Rider Files

(NEWS RELEASE)

PICKERINGTON, Ohio – A formal Discussion Draft entitled, “Enhancing CPSC Authority and Discretion Act of 2011 (ECADA),” will be voted upon tomorrow by the U.S. House Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade of the Committee on Energy & Commerce, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) reports.

The AMA disapproves of the process in which this draft bill was scheduled for consideration, and urges off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts to contact their U.S. Representatives immediately to express their concern.

“The revised draft legislation was announced within 36 hours of the actual markup,” said Ed Moreland, AMA senior vice president of government relations. “While this is consistent with the committee rules for announcing meetings, the short notice gives us great concern because the public had very little time to vet the draft bill properly prior to its consideration tomorrow.”

According to the subcommittee, chaired by Representative Mary Bono Mack (R-Calif.), the draft legislation would revise the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008 and seeks to give the Consumer Product Safety Commission greater authority and flexibility to regulate based on risk.

“We are urging AMA members and all OHV riders to contact their member of Congress immediately and ask them to offer H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act of 2011, as an amendment to ECADA,” Moreland said.

To utilize AMA’s online alert tools to contact your Representative, click here.

The markup session begins at 9:00 a.m. EDT on Thursday, May 12, in Room 2322 of the Rayburn House Office Building, and votes will occur on amendments and the draft bill.

To view a copy of the Discussion Draft and subcommittee background memo, go to http://energycommerce.house.gov/news/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=8585.

About the American Motorcyclist Association 

Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists’ interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its support of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. For more information, please visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com. 

(NEWS RELEASE)

Brand Also Set to Bring Back Rockstar Fast Lap Competition

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (May 11, 2011) – When Ryan Dungey secured the 450 Class title in last season’s Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, it brought a fitting conclusion to a groundbreaking year for the Rockstar Energy brand – which made its foray into series sponsorship for the first time in 2010. After a successful debut as a major supporter of American Motocross, MX Sports Pro Racing and Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, announce that Rockstar Energy will reprise its role in the championship for 2011, with the unique and popular Fast Lap competition headlining the brand’s efforts.

As one of the most recognizable names in the industry, Rockstar Energy and its trademark yellow star can be seen on the sides of riders’ helmets and race rigs throughout the paddock. Whether fans have a can in their hand, or one of the Rockstar-sponsored teams is standing on the podium, the energy drink’s stalwart presence can be felt both on and off the track.

Last season, in an effort to reward the rider who lays it all on the line by setting the day’s fastest lap of the final 450 Class moto, the Rockstar Energy Fast Lap competition was introduced. After a successful inaugural campaign, Rockstar-backed Dungey took home the grand prize after setting the fastest lap at an astonishing nine rounds last summer.

This season, Dungey and his 450 Class competitors will once again wage war out on the track for another shot at a coveted award exclusive to American Motocross. Beginning at the Rockstar Energy Hangtown National on Saturday, May 21, points will be accumulated over the next 12 weeks of racing by the quickest 450 Class riders on any given lap of the final moto of the day. Fuel TV, NBC Sports and SPEED will keep the fans up to date on the hot-lap stats. Just one point is available at each stop on the schedule and whichever rider amasses the highest total at season’s end will be awarded this year’s grand prize – a special Minute Machine watch from Oakley Watches. The one-of-a-kind timepiece is a Swiss chronograph with a titanium bracelet that stands out amongst the rest thanks to its aggressive styling yet refined, lightweight composition. It’s truly a unique piece for any rider’s trophy case.

“Rockstar Energy is all about pushing the envelope,” said Rockstar Energy’s Mike Kelso. “The Fast Lap competition is a testament to that, not only for the brand, but the sport of motocross in general. To succeed in motocross, a rider must find the fine line between the ragged edge and control and this is our way of recognizing that commitment. Having Oakley Watches on board this season makes this award that much more special because much like Rockstar, Oakley is a brand that likes to set standards and raise the bar.”

In addition to the Minute Machine watch awarded to the winning rider, second and third place will receive a Gearbox watch from Oakley Watches. The watch contains Oakley’s patented unobtainium strap while also featuring intricate craftsmanship in the face. Its distinctive appearance blends sharp looks and pristine functionality. It is something the two riders who receive it will be proud to take home.

Weekly Rockstar Energy Fast Lap results can be found following each round on Rockstar69.com, RockstarMX.com, RacerXOnline.com and AlliSports.com. Fans can also stay up to date by following @Rockstar6969 on Twitter.

Tickets for the 2011 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship are on sale now at www.allisports.com. Special discounts and incentives are available for advance ticket purchasers.

For more information on the 2011 tour, please log on to www.allisports.com/motocross.

For media information about the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, please contact Media Manager Brandon Short via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com or by phone at 949-365-5750.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. The industry leader in off road powersport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators. Visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand. The Alliance includes: the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, , King of Wake series, and the Gatorade Free Flow Tour. Alli TV Productions creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. Visit www.allisports.com.

Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, lubricants and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, lubricants and problem-solving performance additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry. Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the “Official Motor Oil of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing sanctioning body in the United States, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization sanctions professional motorcycle racing competition, which includes, AMA Pro Motocross, AMA Pro Road Racing, and AMA Pro Flat Track. Visit www.amaproracing.com.

(NEWS RELEASE)

PIT NOTES

SONOMA, Calif. (May 11, 2011) – Following are some notes of interest entering the West Coast Moto Jam, May 11-15, at Infineon Raceway:

• Mat Mladin (Suzuki) holds the record for the most Superbike victories at Infineon Raceway with nine (1999, 2003 doubleheader, 2004, 2005 doubleheader, 2007 doubleheader, 2009).
• Rich Oliver is the only rider to win four straight years at Infineon Raceway. He won in the 250 Grand Prix class from 1994-97. Oliver will be recognized this weekend as part of the Legends in Sonoma program.  
• Yamaha has just five Superbike victories at Infineon Raceway, three by Josh Hayes.
• Josh Hayes (Yamaha) has won three of the last four SuperBike main events in Sonoma.
• Elena Myers (Discovery Bay) became the first female in history to win an AMA Pro Road Race when she won in Sonoma in 2010 (SuperSport).
• Ducati has not won a Superbike event at Infineon Raceway since 1978. Kawasaki has not won a Superbike event at Infineon Raceway since 1993.
• Suzuki has won the most Superbike titles at Infineon Raceway with 18. It is followed by: Honda (10), Yamaha (5), Kawasaki (3) and Ducati (2).
• Miguel Duhamel has won both the Superbike and Supersport events on the same weekend a record three times at Infineon Raceway (1993, 1995, 1998).
• Nicky Hayden (1999) and Josh Hayes (2007) are the only riders to win Supersport and Formula Xtreme in the same weekend in Sonoma.
• Aprilia recorded its only win at Infineon Raceway in 2002 behind rider Charles Sorensen in the 250 Grand Prix final.
• Suzuki won every Superstock main event at Infineon Raceway but three (1993, 2003-04).
• Honda is the top manufacturer in SuperSport at Infineon Raceway with six wins.
• Miguel Duhamel and Mat Mladin are tied for most career AMA wins at Infineon Raceway with nine (Duhamel — five Superbike, three Supersport, one Formula Xtreme; Mladin — all in Superbike).
• Honda and Suzuki have combined to win 15 of the last 18 Superbike main events at Infineon Raceway dating back to 2002. Suzuki has 12 wins and Honda three.
• Jason Pridmore holds the career record for Superstock wins at Infineon Raceway (three), Miguel Duhamel in Supersport (three) and Eric Bostrom in Formula Xtreme (two).

 For more information about the West Coast Moto Jam or to purchase tickets, visit infineonraceway.com/ama or call 800-870-RACE (7223).

(NEWS RELEASE)

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (May 11, 2011) – MX Sports Pro Racing and Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is proud to announce the return of the Ricky Carmichael Hard Charger Award for the 2011 season. Named for the single-most successful athlete in American Motocross history, the RC Hard Charger Award recognizes the one competitor at each of the 12 rounds of the championship tour who overtakes the highest number of his fellow racers in one of the four championship motos between the 250 and 450 Classes.

The award is a testament to the sport’s greatest champion of all time; a reminder of Carmichael’s never-give-up attitude during a career that included 10 consecutive AMA Motocross titles and an astonishing 102 race wins-each records that will likely never be broken. The Florida native’s exceptional on-track success and reign of dominance during his illustrious career led to the moniker “The Greatest of All Time” and he is now affectionately known today simply as “The GOAT.”

Carmichael, who also won five AMA Supercross Championships and 48 main events in that discipline, went out a winner in 2007, winning every outdoor race he entered in an abbreviated motocross schedule. This farewell tour allowed him to transition into his new career in auto racing, while keeping one boot firmly in his beloved sport of motocross.

Since 2008, Carmichael’s legacy has continued to be enshrined in motocross history by giving this coveted award to the athlete who shows the most heart, speed and endurance at any given round of the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship.

Somewhat ironically, if there is a single race in his victory-packed career that best exemplifies this award, it was the Washougal 125cc National, held on August 1, 1999. It was at that race in which Carmichael, then riding for the Splitfire/Pro Circuit Kawasaki team, crashed on the start of both motos in the first turn. He got up last, and then proceeded to pass a total of 76 riders – an unofficial record for a single race in the 40-year history of the series – over the course of both motos. The irony is that he while he made it all the way up to second in each moto, he failed to secure the overall win.

“All the races I won and that’s the one you guys have to bring up!” laughed Carmichael, at the reminder of that frantic afternoon from a dozen years ago. “I guess that it was a pretty good day for me, given the way it started, and I am probably as proud of the effort that I put in there as I am of any of my races. If any of the riders in this summer’s series can grow inspiration from that, I would feel honored.”

“The Ricky Carmichael Hard Charger Award has become something our athletes and fans really appreciate,” said MX Sports Vice President Davey Coombs. “Ricky was tough to beat on any track on the tour, no matter what the conditions or whom he lined up against. To be as successful as he was – as often as he was – is to have the heart and work ethic of a true hero, and no one had more heart or worked harder than Ricky Carmichael.”

The Rockstar Energy Hangtown National on May 21 from Rancho Cordova, Calif., marks the beginning of the 40^th season of the most prestigious series on the planet. It’s where American Motocross starts, and it is where the world’s best riders will be in less than two weeks.

Tickets for the 2011 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship are on sale now at www.allisports.com. Special discounts and incentives are available for advance ticket purchasers.

For more information on the 2011 tour, please log on to www.allisports.com/motocross.

For media information about the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, please contact Media Manager Brandon Short via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com or by phone at 949-365-5750.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. The industry leader in off road powersport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators. Visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand. The Alliance includes: the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, King of Wake series, and the Gatorade Free Flow Tour. Alli TV Productions creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. Visit www.allisports.com.

Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, lubricants and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, lubricants and problem-solving performance additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry. Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the “Official Motor Oil of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing sanctioning body in the United States, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization sanctions professional motorcycle racing competition, which includes, AMA Pro Motocross, AMA Pro Road Racing, and AMA Pro Flat Track. Visit www.amaproracing.com.