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Limited Edition Aprilias To Be Presented To The Public At Laguna Tonight

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Aprilia USA will present the RSV1000 Mille R Haga Replica and the RSV1000 Mille R Tuono to the public in a ceremony Friday, July 12 at Laguna Seca Raceway.

Scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, the presentation of the limited edition 2003 models will be made by Aprilia VIPs and Noriyuki Haga himself.

For more information, call Aprilia USA at (877) APRILIA or go to www.apriliausa.com.

Rossi, Melandri And Pedrosa Fastest In Friday Morning Free Practice At The British Grand Prix

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, 1:32.542
2. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:32.546
3. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:32.803
4. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:32.958
5. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:33.218
6. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:33.730
7. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:34.023
8. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:34.106
9. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.112
10. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, 1:34.134
11. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:34.238
12. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.379
13. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.402
14. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:34.800
15. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:34.920
16. Garry McCoy, Yamaha YZR500, 1:35.005
17. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:35.012
18. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:35.157
19. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:35.225
20. Alex Hofmann, Honda NSR500, 1:36.112
21. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:38.279

Friday Morning 250cc GP Free Practice Times:

1. Marco Melandri, Aprilia, 1:34.962
2. Toni Elias, Aprilia, 1:34.969
3. Fonsi Nieto, Aprilia, 1:34.999
4. Emilio Alzamora, Honda, 1:35.597
5. Randy De Puniet, Aprilia, 1:35.860
6. Casey Stoner, Aprilia, 1:35.860
7. Franco Battaini, Aprilia, 1:35.966
8. Sebastian Porto, Yamaha, 1:35.989
9. Roberto Rolfo, Honda, 1:36.045
10. Haruchika Aoki, Honda, 1:36.092
11. Naoki Matsudo, Yamaha, 1:36.105
12. David Checa, Aprilia, 1:36.518
13. Alex Debon, Aprilia, 1:36.578
14. Jay Vincent, Honda, 1:37.364
15. Shahrol Yuzy, Yamaha, 1:37.372

Friday Morning 125cc GP Practice Times:

1. Daniel Pedrosa, Honda, 1:38.570
2. Arnaud Vincent, Aprilia, 1:39.024
3. Lucio Cecchenello, Aprilia, 1:39.049
4. Manuel Poggiali, Gilera, 1:39.285
5. Stefano Perugini, Italjet, 1:39.574
6. Angel Rodriguez, Aprilia, 1:39.894
7. Mika Kallio, Honda, 1:39.898
8. Masao Azuma, Honda, 1:39.911
9. Steve Jenkner, Aprilia, 1:40.125
10. Gino Borsoi, Aprilia, 1:40.173

Jason DiSalvo Fastest In First AMA 250cc Grand Prix Practice At Laguna Seca

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Afternoon AMA 250cc GP Practice Times:

1. Jason DiSalvo, Honda, 1:31.659
2. Rich Oliver, Yamaha, 1:32.090
3. Roland Sands, Yamaha, 1:32.105
4. Simon Turner, Yamaha, 1:32.596
5. Chuck Sorensen, Aprilia, 1:32.968
6. Perry Melneciuc, Yamaha, 1:34.528
7. Colin Jensen, Aprilia, 1:35.427
8. Ed Sorbo, Yamaha, 1:36.062
9. Adrian Webb, Yamaha, 1:36.540
10. Ed Marchini, Yamaha, 1:36.940

Updated Post: With Rossi And Ukawa In The Medical Center, Barros First, Roberts 2nd, Hopkins 4th In Provisional Qualifying At Donington Park

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Series point leader Valentino Rossi and his Repsol Honda teammate Tohru Ukawa missed Friday’s MotoGP qualifying session at Donington because they were undergoing medical tests to determine the extent of injuries they suffered received in crashes during Friday morning practice crashes.

According to sources at the track, Rossi has a broken thumb and a concussion.

Meanwhile, the top six riders in Friday’s qualifying session, including 19-year-old MotoGP rookie John Hopkins, smashed Simon Crafar’s four-year-old lap record of 1:32.661.

Friday’s MotoGP Qualifying Times:

1. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:31.877
2. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:32.123
3. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:32.197
4. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.523
5. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:32.541
6. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:32.602
7. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.695
8. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.810
9. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:32.850
10. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:32.900
11. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.997
12. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:33.172
13. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:33.290
14. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:33.598
15. Garry McCoy, Yamaha YZR500, 1:33.754
16. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.009
17. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:34.274
18. Alex Hofmann, Honda NSR500, 1:34.728
19. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:34.941
20. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, no time
21. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, no time


More, from Red Bull Yamaha WCM:

BRITISH GP – DONINGTON

Qualifying No. 1 Friday July 12th 2002

RED HOT DAY FOR HOPKINS ON THE RED BULL


John Hopkins had an amazing afternoon at Donington today, claiming 4th place on the provisional grid for the British GP. Hopkins, who is the youngest permanent Moto GP rider by over 4 years was in dazzling form today, flying onto the front row on his second-last lap. In only the 8th GP of his career this is a truly outstanding performance from the 19-year-old American.

His teammate, Australian Garry McCoy re-acquainted himself with the Yamaha and set the fastest two-stroke top speed of the session. Garry appeared relaxed, fit and strong during the session and showed no signs of pain from his previous leg break.


John Hopkins: 4th – 1:32.523

“This is a dream come true, provisional front row in only my 8th GP. I’ve been working really hard to get to this point and I’m so happy that my family are here to see me at my best yet.

“I felt like I had a little bit more to give in the last lap, I set my best time on the second last lap and on the last lap I got held up by Sete. If I could of got a good run at it, I’m sure I would have been even quicker on my last lap.

“I came to Donington on a Track Day about a month ago with Niall Mackenzie and he really helped me a lot. I rode a Yamaha R1 here in both the wet and dry conditions so I could get a feel for the track and learn my way around, that way I’m productive from the first minute I get on the bike. I’m running the track with Niall again tonight to review my lines again as there is still a lot more I can learn about the track. We’ve got a few more things to try tomorrow but I’m pretty happy with everything.”


Garry McCoy 15th 1:33.754

“My leg and ankle feel fine and I’m not even thinking about it. I’m a little surprised at my times given it’s my first day back, I thought I would have been a bit further behind. Now it’s just a matter of getting up to speed. I tried a qualifying tyre in the last few minutes but it’s been a while since I’ve been in that situation and for one lap you can’t make a mistake.”

Colin Davies (Race Engineer – John Hopkins)
“John got held up on the last lap and I know he could of improved but Sete held him up; the bike is working really well, we’ve got a good race tyre already and I know he has more to come yet. As John gets more time on the circuit he’ll continue to improve.”


Christophe Bourguignon (Race Engineer -Garry McCoy)

“It is a good step forward today and we tried a few various set-ups and tyres. We are now using a new generation Dunlop Tyre and its Garry’s first time riding on these.”


Peter Clifford – Team Manager

“Its great to have Gaz back and good to see him moving the motorcycle around. He obviously just needs a little time to get back to his awesome best. John’s front-row position is magnificent and fractionally under the lap record still held by Simon Crafer on the Dunlop-shod Red Bull Yamaha from ’98.”


More, from a press release issued by Aprilia:
First qualifying session, Laconi 14th best time

Two illustrious riders, Rossi and Ukawa, both fell during the free practice and failed to make the afternoon qualifying. The Cube went through its first paces on the Donington circuit, where some problems of grip made it hard to choose race tyres able to keep up with the enormous power delivery of the engine. The sorties using the qualifying tyres were not so hard and, as the tests were coming to a close, Régis made 14th quickest time.

# 55 Régis Laconi – (MS APRILIA RACING) – 14th – 1:33.598

“I had problems of grip using race tyres, especially round the corners where the bike stays down a lot and the angle puts the tyres under greatest pressure. The bike easily starts to skid and gets hard to control. You can get round this by controlling the bike physically but it’d be pretty hard to keep it up for a whole race. To lessen the effort, I’ve had a shim put on the saddle to bring my riding position slightly forward. I tried other race-tyre solutions – they slip less but they don’t provide the same traction. So we’ve still got lots of work to do to find the right configuration for the race. The qualifying tyres were much better, they give much better grip and we can do some good work to get a fast lap time. There’s still room for improvement.”

Vincent Haskovec Continues To Set The Pace In AMA Pro Thunder At Laguna Seca

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Morning AMA Pro Thunder Practice Times:

1. Vincent Haskovec, Ducati, 1:31.75
2. Tripp Nobles, Buell, 1:31.97
3. Kirk McCarthy, Ducati, 1:32.16
4. Mike Ciccotto, Buell, 1:32.57
5. Tom Montano, Ducati, 1:32.73
6. Dave Estok, Buell, 1:34.06
7. Dean Mizdal, Ducati, 1:34.97
8. Shane Turpin, Ducati, 1:35.98
9. Heath Small, Ducati, 1:36.17
10. Steve Smith, Ducati, 1:37.21
11. Jody Hendley, H-D, 1:37.85
12. Kurt Marmor, Ducati, 1:38.11
13. Bradley Champion, Suzuki, 1:38.31
14. Wendell G. Phillips, Ducati, 1:38.31
15. Paul Wood, Ducati, 1:38.95
16. Norman Dehm, Ducati, 1:39.117
17. David Bell, Ducati, 1:39.141
18. M. Ben Welch, Yamaha TZ125/426F, 1:39.602
19. Josh Bryan, Ducati, 1:39.718
20. Clark Freatman, Ducati, 1:39.740
21. Leo Venega, Ducati, 1:39.755
22. Charlie Hewett, Ducati, 1:39.975
23. Brian Long, Suzuki, 1:40.010
24. Reagan Jobe, Ducati, 1:40.061
25. Mike Krynock, Ducati, 1:40.441
26. Tom Hull, Ducati, 1:40.986
27. Stephen Lilliott, Ducati, 1:41.822
28. David Mones, Honda, 1:42.262
29. David Lanigan, Suzuki, 1:42.352
30. Tyler Sandell, Suzuki, 1:42.793
31. Dale Pestes, Ducati, 1:43.597
32. Jason Butler, Suzuki, 1:44.662
33. Paul Bergstrom, Ducati, 1:45.489
34. Ryan Meskimen, Suzuki, 1:46.270
35. Jay Jacobson, Suzuki, 1:47.431
36. Jessica Zalusky, Ducati, 1:47.587
37. Charles Sipp, Buell, 1:47.632
38. John Fisher, Ducati, 1:48.338
39. Tom Chauncey, Ducati, 1:48.362
40. Calvin Sprenger, Ducati, 1:49.992

AMA Superbike At Laguna Seca: Pole Position Goes To Eric Bostrom

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Superbike Final Qualifying Results:

1. Eric Bostrom, Kawasaki ZX-7RR, 1:25.72
2. Nicky Hayden, Honda RC51, 1:26.32
3. Aaron Yates, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:26.52
4. Mat Mladin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:26.55
5. Kurtis Roberts, Honda RC51, 1:26.76
6. Jamie Hacking, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:26.84
7. Miguel Duhamel, Honda RC51, 1:26.95
8. Doug Chandler, Ducati 998RS, 1:27.12
9. Anthony Gobert, Yamaha YZF-R7, 1:27.15
10. Pascal Picotte, Ducati 998RS, 1:28.88
11. Jimmy Moore, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:30.93
12. Craig Connell, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.18
13. Brian Parriott, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.36
14. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.50
15. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.54
16. Jason DiSalvo, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.59
17. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.96
18. Ty Howard, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.17
19. Dean Mizdal, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.20
20. Chris Caylor, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.34
21. Christopher Rankin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.46
22. Mike Sullivan, Honda, 1:32.56
23. John Dugan, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.62
24. Jeremy Toye, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.66
25. Robert Mesa, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.70
26. Alan Schmidt, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.70
27. Andrew Deatherage, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.72
28. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.73
29. Ricky Orlando, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.75
30. Chris Voelker, Ducati 996RS, 1:32.80
31. Mark Foster, Kawasaki ZX-7, 1:32.87
32. Doud Pitcock, Suzuki, 1:32.92
33. Rich Conicelli, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.00
34. Brian Livengood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.08
35. Kim Nakashima, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.14
36. Marco Martinez, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.32
37. Giovanni Rojas, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.33
38. Robert Jensen, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.63
39. Tom Montano, Ducati 996R, 1:33.94
40. Owen Richey, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:34.00
41. Pedro Valiente, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:34.33
42. Garry Combs, Suzuki, 1:34.66
43. Dave Kunzelman, Suzuki, 1:34.96
44. Adrian Webb, Suzuki, 1:34.98
45. James King, Suzuki, 1:35.02
46. Robert Christman, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.28
47. Dr. Jeff Purk, DDS, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.33
48. James Compton, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.39
49. Jacob Holden, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.79
50. Justin Blake, Suzuki, 1:36.11
51. Kenan Rappuchi, 1:36.12
52. J.J. Roetlin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:36.21
53. Tom Wertman, Suzuki, 1:36.96
54. Eric Haugo, Suzuki, 1:37.21
55. Shawn Reilly, Suzuki, 1:37.61
56. Michael Hanley, Suzuki, 1:38.21

Roger Lee Hayden Sets The Pace In Thursday Morning’s AMA Formula Xtreme Practice

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning AMA Formula Xtreme Practice Times:

1. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda CBR954RR, 1:30.518
2. Jake Zemke, Honda CBR954RR, 1:30.746
3. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:30.838
4. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha YZF-R1, 1:31.499
5. Steve Rapp, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:31.972
6. Mike Hale, Honda CBR954RR, 1:32.796
7. Marty Craggill, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.473
8. Jason Curtis, Yamaha YZF-R1, 1:33.532
9. Josh Hayes, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.656
10. Alex Gobert, Honda CBR954RR, 1:33.657
11. Ben Spies, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.686
12. Tom Montano, Ducati, 1:33.876
13. Dave Stanton, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.905
14. Mike Sullivan, Suzuki, 1:34.545
15. Doug Pitcock, Suzuki, 1:34.601
16. Robert Mesa, Suzuki, 1:34.785
17. Dave Kunzelman, Suzuki, 1:35.486
18. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha YZF-R1, 1:37.314
19. Jeff Bostrom, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:37.741
20. John Scott Wilson, Suzuki, 1:37.818

AMA Supersport Pole Position Goes To Aaron Yates

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Supersport Qualifying Results:

1. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:29.716
2. Jamie Hacking, Suzuki, 1:30.063
3. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:30.517
4. Anthony Gobert, Yamaha, 1:30.557
5. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:30.654
6. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:30.712
7. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:30.731
8. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:31.161
9. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:31.217
10. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:31.237
11. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:31.408
12. Michael Hale, Honda, 1:31.424
13. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:31.793
14. Tom Kipp, Suzuki, 1:31.846
15. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:31.876
16. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha, 1:32.607
17. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:32.741
18. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:32.747
19. Jimmy Filice, Kawasaki, 1:32.765
20. Ty Howard, Suzuki, 1:33.401
21. Michael Hannas, Kawasaki, 1:33.608
22. Andrew Nelson, Honda, 1:34.049
23. Robert Campbell, Kawasaki, 1:34.817
24. Jeffrey Tigert, Suzuki, 1:34.883
25. Tyler Wadsworth, Yamaha, 1:35.700
26. Scott Simpson, Kawasaki, 1:35.970
27. Kevin Pate, Suzuki, 1:35.989
28. Mark Ledesma, Honda, 1:36.100
29. Geoff Pestes, Suzuki, 1:36.464
30. Matt Zurbuchen, Suzuki, 1:36.471
31. Chris Siglin, Suzuki, 1:36.854
32. Tom Wertman, Suzuki, 1:36.999
33. Justin Blake, Suzuki, 1:37.323
34. Dirk Sanchez, Kawasaki, 1:37.569
35. Daryl Woodward, Yamaha, 1:38.019
36. Michael Ellsworth, Kawasaki, 1:38.218
37. Alex Flora, Kawasaki, 1:38.223
38. Martin Sims, Suzuki, 1:38.500
39. Patrick Dowd, Suzuki, 1:38.574
40. Tyrone Toloy, Honda, 1:39.384
41. Brian Lowe, Suzuki, 1:39.449
42. Chris Siebenhaar, Honda, 1:39.622
43. David Guy, Suzuki, 1:39.867
44. Sam Carnibucci, Yamaha, 1:40.712
45. Alex McElyea, Honda, 1:40.766
46. Neil Barry, Yamaha, 1:41.011
47. Gregg Betz, 1:41.284
48. Tony Cook, Kawasaki, 1:41.482
49. Norbert Katona, Yamaha, 1:41.721
50. Takie Chan, Suzuki, 1:42.512
51. Michael Dantonio, Yamaha, 1:42.755
52. Bryan Edginton, Suzuki, 1:43.208


Red Bull Yamaha’s British Grand Prix Preview Confirms McCoy Contract Extension

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From Red Bull Yamaha WCM:

McCOY BACK FOR BRITISH GP WHILE HOPKINS ENJOYS A

HOME AWAY FROM HOME GP

Garry McCoy is back on his Red Bull Yamaha for the British Grand Prix this weekend fit and eager to battle it out with the best of them at Donington Park in the English Midlands. McCoy, who is now in his 4th Season with the Red Bull Yamaha Team has confirmed his contract for the 2003 Season with the Red Bull Team and is pleased to be able to return to racing, knowing that all is in place for next season.

“It’s a good feeling going to Donington knowing I haven’t got to think about switching teams for next year especially as Red Bull have treated me so well, so it would be pretty silly not to continue and build on our past success together.” he said.

McCoy tested the YZR500 2 stroke at Mallory Park on Tuesday to re-acquaint himself with the bike, but prior to that outing its been 8 weeks since the 30 year old Australian rode the Yamaha at Fridays Qualifying Session at Le Mans.

“It was really wet during the testing session on Tuesday at Mallory Park and I only got in about 8 laps or so. The rain was constant and I ended up losing it on the coming-in lap when I was off the racing line where it was real slippery. I used the session mainly to get comfortable in my leathers and on the bike again so now I can have a productive first practice session on Friday at Donington.

“I felt good back on the bike and I had no pain in my leg, I’m walking normally now and feeling fit and strong again. I’ve got my fitness level back up to my pre-season testing level and I’m feeling really strong now.

“As for racing at Donington, well I’ve never really had a good race here so I’m hoping things will be better for me this year. I didn’t race at the British GP last year because of my wrist break and before that in 2000, I qualified on the front row in 3rd position but we had major tyre problems for the race and I finished out of the points. Prior to that in ’99 I had a huge highsider on Craner Curve, a massive get off that was, it was only my second race on the bike. So I’m due for a good race here this weekend.”

John Hopkins – His Home Away from Home GP at Donington

The 19 -year-old American rookie who scored his best result of the Season in Assen in 7th position, is aiming for another Top 10 finish this weekend. “Hopper” who was born in the USA to English parents is treating this weekend like a home away from home GP.

“This weekend is sort of like a home GP for me, my parents are from London they grew up in the Acton area and moved to the US in their mid 20s, so we’ve got lots of relatives here in the UK. This weekend I’ve got about 30 or so English relatives coming to the race, cousins, uncles and aunts plus my Mom and my immediate family from the US are here so it will be good a weekend for me.

“With my family here supporting me its another reason to go out and do as good as I can. I want to have a good result here; it’s been my goal for some time now. So until there’s a race in the US, this is the closest I can get to a home race.

“It’s really good to have Garry back and fit so I guess he’ll be in top form pretty quickly. I hope its close racing between us this weekend.”


Mike Ciccotto Leads AMA Pro Thunder Practice Times At Laguna Seca

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning AMA Pro Thunder Practice Times:

1. Mike Ciccotto, Buell Firebolt XB9R, 1:33.06
2. Kirk McCarthy, Ducati 748RS, 1:33.21
3. Tripp Nobles, Buell Firebolt XB9R, 1:34.16
4. Tom Montano, Ducati 748R, 1:34.41
5. Dave Estok, Buell Firebolt XB9R, 1:35.34
6. Shane Turpin, Ducati 748, 1:36.73
7. Dean Mizdal, Ducati 748, 1:37.50
8. Kurt Marmor, Ducati 748, 1:38.53
9. Steve Smith, Ducati, 1:39.20
10. Clark Freatman, Ducati 748, 1:39.37
11. M. Ben Welch, Yamaha TZ125/426F, 1:39.77
12. P. Wood, Ducati, 1:40.61
13. Bradley Champion, Suzuki SV650, 1:40.68
14. Norman Dehm, Ducati, 1:41.10
15. David Bell, Ducati, 1:41.37
16. Charlie Hewett, Ducati 748, 1:41.41
17. Heath Small, Ducati 748, 1:41.57
18. Stephen Lilliott, Ducati, 1:41.67
19. Mike Krynock, Ducati 748, 1:41.69
20. David White, Honda Hawk, 1:42.19
21. Mark Woodward, Suzuki, 1:42.350
22. Tyler Sandell, Suzuki, 1:42.752
23. Ryan Meskimen, Suzuki, 1:43.126
24. Josh Bryan, Ducati 748, 1:43.706
25. Jody Hendley, H-D 1200, 1:44.199
26. Leo Venega, Ducati 748, 1:44.243
27. Dale Pestes, Ducati 748, 1:44.777
28. Paul Bergstrom, Ducati, 1:44.960
29. Michael Hardin, Ducati, 1:45.102
30. Reagan Jobe, Ducati, 1:45.129
31. Tom Chauncey, Ducati, 1:45.178
32. Brian Long, Suzuki, 1:45.362
33. Jason Butler, Suzuki, 1:45.764
34. Takie Chan, Ducati, 1:46.286
35. David Lanigan, Suzuki, 1:46.377
36. David Gallant, Ducati, 1:46.752
37. John Dierickx, Ducati, 1:47.139
38. John Fisher, Ducati, 1:47.155
39. Jay Jacobson, Suzuki, 1:47.304
40. Tom Gentry, Suzuki, 1:47.448
41. Charles Sipp, Buell, 1:47.609
42. Tom Hull, Ducati, 1:52.171
43. Jessica Zalusky, Ducati 748, 1:55.483
44. David Mones, Honda, 2:06.272
45. Calvin Sprenger, Ducati, 2:08.806

Limited Edition Aprilias To Be Presented To The Public At Laguna Tonight

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Aprilia USA will present the RSV1000 Mille R Haga Replica and the RSV1000 Mille R Tuono to the public in a ceremony Friday, July 12 at Laguna Seca Raceway.

Scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, the presentation of the limited edition 2003 models will be made by Aprilia VIPs and Noriyuki Haga himself.

For more information, call Aprilia USA at (877) APRILIA or go to www.apriliausa.com.

Rossi, Melandri And Pedrosa Fastest In Friday Morning Free Practice At The British Grand Prix

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, 1:32.542
2. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:32.546
3. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:32.803
4. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:32.958
5. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:33.218
6. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:33.730
7. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:34.023
8. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:34.106
9. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.112
10. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, 1:34.134
11. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:34.238
12. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.379
13. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.402
14. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:34.800
15. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:34.920
16. Garry McCoy, Yamaha YZR500, 1:35.005
17. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:35.012
18. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:35.157
19. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:35.225
20. Alex Hofmann, Honda NSR500, 1:36.112
21. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:38.279

Friday Morning 250cc GP Free Practice Times:

1. Marco Melandri, Aprilia, 1:34.962
2. Toni Elias, Aprilia, 1:34.969
3. Fonsi Nieto, Aprilia, 1:34.999
4. Emilio Alzamora, Honda, 1:35.597
5. Randy De Puniet, Aprilia, 1:35.860
6. Casey Stoner, Aprilia, 1:35.860
7. Franco Battaini, Aprilia, 1:35.966
8. Sebastian Porto, Yamaha, 1:35.989
9. Roberto Rolfo, Honda, 1:36.045
10. Haruchika Aoki, Honda, 1:36.092
11. Naoki Matsudo, Yamaha, 1:36.105
12. David Checa, Aprilia, 1:36.518
13. Alex Debon, Aprilia, 1:36.578
14. Jay Vincent, Honda, 1:37.364
15. Shahrol Yuzy, Yamaha, 1:37.372

Friday Morning 125cc GP Practice Times:

1. Daniel Pedrosa, Honda, 1:38.570
2. Arnaud Vincent, Aprilia, 1:39.024
3. Lucio Cecchenello, Aprilia, 1:39.049
4. Manuel Poggiali, Gilera, 1:39.285
5. Stefano Perugini, Italjet, 1:39.574
6. Angel Rodriguez, Aprilia, 1:39.894
7. Mika Kallio, Honda, 1:39.898
8. Masao Azuma, Honda, 1:39.911
9. Steve Jenkner, Aprilia, 1:40.125
10. Gino Borsoi, Aprilia, 1:40.173

Jason DiSalvo Fastest In First AMA 250cc Grand Prix Practice At Laguna Seca

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Afternoon AMA 250cc GP Practice Times:

1. Jason DiSalvo, Honda, 1:31.659
2. Rich Oliver, Yamaha, 1:32.090
3. Roland Sands, Yamaha, 1:32.105
4. Simon Turner, Yamaha, 1:32.596
5. Chuck Sorensen, Aprilia, 1:32.968
6. Perry Melneciuc, Yamaha, 1:34.528
7. Colin Jensen, Aprilia, 1:35.427
8. Ed Sorbo, Yamaha, 1:36.062
9. Adrian Webb, Yamaha, 1:36.540
10. Ed Marchini, Yamaha, 1:36.940

Updated Post: With Rossi And Ukawa In The Medical Center, Barros First, Roberts 2nd, Hopkins 4th In Provisional Qualifying At Donington Park

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Series point leader Valentino Rossi and his Repsol Honda teammate Tohru Ukawa missed Friday’s MotoGP qualifying session at Donington because they were undergoing medical tests to determine the extent of injuries they suffered received in crashes during Friday morning practice crashes.

According to sources at the track, Rossi has a broken thumb and a concussion.

Meanwhile, the top six riders in Friday’s qualifying session, including 19-year-old MotoGP rookie John Hopkins, smashed Simon Crafar’s four-year-old lap record of 1:32.661.

Friday’s MotoGP Qualifying Times:

1. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:31.877
2. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:32.123
3. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:32.197
4. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.523
5. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:32.541
6. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:32.602
7. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.695
8. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.810
9. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:32.850
10. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:32.900
11. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:32.997
12. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:33.172
13. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:33.290
14. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:33.598
15. Garry McCoy, Yamaha YZR500, 1:33.754
16. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:34.009
17. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:34.274
18. Alex Hofmann, Honda NSR500, 1:34.728
19. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:34.941
20. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, no time
21. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, no time


More, from Red Bull Yamaha WCM:

BRITISH GP – DONINGTON

Qualifying No. 1 Friday July 12th 2002

RED HOT DAY FOR HOPKINS ON THE RED BULL


John Hopkins had an amazing afternoon at Donington today, claiming 4th place on the provisional grid for the British GP. Hopkins, who is the youngest permanent Moto GP rider by over 4 years was in dazzling form today, flying onto the front row on his second-last lap. In only the 8th GP of his career this is a truly outstanding performance from the 19-year-old American.

His teammate, Australian Garry McCoy re-acquainted himself with the Yamaha and set the fastest two-stroke top speed of the session. Garry appeared relaxed, fit and strong during the session and showed no signs of pain from his previous leg break.


John Hopkins: 4th – 1:32.523

“This is a dream come true, provisional front row in only my 8th GP. I’ve been working really hard to get to this point and I’m so happy that my family are here to see me at my best yet.

“I felt like I had a little bit more to give in the last lap, I set my best time on the second last lap and on the last lap I got held up by Sete. If I could of got a good run at it, I’m sure I would have been even quicker on my last lap.

“I came to Donington on a Track Day about a month ago with Niall Mackenzie and he really helped me a lot. I rode a Yamaha R1 here in both the wet and dry conditions so I could get a feel for the track and learn my way around, that way I’m productive from the first minute I get on the bike. I’m running the track with Niall again tonight to review my lines again as there is still a lot more I can learn about the track. We’ve got a few more things to try tomorrow but I’m pretty happy with everything.”


Garry McCoy 15th 1:33.754

“My leg and ankle feel fine and I’m not even thinking about it. I’m a little surprised at my times given it’s my first day back, I thought I would have been a bit further behind. Now it’s just a matter of getting up to speed. I tried a qualifying tyre in the last few minutes but it’s been a while since I’ve been in that situation and for one lap you can’t make a mistake.”

Colin Davies (Race Engineer – John Hopkins)
“John got held up on the last lap and I know he could of improved but Sete held him up; the bike is working really well, we’ve got a good race tyre already and I know he has more to come yet. As John gets more time on the circuit he’ll continue to improve.”


Christophe Bourguignon (Race Engineer -Garry McCoy)

“It is a good step forward today and we tried a few various set-ups and tyres. We are now using a new generation Dunlop Tyre and its Garry’s first time riding on these.”


Peter Clifford – Team Manager

“Its great to have Gaz back and good to see him moving the motorcycle around. He obviously just needs a little time to get back to his awesome best. John’s front-row position is magnificent and fractionally under the lap record still held by Simon Crafer on the Dunlop-shod Red Bull Yamaha from ’98.”


More, from a press release issued by Aprilia:
First qualifying session, Laconi 14th best time

Two illustrious riders, Rossi and Ukawa, both fell during the free practice and failed to make the afternoon qualifying. The Cube went through its first paces on the Donington circuit, where some problems of grip made it hard to choose race tyres able to keep up with the enormous power delivery of the engine. The sorties using the qualifying tyres were not so hard and, as the tests were coming to a close, Régis made 14th quickest time.

# 55 Régis Laconi – (MS APRILIA RACING) – 14th – 1:33.598

“I had problems of grip using race tyres, especially round the corners where the bike stays down a lot and the angle puts the tyres under greatest pressure. The bike easily starts to skid and gets hard to control. You can get round this by controlling the bike physically but it’d be pretty hard to keep it up for a whole race. To lessen the effort, I’ve had a shim put on the saddle to bring my riding position slightly forward. I tried other race-tyre solutions – they slip less but they don’t provide the same traction. So we’ve still got lots of work to do to find the right configuration for the race. The qualifying tyres were much better, they give much better grip and we can do some good work to get a fast lap time. There’s still room for improvement.”

Vincent Haskovec Continues To Set The Pace In AMA Pro Thunder At Laguna Seca

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Morning AMA Pro Thunder Practice Times:

1. Vincent Haskovec, Ducati, 1:31.75
2. Tripp Nobles, Buell, 1:31.97
3. Kirk McCarthy, Ducati, 1:32.16
4. Mike Ciccotto, Buell, 1:32.57
5. Tom Montano, Ducati, 1:32.73
6. Dave Estok, Buell, 1:34.06
7. Dean Mizdal, Ducati, 1:34.97
8. Shane Turpin, Ducati, 1:35.98
9. Heath Small, Ducati, 1:36.17
10. Steve Smith, Ducati, 1:37.21
11. Jody Hendley, H-D, 1:37.85
12. Kurt Marmor, Ducati, 1:38.11
13. Bradley Champion, Suzuki, 1:38.31
14. Wendell G. Phillips, Ducati, 1:38.31
15. Paul Wood, Ducati, 1:38.95
16. Norman Dehm, Ducati, 1:39.117
17. David Bell, Ducati, 1:39.141
18. M. Ben Welch, Yamaha TZ125/426F, 1:39.602
19. Josh Bryan, Ducati, 1:39.718
20. Clark Freatman, Ducati, 1:39.740
21. Leo Venega, Ducati, 1:39.755
22. Charlie Hewett, Ducati, 1:39.975
23. Brian Long, Suzuki, 1:40.010
24. Reagan Jobe, Ducati, 1:40.061
25. Mike Krynock, Ducati, 1:40.441
26. Tom Hull, Ducati, 1:40.986
27. Stephen Lilliott, Ducati, 1:41.822
28. David Mones, Honda, 1:42.262
29. David Lanigan, Suzuki, 1:42.352
30. Tyler Sandell, Suzuki, 1:42.793
31. Dale Pestes, Ducati, 1:43.597
32. Jason Butler, Suzuki, 1:44.662
33. Paul Bergstrom, Ducati, 1:45.489
34. Ryan Meskimen, Suzuki, 1:46.270
35. Jay Jacobson, Suzuki, 1:47.431
36. Jessica Zalusky, Ducati, 1:47.587
37. Charles Sipp, Buell, 1:47.632
38. John Fisher, Ducati, 1:48.338
39. Tom Chauncey, Ducati, 1:48.362
40. Calvin Sprenger, Ducati, 1:49.992

AMA Superbike At Laguna Seca: Pole Position Goes To Eric Bostrom

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Superbike Final Qualifying Results:

1. Eric Bostrom, Kawasaki ZX-7RR, 1:25.72
2. Nicky Hayden, Honda RC51, 1:26.32
3. Aaron Yates, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:26.52
4. Mat Mladin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:26.55
5. Kurtis Roberts, Honda RC51, 1:26.76
6. Jamie Hacking, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:26.84
7. Miguel Duhamel, Honda RC51, 1:26.95
8. Doug Chandler, Ducati 998RS, 1:27.12
9. Anthony Gobert, Yamaha YZF-R7, 1:27.15
10. Pascal Picotte, Ducati 998RS, 1:28.88
11. Jimmy Moore, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:30.93
12. Craig Connell, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.18
13. Brian Parriott, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.36
14. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.50
15. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.54
16. Jason DiSalvo, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.59
17. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:31.96
18. Ty Howard, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.17
19. Dean Mizdal, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.20
20. Chris Caylor, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.34
21. Christopher Rankin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.46
22. Mike Sullivan, Honda, 1:32.56
23. John Dugan, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.62
24. Jeremy Toye, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.66
25. Robert Mesa, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.70
26. Alan Schmidt, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.70
27. Andrew Deatherage, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.72
28. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.73
29. Ricky Orlando, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:32.75
30. Chris Voelker, Ducati 996RS, 1:32.80
31. Mark Foster, Kawasaki ZX-7, 1:32.87
32. Doud Pitcock, Suzuki, 1:32.92
33. Rich Conicelli, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.00
34. Brian Livengood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.08
35. Kim Nakashima, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.14
36. Marco Martinez, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.32
37. Giovanni Rojas, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.33
38. Robert Jensen, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:33.63
39. Tom Montano, Ducati 996R, 1:33.94
40. Owen Richey, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:34.00
41. Pedro Valiente, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:34.33
42. Garry Combs, Suzuki, 1:34.66
43. Dave Kunzelman, Suzuki, 1:34.96
44. Adrian Webb, Suzuki, 1:34.98
45. James King, Suzuki, 1:35.02
46. Robert Christman, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.28
47. Dr. Jeff Purk, DDS, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.33
48. James Compton, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.39
49. Jacob Holden, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:35.79
50. Justin Blake, Suzuki, 1:36.11
51. Kenan Rappuchi, 1:36.12
52. J.J. Roetlin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:36.21
53. Tom Wertman, Suzuki, 1:36.96
54. Eric Haugo, Suzuki, 1:37.21
55. Shawn Reilly, Suzuki, 1:37.61
56. Michael Hanley, Suzuki, 1:38.21

Roger Lee Hayden Sets The Pace In Thursday Morning’s AMA Formula Xtreme Practice

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning AMA Formula Xtreme Practice Times:

1. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda CBR954RR, 1:30.518
2. Jake Zemke, Honda CBR954RR, 1:30.746
3. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:30.838
4. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha YZF-R1, 1:31.499
5. Steve Rapp, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:31.972
6. Mike Hale, Honda CBR954RR, 1:32.796
7. Marty Craggill, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.473
8. Jason Curtis, Yamaha YZF-R1, 1:33.532
9. Josh Hayes, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.656
10. Alex Gobert, Honda CBR954RR, 1:33.657
11. Ben Spies, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.686
12. Tom Montano, Ducati, 1:33.876
13. Dave Stanton, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:33.905
14. Mike Sullivan, Suzuki, 1:34.545
15. Doug Pitcock, Suzuki, 1:34.601
16. Robert Mesa, Suzuki, 1:34.785
17. Dave Kunzelman, Suzuki, 1:35.486
18. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha YZF-R1, 1:37.314
19. Jeff Bostrom, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:37.741
20. John Scott Wilson, Suzuki, 1:37.818

AMA Supersport Pole Position Goes To Aaron Yates

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Supersport Qualifying Results:

1. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:29.716
2. Jamie Hacking, Suzuki, 1:30.063
3. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:30.517
4. Anthony Gobert, Yamaha, 1:30.557
5. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:30.654
6. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:30.712
7. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:30.731
8. Roger Lee Hayden, Honda, 1:31.161
9. Tony Meiring, Kawasaki, 1:31.217
10. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki, 1:31.237
11. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:31.408
12. Michael Hale, Honda, 1:31.424
13. Alex Gobert, Honda, 1:31.793
14. Tom Kipp, Suzuki, 1:31.846
15. Adam Fergusson, Suzuki, 1:31.876
16. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha, 1:32.607
17. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:32.741
18. Josh Hayes, Suzuki, 1:32.747
19. Jimmy Filice, Kawasaki, 1:32.765
20. Ty Howard, Suzuki, 1:33.401
21. Michael Hannas, Kawasaki, 1:33.608
22. Andrew Nelson, Honda, 1:34.049
23. Robert Campbell, Kawasaki, 1:34.817
24. Jeffrey Tigert, Suzuki, 1:34.883
25. Tyler Wadsworth, Yamaha, 1:35.700
26. Scott Simpson, Kawasaki, 1:35.970
27. Kevin Pate, Suzuki, 1:35.989
28. Mark Ledesma, Honda, 1:36.100
29. Geoff Pestes, Suzuki, 1:36.464
30. Matt Zurbuchen, Suzuki, 1:36.471
31. Chris Siglin, Suzuki, 1:36.854
32. Tom Wertman, Suzuki, 1:36.999
33. Justin Blake, Suzuki, 1:37.323
34. Dirk Sanchez, Kawasaki, 1:37.569
35. Daryl Woodward, Yamaha, 1:38.019
36. Michael Ellsworth, Kawasaki, 1:38.218
37. Alex Flora, Kawasaki, 1:38.223
38. Martin Sims, Suzuki, 1:38.500
39. Patrick Dowd, Suzuki, 1:38.574
40. Tyrone Toloy, Honda, 1:39.384
41. Brian Lowe, Suzuki, 1:39.449
42. Chris Siebenhaar, Honda, 1:39.622
43. David Guy, Suzuki, 1:39.867
44. Sam Carnibucci, Yamaha, 1:40.712
45. Alex McElyea, Honda, 1:40.766
46. Neil Barry, Yamaha, 1:41.011
47. Gregg Betz, 1:41.284
48. Tony Cook, Kawasaki, 1:41.482
49. Norbert Katona, Yamaha, 1:41.721
50. Takie Chan, Suzuki, 1:42.512
51. Michael Dantonio, Yamaha, 1:42.755
52. Bryan Edginton, Suzuki, 1:43.208


Red Bull Yamaha’s British Grand Prix Preview Confirms McCoy Contract Extension

From Red Bull Yamaha WCM:

McCOY BACK FOR BRITISH GP WHILE HOPKINS ENJOYS A

HOME AWAY FROM HOME GP

Garry McCoy is back on his Red Bull Yamaha for the British Grand Prix this weekend fit and eager to battle it out with the best of them at Donington Park in the English Midlands. McCoy, who is now in his 4th Season with the Red Bull Yamaha Team has confirmed his contract for the 2003 Season with the Red Bull Team and is pleased to be able to return to racing, knowing that all is in place for next season.

“It’s a good feeling going to Donington knowing I haven’t got to think about switching teams for next year especially as Red Bull have treated me so well, so it would be pretty silly not to continue and build on our past success together.” he said.

McCoy tested the YZR500 2 stroke at Mallory Park on Tuesday to re-acquaint himself with the bike, but prior to that outing its been 8 weeks since the 30 year old Australian rode the Yamaha at Fridays Qualifying Session at Le Mans.

“It was really wet during the testing session on Tuesday at Mallory Park and I only got in about 8 laps or so. The rain was constant and I ended up losing it on the coming-in lap when I was off the racing line where it was real slippery. I used the session mainly to get comfortable in my leathers and on the bike again so now I can have a productive first practice session on Friday at Donington.

“I felt good back on the bike and I had no pain in my leg, I’m walking normally now and feeling fit and strong again. I’ve got my fitness level back up to my pre-season testing level and I’m feeling really strong now.

“As for racing at Donington, well I’ve never really had a good race here so I’m hoping things will be better for me this year. I didn’t race at the British GP last year because of my wrist break and before that in 2000, I qualified on the front row in 3rd position but we had major tyre problems for the race and I finished out of the points. Prior to that in ’99 I had a huge highsider on Craner Curve, a massive get off that was, it was only my second race on the bike. So I’m due for a good race here this weekend.”

John Hopkins – His Home Away from Home GP at Donington

The 19 -year-old American rookie who scored his best result of the Season in Assen in 7th position, is aiming for another Top 10 finish this weekend. “Hopper” who was born in the USA to English parents is treating this weekend like a home away from home GP.

“This weekend is sort of like a home GP for me, my parents are from London they grew up in the Acton area and moved to the US in their mid 20s, so we’ve got lots of relatives here in the UK. This weekend I’ve got about 30 or so English relatives coming to the race, cousins, uncles and aunts plus my Mom and my immediate family from the US are here so it will be good a weekend for me.

“With my family here supporting me its another reason to go out and do as good as I can. I want to have a good result here; it’s been my goal for some time now. So until there’s a race in the US, this is the closest I can get to a home race.

“It’s really good to have Garry back and fit so I guess he’ll be in top form pretty quickly. I hope its close racing between us this weekend.”


Mike Ciccotto Leads AMA Pro Thunder Practice Times At Laguna Seca

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning AMA Pro Thunder Practice Times:

1. Mike Ciccotto, Buell Firebolt XB9R, 1:33.06
2. Kirk McCarthy, Ducati 748RS, 1:33.21
3. Tripp Nobles, Buell Firebolt XB9R, 1:34.16
4. Tom Montano, Ducati 748R, 1:34.41
5. Dave Estok, Buell Firebolt XB9R, 1:35.34
6. Shane Turpin, Ducati 748, 1:36.73
7. Dean Mizdal, Ducati 748, 1:37.50
8. Kurt Marmor, Ducati 748, 1:38.53
9. Steve Smith, Ducati, 1:39.20
10. Clark Freatman, Ducati 748, 1:39.37
11. M. Ben Welch, Yamaha TZ125/426F, 1:39.77
12. P. Wood, Ducati, 1:40.61
13. Bradley Champion, Suzuki SV650, 1:40.68
14. Norman Dehm, Ducati, 1:41.10
15. David Bell, Ducati, 1:41.37
16. Charlie Hewett, Ducati 748, 1:41.41
17. Heath Small, Ducati 748, 1:41.57
18. Stephen Lilliott, Ducati, 1:41.67
19. Mike Krynock, Ducati 748, 1:41.69
20. David White, Honda Hawk, 1:42.19
21. Mark Woodward, Suzuki, 1:42.350
22. Tyler Sandell, Suzuki, 1:42.752
23. Ryan Meskimen, Suzuki, 1:43.126
24. Josh Bryan, Ducati 748, 1:43.706
25. Jody Hendley, H-D 1200, 1:44.199
26. Leo Venega, Ducati 748, 1:44.243
27. Dale Pestes, Ducati 748, 1:44.777
28. Paul Bergstrom, Ducati, 1:44.960
29. Michael Hardin, Ducati, 1:45.102
30. Reagan Jobe, Ducati, 1:45.129
31. Tom Chauncey, Ducati, 1:45.178
32. Brian Long, Suzuki, 1:45.362
33. Jason Butler, Suzuki, 1:45.764
34. Takie Chan, Ducati, 1:46.286
35. David Lanigan, Suzuki, 1:46.377
36. David Gallant, Ducati, 1:46.752
37. John Dierickx, Ducati, 1:47.139
38. John Fisher, Ducati, 1:47.155
39. Jay Jacobson, Suzuki, 1:47.304
40. Tom Gentry, Suzuki, 1:47.448
41. Charles Sipp, Buell, 1:47.609
42. Tom Hull, Ducati, 1:52.171
43. Jessica Zalusky, Ducati 748, 1:55.483
44. David Mones, Honda, 2:06.272
45. Calvin Sprenger, Ducati, 2:08.806

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