Tommy Bridewell earned pole position during Bennetts British Superbike qualifying Saturday at Oulton Park, in England. Riding his BeerMonster Ducati Panigale V4 R, Bridewell covered the 2.69-mile course in 1:33.758.
Bridewell just edged out his teammate and Championship rival Glenn Irwin, who did a 1:33.764 on his Ducati.
Kyle Ryde claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:34.045 on his LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha YZF-R1.
Americans Julian Correa and Eli Banish finished P4 and P12, respectively, in British Talent Cup Race One Saturday at Oulton Park.
Julian Correa (40). Photo by Cami Photography, courtesy Michael Correa.
Today marks 20 years since David Emde passed away way too soon. David was my very dear, closest friend while we were racing in the ’70s and ’80s. We always traveled together because David didn’t like his dad Floyd’s smelly cigars while traveling together with his dad and his mom Florence. So, I had David living 24/7 at my parents’ house in Garden Grove, California. I had David helping at my family’s restaurant Mr. Al’s as much as possible as a line chef. My dad, Mr. Al himself, really enjoyed cooking with David because he listened to the instructions and I didn’t.
David Emde, R.I.P. Photo courtesy Harry Klinzman.
Mom and Dad loved David staying with us very much, and I believe Floyd and Flo liked David staying with us as well.
Boy, David and I did party a lot as well. Always chasing the ladies around. Then I thought, “Let’s send David to collect money on our arcade machines?” He loved doing that but found out real fast how heavy $5,000 weighs in quarters for the bank deposit. I was laughing so hard watching David lift a bag of quarters and sitting there at the bank waiting for the teller to count them. It took David days to do the five routes we had and after a few months David told me, “I’m sorry, but I’d rather cook.”
LMAO. Anyhow, we were brothers over the years. I did offer to paint David’s bikes, but I told David, “You gotta help sanding.” So, he helped with everything, but then he did it by himself.
I was so glad to have him staying with me over the years, and we learned off of each other. Such a kind person. There was nothing we couldn’t do as friends.
Oh, all the stories I could tell. It would be days of writing. Some day soon I will write a book, with someone’s help probably.
I miss my brother David as many of us do. It broke my heart in racing when first Mark Jones and Hugh Humble passed away. Then John Bettencourt, Jimmy Adamo, and the list goes on.
Life is so short. I am going on 65 next month, and I know my time is probably coming soon, but I am glad to still be here to share found memories of my life and wouldn’t change it in anyway. But not having David around has been a very hard blow.
RIP, my brother. I’ll be seeing you in Heaven, and then we all can race on.
(Editorial Note: Former CSBK Champion Alex Dumas re-ignited his drive to regain the Championship by qualifying on pole, but then crashed out of the first of three races scheduled on the finale weekend. Scroll down to see what happened during Friday’s race.)
Dumas on pole position for CSBK tripleheader finale at SMP
Toronto, ON – The trend atop the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship continued to be reversed on Friday, as Alex Dumas snatched pole position from title rival Ben Young in the feature GP Bikes Pro Superbike class at Shannonville Motorsport Park.
Neither rider started out as the one to beat in Q1, as Jordan Szoke was the early leader in the first portion of the two-part BS Battery Qualifying session behind a best lap of 1:45.972.
The 14-time champion would have his provisional time bettered by Young halfway into that 20-minute period, the defending champ posting a 1:45.271, but Szoke appeared to be playing spoiler as Dumas sat third for most of Q1.
The Purple Skull Brewing/Liqui Moly Suzuki rider would change that in the final moments to move to within a second of the top spot, but Young’s momentum from his CTMP sweep still seemed to be carrying into the final round ahead of Q2.
That thought was quickly erased, though, as Dumas smashed the provisional top time right out of the gates with a 1:43.590 lap. Young would eventually close to within 0.032 seconds of his rival, but a late red flag prevented him going any further as Dumas held on for his second pole position of the season.
“We put a great lap together, and I felt really comfortable. A lot better than last time out,” Dumas said, after recovering from a cold that hampered him in round four. “It looks like it’s going to be between me and Ben, so it’s nice to feel comfortable going into the race.”
Young was confident he could have flipped his fortune on his last flying lap had the red flag not come out – claiming to be over a quarter-second up on his best time – but admitted the showdown will only matter when the lights go out in race one.
“Q2 is a bit of a short session for a long lap like this, so we were winding up for a better lap when the red came out,” Young said. “It’s going to be a good fight with Alex again, but we’ll want to stand one spot higher this afternoon.”
Despite losing out on pole for the final round, Young’s effort was enough for the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW rider to secure the season-long BS Battery Pole Position Award for a third consecutive season.
Joining the duo on the front row will be Sam Guerin – scoring his best qualifying position of the season in third – as the EFC Group BMW rider continues to play a starring role for BMW at the top of the order.
“It’s fun to be up here, it’s my first time in the top-three for qualifying this season,” Guerin said. “We’re quite a bit behind Ben and Alex, but we’ll see what we can do, and hopefully pick up some points this weekend.”
The final BS Battery Pole Position Award podium of the 2023 CSBK season with Alex Dumas (center) on the top step. Ben Young (left) was second-fastest ahead of Sam Guerin (right) in third. Photo by Rob O’Brien, courtesy CSBK.
Fourth would go to Tomas Casas, but the Parts Canada Yamaha rider is unlikely to compete for at least race one after a hard crash brought out the red flag to end qualifying.
Casas was eyeing a spot on the front row when he went down in turn four with just under two minutes remaining, hurting his throttle wrist in the process, though the extent of the injury is unclear heading into the weekend.
Szoke’s initial Q1 pace ultimately couldn’t materialize into a front row spot, but the Canadian Kawasaki rider will still be firmly in the podium mix after settling for fifth at the end of Q2, hoping he can benefit from Casas’ misfortune to lead Kawasaki into third in the Constructors Standings.
Sixth on the grid will be Economy Lube and Tire/LDS Consultants Ducati rookie Trevor Dion – notably Szoke’s former teammate – as he quickly came to grips with his new V4 machine, a crucial result as he chases down the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year award.
The current leader of that award, teenager John Fraser, was left stranded in ninth after his own late charge was spoiled by the red flag, looking to be on par for a 1:45 lap that would have placed him inside the top-four aboard his RLS Contracting Suzuki.
The first of three feature Superbike races will get underway at roughly 4:10 pm ET, concluding Friday’s schedule before races two and three continue this weekend at SMP.
The full results from Friday’s qualifying can be found on the series’ official website at CSBK.ca.
More, from another press release issued by CSBK:
Young wins, Dumas crashes out as CSBK title fight blows open at SMP
Shannonville, ON – It took a long time and many bizarre twists and turns to get here, but Ben Young is back atop the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship.
The reigning champion saw his hopes of a successful title defence increase dramatically on Friday, conquering race one of the season-ending tripleheader at Shannonville Motorsport Park after former points leader Alex Dumas crashed out.
Neither rider got off the line particularly well, as Sam Guerin grabbed the holeshot and paced a group of four early in the opening lap, with Dumas chasing and Young fending off Jordan Szoke for third.
Ben Young (1) took another leap in the Bridgestone CSBK championship on Friday at Shannonville Motorsport Park, winning the first of three Superbike races on the weekend after his main title contender Alex Dumas crashed on the opening lap. Jordan Szoke (101) finished second. Photo by Rob O’Brien/CSBKDumas attempted to lunge down the inside of Guerin in the exit of turn four but was quickly denied, a move that may have compromised the 2021 champion as he would ultimately crash out just one turn later, seeing his championship grasp completely evaporate in only half a lap.
That would promote Young to second but only for a short while, as the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW rider quickly chased down Guerin and made a move for the lead just prior to the end of lap one, hoping to avoid handing a lap led bonus to anyone else.
That opening move would prove to be the decisive one, as Young never looked back en route to his fourth consecutive victory. It was hardly comfortable, though, as he faced a brief but stiff challenge from one of his former long-time rivals.
After Guerin made a costly mistake to allow Szoke into second, running too deep off the back-straight and falling as low as sixth, Szoke began to hunt down Young as he tried to reel in his first victory of the year.
Young would promptly respond with his best laps of the race, though, cruising to a 15th career win to move within one of Pascal Picotte for third on the all-time win list – and more importantly, extend a 23-point championship lead after Dumas sat trackside.
“I’m glad to see Alex is okay. It’s a bummer that’s how it played out, but it’s super awesome for us to finally take over the points lead,” Young said. “But it’s not over yet, this could just as easily swing back in Alex’s favour. We just got to keep chipping away at it, and hopefully continue up here this weekend.”
The runner-up finish marked a season-best result for Szoke, and while it was aided by mistakes from Dumas and Guerin, it was also the most encouraging performance of the 14-time champion’s season as he briefly looked to be reeling in the red-hot Young.
“Qualifying didn’t really go as we hoped, and then once we got in a bit of a groove Ben was just gone out front,” Szoke said. “I was with him for a while, but once he started to pull away, I just rolled out of it a bit. We haven’t had a lot of podiums this year, so it’s nice to give the team something to cheer about.”
Another team that had plenty to cheer about was the all-new Economy Lube and Tire/LDS Consultants Ducati program, as Trevor Dion fought through the early chaos to take a spectacular third in his debut aboard the V4 Panigale.
The rookie was matching Szoke’s pace by the end of the race as he seemed to find a groove aboard the new machine, scoring Ducati’s first Superbike podium since 1993 while also climbing further into the Brooklin Cycle Racing Prom Rookie of the Year mix.
“I’m speechless! It’s our first weekend on the new bike, and it’s been a tough year at times, but we slowly and steadily found some real pace at the end,” Dion said. “Just sitting sixth after qualifying had me excited, so I’m really fortunate to be up here and I can’t thank the team enough for making it possible on such short notice.”
While Dion and Szoke each delivered incredible performances worthy of podiums on Friday, it will be hard for Guerin not to wonder how different it could have looked if not for his crucial mistake.
The EFC Group BMW rider did manage to recover from sixth to fourth, picking up 13 points for himself and crucially his manufacturer, but a second-place finish could have put him within striking distance of Dumas for the runner-up spot in the championship.
The most heroic performance of the day would go to Trevor Daley, however, who managed to return from his round four absence and bring home fifth despite still riding with a broken femur.
The OneSpeed Suzuki rider briefly ran fourth and managed to fend off Guerin for a few laps, salvaging crucial points in the Constructors Championship to keep Suzuki’s hopes alive entering the penultimate race of the year.
Jordan Royds would continue his consistent breakthrough year with a sixth-place finish, keeping his IBEW BMW in the same spot in the championship order and crucially taking points off the next Suzuki finisher, Sebastien Tremblay in seventh.
That would be one spot clear of Connor Campbell, who wound up with a remarkable eighth-place finish in his first-ever day aboard the second Canadian Kawasaki, as the B&T MacFarlane/Kubota rookie adjusted quickly to the Superbike ranks as Szoke’s newest teammate.
He would be the third rookie to grace the top-ten, one spot ahead of Paul Macdonell who overcame a mistake of his own to salvage a crucial ninth for the Acme Motorsports Yamaha team, keeping himself within two points of the Rookie of the Year lead and one point ahead of Dion.
That award will still be led by teenager John Fraser, but the RLS Contracting Suzuki rider had a frustrating day after also running wide off the backstraight, with Phillip Leckie splitting the two first-year riders in tenth aboard his SCM/Tanians BMW.
Young will now try to extend his championship lead even further – or perhaps even outright clinch a third Canada Cup – in race two on Saturday at SMP, while BMW attempt to do the same to close out the 2023 campaign.
Full results from Friday’s action can be found on the series’ official website at CSBK.ca.
Editorial Note: Americans Julian Correa and Eli Banish were 15th and 16th, respectively, in combined British Talent Cup practice times Friday at Oulton Park.
More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:
Irwin holds the advantage as BeerMonster Ducati lead Free Practice at Oulton Park
Glenn Irwin set the pace after the opening Bennetts British Superbike Championship Free Practice sessions at Oulton Park today as the BeerMonster Ducati rider held the top spot by 0.047s as the Showdown gets underway at an emotional weekend for the PBM team.
Irwin is ready to fight back to close the 14.5 point deficit to his teammate Tommy Bridewell as the pair continue their bid to secure PBM an unprecedented ninth Bennetts BSB title following the passing of Team Owner Paul Bird earlier this month.
Irwin held off Leon Haslam who is chasing his first win of the season for the ROKiT BMW Motorrad Team this weekend and Ryan Vickers, who had a strong start to his comeback this weekend after sustaining a wrist injury at Cadwell Park.
Vickers held off his LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha teammate by an incredibly close 0.004s as Kyle Ryde held off Bridewell, who completed the top five for the BeerMonster Ducati team.
Jason O’Halloran was sixth fastest for McAMS Yamaha, narrowly ahead of Lee Jackson on the
Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki, who ended the session prematurely with a crash. Luke Mossey completed the top eight riders at the Tactix by Lloyd & Jones BMW team’s home round.
Peter Hickman was the fastest of the FHO Racing BMW Motorrad riders in ninth place, ahead of Christian Iddon who also had a crash in the closing stages of the afternoon session. Josh Brookes and Jack Kennedy completed the top 12 riders who progress directly into eBay Qualifying 2 tomorrow.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park, combined Free Practice times:
Glenn Irwin (BeerMonster Ducati) 1m:34.225s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT BMW Motorrad) +0.047s
Ryan Vickers (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.139s
Kyle Ryde (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.143s
Tommy Bridewell (BeerMonster Ducati) +0.227s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +0.353s
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki) +0.488s
Luke Mossey (Tactix by Lloyd & Jones BMW) +0.868s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +0.873s
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Ducati) +0.987s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +1.014s
Jack Kennedy (Mar-Train Racing Yamaha) +1.038s
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Glenn Irwin
BeerMonster Ducati
“We changed in a direction throughout the session and eventually at the end we really confirmed we had gone the wrong way. Despite that we were able to improve some sectors. I didn’t piece a lap together but I wasn’t too fussed as the overall time was quite good. From the beginning of the session it was enough to stay first, which pleases me. I just had a look at our ideals and our ideal is in the 33s which is starting to get into some serious pace.
“We have an amazing teammate obviously in terms of relevant data to look at and he’s kind of one way, we’re similar but geometries are different ends of the spectrum. I might visit a bit of the Tommy and he might visit a bit of the Glenn. We’ll probably meet in the middle and be glued to each other for three races as always!
“It’s a tough, tough weekend for the team. We’ve been through a lot of emotion. Two weeks ago today, when we got word of Paul’s passing and it might sound quite mercenary but there is really no time for us to be like that this weekend. Because he would be the first team boss to, if you made an excuse that you were doing bad because you were emotional, you’d probably get your P45!
“I’ll continue to work hard, and next week will be tough and we’ll pay our respect to Paul in the right way and shed some more tears. But this weekend I would like to shed tears of joy on the podium and I think that’s the best way to pay respect to Paul Bird because he was all about winning and I’m sure we’ll be giving it our best shot.”
Ben Gloddy Rejoins Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering For REV’IT! Twins Cup Finale At New Jersey
The kickoff to the 2023 MotoAmerica season did not exactly play out the way Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering’s Ben Gloddy envisioned when he showed up at Daytona International Speedway back in March. But, as we all know, racing can be both highly rewarding and sometimes unspeakably cruel.
For those who may have forgotten or didn’t know, Gloddy had a good start and ran as high as third in the very first REV’IT! Twins Cup race of the season at Daytona before another rider crashed in front of him at the exit of the west horseshoe on lap three. The crash forced Gloddy to take evasive action, but unfortunately the crashed bike made contact with Gloddy’s Aprilia RS 660, causing him to go down, as well. Unfortunately, he suffered a significant injury that required surgery, and he was not able to take part in race two the following day. The incident ultimately caused Gloddy to pull out as a season entry.
“I think most people know that racing is both a physical and mental sport,” Gloddy said. “After the incident at Daytona and during my physical recovery, I realized my head wasn’t where it needed to be in order to perform at my best not only for myself, but also my team, fellow racers, sponsors, fans, and family. I took time this summer to really figure out what was important and if the risk versus reward was worth it. I feel like I am in a good and clear place now, and to say I am excited to head to New Jersey with the Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering team is an understatement. After taking a break to get my head straight this summer, I am ready to be back on the track doing what I love and racing against some of the best in the country. I cannot thank the whole Rodio/Robem team enough for giving me this opportunity to race again. Big thanks also to everyone who has continued to support me. I am looking forward to seeing everyone and lining back up on the grid next weekend.”
Kevin Rodio, Owner of Rodio Racing added, “We were definitely disappointed when Ben told us he was retiring for the season. He’s a super-talented part of our family, and we hated to see his career put on hold. Like many, the news of his return has us all excited and looking forward to NJMP next weekend and beyond.”
Look for all three of Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering’s riders–Gus Rodio, Rocco Landers, and Ben Gloddy–aboard their Aprilia RS 660 motorcycles next weekend for the final round of the REV’IT! Twins Cup Championship at New Jersey Motorsports Park.
History repeated as BMW claims second EWC Bol d’Or pole in a row with lap record run
*German star Reiterberger is BMW team’s rapid rider at Circuit Paul Ricard
*Yoshimura SERT Motul and F.C.C. TSR Honda France second and third quickest
*Championship title chase remains wide open ahead of season decider
*Six bike manufacturers in top seven underlines highly competitive nature of EWC
*Frenchmen Foray and Arbel help Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team to Superstock pole
BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team is set to start the deciding round of the 2023 FIM Endurance World Championship on pole position for the second season running, as Markus Reiterberger smashed his team-mate Illya Mykhalchyk’s Bol d’Or qualifying lap record from last season.
German Reiterberger rode his Dunlop-equipped BMW M 1000 RR to top spot at Circuit Paul Ricard in a time of 1m51.596s, which eclipsed the previous benchmark of 1m52.267s recorded by Ukrainian Mykhalchyk during his charge to pole 12 months ago.
With the starting order for EWC races decided by the average time of a team’s fastest two riders from First Qualifying, which took place on Thursday afternoon, and Second Qualifying, which ran this morning, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team came out on top of the overall order ahead of Yoshimura SERT Motul and F.C.C. TSR Honda France.
The five points Werner Daemen’s outfit scored for claiming pole puts it on 105 in the provisional standings, 36 behind leader and defending champion F.C.C. TSR Honda France. Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team remains in second but is now 14 points down on F.C.C. TSR Honda France after it could only manage fourth place in the combined classification.
“It’s nice to be here at this beautiful track,” said Reiterberger, who is also partnered by French rider Jérémy Guarnoni. “Yesterday we started on the soft race tyre and my lap time was already very good, I could do this lap time alone. Today I tried to find the slipstream and this helped me to gain another few tenths. I want to say thank you to the team because our bike is incredibly fast. Our plan was to catch the pole position and win the race, this is what we have to do to have a chance for the title. We are ready for the race.”
In the Dunlop Superstock Trophy, which counts for the FIM Endurance World Cup, there was more BMW success with Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team coming out on top ahead of championship stalwart National Motos Honda and Wójcik Racing Team after the times of Loïc Arbel and Kenny Foray were taken into account to determine the category polesitter.
“We need to win the take the title,” said Frenchman Foray. “It’s a 24-hour race and it’s really long but the objective is to win the race.”
With Jan Bühn ruled out of the Bol d’Or after injuring a hand and foot in Tuesday testing, Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team has yet to finalise its rider line-up for the 24-hour race, a task complicated when reserve rider Nelson Major crashed and badly damaged the #9 BMW during Second Qualifying.
In the FIM Endurance World Cup title battle, National Motos Honda moves into second place, four points behind Chromeburner-RAC41-Honda, which finished outside the top-five scoring positions. Honda No Limits, which was fifth quickest, slips to third, five points off the lead.
Meanwhile, the highly competitive nature of the EWC was underlined with six different manufacturers represented in the combined qualifying order as ERC Endurance Ducati took fifth and Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar seventh behind Yamaha-powered KM99. The top three in the Dunlop Superstock Trophy featured three different makes as National Motos Honda and Yamaha-equipped Wójcik Racing Team completed the provisional podium behind Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team.
Elsewhere, Honda Viltaïs Racing – the 2022 Bol d’Or winner – was eighth fastest overall followed by TATI Team Beringer Racing and Team Moto-Ain.
How Second Qualifying unfolded
As he had done on Thursday, Markus Reiterberger once again was unbeatable in the Blue Rider group, the German recording a 1m51.596s best for BWM Motorrad World Endurance Team. Gregg Black was second fastest for Yoshimura SERT Motul on a 1m51.636s with Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team’s Niccolo Canepà posting the third quickest time, 0.616s down on Reiterberger’s fastest effort. Lucas Mahias was fourth for KM99 followed by Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar’s Randy de Puniet and TATI Team Beringer Racing rider Randy Krummenacher, who is making his Bol d’Or debut this weekend. Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team’s Kenny Foray was quickest among the Dunlop Superstock Trophy contenders followed by Kamil Krezemień (Wójcik Racing Team) and Enzo de la Vega (Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore).
The Yellow Rider session had been running for less than four minutes when it was red-flagged following a crash for Axel Maurin at Turn 4. The Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore racer was uninjured but the session was delayed to enable FIM officials to check the track surface for oil. Once action resumed, Illya Mykhalchyk continued BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team’s strong form by topping the order in a time of 1m51.721s. Mike Di Meglio was second quickest, 0.300s behind Mykhalchyk, but fell on his final lap in his efforts to improve his time for F.C.C. TSR Honda France, albeit without injury. Sylvain Guintoli, who was the fastest Yellow Rider in First Qualifying, was third quickest for Yoshimura SERT Motul with Marvin Fritz (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team) fourth. Xavi Forés was fifth for ERC Endurance Ducati followed by top independent runner Marcel Brenner, who took sixth for Team Bolliger Switzerland. Loïc Arbel was the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider for Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team. Loris Cresson was second in the FIM Endurance World Cup-counting category for BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers followed by Maxim Pellizotti (Pitlane Endurance – JP3).
Karel Haneka was the pacesetting Red Rider for Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team in a time of 1m51.882s. Étienne Masson (Yoshimura SERT Motul) was 0.259s adrift in second with Jérémy Guarnoni third quickest for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. Steven Odendall clocked the fourth fastest time for the 2022 Bol d’Or winning Honda Viltaïs Racing team with Baptiste Guittet fifth for TATI Team Beringer Racing as Wójcik Racing Team’s Isaac Viñales rounded out the top six. Alessandro Delbianco, OG Motorsport World Endurance Team’s new recruit, was the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider, one place ahead of Wójcik Racing Team’s Kevin Manfredi. National Motos Honda rider Guillaume Raymond rounded out the Superstock top three. A crash involving Bastien Mackels (KM99) and Pedro Nuno Romero Barbosa (Team Bolliger Switzerland) caused the session to be halted after 10 minutes. Although neither rider was injured, repairs to the trackside protection resulted in a lengthy delay.
Cocoro Atusmi was quickest for Yoshimura SERT Motul in the Green Rider group in a time of 1m53.675s, 0.464s faster than Robin Mulhauser (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team). French World Superbike star Loris Baz was third fastest for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team with Pepijn Bijssterbosch next up for Team LRP Poland. Teenager Jurand Kuśmierczyk was fifth for Wójcik Racing Team and the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy contender.
BEST LAPS
First Qualifying Blue Rider: Markus Reiterberger, 1m51.890s
First Qualifying Yellow Rider: Sylvain Guintoli, 1m51.695s
First Qualifying Red Rider: Alan Techer, 1m51.707s
First Qualifying Green Rider: Loris Baz, 1m52.705s
Second Qualifying Blue Rider: Markus Reiterberger, 1m51.596s
Second Qualifying Yellow Rider: Illya Mykhalchyk, 1m51.721s
Second Qualifying Red Rider: Karel Hanika, 1m51.882s
Second Qualifying Green Rider: Cocoro Atsumi, 1m53.675s
WHAT’S NEXT? The 86th Bol d’Or 24-hour race is scheduled to begin at 15h00 CET tomorrow (Saturday 16 September).
Shawn McDonald passed away on Saturday, September 2, 2023. After two weeks in ICU fighting a kidney infection, he improved and was transferred to a recovery care facility in Snohomish, WA. However, Shawn had always been adamant that he would not languish in a “nursing home,” and true to his stubborn Irish blood, he died the next day.
Shawn was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. During the 1970’s he raced motocross, and rode trails, locally in the Pacific Northwest. In the ’80s he changed to road racing with the Washington Motorcycle Roadracing Association (“WMRRA”) at what was then called Seattle International Raceway (now Pacific Raceway). He also served on the Executive Board of WMRRA, released the race reports for several years, and continued to ride single-track trails.
That all changed at a race in New Zealand.
Shawn became a high-functioning quadriplegic after a road-racing crash on the South Island of New Zealand, while participating in the International Series as part of “Team America” in January of 1991.
Upon his return to the USA Shawn adapted to life in a wheelchair – but on his own terms. He continued to race, competing on a modified Honda Odyssey and later a SuperKart. He next founded and published a race magazine, “Bench Racer.” He wrote and distributed it for several years.
Through that experience he realized how little recognition Washington racers received.
Determined to remedy that, he took on the formation and administration of a 501c4 organization, the “Washington State Motorcycle Racing Hall of Fame” (https://wsmchof.org ). The first Award Banquet in 2010 had over 100 attendees. He continued to organize the event for several years, recognizing the best Washington motorcycle racers of the past and present, on dirt and pavement.
When he could no longer do it all himself, a new Board of Directors carried on to showcase Washington state’s talent.
Shawn lived 34 years as an able-bodied racer, and 33 years as a wheelchair pilot. His 67 years are a testament to his Scotch/Irish stubbornness.
Shawn is survived by his mother, two brothers, a niece and two nephews, and good friends in both hemispheres.
2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Honors Five Inductees
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inducted its 2023 Class on Thursday, honoring five new members during the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 includes Rita Coombs, Ryan Dungey, Barry Hawk, Grant Langston and Travis Pastrana, all of whom received their Hall of Fame Rings and gold jackets during the ceremony.
“We’re truly delighted to gather here in Pickerington, Ohio, home of both the AMA headquarters and the esteemed AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, to celebrate this historic occasion,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said when addressing the crowd. “Unlike some previous years, this year’s inductees have the privilege of personally experiencing the hallowed grounds where they will be forever immortalized and celebrated as honored members of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
“But this event is far more than a banquet and ceremony designed to honor the remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our beloved sport,” Dingman continued. “It also serves as a unique opportunity for us to unite in our shared mission of safeguarding motorcycle history for generations yet to come.”
Leading this year’s ceremony were emcees Perry King, a well-known actor and director, and motocross rider, sidecar enthusiast and sideline reporter Laurette Nicoll, who guided the audience through the life and accomplishments of the Hall of Fame inductees.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame also recognized the memories of Hall of Famers who passed away during the last year: Earl Bowlby, Fred Fox, Ronnie Rall and Peter Starr.
Supporters and partners for the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony included IronLilly.com, National Powersports Dealer Association, Dealernews, MX Sports, Feld Entertainment, Bromley Powersports, KTM, Yamaha and Broc Glover.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2022
Each member of the Class of 2023 was officially inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Thursday, and after receiving their rings and jackets, the inductees addressed the audience through a speech and Q&A session with the emcees.
Rita Coombs
Born in 1941, Rita Coombs had no idea she would one day be a leading voice in motorcycle racing. Although her initial career path was to become a teacher, Coombs — along with her husband Dave — found her calling in the world of motorcycles after seeing On Any Sunday in 1972.
On Any Sunday had a profound impact on the Coombs, who soon-after began their pursuits in the world of motorcycle race promoting. In 1973, the Coombs began promoting their own AMA amateur events and opened their own track, Appalachia Lake MX in Bruceton Mills, W.V.
The Coombs created the AMA Grand National Cross Country series, which is the largest and most prestigious off-road series in the world, and the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Since its inaugural running in 1982, the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship has grown into the premier amateur event in the sport.
After her husband’s passing in 1998, Coombs continued to run the family business at a high level alongside her children, Carrie Jo, Tim and Davey. “I am forever grateful,” an emotional Coombs said. “I just want to thank all the riders and our fans who come see us every weekend and who love racing as much as we do!”
Ryan Dungey
Possessing one of the most noteworthy 10-year runs in motocross/Supercross history, Ryan Dungey’s induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame comes as little surprise to motorcycle racing enthusiasts.
From 2007-’17, Dungey produced four AMA Supercross 450SX titles and trio of motocross championships in the 450 class, emerging as one of the greatest competitors the sport has ever seen. Beyond his accomplishments in the United States, Dungey also spearheaded Team USA to three straight Motocross of Nations titles from 2009-’11.
Dungey holds the AMA Supercross record for most consecutive podium finishes, landing in the top three in 31 consecutive races across the 2015 and 2016 seasons.
Now, Dungey gives back to the community through the Ryan Dungey Foundation, which aims to help children lead healthy lives and support those that are battling cancer.
“First and foremost, congratulations to Grant, Barry, Rita and Travis,” Dungey said from the Hall of Fame podium. “It’s an honor to be up here being inducted into the HOF with all of them. Just being up here is a dream come true…I’m grateful for all the people in my life who helped me get here, and this one’s for you guys. You deserve all the credit!”
Barry Hawk
Across his 20-year racing career, Barry Hawk displayed a multi-disciplined racing ability that few could emulate.
An eight-time AMA Grand National Cross Country Champion, Hawk cemented himself as one of the greatest off-road competitors the sport has ever seen, capturing seven titles aboard an ATV and an additional championship on two wheels.
Beginning his professional career in 1990, Hawk raced his way to seven-consecutive GNCC ATV championships from 1993-99 while also claiming his GNCC Bike Championship in 2003. To this day, Hawk is the only racer to win GNCC championships on an ATV and bike.
Hawk now serves as the team manager for the Coastal Gas Gas Factory Racing Team, where he has supported many racers to GNCC victories.
“Wow, just wow,” Hawk said. “I am so honored and thankful to be here. Thank you to everyone here, thank you to everyone that voted for me…and thank you to all the great people that have helped me through the years…it truly means a lot.”
Grant Langston
As the only racer to win a World MX title, an AMA MX Championship and both AMA Supercross Regional Championships in the 125/250cc divisions, Grant Langston’s impressive career led him to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Hailing from Durban, South Africa, Langston moved to Europe when he was only 15 years old to begin his professional racing pursuits. Just two years later, Langston secured the 2000 FIM 125cc World Motocross Championship, which resulted in him receiving a deal to compete on the AMA Supercross circuit in 2001.
In 2003, Langston claimed the AMA 125 National Motocross Championship and added regional 125/250cc Supercross Championships in 2005 and 2006. One year later, Langston clinched the AMA 450cc Pro Motocross Championship, snapping Ricky Carmichael’s seven-year hold over the series.
Unfortunately, Langston’s career was cut short after a tumor was found in his eye during the 2008 season, causing Langston to experience vision problems. Since then, Langston has opened his own multi-brand motorcycle dealership and served as a race commentator.
“I’m very humbled, very thankful…I’m lost for words,” an emotional Langston said during his speech. “I’m stoked to have my name as a part of the legacy of the Hall of Fame!”
Travis Pastrana
Whether he was racing his way to victories on the motocross track or completing stupefying stunts, Travis Pastrana captivated audiences while aboard two wheels.
After starting out in motocross, Pastrana became a stunt rider and lead personality behind the Nitro Circus brand, which spans reality TV, movies and live performances. Now, Pastrana is set to become an AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer.
At just 16 years old in 1999, Pastrana became the then-youngest racer to claim an AMA Pro MX title after winning the AMA 125cc National MX Championship. Pastrana added the 2001 125cc East Supercross title to his resume before setting his sights on the X Games — where he produced 17 medals, including 11 golds.
As the founder of the Nitro Circus brand, Pastrana helped grow one of the largest entertainment entities in motor sports. Sparked by his childhood hero Evel Knievel, Pastrana also followed his pursuits to become a successful stuntman.
“Racing is hard,” Pastrana said. “Racing takes a lot of people and a huge sacrifice from everybody. To get to be the best is amazing…It means so much to me that you would think to honor me here tonight, and this is something I’ll remember and appreciate for the rest of my life.” The Class of 2023 exhibit, featuring bikes and memorabilia from the 2023 Hall of Famers will be available for the public to view starting Friday, Sept. 15.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Estenson Racing and Dallas Daniels will go Twins Cup racing at the MotoAmerica season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 15, 2023 – Estenson Racing is excited to announce that Dallas Daniels will race the MotoAmerica Twins Cup next weekend at New Jersey Motorsports Park. After a job well done as a title contender in the premier class of American Flat Track, Daniels makes his return to road racing for the first time since 2019 and will race the Estenson Racing-prepped Giaccmoto R7 at the season finale in Millville, New Jersey.
Daniels made his debut in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup category in a wild-card appearance in 2017, and then the following year, he raced a full season. In 2019, he was a title contender in the Junior Cup and won his first MotoAmerica race at Miller Motorsports Park. After his 16th birthday that same year, he made his pro debut in the American Flat Track series with the Estenson Racing team. Putting his full focus on dirt track and the AFT Singles class, the Illinois rider scored his first AFT win that season in front of the home crowd at the Peoria TT. Daniels went on to celebrate more victories and back-to-back AFT Singles Championships in 2020 and 2021.
In addition to battling for the AFT Singles title in 2021, Daniels got some seat time aboard the MT-07, racing select rounds of the AFT Production Twins class. The Illinois rider once again found immediate success, winning his debut race at the Atlanta TT and earning three victories that season in four tries. Daniels also enjoyed a successful debut last year in the premier class with a pair of wins and finishing third in point standings. This year, he came out swinging, winning both rounds at the American Flat Track season opener on the Daytona Short Track. Daniels went on to score a total of five wins and led the SuperTwins point standings for most of the season, ultimately finishing in the runner-up spot.
Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager
“We’re excited to go Twins Cup racing with Dallas at New Jersey Motorsports Park for the MotoAmerica season finale. This was something that Dallas wanted to do, and we felt it was a nice bonus for him and our sponsors. He had a great SuperTwins season and was battling for the championship the whole way, which is very impressive for his second year in the class. There’s not a whole lot of 20-year-olds going toe-to-toe with a guy like Jared Mees. Dallas is definitely one of the top up-and-coming riders in the sport, and we’re happy to give him this opportunity to go back and do some road racing now that the AFT season is done. We’d like to thank Yamaha and Chuck Giacchetto for helping us out with a bike. We’ve heard a lot of positive things about the progression of the MotoAmerica series, and we’re looking forward to going there and participating in an event and seeing what Dallas can do.”
Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing
“I’m really excited and pumped for the opportunity to get back on a road race bike. We had an amazing year in American Flat Track and with the series ending a little bit earlier than usual, the opportunity was available to do the final round of MotoAmerica. I’ve got to give a huge thanks to Yamaha, Estenson Racing, and Chuck Giacchetto for giving me this opportunity to come back and do some road racing. The support from everyone, including MotoAmerica, has been unreal. I definitely feel welcomed back in this paddock already, and I’m super excited for the weekend.”
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
Tommy Bridewell (46). Photo courtesy BeerMonster Ducati/Paul Bird Motorsport.
Tommy Bridewell earned pole position during Bennetts British Superbike qualifying Saturday at Oulton Park, in England. Riding his BeerMonster Ducati Panigale V4 R, Bridewell covered the 2.69-mile course in 1:33.758.
Bridewell just edged out his teammate and Championship rival Glenn Irwin, who did a 1:33.764 on his Ducati.
Kyle Ryde claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:34.045 on his LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha YZF-R1.
Americans Julian Correa and Eli Banish finished P4 and P12, respectively, in British Talent Cup Race One Saturday at Oulton Park.
Julian Correa (40). Photo by Cami Photography, courtesy Michael Correa.
Harry Klinzmann (2) racing with David Emde (3) on Yamaha TZ750s at Ontario Motor Speedway in 1976. Photo of an old print photo by John Ulrich/courtesy Harry Klinzmann.
FIRST PERSON/OPINION:
By Harry Klinzmann
Today marks 20 years since David Emde passed away way too soon. David was my very dear, closest friend while we were racing in the ’70s and ’80s. We always traveled together because David didn’t like his dad Floyd’s smelly cigars while traveling together with his dad and his mom Florence. So, I had David living 24/7 at my parents’ house in Garden Grove, California. I had David helping at my family’s restaurant Mr. Al’s as much as possible as a line chef. My dad, Mr. Al himself, really enjoyed cooking with David because he listened to the instructions and I didn’t.
David Emde, R.I.P. Photo courtesy Harry Klinzman.
Mom and Dad loved David staying with us very much, and I believe Floyd and Flo liked David staying with us as well.
Boy, David and I did party a lot as well. Always chasing the ladies around. Then I thought, “Let’s send David to collect money on our arcade machines?” He loved doing that but found out real fast how heavy $5,000 weighs in quarters for the bank deposit. I was laughing so hard watching David lift a bag of quarters and sitting there at the bank waiting for the teller to count them. It took David days to do the five routes we had and after a few months David told me, “I’m sorry, but I’d rather cook.”
LMAO. Anyhow, we were brothers over the years. I did offer to paint David’s bikes, but I told David, “You gotta help sanding.” So, he helped with everything, but then he did it by himself.
I was so glad to have him staying with me over the years, and we learned off of each other. Such a kind person. There was nothing we couldn’t do as friends.
Oh, all the stories I could tell. It would be days of writing. Some day soon I will write a book, with someone’s help probably.
I miss my brother David as many of us do. It broke my heart in racing when first Mark Jones and Hugh Humble passed away. Then John Bettencourt, Jimmy Adamo, and the list goes on.
Life is so short. I am going on 65 next month, and I know my time is probably coming soon, but I am glad to still be here to share found memories of my life and wouldn’t change it in anyway. But not having David around has been a very hard blow.
RIP, my brother. I’ll be seeing you in Heaven, and then we all can race on.
Pro Superbike championship leader Alex Dumas (23) will start all three races this weekend from pole position after narrowly beating Ben Young in Q2 at Shannonville Motorsport Park. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK.
(Editorial Note: Former CSBK Champion Alex Dumas re-ignited his drive to regain the Championship by qualifying on pole, but then crashed out of the first of three races scheduled on the finale weekend. Scroll down to see what happened during Friday’s race.)
Dumas on pole position for CSBK tripleheader finale at SMP
Toronto, ON – The trend atop the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship continued to be reversed on Friday, as Alex Dumas snatched pole position from title rival Ben Young in the feature GP Bikes Pro Superbike class at Shannonville Motorsport Park.
Neither rider started out as the one to beat in Q1, as Jordan Szoke was the early leader in the first portion of the two-part BS Battery Qualifying session behind a best lap of 1:45.972.
The 14-time champion would have his provisional time bettered by Young halfway into that 20-minute period, the defending champ posting a 1:45.271, but Szoke appeared to be playing spoiler as Dumas sat third for most of Q1.
The Purple Skull Brewing/Liqui Moly Suzuki rider would change that in the final moments to move to within a second of the top spot, but Young’s momentum from his CTMP sweep still seemed to be carrying into the final round ahead of Q2.
That thought was quickly erased, though, as Dumas smashed the provisional top time right out of the gates with a 1:43.590 lap. Young would eventually close to within 0.032 seconds of his rival, but a late red flag prevented him going any further as Dumas held on for his second pole position of the season.
“We put a great lap together, and I felt really comfortable. A lot better than last time out,” Dumas said, after recovering from a cold that hampered him in round four. “It looks like it’s going to be between me and Ben, so it’s nice to feel comfortable going into the race.”
Young was confident he could have flipped his fortune on his last flying lap had the red flag not come out – claiming to be over a quarter-second up on his best time – but admitted the showdown will only matter when the lights go out in race one.
“Q2 is a bit of a short session for a long lap like this, so we were winding up for a better lap when the red came out,” Young said. “It’s going to be a good fight with Alex again, but we’ll want to stand one spot higher this afternoon.”
Despite losing out on pole for the final round, Young’s effort was enough for the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW rider to secure the season-long BS Battery Pole Position Award for a third consecutive season.
Joining the duo on the front row will be Sam Guerin – scoring his best qualifying position of the season in third – as the EFC Group BMW rider continues to play a starring role for BMW at the top of the order.
“It’s fun to be up here, it’s my first time in the top-three for qualifying this season,” Guerin said. “We’re quite a bit behind Ben and Alex, but we’ll see what we can do, and hopefully pick up some points this weekend.”
The final BS Battery Pole Position Award podium of the 2023 CSBK season with Alex Dumas (center) on the top step. Ben Young (left) was second-fastest ahead of Sam Guerin (right) in third. Photo by Rob O’Brien, courtesy CSBK.
Fourth would go to Tomas Casas, but the Parts Canada Yamaha rider is unlikely to compete for at least race one after a hard crash brought out the red flag to end qualifying.
Casas was eyeing a spot on the front row when he went down in turn four with just under two minutes remaining, hurting his throttle wrist in the process, though the extent of the injury is unclear heading into the weekend.
Szoke’s initial Q1 pace ultimately couldn’t materialize into a front row spot, but the Canadian Kawasaki rider will still be firmly in the podium mix after settling for fifth at the end of Q2, hoping he can benefit from Casas’ misfortune to lead Kawasaki into third in the Constructors Standings.
Sixth on the grid will be Economy Lube and Tire/LDS Consultants Ducati rookie Trevor Dion – notably Szoke’s former teammate – as he quickly came to grips with his new V4 machine, a crucial result as he chases down the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year award.
The current leader of that award, teenager John Fraser, was left stranded in ninth after his own late charge was spoiled by the red flag, looking to be on par for a 1:45 lap that would have placed him inside the top-four aboard his RLS Contracting Suzuki.
The first of three feature Superbike races will get underway at roughly 4:10 pm ET, concluding Friday’s schedule before races two and three continue this weekend at SMP.
The full results from Friday’s qualifying can be found on the series’ official website at CSBK.ca.
More, from another press release issued by CSBK:
Young wins, Dumas crashes out as CSBK title fight blows open at SMP
Shannonville, ON – It took a long time and many bizarre twists and turns to get here, but Ben Young is back atop the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship.
The reigning champion saw his hopes of a successful title defence increase dramatically on Friday, conquering race one of the season-ending tripleheader at Shannonville Motorsport Park after former points leader Alex Dumas crashed out.
Neither rider got off the line particularly well, as Sam Guerin grabbed the holeshot and paced a group of four early in the opening lap, with Dumas chasing and Young fending off Jordan Szoke for third.
Ben Young (1) took another leap in the Bridgestone CSBK championship on Friday at Shannonville Motorsport Park, winning the first of three Superbike races on the weekend after his main title contender Alex Dumas crashed on the opening lap. Jordan Szoke (101) finished second. Photo by Rob O’Brien/CSBKDumas attempted to lunge down the inside of Guerin in the exit of turn four but was quickly denied, a move that may have compromised the 2021 champion as he would ultimately crash out just one turn later, seeing his championship grasp completely evaporate in only half a lap.
That would promote Young to second but only for a short while, as the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW rider quickly chased down Guerin and made a move for the lead just prior to the end of lap one, hoping to avoid handing a lap led bonus to anyone else.
That opening move would prove to be the decisive one, as Young never looked back en route to his fourth consecutive victory. It was hardly comfortable, though, as he faced a brief but stiff challenge from one of his former long-time rivals.
After Guerin made a costly mistake to allow Szoke into second, running too deep off the back-straight and falling as low as sixth, Szoke began to hunt down Young as he tried to reel in his first victory of the year.
Young would promptly respond with his best laps of the race, though, cruising to a 15th career win to move within one of Pascal Picotte for third on the all-time win list – and more importantly, extend a 23-point championship lead after Dumas sat trackside.
“I’m glad to see Alex is okay. It’s a bummer that’s how it played out, but it’s super awesome for us to finally take over the points lead,” Young said. “But it’s not over yet, this could just as easily swing back in Alex’s favour. We just got to keep chipping away at it, and hopefully continue up here this weekend.”
The runner-up finish marked a season-best result for Szoke, and while it was aided by mistakes from Dumas and Guerin, it was also the most encouraging performance of the 14-time champion’s season as he briefly looked to be reeling in the red-hot Young.
“Qualifying didn’t really go as we hoped, and then once we got in a bit of a groove Ben was just gone out front,” Szoke said. “I was with him for a while, but once he started to pull away, I just rolled out of it a bit. We haven’t had a lot of podiums this year, so it’s nice to give the team something to cheer about.”
Another team that had plenty to cheer about was the all-new Economy Lube and Tire/LDS Consultants Ducati program, as Trevor Dion fought through the early chaos to take a spectacular third in his debut aboard the V4 Panigale.
The rookie was matching Szoke’s pace by the end of the race as he seemed to find a groove aboard the new machine, scoring Ducati’s first Superbike podium since 1993 while also climbing further into the Brooklin Cycle Racing Prom Rookie of the Year mix.
“I’m speechless! It’s our first weekend on the new bike, and it’s been a tough year at times, but we slowly and steadily found some real pace at the end,” Dion said. “Just sitting sixth after qualifying had me excited, so I’m really fortunate to be up here and I can’t thank the team enough for making it possible on such short notice.”
While Dion and Szoke each delivered incredible performances worthy of podiums on Friday, it will be hard for Guerin not to wonder how different it could have looked if not for his crucial mistake.
The EFC Group BMW rider did manage to recover from sixth to fourth, picking up 13 points for himself and crucially his manufacturer, but a second-place finish could have put him within striking distance of Dumas for the runner-up spot in the championship.
The most heroic performance of the day would go to Trevor Daley, however, who managed to return from his round four absence and bring home fifth despite still riding with a broken femur.
The OneSpeed Suzuki rider briefly ran fourth and managed to fend off Guerin for a few laps, salvaging crucial points in the Constructors Championship to keep Suzuki’s hopes alive entering the penultimate race of the year.
Jordan Royds would continue his consistent breakthrough year with a sixth-place finish, keeping his IBEW BMW in the same spot in the championship order and crucially taking points off the next Suzuki finisher, Sebastien Tremblay in seventh.
That would be one spot clear of Connor Campbell, who wound up with a remarkable eighth-place finish in his first-ever day aboard the second Canadian Kawasaki, as the B&T MacFarlane/Kubota rookie adjusted quickly to the Superbike ranks as Szoke’s newest teammate.
He would be the third rookie to grace the top-ten, one spot ahead of Paul Macdonell who overcame a mistake of his own to salvage a crucial ninth for the Acme Motorsports Yamaha team, keeping himself within two points of the Rookie of the Year lead and one point ahead of Dion.
That award will still be led by teenager John Fraser, but the RLS Contracting Suzuki rider had a frustrating day after also running wide off the backstraight, with Phillip Leckie splitting the two first-year riders in tenth aboard his SCM/Tanians BMW.
Young will now try to extend his championship lead even further – or perhaps even outright clinch a third Canada Cup – in race two on Saturday at SMP, while BMW attempt to do the same to close out the 2023 campaign.
Full results from Friday’s action can be found on the series’ official website at CSBK.ca.
Editorial Note: Americans Julian Correa and Eli Banish were 15th and 16th, respectively, in combined British Talent Cup practice times Friday at Oulton Park.
More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:
Irwin holds the advantage as BeerMonster Ducati lead Free Practice at Oulton Park
Glenn Irwin set the pace after the opening Bennetts British Superbike Championship Free Practice sessions at Oulton Park today as the BeerMonster Ducati rider held the top spot by 0.047s as the Showdown gets underway at an emotional weekend for the PBM team.
Irwin is ready to fight back to close the 14.5 point deficit to his teammate Tommy Bridewell as the pair continue their bid to secure PBM an unprecedented ninth Bennetts BSB title following the passing of Team Owner Paul Bird earlier this month.
Irwin held off Leon Haslam who is chasing his first win of the season for the ROKiT BMW Motorrad Team this weekend and Ryan Vickers, who had a strong start to his comeback this weekend after sustaining a wrist injury at Cadwell Park.
Vickers held off his LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha teammate by an incredibly close 0.004s as Kyle Ryde held off Bridewell, who completed the top five for the BeerMonster Ducati team.
Jason O’Halloran was sixth fastest for McAMS Yamaha, narrowly ahead of Lee Jackson on the
Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki, who ended the session prematurely with a crash. Luke Mossey completed the top eight riders at the Tactix by Lloyd & Jones BMW team’s home round.
Peter Hickman was the fastest of the FHO Racing BMW Motorrad riders in ninth place, ahead of Christian Iddon who also had a crash in the closing stages of the afternoon session. Josh Brookes and Jack Kennedy completed the top 12 riders who progress directly into eBay Qualifying 2 tomorrow.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park, combined Free Practice times:
Glenn Irwin (BeerMonster Ducati) 1m:34.225s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT BMW Motorrad) +0.047s
Ryan Vickers (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.139s
Kyle Ryde (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.143s
Tommy Bridewell (BeerMonster Ducati) +0.227s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +0.353s
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki) +0.488s
Luke Mossey (Tactix by Lloyd & Jones BMW) +0.868s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +0.873s
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Ducati) +0.987s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +1.014s
Jack Kennedy (Mar-Train Racing Yamaha) +1.038s
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Glenn Irwin
BeerMonster Ducati
“We changed in a direction throughout the session and eventually at the end we really confirmed we had gone the wrong way. Despite that we were able to improve some sectors. I didn’t piece a lap together but I wasn’t too fussed as the overall time was quite good. From the beginning of the session it was enough to stay first, which pleases me. I just had a look at our ideals and our ideal is in the 33s which is starting to get into some serious pace.
“We have an amazing teammate obviously in terms of relevant data to look at and he’s kind of one way, we’re similar but geometries are different ends of the spectrum. I might visit a bit of the Tommy and he might visit a bit of the Glenn. We’ll probably meet in the middle and be glued to each other for three races as always!
“It’s a tough, tough weekend for the team. We’ve been through a lot of emotion. Two weeks ago today, when we got word of Paul’s passing and it might sound quite mercenary but there is really no time for us to be like that this weekend. Because he would be the first team boss to, if you made an excuse that you were doing bad because you were emotional, you’d probably get your P45!
“I’ll continue to work hard, and next week will be tough and we’ll pay our respect to Paul in the right way and shed some more tears. But this weekend I would like to shed tears of joy on the podium and I think that’s the best way to pay respect to Paul Bird because he was all about winning and I’m sure we’ll be giving it our best shot.”
Ben Gloddy (72), before things went bad in Twins Cup Race One at Daytona. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Ben Gloddy Rejoins Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering For REV’IT! Twins Cup Finale At New Jersey
The kickoff to the 2023 MotoAmerica season did not exactly play out the way Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering’s Ben Gloddy envisioned when he showed up at Daytona International Speedway back in March. But, as we all know, racing can be both highly rewarding and sometimes unspeakably cruel.
For those who may have forgotten or didn’t know, Gloddy had a good start and ran as high as third in the very first REV’IT! Twins Cup race of the season at Daytona before another rider crashed in front of him at the exit of the west horseshoe on lap three. The crash forced Gloddy to take evasive action, but unfortunately the crashed bike made contact with Gloddy’s Aprilia RS 660, causing him to go down, as well. Unfortunately, he suffered a significant injury that required surgery, and he was not able to take part in race two the following day. The incident ultimately caused Gloddy to pull out as a season entry.
“I think most people know that racing is both a physical and mental sport,” Gloddy said. “After the incident at Daytona and during my physical recovery, I realized my head wasn’t where it needed to be in order to perform at my best not only for myself, but also my team, fellow racers, sponsors, fans, and family. I took time this summer to really figure out what was important and if the risk versus reward was worth it. I feel like I am in a good and clear place now, and to say I am excited to head to New Jersey with the Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering team is an understatement. After taking a break to get my head straight this summer, I am ready to be back on the track doing what I love and racing against some of the best in the country. I cannot thank the whole Rodio/Robem team enough for giving me this opportunity to race again. Big thanks also to everyone who has continued to support me. I am looking forward to seeing everyone and lining back up on the grid next weekend.”
Kevin Rodio, Owner of Rodio Racing added, “We were definitely disappointed when Ben told us he was retiring for the season. He’s a super-talented part of our family, and we hated to see his career put on hold. Like many, the news of his return has us all excited and looking forward to NJMP next weekend and beyond.”
Look for all three of Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering’s riders–Gus Rodio, Rocco Landers, and Ben Gloddy–aboard their Aprilia RS 660 motorcycles next weekend for the final round of the REV’IT! Twins Cup Championship at New Jersey Motorsports Park.
History repeated as BMW claims second EWC Bol d’Or pole in a row with lap record run
*German star Reiterberger is BMW team’s rapid rider at Circuit Paul Ricard
*Yoshimura SERT Motul and F.C.C. TSR Honda France second and third quickest
*Championship title chase remains wide open ahead of season decider
*Six bike manufacturers in top seven underlines highly competitive nature of EWC
*Frenchmen Foray and Arbel help Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team to Superstock pole
BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team is set to start the deciding round of the 2023 FIM Endurance World Championship on pole position for the second season running, as Markus Reiterberger smashed his team-mate Illya Mykhalchyk’s Bol d’Or qualifying lap record from last season.
German Reiterberger rode his Dunlop-equipped BMW M 1000 RR to top spot at Circuit Paul Ricard in a time of 1m51.596s, which eclipsed the previous benchmark of 1m52.267s recorded by Ukrainian Mykhalchyk during his charge to pole 12 months ago.
With the starting order for EWC races decided by the average time of a team’s fastest two riders from First Qualifying, which took place on Thursday afternoon, and Second Qualifying, which ran this morning, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team came out on top of the overall order ahead of Yoshimura SERT Motul and F.C.C. TSR Honda France.
The five points Werner Daemen’s outfit scored for claiming pole puts it on 105 in the provisional standings, 36 behind leader and defending champion F.C.C. TSR Honda France. Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team remains in second but is now 14 points down on F.C.C. TSR Honda France after it could only manage fourth place in the combined classification.
“It’s nice to be here at this beautiful track,” said Reiterberger, who is also partnered by French rider Jérémy Guarnoni. “Yesterday we started on the soft race tyre and my lap time was already very good, I could do this lap time alone. Today I tried to find the slipstream and this helped me to gain another few tenths. I want to say thank you to the team because our bike is incredibly fast. Our plan was to catch the pole position and win the race, this is what we have to do to have a chance for the title. We are ready for the race.”
In the Dunlop Superstock Trophy, which counts for the FIM Endurance World Cup, there was more BMW success with Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team coming out on top ahead of championship stalwart National Motos Honda and Wójcik Racing Team after the times of Loïc Arbel and Kenny Foray were taken into account to determine the category polesitter.
“We need to win the take the title,” said Frenchman Foray. “It’s a 24-hour race and it’s really long but the objective is to win the race.”
With Jan Bühn ruled out of the Bol d’Or after injuring a hand and foot in Tuesday testing, Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team has yet to finalise its rider line-up for the 24-hour race, a task complicated when reserve rider Nelson Major crashed and badly damaged the #9 BMW during Second Qualifying.
In the FIM Endurance World Cup title battle, National Motos Honda moves into second place, four points behind Chromeburner-RAC41-Honda, which finished outside the top-five scoring positions. Honda No Limits, which was fifth quickest, slips to third, five points off the lead.
Meanwhile, the highly competitive nature of the EWC was underlined with six different manufacturers represented in the combined qualifying order as ERC Endurance Ducati took fifth and Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar seventh behind Yamaha-powered KM99. The top three in the Dunlop Superstock Trophy featured three different makes as National Motos Honda and Yamaha-equipped Wójcik Racing Team completed the provisional podium behind Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team.
Elsewhere, Honda Viltaïs Racing – the 2022 Bol d’Or winner – was eighth fastest overall followed by TATI Team Beringer Racing and Team Moto-Ain.
How Second Qualifying unfolded
As he had done on Thursday, Markus Reiterberger once again was unbeatable in the Blue Rider group, the German recording a 1m51.596s best for BWM Motorrad World Endurance Team. Gregg Black was second fastest for Yoshimura SERT Motul on a 1m51.636s with Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team’s Niccolo Canepà posting the third quickest time, 0.616s down on Reiterberger’s fastest effort. Lucas Mahias was fourth for KM99 followed by Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar’s Randy de Puniet and TATI Team Beringer Racing rider Randy Krummenacher, who is making his Bol d’Or debut this weekend. Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team’s Kenny Foray was quickest among the Dunlop Superstock Trophy contenders followed by Kamil Krezemień (Wójcik Racing Team) and Enzo de la Vega (Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore).
The Yellow Rider session had been running for less than four minutes when it was red-flagged following a crash for Axel Maurin at Turn 4. The Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore racer was uninjured but the session was delayed to enable FIM officials to check the track surface for oil. Once action resumed, Illya Mykhalchyk continued BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team’s strong form by topping the order in a time of 1m51.721s. Mike Di Meglio was second quickest, 0.300s behind Mykhalchyk, but fell on his final lap in his efforts to improve his time for F.C.C. TSR Honda France, albeit without injury. Sylvain Guintoli, who was the fastest Yellow Rider in First Qualifying, was third quickest for Yoshimura SERT Motul with Marvin Fritz (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team) fourth. Xavi Forés was fifth for ERC Endurance Ducati followed by top independent runner Marcel Brenner, who took sixth for Team Bolliger Switzerland. Loïc Arbel was the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider for Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team. Loris Cresson was second in the FIM Endurance World Cup-counting category for BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers followed by Maxim Pellizotti (Pitlane Endurance – JP3).
Karel Haneka was the pacesetting Red Rider for Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team in a time of 1m51.882s. Étienne Masson (Yoshimura SERT Motul) was 0.259s adrift in second with Jérémy Guarnoni third quickest for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. Steven Odendall clocked the fourth fastest time for the 2022 Bol d’Or winning Honda Viltaïs Racing team with Baptiste Guittet fifth for TATI Team Beringer Racing as Wójcik Racing Team’s Isaac Viñales rounded out the top six. Alessandro Delbianco, OG Motorsport World Endurance Team’s new recruit, was the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider, one place ahead of Wójcik Racing Team’s Kevin Manfredi. National Motos Honda rider Guillaume Raymond rounded out the Superstock top three. A crash involving Bastien Mackels (KM99) and Pedro Nuno Romero Barbosa (Team Bolliger Switzerland) caused the session to be halted after 10 minutes. Although neither rider was injured, repairs to the trackside protection resulted in a lengthy delay.
Cocoro Atusmi was quickest for Yoshimura SERT Motul in the Green Rider group in a time of 1m53.675s, 0.464s faster than Robin Mulhauser (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team). French World Superbike star Loris Baz was third fastest for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team with Pepijn Bijssterbosch next up for Team LRP Poland. Teenager Jurand Kuśmierczyk was fifth for Wójcik Racing Team and the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy contender.
BEST LAPS
First Qualifying Blue Rider: Markus Reiterberger, 1m51.890s
First Qualifying Yellow Rider: Sylvain Guintoli, 1m51.695s
First Qualifying Red Rider: Alan Techer, 1m51.707s
First Qualifying Green Rider: Loris Baz, 1m52.705s
Second Qualifying Blue Rider: Markus Reiterberger, 1m51.596s
Second Qualifying Yellow Rider: Illya Mykhalchyk, 1m51.721s
Second Qualifying Red Rider: Karel Hanika, 1m51.882s
Second Qualifying Green Rider: Cocoro Atsumi, 1m53.675s
WHAT’S NEXT? The 86th Bol d’Or 24-hour race is scheduled to begin at 15h00 CET tomorrow (Saturday 16 September).
Shawn McDonald passed away on Saturday, September 2, 2023. After two weeks in ICU fighting a kidney infection, he improved and was transferred to a recovery care facility in Snohomish, WA. However, Shawn had always been adamant that he would not languish in a “nursing home,” and true to his stubborn Irish blood, he died the next day.
Shawn was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. During the 1970’s he raced motocross, and rode trails, locally in the Pacific Northwest. In the ’80s he changed to road racing with the Washington Motorcycle Roadracing Association (“WMRRA”) at what was then called Seattle International Raceway (now Pacific Raceway). He also served on the Executive Board of WMRRA, released the race reports for several years, and continued to ride single-track trails.
That all changed at a race in New Zealand.
Shawn became a high-functioning quadriplegic after a road-racing crash on the South Island of New Zealand, while participating in the International Series as part of “Team America” in January of 1991.
Upon his return to the USA Shawn adapted to life in a wheelchair – but on his own terms. He continued to race, competing on a modified Honda Odyssey and later a SuperKart. He next founded and published a race magazine, “Bench Racer.” He wrote and distributed it for several years.
Through that experience he realized how little recognition Washington racers received.
Determined to remedy that, he took on the formation and administration of a 501c4 organization, the “Washington State Motorcycle Racing Hall of Fame” (https://wsmchof.org ). The first Award Banquet in 2010 had over 100 attendees. He continued to organize the event for several years, recognizing the best Washington motorcycle racers of the past and present, on dirt and pavement.
When he could no longer do it all himself, a new Board of Directors carried on to showcase Washington state’s talent.
Shawn lived 34 years as an able-bodied racer, and 33 years as a wheelchair pilot. His 67 years are a testament to his Scotch/Irish stubbornness.
Shawn is survived by his mother, two brothers, a niece and two nephews, and good friends in both hemispheres.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 (from left): Rita Coombs, Ryan Dungey, Travis Pastrana, Grant Langston, and Barry Hawk. Photo by Willie Brown, courtesy AMA.
2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Honors Five Inductees
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inducted its 2023 Class on Thursday, honoring five new members during the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 includes Rita Coombs, Ryan Dungey, Barry Hawk, Grant Langston and Travis Pastrana, all of whom received their Hall of Fame Rings and gold jackets during the ceremony.
“We’re truly delighted to gather here in Pickerington, Ohio, home of both the AMA headquarters and the esteemed AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, to celebrate this historic occasion,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said when addressing the crowd. “Unlike some previous years, this year’s inductees have the privilege of personally experiencing the hallowed grounds where they will be forever immortalized and celebrated as honored members of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
“But this event is far more than a banquet and ceremony designed to honor the remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our beloved sport,” Dingman continued. “It also serves as a unique opportunity for us to unite in our shared mission of safeguarding motorcycle history for generations yet to come.”
Leading this year’s ceremony were emcees Perry King, a well-known actor and director, and motocross rider, sidecar enthusiast and sideline reporter Laurette Nicoll, who guided the audience through the life and accomplishments of the Hall of Fame inductees.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame also recognized the memories of Hall of Famers who passed away during the last year: Earl Bowlby, Fred Fox, Ronnie Rall and Peter Starr.
Supporters and partners for the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony included IronLilly.com, National Powersports Dealer Association, Dealernews, MX Sports, Feld Entertainment, Bromley Powersports, KTM, Yamaha and Broc Glover.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2022
Each member of the Class of 2023 was officially inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Thursday, and after receiving their rings and jackets, the inductees addressed the audience through a speech and Q&A session with the emcees.
Rita Coombs
Born in 1941, Rita Coombs had no idea she would one day be a leading voice in motorcycle racing. Although her initial career path was to become a teacher, Coombs — along with her husband Dave — found her calling in the world of motorcycles after seeing On Any Sunday in 1972.
On Any Sunday had a profound impact on the Coombs, who soon-after began their pursuits in the world of motorcycle race promoting. In 1973, the Coombs began promoting their own AMA amateur events and opened their own track, Appalachia Lake MX in Bruceton Mills, W.V.
The Coombs created the AMA Grand National Cross Country series, which is the largest and most prestigious off-road series in the world, and the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Since its inaugural running in 1982, the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship has grown into the premier amateur event in the sport.
After her husband’s passing in 1998, Coombs continued to run the family business at a high level alongside her children, Carrie Jo, Tim and Davey. “I am forever grateful,” an emotional Coombs said. “I just want to thank all the riders and our fans who come see us every weekend and who love racing as much as we do!”
Ryan Dungey
Possessing one of the most noteworthy 10-year runs in motocross/Supercross history, Ryan Dungey’s induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame comes as little surprise to motorcycle racing enthusiasts.
From 2007-’17, Dungey produced four AMA Supercross 450SX titles and trio of motocross championships in the 450 class, emerging as one of the greatest competitors the sport has ever seen. Beyond his accomplishments in the United States, Dungey also spearheaded Team USA to three straight Motocross of Nations titles from 2009-’11.
Dungey holds the AMA Supercross record for most consecutive podium finishes, landing in the top three in 31 consecutive races across the 2015 and 2016 seasons.
Now, Dungey gives back to the community through the Ryan Dungey Foundation, which aims to help children lead healthy lives and support those that are battling cancer.
“First and foremost, congratulations to Grant, Barry, Rita and Travis,” Dungey said from the Hall of Fame podium. “It’s an honor to be up here being inducted into the HOF with all of them. Just being up here is a dream come true…I’m grateful for all the people in my life who helped me get here, and this one’s for you guys. You deserve all the credit!”
Barry Hawk
Across his 20-year racing career, Barry Hawk displayed a multi-disciplined racing ability that few could emulate.
An eight-time AMA Grand National Cross Country Champion, Hawk cemented himself as one of the greatest off-road competitors the sport has ever seen, capturing seven titles aboard an ATV and an additional championship on two wheels.
Beginning his professional career in 1990, Hawk raced his way to seven-consecutive GNCC ATV championships from 1993-99 while also claiming his GNCC Bike Championship in 2003. To this day, Hawk is the only racer to win GNCC championships on an ATV and bike.
Hawk now serves as the team manager for the Coastal Gas Gas Factory Racing Team, where he has supported many racers to GNCC victories.
“Wow, just wow,” Hawk said. “I am so honored and thankful to be here. Thank you to everyone here, thank you to everyone that voted for me…and thank you to all the great people that have helped me through the years…it truly means a lot.”
Grant Langston
As the only racer to win a World MX title, an AMA MX Championship and both AMA Supercross Regional Championships in the 125/250cc divisions, Grant Langston’s impressive career led him to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Hailing from Durban, South Africa, Langston moved to Europe when he was only 15 years old to begin his professional racing pursuits. Just two years later, Langston secured the 2000 FIM 125cc World Motocross Championship, which resulted in him receiving a deal to compete on the AMA Supercross circuit in 2001.
In 2003, Langston claimed the AMA 125 National Motocross Championship and added regional 125/250cc Supercross Championships in 2005 and 2006. One year later, Langston clinched the AMA 450cc Pro Motocross Championship, snapping Ricky Carmichael’s seven-year hold over the series.
Unfortunately, Langston’s career was cut short after a tumor was found in his eye during the 2008 season, causing Langston to experience vision problems. Since then, Langston has opened his own multi-brand motorcycle dealership and served as a race commentator.
“I’m very humbled, very thankful…I’m lost for words,” an emotional Langston said during his speech. “I’m stoked to have my name as a part of the legacy of the Hall of Fame!”
Travis Pastrana
Whether he was racing his way to victories on the motocross track or completing stupefying stunts, Travis Pastrana captivated audiences while aboard two wheels.
After starting out in motocross, Pastrana became a stunt rider and lead personality behind the Nitro Circus brand, which spans reality TV, movies and live performances. Now, Pastrana is set to become an AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer.
At just 16 years old in 1999, Pastrana became the then-youngest racer to claim an AMA Pro MX title after winning the AMA 125cc National MX Championship. Pastrana added the 2001 125cc East Supercross title to his resume before setting his sights on the X Games — where he produced 17 medals, including 11 golds.
As the founder of the Nitro Circus brand, Pastrana helped grow one of the largest entertainment entities in motor sports. Sparked by his childhood hero Evel Knievel, Pastrana also followed his pursuits to become a successful stuntman.
“Racing is hard,” Pastrana said. “Racing takes a lot of people and a huge sacrifice from everybody. To get to be the best is amazing…It means so much to me that you would think to honor me here tonight, and this is something I’ll remember and appreciate for the rest of my life.” The Class of 2023 exhibit, featuring bikes and memorabilia from the 2023 Hall of Famers will be available for the public to view starting Friday, Sept. 15.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Dallas Daniels (69) in action at Utah Motorsports Campus in 2019. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Daniels to Race MotoAmerica Twins Cup at NJMP
Estenson Racing and Dallas Daniels will go Twins Cup racing at the MotoAmerica season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 15, 2023 – Estenson Racing is excited to announce that Dallas Daniels will race the MotoAmerica Twins Cup next weekend at New Jersey Motorsports Park. After a job well done as a title contender in the premier class of American Flat Track, Daniels makes his return to road racing for the first time since 2019 and will race the Estenson Racing-prepped Giaccmoto R7 at the season finale in Millville, New Jersey.
Daniels made his debut in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup category in a wild-card appearance in 2017, and then the following year, he raced a full season. In 2019, he was a title contender in the Junior Cup and won his first MotoAmerica race at Miller Motorsports Park. After his 16th birthday that same year, he made his pro debut in the American Flat Track series with the Estenson Racing team. Putting his full focus on dirt track and the AFT Singles class, the Illinois rider scored his first AFT win that season in front of the home crowd at the Peoria TT. Daniels went on to celebrate more victories and back-to-back AFT Singles Championships in 2020 and 2021.
In addition to battling for the AFT Singles title in 2021, Daniels got some seat time aboard the MT-07, racing select rounds of the AFT Production Twins class. The Illinois rider once again found immediate success, winning his debut race at the Atlanta TT and earning three victories that season in four tries. Daniels also enjoyed a successful debut last year in the premier class with a pair of wins and finishing third in point standings. This year, he came out swinging, winning both rounds at the American Flat Track season opener on the Daytona Short Track. Daniels went on to score a total of five wins and led the SuperTwins point standings for most of the season, ultimately finishing in the runner-up spot.
Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager
“We’re excited to go Twins Cup racing with Dallas at New Jersey Motorsports Park for the MotoAmerica season finale. This was something that Dallas wanted to do, and we felt it was a nice bonus for him and our sponsors. He had a great SuperTwins season and was battling for the championship the whole way, which is very impressive for his second year in the class. There’s not a whole lot of 20-year-olds going toe-to-toe with a guy like Jared Mees. Dallas is definitely one of the top up-and-coming riders in the sport, and we’re happy to give him this opportunity to go back and do some road racing now that the AFT season is done. We’d like to thank Yamaha and Chuck Giacchetto for helping us out with a bike. We’ve heard a lot of positive things about the progression of the MotoAmerica series, and we’re looking forward to going there and participating in an event and seeing what Dallas can do.”
Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing
“I’m really excited and pumped for the opportunity to get back on a road race bike. We had an amazing year in American Flat Track and with the series ending a little bit earlier than usual, the opportunity was available to do the final round of MotoAmerica. I’ve got to give a huge thanks to Yamaha, Estenson Racing, and Chuck Giacchetto for giving me this opportunity to come back and do some road racing. The support from everyone, including MotoAmerica, has been unreal. I definitely feel welcomed back in this paddock already, and I’m super excited for the weekend.”
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
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Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
![Ben Young (1) took another leap in the Bridgestone CSBK championship on Friday at Shannonville Motorsport Park, winning the first of three Superbike races on the weekend after his main title contender Alex Dumas crashed on the opening lap. Jordan Szoke (101) finished second. [Photo: Rob O'Brien / CSBK]](https://www.roadracingworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1023-CSBK-Friday-Action_1694828127-1024x683.jpg)
