New Group Takes Over Management Of Laguna Seca From Monterey County

David Swarts

-

July 20, 2023

New Group Takes Over Management Of Laguna Seca From Monterey County

Editorial Note: For many years in the past, SCRAMP (Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula) was the concessionaire and the management/operations group for what is now known as WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. SCRAMP did deals with sponsors, daily track renters, and race sanctioning bodies like AMA and Dorna and then shared revenues/losses and expenses from rentals and events with Monterey County, which owns the track. For the last few years, the track had no concessionaire and commercial deals were done by Monterey County with help from A&D Narigi LLC, which is contracted to manage and operate the racetrack on behalf of Monterey County through the end of 2023. As the new concessionaire, Friends of Laguna Seca will now do the commercial deals for WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and share revenues with Monterey County through the end of 2028 and possibly until the end of 2078, while A&D Narigi LLC will continue to manage and operate the track but will now do so under Friends of Laguna Seca. – David Swarts

County of Monterey Board of Supervisors Approves a New Long Term Concession Agreement for Laguna Seca Recreation Area, Home to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, with Non-Proﬁt Friends of Laguna Seca

New Era Points Toward Ongoing Progress

MONTEREY, Calif., July 18, 2023—In a historic move to ensure the long-term future of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, home to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors today approved a new, long-term (as long as 50 years) concession agreement with the local non-proﬁt Friends of Laguna Seca.

First District Supervisor and Board Chair Luis Alejo announced the 5-0 decision and hailed it as a signiﬁcant positive step for Laguna Seca and the community of Monterey County.

“On behalf of Friends of Laguna Seca, I want to thank the Board of Supervisors of Monterey County and A&D Narigi LLC for their cooperation and support in creating this valuable public/ private partnership that will secure the ﬁnancial stability and long-term future for Laguna Seca,” commented Ross Merrill, President of Friends of Laguna Seca. “The positive energy of this collaboration will serve as a springboard to new opportunities for lasting beneﬁt of Laguna Seca and our local community for many years to come.”

“One of the primary initiatives of the Board of Supervisors when we began managing Laguna Seca in January 2020 was to assess the business and make recommendations on how to improve the facility and its business model,” says John Narigi, President and General Manager of Laguna Seca Recreation Area. “After three years, it is readily apparent that entering into a long-term concession agreement with Friends of Laguna Seca is the right strategy for future ﬁnancial success and sustainability of the enterprise. The individuals who comprise FLS are all successful business people who share the collective vision and passion for what Laguna Seca can be now and should be in the future.”

The County’s recent investment to repave the racetrack and construct a new Start Finish bridge, together with the A&D Narigi LLC’s continued operation and management of the facility under the Friends of Laguna Seca, this new long-term concession with FLS will bring additional resources and opportunities to Laguna Seca Raceway to elevate the facility to match its world-renowned reputation and world class surroundings for beneﬁt of the local community.

Bruce Canepa, Vice President of Friends of Laguna Seca and long-time supporter of the track sums it up very well, “The FLS Board brings to this partnership extensive backgrounds and success in business, marketing, fund raising, construction and motorsports. For all of us, Laguna Seca is our passion. It is our pleasure to bring together the resources necessary to restore and rebuild this iconic raceway and park for the beneﬁt of the community of Monterey County and Laguna Seca fans worldwide.”

ASRA: Schoff-Talley Investment Group Sponsoring Middleweight Shootout

David Swarts

-

July 20, 2023

0

ASRA: Schoff-Talley Investment Group Sponsoring Middleweight Shootout

ASRA MiddleWeight Shoot Out Race updates for 2023, Sponsored by Schoff-Talley Investment Group

New Freedom, PA – The eagerly anticipated ASRA Middleweight Shoot Out Race has new updates for the 2023 season. For the remainder of the 2023 season these races will be sponsored by Schoff-Talley Investment Group.

Schoff-Talley Investment Group, a leading name in the financial industry known for its commitment to supporting local communities, has stepped up as the principal sponsor for this thrilling event. The partnership between ASRA and Schoff-Talley Investment Group exemplifies their shared dedication to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for individuals to engage in their passions.

“We are excited to have Schoff-Talley Investment Group as our principal sponsor for the ASRA Middleweight Shoot Out Race for 2023,” said Alex Spellman, spokesperson for ASRA. “Their support not only demonstrates their commitment to promoting active lifestyles but also highlights the importance of community engagement and camaraderie.”

Registration for the ASRA MiddleWeight Shoot Out Races for 2023 is now open, and enthusiasts from all skill levels are encouraged to participate. For further details and to register, please visit the official ASRA website at www.asraracing.com.

About ASRA: The ASRA (American Superbike Racing Association) is a renowned organization dedicated to promoting active and inclusive sporting events for individuals of all ages. With a mission to foster camaraderie, skill development, and healthy competition.

About Schoff-Talley Investment Group: Schoff-Talley Investment Group is a family-owned financial planning practice that’s been helping individuals and families with retirement planning, estate planning, wealth management, and investing for more than a decade. In 2009, after 17 years with Raymond James – one of the most trusted names in the industry – John Schoff founded Schoff-Talley Investment Group with Tom Talley as an independent branch. Tom has since retired and John’s two sons, Joe and Jeff, have joined the practice, bringing their forward thinking and obsession with research and trend-mapping with them. “Whether you’re planning for retirement, mapping your legacy, or weighing investment options, we can help you build the future you want, without sacrificing your peace of mind in the present. Put our 50+ years of collective industry experience to work for you.”

MotoAmerica: Lingering Injury Forces Petersen To Sit Out Remainder Of Season

David Swarts

-

July 20, 2023

0

MotoAmerica: Lingering Injury Forces Petersen To Sit Out Remainder Of Season

Petersen to Focus on Returning to Full Fitness

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Cameron Petersen will sit out the remaining rounds of the 2023 MotoAmerica season to repair a wrist injury

MARIETTA, Ga. – July 20, 2023 – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Cameron Petersen will sit out the remaining rounds of the MotoAmerica Superbike season to focus on returning to full fitness. Together with his doctors and the team, the South African made the decision to undergo surgery to repair his [right] wrist as soon as possible in order to return to 100%.

At this early time, there has not been a decision made for a fill-in rider; an update will follow at a later date.

Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“We’re bummed out that he can’t continue for the upcoming rounds, but we are encouraged that he will get the surgery that will allow him to return to 100%. We are supportive of his decision, as the injury has kept Cam from showing his full potential this season. We have not made a decision yet as far as a fill-in rider, and we will have an update to follow at a later date.”

Cameron Petersen – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing

“Unfortunately, this is not the news I wanted to give everyone, but it’s time for me to get this wrist worked on. I tried to fight through the pain and get to the end of the season with some decent results, but it’s at the point now that the pain is affecting my riding, results, and everyday life. I can’t thank the team enough for being so understanding, but I know after this surgery, I will be able to come back stronger and do my job, and that’s to win races! I’ll be back stronger than ever.”

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).

RADD Motorcycle Designer James Parker, R.I.P.

David Swarts

-

July 20, 2023

0

RADD Motorcycle Designer James Parker, R.I.P.

RADD motorcycle designer James Parker dead at 76

James Parker, the maverick designer who spent a lifetime reimagining the motorcycle, has died at the age of 76. He was struck by a vehicle while walking near his Santa Fe, New Mexico home on July 1st and passed away on July 11th.

After spending his early years in California and India, Parker graduated from Claremont Men’s College and then earned his BA in Design at Stanford University. He joined the Peace Corps, returning to live and work in India, and ultimately settled in Santa Fe upon his return. Beginning in the 1970s, Parker partnered in a custom architectural design and construction firm, creating numerous unique homes in and around Santa Fe.

Parker was a lifetime motorcyclist and ultimately became an influential player in the industry over the course of the last four decades. He founded his company, Rationally Advanced Design Development (RADD), in the early 1980’s to develop and market a revolutionary swingarm front suspension system that reached production in the 1993 Yamaha GTS1000 sport-tourer.

James Parker with his GSXRADD, a Suzuki GSX-R1000 with his front suspension system. Photo courtesy Juan Romero.

Parker’s design work spanned an impressive range, from a classic heavyweight American cruiser with an all-new engine design, to the chassis and powertrain layout for the Mission R electric road racer that dominated the 2011 TTXGP/FIM electric motorcycle race at Laguna Seca.

Several of Parker’s prototype machines are on display at the Advanced Design Center at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama. When not devoting his time to all things motorcycle, Parker was an avid hiker and outdoorsman who knew the Sangre de Cristo Mountains surrounding Santa Fe better than anyone else in town. James Parker is survived by his sister Cynthia, a nephew and three nieces.

British Superbike: New Twins And Ninja ZX-4RR Classes Added For 2024

David Swarts

-

July 20, 2023

0

British Superbike: New Twins And Ninja ZX-4RR Classes Added For 2024

2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship support class line up unveiled

Bennetts British Superbike Championship series organisers, MSVR have today announced the complete line-up of support classes that will feature from 2024, following careful consideration of the technical regulations to ensure class stability, whilst continuing to deliver close and competitive racing throughout the programme.

The announcement features the introduction of two new classes for 2024, designed to showcase and promote junior riders, offering a career path that allows development and progression through the championships classes.

2024 CLASS INFORMATION

Bennetts British Superbike Championship

In the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, the Promoter and teams will consider technical (firmware) changes and identify areas of performance and cost control. There is also a consideration to BSB “Pathway” technical level for teams transitioning from National Superstock, for their first year of BSB class competition only. This would include being on the MoTeC ECU platform but some lower regulation requirements on certain cycle and mechanical parts.

Quattro Group British Supersport Championship

For 2025, the class will fully adopt Supersport “Next Generation” technical regulations, with the expected launch of further eligible machine models. The use of “kit” electronics will cease at the end of the 2024 season. This year’s Pirelli Junior Superstock Championship will also be a pathway to the BSS Cup in 2024.

Quattro Group British GP2 Championship

There will be a further review for the remainder of the 2023 season to ascertain viability for 2024 and beyond. The Promoter does recognise the benefits of a middleweight prototype class, but further teams’ commitment to the class is a priority to confirm.

Pirelli National Superstock Championship

Series Organisers are continuing a review of technical regulations to balance machine models where required. There will also be a review of tyre material standard.

Pirelli National Junior Superstock Championship

The Pirelli National Junior Superstock Championship will not continue into 2024 as the class is confined to two manufacturers without the realistic option of more and the inability to operate a balance of performance (BoP) formula, as in BSS. Current machines/teams can transition into the BSS Cup (or main BSS Championship). All national and regional clubs will maintain a 600cc class.

R&G British Talent Cup

Despite various other Dorna promoted Talent Championships moving to Pirelli tyres, the BTC remains under contractual supply from Dunlop tyres.

HEL Performance British Junior Supersport Championship

The Junior Supersport class will not continue into 2024 – as a defacto one make series already, the Promoter has defined with Kawasaki UK a replacement machine running to tight financial and technical parameters. All national and regional clubs will maintain a class that will cater for current Junior Supersport machines.

ABK Beer 0% BMW Motorrad F 900 R Cup

Combined rider and machine weight to be implemented with immediate effect (2023).

NEW FOR 2024

Pirelli National Sportbike Championship

New for the 2024 season, eligible machines include the Yamaha R7, Aprilia RS660, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Honda Hornet 750 as well as others believed to be entering the sector. Machines will run on Mektronic ECU platform with BoP formula to manage model parity and slick tyres. Rider eligibility is a minimum age of 16 years old on 1st March 2024.

Kawasaki British Superteen Championship

In association with Kawasaki UK a high level promoted championship with manufacturer presence and support and importantly contained budget and technical controls. The machine to be used is the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR, which will offer a higher standard of competition material. Rider eligibility is a minimum age of 15 years old on 1st April 2024 and a maximum of 20 years old on 1st April 2024. Riders must have a minimum of a Clubman licence.

For the 2024 classes information, please click here

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

More, from another press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:

Kawasaki UK announce exciting new British Superteen class for 2024

After the highly popular unveil of the all-new Ninja ZX-4RR, Kawasaki UK is pleased to announce that it will be launching an all-new one-make series, the Kawasaki British Superteen Championship. The series will feature as part of the 2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship calendar, giving young riders a chance to race in front of huge crowds at the best circuits in the UK.

The new Kawasaki British Superteen class will be open to riders aged between 15 and 20 and will run across eight double-header rounds, at the UK’s premier circuits, including a planned World Superbike support race. With riders on equal machinery, the series will be a thrilling spectacle for fans trackside, while the high-revving characteristic of the 4-cylinder 400cc Supersport machine is perfect for helping young riders develop their skills as part of the world’s most competitive domestic series. The overall winner of the 2024 Superteen class Championship will receive a brand-new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R road bike.

Each race bike competing in the series will be built by Kawasaki Team Green Technical Partner, MSS Performance, who will also offer a choice of two packages to suit every budget. Eager to make this a fair and competitive option for going racing, package prices will begin at under £12,000 plus VAT.

The series was officially launched today at Brands Hatch, with the very first Ninja ZX-4RR in the UK, which has been built to race spec, available to view in Pit Lane throughout the weekend. Members of staff from Kawasaki UK and MSS Performance will also be in attendance all weekend for any riders and teams interested in joining the Championship next season.

Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK said: “As soon as we saw this model on the production plan, we knew it was destined for the race track! To have the BSB Championship promoter MSVR on board and enabling us to have a class entirely devoted to this bike is fantastic!

“We are excited to be able to offer a competitively priced and exciting race package to young riders looking to develop their racing careers. The Team Green ethos has always been about supporting young talent and offering opportunities on track, so we cannot wait to take this one step further with this new class in 2024.”

Stuart Higgs, Bennetts British Superbike Championship Series Director commented: “It is 32 years since the British circuit promoters launched the first “Superteen” Championship, and within the entry list was James Haydon, David Jefferies, John McGuiness and Michael Rutter. We are tremendously excited to bring the “Superteen” name back to British Championship status.

“Together with our partner Kawasaki UK we are re-calibrating this most important entry level class with a new motorcycle that will benefit team and rider development, and importantly be contained to tight budget and regulations parameters. Any major change to the championship structure is carefully considered and current Junior Supersport machines will be eligible for many different regional and national club championships.”

To find out more details on the ZX-4RR package, please contact MSS Performance on [email protected] or 01206 913216.

To register your interest in racing in this class, please contact [email protected].

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

MotoAmerica: Rainey’s Ride To The Races Raises Nearly $100,000 For RWAF

David Swarts

-

July 20, 2023

0

MotoAmerica: Rainey’s Ride To The Races Raises Nearly $100,000 For RWAF

Wayne Rainey Gives Thanks For Support Of Rainey’s Ride To The Races

Almost $100,000 Raised For Roadracing World Action Fund From Monterey Ride:

Hello everyone,

Friday, July 7 was an amazing day for the Third Annual “Rainey’s Ride to the Races.” We had over 70 riders exploring the scenic Monterey Peninsula, taking two laps around the freshly paved WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca circuit, and enjoying a great catered lunch with the Legends. It was a ton of fun.

Following lunch, (Roadracing World Action Fund President) John Ulrich and (MotoAmerica’s) Dan Argano gave an informative presentation on how the soft-air barrier systems continue to protect our riders in the road racing community, and we were all entertained by the Q & A session with the seven world-class racers. It was certainly unique and having the riders sign the commemorative posters for everybody was icing on the cake.

All of this supports the Roadracing World Action Fund, which provides for the purchase of the Airfence and Alpina soft barriers. I think it’s amazing that because of your support, and others in our industry, we raised just shy of $100,000 from the ride.

I truly want to thank all the riders for taking part in this special event.

Additional thanks also go to our Legends for coming on the ride and for hanging out with all of us in the motorcycle community. I’d also like to thank the California Highway Patrol, Robb Talbott for his generous donation and for allowing us to stage at his museum, the Terry Vance Family Foundation, Les Stretch, and Gordon McCall for leading the ride, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Raceway and, of course, MotoAmerica and the MotoAmerica team that helped make this ride possible.

See you all next year!

Wayne Rainey

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

ASRA Team Challenge: Dolipski & Soltisz Take Overall And GTO Wins At Blackhawk

David Swarts

-

July 19, 2023

0

ASRA Team Challenge: Dolipski & Soltisz Take Overall And GTO Wins At Blackhawk

Blackhawk Farms Raceway showed tremendous support for Round 12 of the ASRA series. The ASRA Team Challenge had great race showings with Fast Lane Racing taking 1st in GTU. The GTL class win was taken by BEER’DS MEN Racing Team, following with another first from Stefan “Germany ” Dolipski in the GTO class. In Unlimited Supersport, first place was taken by Jason Farrell on his 2022 Kawasaki ZX-10R followed up by Tony Storniolo (2023 Kawasaki ZX-10R) and Omid Namdari (2022 BMW S1000RR), respectively. Farrell had turned a best lap time of 1:08.224! Bagger Racing League had fierce competition and really brought the crowd out. Shane Narbonne took the win in NAMZ BAGGER GP for both races with a best time of 1:12:852.

For full details go to www.asraracing.com

N2/WERA: Kruger Continues Winning Ways, At Roebling Road Raceway

David Swarts

-

July 19, 2023

0

N2/WERA: Kruger Continues Winning Ways, At Roebling Road Raceway

N2/WERA: 2 Wins, 4 Podiums as Dan Kruger continues his Winning Ways at Roebling Raceway for the Endurance/Sprint Championships

Date: July 15-16, 2023 Savannah, GA

Dan Kruger continued his winning form this past weekend on the Nature Power Superbike Kawasaki ZX-10R in the 100F+ heat to take 4 podiums including class Win (Relay) to remain unbeaten in 2023 in the N2 National Endurance Championship. It was a 4-hour endurance event where Dan teamed up with MotoAmerica regulars Jason Waters and Gabriel Da Silva in the Relay Class. We immediately took the lead in our class and never looked back for the entire 4 hours. We ended up winning with an 11-lap margin over 2nd place in our class. A big thanks to Dan’s teammates as Jason put in the quickest lap of the entire race and kept a quick pace whenever out on track.

Sunday was the WERA Sprint races where Dan managed a win and two 3rd place finishes to finish up the weekend on a high note.

We would like to thank all our sponsors including Nature Power, Mototron, Pirelli, RK, EBC, HEL, Dainese, KYT, Motul, Ktech, SK Support, Hindle, and Kinetik.

We would also like to thank the Roadracing World Action Fund for the many years they have and continue to keep riders safe with Air Fence across the country.

For more information, check us out at www.facebook.com/dankrugerracingteam to stay up to date on all our race results and latest team news.

AHRMA: Two-Stroke Racers Take Home Cash Prizes From Laguna Seca

David Swarts

-

July 19, 2023

0

AHRMA: Two-Stroke Racers Take Home Cash Prizes From Laguna Seca

Two-Stroke Racers at AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey win Cash Prize and Bridgestone Tires

(July 19, 2023 Monterey, CA) The sight and sound of two-stroke race bikes returned to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

More than 20 two-stroke machines ranging from 125 to 750ccs participated in the Open Two Stroke class during the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey in California at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday, July 16. The event is part of the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Roadracing series

On Saturday, Vince Rolleri, on his 2000 Yamaha TZ250, took the overall win followed by Roger Baker, on his 1997 Yamaha TZ250, and David Crussell, on his 1978 Yamaha TZ750. On Sunday, Rolleri and Baker repeated their performance with Adrian Jasso taking third, on his 2017 500cc Suter.

Ralph Staropoli organized and raised the sponsorship money from a group of individual AHRMA racers as well as from 4SR USA and Markbilt Racebikes for a total purse of $4,500.

Bridgestone Motorcycle Tires awarded a set of tires for the top tier winners on Saturday, BJ Bohrer (125), Vince Rolleri (250) and Dave Crussell (250+).

Here are Saturday’s winners of the prize money for each tier ($450 for 1^st, $200 for 2^nd and $100 for 3^rd):

Racer	Tier	Place	Bike
BJ Bohrer	125	1^st	1996 Honda RS125
Jon Schendel	125	2^nd	1995 Yamaha TZ125
Steve Gillen	125	3^rd	1997 RS125

Vince Rolleri	250	1^st	2000 Yamaha TZ250
Roger Baker	250	2^nd	1997 Yamaha TZ250
Sergio Galvan	250	3^rd	1997 Yamaha TZ250

Dave Crussell	250+	1^st	1978 Yamaha TZ750
Adrian Jasso	250+	2^nd	2017 Suter
Chris Spargo	250+	3^rd	1976 Yamaha RD400

Sunday’s tier winners:

Racer	Tier	Place	Bike
BJ Bohrer	125	1^st	1996 Honda RS125
Colin Sleigh	125	2^nd	1996 Honda RS125 NX4
Jon Schendel	125	3^rd	1995 Yamaha TZ125

Vince Rolleri	250	1^st	2000 Yamaha TZ250
Roger Baker	250	2^nd	1997 Yamaha TZ250
Paul Stamper	250	3^rd	1992 Yamaha TZ250

Adrian Jasso	250+	1^st	2017 Suter
Chris Spargo	250+	2^nd	1976 Yamaha RD400
Ed Sorbo	250+	3^rd	1975 Yamaha TZ750

About Bridgestone

Bridgestone Tires is the 2023 AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing series sponsor and offers tires for all types of motorcycles.

About 4SR USA Inc

4SR USA produces stylish and functional motorcycle clothing of the highest quality. As active bikers and competitors, all of their designs, materials, development, and testing are performed by them and their sponsored riders. Their personal experience and the experience of their sponsored riders give them the ability to continuously produce gear that is innovative, safe, and stylish.

About Markbilt Racebikes

Markbilt Racebikes LLC has been owned and operated by former racer and motorcycle enthusiast Mark Rozema since 1998. Not only does Markbilt take pride in building race worthy motorcycles, but also in tuning , suspension , fabrication, welding and chassis service.

About WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a world-renowned 2.238-mile traditional road course that was built in 1957 and was known at the time as Laguna Seca Raceway. WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is owned by the County of Monterey and operated by A&D Narigi Consulting, LLC. The 2023 premier event schedule includes the Monterey Pre-Reunion August 12-13, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion August 16-19, Corkscrew Hillclimb & Community Day August 20, the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey September 8-10 and the Porsche Rennsport Reunion 7 September 28 – October 1.

About AHRMA

American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

Moto2: Marc VDS Racing Signs Salac

David Swarts

-

July 19, 2023

0

Elf Marc VDS Racing Team signs Filip Salac for 2024

The Elf Marc VDS Racing Team’s busy summer break continues, with the squad delighted to announce that Filip Salac will join its Moto2 project for next year’s World Championship campaign.

Days after finalizing an exciting new adventure in World Superbikes with Sam Lowes in 2024, the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team is proud to welcome Czech rider Salac to its ranks for what will be his third season in Moto2 next year.

Salac has caught the eye during an impressive 2023 campaign and after eight rounds he sits sixth in the current standings with a season best second place to current Elf Marc VDS Racing rider and Moto2 World Championship leader Tony Arbolino in Le Mans. His only other Moto2 podium was also a second to Arbolino in a dramatic Thai Grand Prix last October.

Born in 2001, Filip began his journey to the Grand Prix paddock in the 2016 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and he then raced in the FIM CEV Repsol Moto3™ Junior World Championship.

His first full season in the World Championship came in 2019 when he competed for the PruestelGP Team on board a KTM, which concluded with an excellent fifth in Valencia’s final round. He switched to Honda machinery with the Rivacold Snipers Team in 2020 before switching back to the PruestelGP squad halfway through 2021.

Gresini Racing gave him the opportunity to move to Moto2 in 2022, with the highlight his second in Buriram. He stayed with the Italian squad for 2023 and took pole position in the season’s opening round in Portugal and has claimed six top 10 finishes in the opening eight races.

Five other top 10 finishes so far this season have highlighted Salac’s rapid progression in just his second season in Moto2. And he has impressed with his calm and analytical approach, strong work ethic and undoubted speed to emerge as one of the top young prospects in the intermediate World Championship category.

Marc Van Der Straten

“We know what Filip is capable of”

“We are very happy to add the talent and commitment that Filip is showing to our Team. He has quietly gone about his business to become one of the riders to beat this season. We know what Filip is capable of, and it will be a pleasure and pride for us to provide him all our experience to help him get to the top. I am sure he will give all his effort to conquer the best possible results in the Elf Marc VDS colours”.

Filip Salac, Rider

“Joining Marc VDS has always been my target”

“It’s like a dream come true. I have been watching races since I was a kid and I have always thought that Marc VDS was an amazing team where Tito Rabat, Franco Morbidelli and Alex Márquez won the title. And Jack Miller won in MotoGP in Assen. I have never forgotten these moments and that’s why joining Marc VDS has always been my target. Being such a strong and competitive team in every season, my ambition will be high. The target will be to stay regularly in the top five and take as many podiums as possible. There will be pressure as the team will provide me with the best material, experience, and effort. But it’s positive pressure to give repay the faith shown in me. I will try my best as I always do. I am a quiet rider and not too aggressive. I’m able to think before acting and analyse when I can improve. I like working hard and focusing on improving myself. I am also a family person who likes to have fun. I think I can bring my positive energy to the team as I really like to have good relationship with the crew and enjoy everything I do. Finally, I want to thank the Team and in particular Marc van der Straten for trusting me and to all the sponsors that have helped me so far to achieve my dreams.”

New Group Takes Over Management Of Laguna Seca From Monterey County

July 20, 2023

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Photo courtesy Granite. — WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Editorial Note: For many years in the past, SCRAMP (Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula) was the concessionaire and the management/operations group for what is now known as WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. SCRAMP did deals with sponsors, daily track renters, and race sanctioning bodies like AMA and Dorna and then shared revenues/losses and expenses from rentals and events with Monterey County, which owns the track. For the last few years, the track had no concessionaire and commercial deals were done by Monterey County with help from A&D Narigi LLC, which is contracted to manage and operate the racetrack on behalf of Monterey County through the end of 2023. As the new concessionaire, Friends of Laguna Seca will now do the commercial deals for WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and share revenues with Monterey County through the end of 2028 and possibly until the end of 2078, while A&D Narigi LLC will continue to manage and operate the track but will now do so under Friends of Laguna Seca. – David Swarts

County of Monterey Board of Supervisors Approves a New Long Term Concession Agreement for Laguna Seca Recreation Area, Home to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, with Non-Proﬁt Friends of Laguna Seca

New Era Points Toward Ongoing Progress

MONTEREY, Calif., July 18, 2023—In a historic move to ensure the long-term future of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, home to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors today approved a new, long-term (as long as 50 years) concession agreement with the local non-proﬁt Friends of Laguna Seca.

First District Supervisor and Board Chair Luis Alejo announced the 5-0 decision and hailed it as a signiﬁcant positive step for Laguna Seca and the community of Monterey County.

“On behalf of Friends of Laguna Seca, I want to thank the Board of Supervisors of Monterey County and A&D Narigi LLC for their cooperation and support in creating this valuable public/ private partnership that will secure the ﬁnancial stability and long-term future for Laguna Seca,” commented Ross Merrill, President of Friends of Laguna Seca. “The positive energy of this collaboration will serve as a springboard to new opportunities for lasting beneﬁt of Laguna Seca and our local community for many years to come.”

“One of the primary initiatives of the Board of Supervisors when we began managing Laguna Seca in January 2020 was to assess the business and make recommendations on how to improve the facility and its business model,” says John Narigi, President and General Manager of Laguna Seca Recreation Area. “After three years, it is readily apparent that entering into a long-term concession agreement with Friends of Laguna Seca is the right strategy for future ﬁnancial success and sustainability of the enterprise. The individuals who comprise FLS are all successful business people who share the collective vision and passion for what Laguna Seca can be now and should be in the future.”

The County’s recent investment to repave the racetrack and construct a new Start Finish bridge, together with the A&D Narigi LLC’s continued operation and management of the facility under the Friends of Laguna Seca, this new long-term concession with FLS will bring additional resources and opportunities to Laguna Seca Raceway to elevate the facility to match its world-renowned reputation and world class surroundings for beneﬁt of the local community.

Bruce Canepa, Vice President of Friends of Laguna Seca and long-time supporter of the track sums it up very well, “The FLS Board brings to this partnership extensive backgrounds and success in business, marketing, fund raising, construction and motorsports. For all of us, Laguna Seca is our passion. It is our pleasure to bring together the resources necessary to restore and rebuild this iconic raceway and park for the beneﬁt of the community of Monterey County and Laguna Seca fans worldwide.”

ASRA: Schoff-Talley Investment Group Sponsoring Middleweight Shootout

July 20, 2023

Gary Yancoskie (521). Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy ASRA/CCS. — Gary Yancoskie (521), as seen during an ASRA race at Summit Point Raceway earlier in 2023. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy ASRA/CCS.

ASRA MiddleWeight Shoot Out Race updates for 2023, Sponsored by Schoff-Talley Investment Group

New Freedom, PA – The eagerly anticipated ASRA Middleweight Shoot Out Race has new updates for the 2023 season. For the remainder of the 2023 season these races will be sponsored by Schoff-Talley Investment Group.

Schoff-Talley Investment Group, a leading name in the financial industry known for its commitment to supporting local communities, has stepped up as the principal sponsor for this thrilling event. The partnership between ASRA and Schoff-Talley Investment Group exemplifies their shared dedication to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for individuals to engage in their passions.

“We are excited to have Schoff-Talley Investment Group as our principal sponsor for the ASRA Middleweight Shoot Out Race for 2023,” said Alex Spellman, spokesperson for ASRA. “Their support not only demonstrates their commitment to promoting active lifestyles but also highlights the importance of community engagement and camaraderie.”

Registration for the ASRA MiddleWeight Shoot Out Races for 2023 is now open, and enthusiasts from all skill levels are encouraged to participate. For further details and to register, please visit the official ASRA website at www.asraracing.com.

About ASRA: The ASRA (American Superbike Racing Association) is a renowned organization dedicated to promoting active and inclusive sporting events for individuals of all ages. With a mission to foster camaraderie, skill development, and healthy competition.

About Schoff-Talley Investment Group: Schoff-Talley Investment Group is a family-owned financial planning practice that’s been helping individuals and families with retirement planning, estate planning, wealth management, and investing for more than a decade. In 2009, after 17 years with Raymond James – one of the most trusted names in the industry – John Schoff founded Schoff-Talley Investment Group with Tom Talley as an independent branch. Tom has since retired and John’s two sons, Joe and Jeff, have joined the practice, bringing their forward thinking and obsession with research and trend-mapping with them. “Whether you’re planning for retirement, mapping your legacy, or weighing investment options, we can help you build the future you want, without sacrificing your peace of mind in the present. Put our 50+ years of collective industry experience to work for you.”

MotoAmerica: Lingering Injury Forces Petersen To Sit Out Remainder Of Season

July 20, 2023

Cameron Petersen (45). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Yamaha.

Petersen to Focus on Returning to Full Fitness

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Cameron Petersen will sit out the remaining rounds of the 2023 MotoAmerica season to repair a wrist injury

MARIETTA, Ga. – July 20, 2023 – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Cameron Petersen will sit out the remaining rounds of the MotoAmerica Superbike season to focus on returning to full fitness. Together with his doctors and the team, the South African made the decision to undergo surgery to repair his [right] wrist as soon as possible in order to return to 100%.

At this early time, there has not been a decision made for a fill-in rider; an update will follow at a later date.

Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“We’re bummed out that he can’t continue for the upcoming rounds, but we are encouraged that he will get the surgery that will allow him to return to 100%. We are supportive of his decision, as the injury has kept Cam from showing his full potential this season. We have not made a decision yet as far as a fill-in rider, and we will have an update to follow at a later date.”

Cameron Petersen – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing

“Unfortunately, this is not the news I wanted to give everyone, but it’s time for me to get this wrist worked on. I tried to fight through the pain and get to the end of the season with some decent results, but it’s at the point now that the pain is affecting my riding, results, and everyday life. I can’t thank the team enough for being so understanding, but I know after this surgery, I will be able to come back stronger and do my job, and that’s to win races! I’ll be back stronger than ever.”

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).

RADD Motorcycle Designer James Parker, R.I.P.

July 20, 2023

James Parker, R.I.P. Photo courtesy Juan Romero.

RADD motorcycle designer James Parker dead at 76

James Parker, the maverick designer who spent a lifetime reimagining the motorcycle, has died at the age of 76. He was struck by a vehicle while walking near his Santa Fe, New Mexico home on July 1st and passed away on July 11th.

After spending his early years in California and India, Parker graduated from Claremont Men’s College and then earned his BA in Design at Stanford University. He joined the Peace Corps, returning to live and work in India, and ultimately settled in Santa Fe upon his return. Beginning in the 1970s, Parker partnered in a custom architectural design and construction firm, creating numerous unique homes in and around Santa Fe.

Parker was a lifetime motorcyclist and ultimately became an influential player in the industry over the course of the last four decades. He founded his company, Rationally Advanced Design Development (RADD), in the early 1980’s to develop and market a revolutionary swingarm front suspension system that reached production in the 1993 Yamaha GTS1000 sport-tourer.

Parker’s design work spanned an impressive range, from a classic heavyweight American cruiser with an all-new engine design, to the chassis and powertrain layout for the Mission R electric road racer that dominated the 2011 TTXGP/FIM electric motorcycle race at Laguna Seca.

Several of Parker’s prototype machines are on display at the Advanced Design Center at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama. When not devoting his time to all things motorcycle, Parker was an avid hiker and outdoorsman who knew the Sangre de Cristo Mountains surrounding Santa Fe better than anyone else in town. James Parker is survived by his sister Cynthia, a nephew and three nieces.

British Superbike: New Twins And Ninja ZX-4RR Classes Added For 2024

July 20, 2023

The all-new 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. — A 2023-model Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.