

Turn one at Brainerd is taken at near full throttle in top gear, at about 170 mph on a GSX-R750 like Moore was riding. Moore tucked the front approaching the corner apex and lowsided, according to eyewitness reports.

Superbikers Added To F-USA At Del Mar

From a press release issued by F-USA:

Parts Unlimited Superbikers sponsored by KTM
Del Mar Fairgrounds – Saturday, October 4th

Fort Worth, Texas Clear Channel Entertainment – Motor Sports is proud to announce the addition of the Parts Unlimited Superbikers sponsored by KTM during the K&N Del Mar Mile Weekend on Saturday, October 4th.

The Parts Unlimited Superbikers sponsored by KTM will be unique, in that the format will be very similar to the original ABC Superbikers ran at Carlsbad Raceway from 1979-1983. Riders in each category of Motocross, Dirt Track, Road Race and Off-Road will compete head-to-head on a track of both pavement and dirt. The racing will be a mixture of speed, sliding, roosting, grinding and jumping on each and every lap.

Fans will witness racing that will be competitive, accessible and fan-friendly at the beautiful Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, California. The track will be constructed along the main grandstands and other portions of the fairgrounds giving fans comfort and top-rated amenities.

Invites will be sent to 12 riders in each category (MX, DT, RR, OR) for a total of 48 of the nations top-level professional riders. Heat races and semis will be ran in each category qualifying only the top 20 riders, setting up an epic main event showdown of motocross, dirt track, road race and off-road riders to find out who was the best athlete aboard a motorcycle.

“It’s been long enough and we have the venue,” says Mike Kidd of Clear Channel Motor Sports. “With the recent surge of SuperMotard type racing, it is now time for the return of the Superbikers. As a former competitor of the original ABC Superbikers I can remember the excitement and challenge of that single event. Our intent is to bring back that excitement to a wide variety of spectators.”

The motorcycle of choice will be a lightweight, single cylinder 4-stroke usually designed from a high-performance motocross bike. Add big oversize brakes, lowered suspension, 17″ wheels and sticky road race style tires and you have one ultra-trick motorcycle designed to take on the challenge.

Special discount tickets are available which will allow spectators to the Superbikers race, Concours d’ Elegance, Swap Meet and Motorcycle Expo. For ticket information and the weekend’s schedule, visit www.dirttrack.com or call 817/332-4822.

Friday Afternoon Practice Times From BIR

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

600cc Supersport
1. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:40.142
2. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:40.676
3. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:40.704
4. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:41.367
5. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:41.379
6. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:41.530
7. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:41.538
8. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:42.117
9. Robert Jensen, Yamaha, 1:42.141
10. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:42.286
11. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:42.517
12. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:42.588
13. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:42.867
14. Chris Peris, Honda, 1:43.661
15. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:43.721
16. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:44.031
17. Chris Rankin, Honda, 1:44.110
18. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:44.282
19. Gary Carter, Yamaha, 1:46.032
20. Jason Hobbs, Yamaha, 1:46.203


Formula Xtreme
1. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:37.176
2. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:37.748
3. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:37.834
4. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:37.911
5. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:38.011
6. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:38.349
7. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:38.350
8. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:38.612
9. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:38.690
10. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:39.779
11. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:40.981
12. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:41.152
13. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:41.205
14. Mark Vandal, Yamaha, 1:43.711
15. Hawk Mazzotta, Suzuki, 1:44.415
16. Jeff Bostrom, Suzuki, 1:44.703
17. Jason Knupp, Suzuki, 1:45.555
18. Jason Peters, Suzuki, 1:46.059
19. David Guy, Suzuki, 1:46.251
20. Kevin Hanson, Suzuki, 1:46.256



750cc Superstock
1. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:39.751
2. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:40.102
3. Mike Ciccotto, Suzuki, 1:41.106
4. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:41.154
5. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:41.277
6. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:41.368
7. Robert Jensen, Suzuki, 1:41.478
8. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:41.597
9. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:41.838
10. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:41.931
11. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:42.033
12. Roger Hayden, Honda, 1:42.175
13. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:42.299
14. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:42.927
15. Brian Stokes, Suzuki, 1:42.965
16. JJ Roetlin, Suzuki, 1:42.999
17. Steve Atlas, Suzuki, 1:43.085
18. John Dugan, Suzuki, 1:43.142
19. Matt Furtek, Suzuki, 1:43.519
20. Hawk Mazzotta, Suzuki, 1:43.574


250cc Grand Prix

1. Rich Oliver, Yamaha, 1:41.381
2. Chuck Sorensen, Aprilia, 1:42.511
3. SImon Turner, Honda, 1:43.621
4. Perry Melneciuc, Yamaha, 1:45.058
5. Chris Pyles, Honda, 1:46.894
6. Ed Sorbo, Yamaha, 1:47.251
7. Greg Esser, Honda, 1:49.285
8. John France, Honda, 1:50.039
9. Barrett Long, Yamaha, 1:50.140
10. Mark Stiles, Yamaha, 1:50.399
11. Ed Marchini, Yamaha, 1:50.477
12. Steve Scott, Yamaha, 1:50.509
13. Sean Wray, Yamaha, 1:51.029
14. Glen Christianson, Yamha, 1:51.615
15. Shawn Murray, Honda, 1:51.699
16. Sandy Noce, Yamaha, 1:51.739
17. Stephen Bowline, Honda, 1:52.484
18. Jim Bonner, Yamaha, 1:53.089
19. Jeff Japs, Yamaha, 1:53.120
20. Sohn Wehseler, Yamaha, 1:54.274

Updated Post: Dead Transponder Batteries Behind Timing & Scoring Woes At BIR

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

According to official Friday-morning Superstock practice times released by AMA Timing & Scoring at BIR, James Kerker was 5th fastest on his Honda CBR600, at 1:41.129.

Kerker’s second-fastest time was shown as a 1:49.071.

Asked about the time, an AMA Pro Racing spokesperson checked with AMA Timing & Scoring and said that the time was official.

Kerker’s time had not shown up on the timing & scoring monitors during the session, but was inserted in printed results issued well after the session ended.

250cc GP practice times had not been issued by AMA Timing & Scoring about two hours after the session ended.

The problems may stem from uncharged transponders being issued to riders at tech. The dead transponders did not communicate with the timing and scoring system, and AMA Pro Officials said they reverted to an optical beam back-up system, with some obvious problems.

One of the riders affected by a dead transponder was Mike Ciccotto, who was finally declared 12th fastest in Superstock practice, at 1:42.584.

AMA Timing & Scoring blamed AMA Tech for issuing the dead transponders.

It is not clear to Roadracing World reporters exactly who is responsible for ensuring that AMA Timing & Scoring transponders are functioning when they are issued to riders at tech.


UPDATE: Friday afternoon, AMA Timing & Scoring issued a new, revised set of results from the morning Superstock session, with Kerker listed as 35th fastest, with a best time of 1:49.071.

Friday Morning Practice Times From BIR

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

600cc Supersport
1. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:41.005
2. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:41.143
3. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:41.890
4. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:41.932
5. Damon Buckmaster, 1:42.090
6. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:42.785
7. Rob Jensen, Yamaha, 1:42.842
8. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:43.119
9. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:43.289
10. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:43.702
11. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:43.747
12. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:43.961
13. Chris Rankin, Honda, 1:44.101
14. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:44.626
15. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:44.840

Formula Xtreme
1. Mat Mladin, Suzuki, 1:37.185
2. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:37.918
3. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:37.976
4. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:38.061
5. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:38.68
6. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:38.266
7. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:38.285
8. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:38.813
9. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:38.894
10. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:38.975
11. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:39.652
12. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:40.357
13. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:41.265
14. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:43.034
15. Mark Vendal, Yamaha, 1:45.028

750cc Superstock
1. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:39.895
2. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:40.466
3. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:40.624
4. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:40.841
5. Opie Caylor, Suzuki, 1:41.345
6. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:41.393
7. Rob Jensen, Suzuki, 1:41.534
8. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:41.538
9. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:41.623
10. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:42.182
11. Mike Ciccotto, Suzuki, 1:42.584
12. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:42.61913. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:42.679
14. John Dugan, Suzuki, 1:42.882
15. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:43.043
16. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:43.250
17. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:43.537
18. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:43.604
19. Steve Atlas, Suzuki, 1:43.778
20. JJ Roetlin, Suzuki, 1:43.941




250cc GP
1. Rich Oliver, Yamaha, 1:41.826
2. Chuck Sorensen, Aprilia, 1:43.879
3. Simon Turner, Honda, 1:45.210
4. Colin Jensen, Aprilia, 1:45.212
5. Ed Sorbo, Yamaha, 1:47.239
6. Chris Pyles, Honda, 1:49.271
7. Greg Esser, Honda, 1:49.602
8. Barrett Long, Yamaha, 1:49.841
9. John France, Honda, 1:49.927
10. G. Christianson, Yamaha, 1:50.585
11. Sean Wray, Yamaha, 1:51.165
12. Steve Scott, Yamaha, 1:51.623
13. J. Japs, 1:52.794
14. Sean McNew, Honda, 1:52.813
15. Sandy Noce, Yamaha, 1:53.886


Superbike
1. Mat Mladin, Suzuki, 1:36.356
2. Kurtis Roberts, Honda, 1:37.134
3. Eric Bostrom, Kawasaki, 1:37.383
4. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:37.520
5. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:37.897
6. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:38.161
7. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:38.482
9. Ben Bostrom, Honda, 1:38.519
9. Jordan Szoke, Suzuki, 1:40.119
10. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki, 1:40.134
11. Giovanni Bussei, Ducati, 1:40.147
12. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:40.204
13. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:40.636
14. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:40.915
15. Robert Jensen, Suzuki, 1:40.935

Stars Expected At Laguna Seca AMA Supermoto Event, Pre-Entry Period Extended

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From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

STAR-STUDDED FIELD SET TO PARTICIPATE IN INAUGURAL AMA RED BULL SUPERMOTO CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND

Dunlop Supermoto Classic at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

PICKERINGTON, Ohio – The opening round of the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship will be a who’s who of motorcycle racers as a number of top riders including past and current champions have entered to participate. Riders from virtually all racing disciplines are represented and debate among fans centers around who will take the first checkered flag, July 11-13 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for the Dunlop Supermoto Classic. Perhaps the most notable name scheduled to race is Jeremy McGrath. McGrath, who is racing less than a year after he announced his retirement from AMA Supercross, is entered as part of the powerhouse Troy Lee Designs team. Riding along side McGrath will be legendary motocross/supercross star and Indy Racing League driver Jeff Ward as well as Troy Lee himself. Interestingly, McGrath will be making his AMA Supermoto debut aboard a Honda CRF450 having ended his relationship with KTM.

Former 500cc World Grand Prix champ Kevin Schwantz is recovering from a broken hand yet is planning on racing at Mazda Raceway aboard his Suzuki DR-Z400. The renowned Texan is always a fan favorite and his feet-up, hang it out sliding style will be popular with the crowd just as it was when he competed on the world stage. Schwantz has been racing local and regional supermoto events for the past couple of years and is a solid pick to capture the championship.

Another rider who will be piloting a powerful Honda four-stroke is the “Godfather of Freestyle”, Mike Metzger. Metzger, who has established himself in the wild and wooly world of freestyle motocross, claims to be focusing his energies on an AMA Supermoto title. Receiving support from Honda, his commitment is obviously genuine. The innovative Metzger is sure to be one of the riders to watch.

Suzuki’s Travis Pastrana has entered but his presence at round one is questionable due to recent injuries. The popular supercross/motocross/freestyle star has announced that he’s walking away from the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Motocross Championship for awhile but plans to contest the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. Travis’ presence will certainly add a lot to the series as he’s one of the most personable and well-liked racers ever.

Other notable riders entered at round one include former AMA Motocross champions Danny LaPorte and Micky Dymond, 1990 Daytona 200 winner and current motorsports broadcaster Dave Sadowski, and past AMA Superbike champions Doug Chandler and Thomas Stevens.

The flat track fraternity will be well represented by former champion Joe Kopp as well as reigning champion, Chris Carr. Carr, the four-time AMA Grand National Champion, announced his involvement with the series at Daytona when the championship was announced. Carr is the current points leader in the AMA Progressive Insurance U.S. Flat Track Championship and is looking to be only the second rider in history to capture five Grand National titles. He would love to add the inaugural AMA Supermoto Championship to his resume and some experts feel dirt trackers will have an advantage in supermoto due to their comfort with sliding the bike at high speeds.

Some feel that motocrossers are best suited because of their ability in the dirt while yet others insist it will be a road racer that prevails because of the demanding, high-speed pavement sections of the track. One thing that is known for sure is that the racing will be tight. AMA Pro Racing’s Associate Director of Commercial Development, Chris Bradley says everything is being done to achieve a level playing field. “Our track design criteria, is to create a ‘discipline-neutral’ racetrack. To keep things as equal as possible the courses will feature at least one significant jump combined with high-speed pavement sections,” said Bradley. “Course designer Don Canet has a great deal of experience in building supermoto tracks and the Laguna Seca course will result in exciting, bar-to-bar racing. It’ll be the perfect way to launch the series.”

Bradley encouraged both fans and participants to visit www.amaproracing.com for the latest information. “As we approach the first event things are happening very quickly so the best way to keep up with the latest information is by visiting our website,” says Bradley. “We will continually post significant news and updates as they become available.”

More, from another press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

PRE-ENTRY PERIOD EXTENDED FOR AMA RED BULL SUPERMOTO CHAMPIONSHIP OPENING ROUND

PICKERINGTON, Ohio – Due to overwhelming response, AMA Pro Racing will no longer accept post-entries for the July 11-13 Dunlop Supermoto Classic, the inaugural event of the 2003 AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. However, to accommodate riders who AMA Pro Racing knows are planning on attending, the event’s pre-entry deadline has been extended. All pre-entry paperwork must be received at AMA Pro Racing’s Pickerington, Ohio headquarters by Monday, June 30.

Pre-entry forms as well as the required License Application and Team Participation Agreement are available online at www.amamproracing.com. In order to expedite the entry process, all forms (except riders applying for their first AMA Pro License), can be submitted via fax to (614) 856-1924.

“We are extremely excited to debut AMA Supermoto to such a large audience of race fans,” said AMA Pro Racing Associate Director of Commercial Development Chris Bradley. “With Laguna Seca being an action-packed schedule, we needed to cap the number of entries to ensure the quality of the race program remains at the level we’re accustomed to delivering.”

About AMA Pro Racing

AMA Pro Racing is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its properties include the AMA Supercross Championship, the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Motocross Championship, the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship, AMA Progressive Insurance U.S. Flat Track Championship and the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. Nearly 2 million race fans attended AMA Pro Racing events during the 2002 season. For more information about AMA Pro Racing, visit www.amaproracing.com

Jimmy Moore Helicoptered To Minneapolis For Surgery

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Superstock Champion Jimmy Moore was flown from a local hospital in Brainerd, Minnesota to Minneapolis to undergo surgery Thursday evening.

Moore crashed in turn one at Brainerd International Raceway Thursday afternoon and his injuries included a ruptured spleen, compound fracture of a humerus (or upper arm), broken ribs and possibly a cracked hip joint.

Initial reports saying Moore had not suffered serious injury were obviously optimistic.

Nieto, Elias, Poggiali, Rolfo On Provisional 250cc Front Row In Holland

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday 250cc Qualifying Results:

1. Fonsi Nieto, Aprilia, 2:04.866
2. Toni Elias, Aprilia, 2:05.049
3. Manuel Poggiali, Aprilia, 2:05.106
4. Roberto Rolfo, Honda, 2:05.787
5. Randy De Puniet, Aprilia, 2:05.922
6. Franco Battaini, Aprilia, 2:06.167
7. Sebastian Porto, Honda, 2:06.309
8. Anthony West, Aprilia, 2:06.594
9. Sylvain Guintoli, Aprilia, 2:06.671
10. Erwan Nigon, Aprilia, 2:07.089
11. Klaus Nohles, Aprilia, 2:07.501
12. Naoki Matsudo, Yamaha, 2:07.607
13. Eric Battaille, Honda, 2:07.677
14. Joan Olive, Aprilia, 2:07.754
15. Jakub Smrz, Honda, 2:08.156


More, from a press release issued by MS Aprilia Team Press Information:

A SATISFACTORY DAY

After the unlucky Catalunya GP, Manuel Poggiali and his Aprilia are back on track for the Assen GP, seventh race of the championship. This track is 6027 metres long and it’s very challenging. Moreover the weather conditions are unsettled but the first qualifying session was dry anyway and Poggiali got the third fastest lap time.

Manuel Poggiali: “Quite good today. At the end there was to much traffic and I was unable to improve. Anyway we found the right setting and this means a good advantage for me thus tomorrow I will define some details and the choice of the tyres. This track is almost difficult and it’s more exacting on 250. I mean. it’s not the power as I can easily control it but the weight is higher than the 125. On this bike there’s no time to breathe there are a lot of corners to manage and I can not loose the concentration”.



Acree To Debut New Ride At This Weekend’s F-USA Races At VIR

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From a press release issued by Proforma:

LEE ACREE TO DEBUT ON ERA YAMAHAS IN FORMULA USA EVENT AT VIRGINIA

Lee Acree will race his 2003 ERA Yamaha R6s for the first time this weekend, June 27-29, in round four of the Formula USA National Championship Series at Virginia International Raceway. Acree will campaign the new Yamahas for the rest of the 2003 season, competing in AMA Pro, WERA, and Formula USA/CCS events.

“I’m looking forward to the second half of 2003,” said Acree. “I had strong finishes earlier in the year, particularly at Daytona and Sears Point, so I want to carry that momentum into the rest of this year on the Yamahas. My sponsors have really come through for me, and I’m looking forward to racing the new R6s, which have been the bike to beat since they came out. It doesn’t hurt that they have a really strong contingency program as well.”

Lee Acree and ERA Yamaha are proud to be sponsored by Triad Powersport, Pirelli, Graves Motorsports, Sidi, Arai, Joe Rocket, Kneedraggers.com, Dynojet, Ohlins USA, Tapeworks and Vesrah.

Rossi, Biaggi, Edwards Fastest In Thursday Morning MotoGP At Assen

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Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda, 2:01.404
2. Max Biaggi, Honda, 2:02.095
3. Colin Edwards, Aprilia, 2:02.340
4. Loris Capirossi, Ducati, 2:02.592
5. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, 2:02.727
6. Alex Barros, Yamaha, 2:03.009
7. Carlos Checa, Yamaha, 2:03.092
8. Sete Gibernau, Honda, 2:03.452
9. Tohru Ukawa, Honda, 2:03.483
10. Noriyuki Haga, Aprilia, 2:03.800
11. Marco Melandri, Yamaha, 2:03.881
12. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha, 2:03.942
13. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha, 2:04.410
14. Nicky Hayden, Honda, 2:04.482
15. John Hopkins, Suzuki, 2:04.645
16. Alex Hofmann, Kawasaki, 2:04.689
17. Yukio Kagayama, Suzuki, 2:05.010
18. Andrew Pitt, Kawasaki, 2:05.511
19. Makoto Tamada, Honda, 2:05.853
20. Garry McCoy, Kawasaki, 2:06.786
21. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton, 2:07.207
22. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton, 2:08.350
23. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Honda, 2:08.350

Moore Hit A Tree After Sliding 230 Yards At BIR

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

According to Corona Extra Suzuki spokesman Tim Saunders, Jimmy Moore was injured when he hit a tree outside turn one at Brainerd, after crashing and sliding along on his back for about 230 yards.

“They measured it off,” said Saunders Friday morning. “He said he remembered everything, watching the woods coming up. He was fine until he hit the tree.”

Saunders said the tree Moore hit was about 4.0 inches in diameter.

Moore suffered a badly broken arm, broken ribs, a ruptured spleen and a broken hip in the incident.

Turn one at Brainerd is taken at near full throttle in top gear, at about 170 mph on a GSX-R750 like Moore was riding. Moore tucked the front approaching the corner apex and lowsided, according to eyewitness reports.

Superbikers Added To F-USA At Del Mar

From a press release issued by F-USA:

Parts Unlimited Superbikers sponsored by KTM
Del Mar Fairgrounds – Saturday, October 4th

Fort Worth, Texas Clear Channel Entertainment – Motor Sports is proud to announce the addition of the Parts Unlimited Superbikers sponsored by KTM during the K&N Del Mar Mile Weekend on Saturday, October 4th.

The Parts Unlimited Superbikers sponsored by KTM will be unique, in that the format will be very similar to the original ABC Superbikers ran at Carlsbad Raceway from 1979-1983. Riders in each category of Motocross, Dirt Track, Road Race and Off-Road will compete head-to-head on a track of both pavement and dirt. The racing will be a mixture of speed, sliding, roosting, grinding and jumping on each and every lap.

Fans will witness racing that will be competitive, accessible and fan-friendly at the beautiful Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, California. The track will be constructed along the main grandstands and other portions of the fairgrounds giving fans comfort and top-rated amenities.

Invites will be sent to 12 riders in each category (MX, DT, RR, OR) for a total of 48 of the nations top-level professional riders. Heat races and semis will be ran in each category qualifying only the top 20 riders, setting up an epic main event showdown of motocross, dirt track, road race and off-road riders to find out who was the best athlete aboard a motorcycle.

“It’s been long enough and we have the venue,” says Mike Kidd of Clear Channel Motor Sports. “With the recent surge of SuperMotard type racing, it is now time for the return of the Superbikers. As a former competitor of the original ABC Superbikers I can remember the excitement and challenge of that single event. Our intent is to bring back that excitement to a wide variety of spectators.”

The motorcycle of choice will be a lightweight, single cylinder 4-stroke usually designed from a high-performance motocross bike. Add big oversize brakes, lowered suspension, 17″ wheels and sticky road race style tires and you have one ultra-trick motorcycle designed to take on the challenge.

Special discount tickets are available which will allow spectators to the Superbikers race, Concours d’ Elegance, Swap Meet and Motorcycle Expo. For ticket information and the weekend’s schedule, visit www.dirttrack.com or call 817/332-4822.

Friday Afternoon Practice Times From BIR

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

600cc Supersport
1. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:40.142
2. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:40.676
3. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:40.704
4. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:41.367
5. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:41.379
6. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:41.530
7. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:41.538
8. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:42.117
9. Robert Jensen, Yamaha, 1:42.141
10. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:42.286
11. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:42.517
12. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:42.588
13. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:42.867
14. Chris Peris, Honda, 1:43.661
15. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:43.721
16. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:44.031
17. Chris Rankin, Honda, 1:44.110
18. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:44.282
19. Gary Carter, Yamaha, 1:46.032
20. Jason Hobbs, Yamaha, 1:46.203


Formula Xtreme
1. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:37.176
2. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:37.748
3. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:37.834
4. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:37.911
5. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:38.011
6. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:38.349
7. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:38.350
8. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:38.612
9. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:38.690
10. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:39.779
11. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:40.981
12. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:41.152
13. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:41.205
14. Mark Vandal, Yamaha, 1:43.711
15. Hawk Mazzotta, Suzuki, 1:44.415
16. Jeff Bostrom, Suzuki, 1:44.703
17. Jason Knupp, Suzuki, 1:45.555
18. Jason Peters, Suzuki, 1:46.059
19. David Guy, Suzuki, 1:46.251
20. Kevin Hanson, Suzuki, 1:46.256



750cc Superstock
1. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:39.751
2. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:40.102
3. Mike Ciccotto, Suzuki, 1:41.106
4. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:41.154
5. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:41.277
6. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:41.368
7. Robert Jensen, Suzuki, 1:41.478
8. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:41.597
9. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:41.838
10. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:41.931
11. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:42.033
12. Roger Hayden, Honda, 1:42.175
13. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:42.299
14. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:42.927
15. Brian Stokes, Suzuki, 1:42.965
16. JJ Roetlin, Suzuki, 1:42.999
17. Steve Atlas, Suzuki, 1:43.085
18. John Dugan, Suzuki, 1:43.142
19. Matt Furtek, Suzuki, 1:43.519
20. Hawk Mazzotta, Suzuki, 1:43.574


250cc Grand Prix

1. Rich Oliver, Yamaha, 1:41.381
2. Chuck Sorensen, Aprilia, 1:42.511
3. SImon Turner, Honda, 1:43.621
4. Perry Melneciuc, Yamaha, 1:45.058
5. Chris Pyles, Honda, 1:46.894
6. Ed Sorbo, Yamaha, 1:47.251
7. Greg Esser, Honda, 1:49.285
8. John France, Honda, 1:50.039
9. Barrett Long, Yamaha, 1:50.140
10. Mark Stiles, Yamaha, 1:50.399
11. Ed Marchini, Yamaha, 1:50.477
12. Steve Scott, Yamaha, 1:50.509
13. Sean Wray, Yamaha, 1:51.029
14. Glen Christianson, Yamha, 1:51.615
15. Shawn Murray, Honda, 1:51.699
16. Sandy Noce, Yamaha, 1:51.739
17. Stephen Bowline, Honda, 1:52.484
18. Jim Bonner, Yamaha, 1:53.089
19. Jeff Japs, Yamaha, 1:53.120
20. Sohn Wehseler, Yamaha, 1:54.274

Updated Post: Dead Transponder Batteries Behind Timing & Scoring Woes At BIR

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

According to official Friday-morning Superstock practice times released by AMA Timing & Scoring at BIR, James Kerker was 5th fastest on his Honda CBR600, at 1:41.129.

Kerker’s second-fastest time was shown as a 1:49.071.

Asked about the time, an AMA Pro Racing spokesperson checked with AMA Timing & Scoring and said that the time was official.

Kerker’s time had not shown up on the timing & scoring monitors during the session, but was inserted in printed results issued well after the session ended.

250cc GP practice times had not been issued by AMA Timing & Scoring about two hours after the session ended.

The problems may stem from uncharged transponders being issued to riders at tech. The dead transponders did not communicate with the timing and scoring system, and AMA Pro Officials said they reverted to an optical beam back-up system, with some obvious problems.

One of the riders affected by a dead transponder was Mike Ciccotto, who was finally declared 12th fastest in Superstock practice, at 1:42.584.

AMA Timing & Scoring blamed AMA Tech for issuing the dead transponders.

It is not clear to Roadracing World reporters exactly who is responsible for ensuring that AMA Timing & Scoring transponders are functioning when they are issued to riders at tech.


UPDATE: Friday afternoon, AMA Timing & Scoring issued a new, revised set of results from the morning Superstock session, with Kerker listed as 35th fastest, with a best time of 1:49.071.

Friday Morning Practice Times From BIR

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

600cc Supersport
1. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:41.005
2. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:41.143
3. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:41.890
4. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:41.932
5. Damon Buckmaster, 1:42.090
6. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:42.785
7. Rob Jensen, Yamaha, 1:42.842
8. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:43.119
9. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:43.289
10. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:43.702
11. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:43.747
12. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:43.961
13. Chris Rankin, Honda, 1:44.101
14. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:44.626
15. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:44.840

Formula Xtreme
1. Mat Mladin, Suzuki, 1:37.185
2. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:37.918
3. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:37.976
4. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:38.061
5. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:38.68
6. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:38.266
7. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:38.285
8. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:38.813
9. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:38.894
10. Marty Craggill, Honda, 1:38.975
11. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:39.652
12. Craig Connell, Honda, 1:40.357
13. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:41.265
14. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:43.034
15. Mark Vendal, Yamaha, 1:45.028

750cc Superstock
1. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:39.895
2. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:40.466
3. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:40.624
4. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:40.841
5. Opie Caylor, Suzuki, 1:41.345
6. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:41.393
7. Rob Jensen, Suzuki, 1:41.534
8. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:41.538
9. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:41.623
10. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:42.182
11. Mike Ciccotto, Suzuki, 1:42.584
12. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:42.61913. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:42.679
14. John Dugan, Suzuki, 1:42.882
15. Jamie Stauffer, Suzuki, 1:43.043
16. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:43.250
17. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:43.537
18. Jason Curtis, Honda, 1:43.604
19. Steve Atlas, Suzuki, 1:43.778
20. JJ Roetlin, Suzuki, 1:43.941




250cc GP
1. Rich Oliver, Yamaha, 1:41.826
2. Chuck Sorensen, Aprilia, 1:43.879
3. Simon Turner, Honda, 1:45.210
4. Colin Jensen, Aprilia, 1:45.212
5. Ed Sorbo, Yamaha, 1:47.239
6. Chris Pyles, Honda, 1:49.271
7. Greg Esser, Honda, 1:49.602
8. Barrett Long, Yamaha, 1:49.841
9. John France, Honda, 1:49.927
10. G. Christianson, Yamaha, 1:50.585
11. Sean Wray, Yamaha, 1:51.165
12. Steve Scott, Yamaha, 1:51.623
13. J. Japs, 1:52.794
14. Sean McNew, Honda, 1:52.813
15. Sandy Noce, Yamaha, 1:53.886


Superbike
1. Mat Mladin, Suzuki, 1:36.356
2. Kurtis Roberts, Honda, 1:37.134
3. Eric Bostrom, Kawasaki, 1:37.383
4. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:37.520
5. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:37.897
6. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:38.161
7. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:38.482
9. Ben Bostrom, Honda, 1:38.519
9. Jordan Szoke, Suzuki, 1:40.119
10. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki, 1:40.134
11. Giovanni Bussei, Ducati, 1:40.147
12. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:40.204
13. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:40.636
14. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:40.915
15. Robert Jensen, Suzuki, 1:40.935

Stars Expected At Laguna Seca AMA Supermoto Event, Pre-Entry Period Extended

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

STAR-STUDDED FIELD SET TO PARTICIPATE IN INAUGURAL AMA RED BULL SUPERMOTO CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND

Dunlop Supermoto Classic at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

PICKERINGTON, Ohio – The opening round of the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship will be a who’s who of motorcycle racers as a number of top riders including past and current champions have entered to participate. Riders from virtually all racing disciplines are represented and debate among fans centers around who will take the first checkered flag, July 11-13 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for the Dunlop Supermoto Classic. Perhaps the most notable name scheduled to race is Jeremy McGrath. McGrath, who is racing less than a year after he announced his retirement from AMA Supercross, is entered as part of the powerhouse Troy Lee Designs team. Riding along side McGrath will be legendary motocross/supercross star and Indy Racing League driver Jeff Ward as well as Troy Lee himself. Interestingly, McGrath will be making his AMA Supermoto debut aboard a Honda CRF450 having ended his relationship with KTM.

Former 500cc World Grand Prix champ Kevin Schwantz is recovering from a broken hand yet is planning on racing at Mazda Raceway aboard his Suzuki DR-Z400. The renowned Texan is always a fan favorite and his feet-up, hang it out sliding style will be popular with the crowd just as it was when he competed on the world stage. Schwantz has been racing local and regional supermoto events for the past couple of years and is a solid pick to capture the championship.

Another rider who will be piloting a powerful Honda four-stroke is the “Godfather of Freestyle”, Mike Metzger. Metzger, who has established himself in the wild and wooly world of freestyle motocross, claims to be focusing his energies on an AMA Supermoto title. Receiving support from Honda, his commitment is obviously genuine. The innovative Metzger is sure to be one of the riders to watch.

Suzuki’s Travis Pastrana has entered but his presence at round one is questionable due to recent injuries. The popular supercross/motocross/freestyle star has announced that he’s walking away from the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Motocross Championship for awhile but plans to contest the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. Travis’ presence will certainly add a lot to the series as he’s one of the most personable and well-liked racers ever.

Other notable riders entered at round one include former AMA Motocross champions Danny LaPorte and Micky Dymond, 1990 Daytona 200 winner and current motorsports broadcaster Dave Sadowski, and past AMA Superbike champions Doug Chandler and Thomas Stevens.

The flat track fraternity will be well represented by former champion Joe Kopp as well as reigning champion, Chris Carr. Carr, the four-time AMA Grand National Champion, announced his involvement with the series at Daytona when the championship was announced. Carr is the current points leader in the AMA Progressive Insurance U.S. Flat Track Championship and is looking to be only the second rider in history to capture five Grand National titles. He would love to add the inaugural AMA Supermoto Championship to his resume and some experts feel dirt trackers will have an advantage in supermoto due to their comfort with sliding the bike at high speeds.

Some feel that motocrossers are best suited because of their ability in the dirt while yet others insist it will be a road racer that prevails because of the demanding, high-speed pavement sections of the track. One thing that is known for sure is that the racing will be tight. AMA Pro Racing’s Associate Director of Commercial Development, Chris Bradley says everything is being done to achieve a level playing field. “Our track design criteria, is to create a ‘discipline-neutral’ racetrack. To keep things as equal as possible the courses will feature at least one significant jump combined with high-speed pavement sections,” said Bradley. “Course designer Don Canet has a great deal of experience in building supermoto tracks and the Laguna Seca course will result in exciting, bar-to-bar racing. It’ll be the perfect way to launch the series.”

Bradley encouraged both fans and participants to visit www.amaproracing.com for the latest information. “As we approach the first event things are happening very quickly so the best way to keep up with the latest information is by visiting our website,” says Bradley. “We will continually post significant news and updates as they become available.”

More, from another press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

PRE-ENTRY PERIOD EXTENDED FOR AMA RED BULL SUPERMOTO CHAMPIONSHIP OPENING ROUND

PICKERINGTON, Ohio – Due to overwhelming response, AMA Pro Racing will no longer accept post-entries for the July 11-13 Dunlop Supermoto Classic, the inaugural event of the 2003 AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. However, to accommodate riders who AMA Pro Racing knows are planning on attending, the event’s pre-entry deadline has been extended. All pre-entry paperwork must be received at AMA Pro Racing’s Pickerington, Ohio headquarters by Monday, June 30.

Pre-entry forms as well as the required License Application and Team Participation Agreement are available online at www.amamproracing.com. In order to expedite the entry process, all forms (except riders applying for their first AMA Pro License), can be submitted via fax to (614) 856-1924.

“We are extremely excited to debut AMA Supermoto to such a large audience of race fans,” said AMA Pro Racing Associate Director of Commercial Development Chris Bradley. “With Laguna Seca being an action-packed schedule, we needed to cap the number of entries to ensure the quality of the race program remains at the level we’re accustomed to delivering.”

About AMA Pro Racing

AMA Pro Racing is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its properties include the AMA Supercross Championship, the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Motocross Championship, the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship, AMA Progressive Insurance U.S. Flat Track Championship and the AMA Red Bull Supermoto Championship. Nearly 2 million race fans attended AMA Pro Racing events during the 2002 season. For more information about AMA Pro Racing, visit www.amaproracing.com

Jimmy Moore Helicoptered To Minneapolis For Surgery

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Superstock Champion Jimmy Moore was flown from a local hospital in Brainerd, Minnesota to Minneapolis to undergo surgery Thursday evening.

Moore crashed in turn one at Brainerd International Raceway Thursday afternoon and his injuries included a ruptured spleen, compound fracture of a humerus (or upper arm), broken ribs and possibly a cracked hip joint.

Initial reports saying Moore had not suffered serious injury were obviously optimistic.

Nieto, Elias, Poggiali, Rolfo On Provisional 250cc Front Row In Holland

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday 250cc Qualifying Results:

1. Fonsi Nieto, Aprilia, 2:04.866
2. Toni Elias, Aprilia, 2:05.049
3. Manuel Poggiali, Aprilia, 2:05.106
4. Roberto Rolfo, Honda, 2:05.787
5. Randy De Puniet, Aprilia, 2:05.922
6. Franco Battaini, Aprilia, 2:06.167
7. Sebastian Porto, Honda, 2:06.309
8. Anthony West, Aprilia, 2:06.594
9. Sylvain Guintoli, Aprilia, 2:06.671
10. Erwan Nigon, Aprilia, 2:07.089
11. Klaus Nohles, Aprilia, 2:07.501
12. Naoki Matsudo, Yamaha, 2:07.607
13. Eric Battaille, Honda, 2:07.677
14. Joan Olive, Aprilia, 2:07.754
15. Jakub Smrz, Honda, 2:08.156


More, from a press release issued by MS Aprilia Team Press Information:

A SATISFACTORY DAY

After the unlucky Catalunya GP, Manuel Poggiali and his Aprilia are back on track for the Assen GP, seventh race of the championship. This track is 6027 metres long and it’s very challenging. Moreover the weather conditions are unsettled but the first qualifying session was dry anyway and Poggiali got the third fastest lap time.

Manuel Poggiali: “Quite good today. At the end there was to much traffic and I was unable to improve. Anyway we found the right setting and this means a good advantage for me thus tomorrow I will define some details and the choice of the tyres. This track is almost difficult and it’s more exacting on 250. I mean. it’s not the power as I can easily control it but the weight is higher than the 125. On this bike there’s no time to breathe there are a lot of corners to manage and I can not loose the concentration”.



Acree To Debut New Ride At This Weekend’s F-USA Races At VIR

From a press release issued by Proforma:

LEE ACREE TO DEBUT ON ERA YAMAHAS IN FORMULA USA EVENT AT VIRGINIA

Lee Acree will race his 2003 ERA Yamaha R6s for the first time this weekend, June 27-29, in round four of the Formula USA National Championship Series at Virginia International Raceway. Acree will campaign the new Yamahas for the rest of the 2003 season, competing in AMA Pro, WERA, and Formula USA/CCS events.

“I’m looking forward to the second half of 2003,” said Acree. “I had strong finishes earlier in the year, particularly at Daytona and Sears Point, so I want to carry that momentum into the rest of this year on the Yamahas. My sponsors have really come through for me, and I’m looking forward to racing the new R6s, which have been the bike to beat since they came out. It doesn’t hurt that they have a really strong contingency program as well.”

Lee Acree and ERA Yamaha are proud to be sponsored by Triad Powersport, Pirelli, Graves Motorsports, Sidi, Arai, Joe Rocket, Kneedraggers.com, Dynojet, Ohlins USA, Tapeworks and Vesrah.

Rossi, Biaggi, Edwards Fastest In Thursday Morning MotoGP At Assen

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda, 2:01.404
2. Max Biaggi, Honda, 2:02.095
3. Colin Edwards, Aprilia, 2:02.340
4. Loris Capirossi, Ducati, 2:02.592
5. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, 2:02.727
6. Alex Barros, Yamaha, 2:03.009
7. Carlos Checa, Yamaha, 2:03.092
8. Sete Gibernau, Honda, 2:03.452
9. Tohru Ukawa, Honda, 2:03.483
10. Noriyuki Haga, Aprilia, 2:03.800
11. Marco Melandri, Yamaha, 2:03.881
12. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha, 2:03.942
13. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha, 2:04.410
14. Nicky Hayden, Honda, 2:04.482
15. John Hopkins, Suzuki, 2:04.645
16. Alex Hofmann, Kawasaki, 2:04.689
17. Yukio Kagayama, Suzuki, 2:05.010
18. Andrew Pitt, Kawasaki, 2:05.511
19. Makoto Tamada, Honda, 2:05.853
20. Garry McCoy, Kawasaki, 2:06.786
21. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton, 2:07.207
22. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton, 2:08.350
23. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Honda, 2:08.350