Rider Files

(NEWS RELEASE)

The best possible starting position was taken by Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) for the second round in succession after he set a new track best of 1 minute 46.748 seconds in Superpole 3. This was Sykes’ fourth career Superpole win and the second at Imola.

Imola (Italy), Saturday 31 March 2012 – The best possible starting position was taken by Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) for the second round in succession after he set a new track best of 1 minute 46.748 seconds in Superpole 3. This was Sykes’ fourth career Superpole win and the second at Imola, as he took the pre-race prize on the previous model of Ninja ZX-10R here in 2010. Frenchman Sylvain Guintoli (Team Effenbert Liberty Racing Ducati) was second, after a late charge from Carlos Checa (Althea Racing Ducati) was ultimately unsuccessful. Leon Haslam (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) was fourth and first BMW rider in the final pre-race rankings, while Max Biaggi (Aprilia Racing Team) made it to the head of the second row, fifth overall. Marco Melandri (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) went sixth at his home circuit.

Jonathan Rea (Honda World Superbike Team) was seventh but suffered a very fast high-side crash, walking away after a heavy impact on the tarmac. The last place on the second row went to Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki Racing Team).

Some big names missed out on the optimum starting spots on the first two rows, as Eugene Laverty (Aprilia Racing) experienced a technical issue in Superpole 2 that held back his final push and went to 11th on the grid, while early fast man Jakub Smrz (Liberty Racing Team Effenbert Ducati) was only one place up on the Irish rider, tenth.

Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA Racing Team Ducati) made his team proud with a fine ninth at his home race, while a troubled second superpole session saw Davide Giugliano (Althea Racing Ducati) run off track and then finally crash, finishing 12th on the grid. Leon Camier (Crescent Fixi Suzuki) was top Suzuki rider, 15th.

Tom Sykes: “To get two Tissot-Superpole wins on the roll is fantastic. I dug deep after the second Superpole because I knew the times would be fast. On my fastest lap in Superpole 3 I had a lot of feedback from my Kawasaki. A couple of times I arrived past the limit, but the feel was good so I could finish with a good lap. A few of us have very consistent race pace so there will be a big fight over full race distance.”

Sylvain Guintoli: “I am happy with our work this weekend. This circuit for Ducati is fantastic, it is a brilliant track and took me about two years to learn it. I am just getting used to it and enjoying myself here so I think tomorrow will be a good race. There should be a be a big fight and I am going to do my best to take the first victory for the team.”

Carlos Checa: “I feel quite good after practice and third position is positive, considering that Tom did a really good lap time and I could not get that kind of lap. We expect our pace to be much better in the race. We are in a good starting position for the race and I think we have good pace for the race tomorrow.”

Leon Haslam: “It’s been a good weekend so far and we have been making progress with the BMW in the past few weeks. My leg is getting stronger day by day but in the evenings it is a little bit sore. To be fair, on the bike it is not that much of a problem. By Assen, the next race, I think I will be fully fit.”

Times: 1. Sykes T. (GBR) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′46.748; 2. Guintoli S. (FRA) Ducati 1098R 1′47.221; 3. Checa C. (ESP) Ducati 1098R 1′47.423; 4. Haslam L. (GBR) BMW S1000 RR 1′47.458; 5. Biaggi M. (ITA) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1′47.611; 6. Melandri M. (ITA) BMW S1000 RR 1′47.642; 7. Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1′47.643; 8. Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′47.740; 9. Zanetti L. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1′48.108; 10. Smrz J. (CZE) Ducati 1098R 1′48.137; 11. Laverty E. (IRL) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1′48.299; 12. Giugliano D. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1′48.650; 13. Berger M. (FRA) Ducati 1098R 1′48.267; 14. Canepa N. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1′48.382; 15. Camier L. (GBR) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1′48.415; 16. Badovini A. (ITA) BMW S1000 RR 1′48.631; etc.

World Supersport

Sam Lowes (Bogdanka PTR Honda) secured pole at Imola after the final session was halted and restarted with just a few minutes left on the clock. Lowes’ time of 1 minute 51.436 seconds is a new track record in the class. As the final chance came for one fast lap Lowes overhauled long time leader on the time sheets Sheridan Morais (Kawasaki DeltaFin Lorenzini). Morais’ team-mate Kenan Sofuoglu pushed himself to third despite recent left knee and right foot injuries. Fourth was class rookie and Imola novice Jules Cluzel (PTR Honda) with Ten Kate Racing Products Honda rider Broc Parkes fifth. Phillip Island podium man Fabien Foret (Kawasaki Intermoto Step) took sixth place.

Times: 1. Lowes S. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 1′51.436; 2. Morais S. (RSA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′51.901; 3. Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.028; 4. Cluzel J. (FRA) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.100; 5. Parkes B. (AUS) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.167; 6. Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.264; 7. Tamburini R. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.406; 8. Roccoli M. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 1′52.743; etc.

Superstock 1000

Eddi La Marra (Barni Racing Team Italia) will start from pole in Sunday’s Superstock 1000 race after setting the fastest time in the second qualifying session on the brand-new Ducati 1199 Panigale. Lorenzo Baroni (BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet STK Team) was originally credited with second but cut the chicane and was docked that lap, promoting Markus Reiterberger (Team alpha Racing BMW) to second, with Baroni now third. The front row line-up has been completed by Baron’s team-mate Sylvain Barrier. The top Kawasaki runner was MRS team rider Loris Baz, fifth.

Times: 1. La Marra E. (ITA) Ducati 1199 Panigale 1′50.403; 2. Reiterberger M. (GER) BMW S1000 RR 1′50.734; 3. Baroni L. (ITA) BMW S1000 RR 1′50.743; 4. Barrier S. (FRA) BMW S1000 RR 1′50.819; 5. Baz L. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′51.160; 6. Savadori L. (ITA) Ducati 1199 Panigale 1′51.770; 7. Bussolotti M. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1′52.056; 8. Massei F. (ITA) Honda CBR1000RR 1′52.459; etc.

Superstock 600

Riccardo Russo (Team Italia FMI Yamaha) won the Superstock 600 event by a large margin of 2.534 seconds after 11 laps of front running action at Imola. The series regular was unchallenged at the end, with Nacho Calero Perez (Team Trasimeno Yamaha) second and closing but still well down at the flag. A distant third was EAB Ten Kate Junior Team Honda rider Michael van der Mark. As this is the first round the points positions are a mirror image of the race positions, with Russo on 25, Calero Perez on 20 and van der Mark on 16. Fourth spot in race and championship went to wildcard rider, Nicola Jr. Morrentino (Elle 2 Promotion Yamaha).

Results: 1. Russo R. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 21′04.967; 2. Calero Perez N. (ESP) Yamaha YZF R6 2.534; 3. Van der Mark M. (NED) Honda CBR600RR; 4. Morrentino N. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 10.627; 5. Egea S. (FRA) Yamaha YZF R6 11.049; 6. Chesaux B. (SUI) Honda CBR600RR 11.219; 7; Morbidelli F. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 19.334; 8. Casalotti S. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 20.789; etc.

Points (after 1 of 10 rounds): 1. Russo 25; 2. Calero Perez 20; 3. Van der Mark 16; Morrentino 13; 5. Egea 11; 6. Chesaux 10; etc.

(NEWS RELEASE)

(From left to right): Claudio Calabresi, Wholesale Executive Vice President, eni spa; Paolo Flammini, CEO Infront Motor Sports; Lamberto Dolci, Brand Identity Manager, eni spa.

Imola (Italy), 31 March 2012 – Eni, the multi-national integrated energy company becomes Title Sponsor as well as Official Supplier of the FIM Superbike World Championship. This was announced by eni and Infront Motor Sports today at a press conference in Imola. The first SBK round in Europe marks the start of this partnership, which complements eni’s previous role of technical partner alongside teams, riders and manufacturers. As a consultant to eni, the ISA International Sports Agency brokered the agreement with Infront Sports & Media, the parent company of WorldSBK promoter Infront Motor Sports.

Stephan Herth, Executive Director Summer Sports at Infront Sports & Media, said: “With eni, the FIM Superbike World Championship has won a leading international brand for its Title Sponsor role. This partnership will benefit both partners and further escalate the profile of the series, particularly as eni – as one of the biggest energy brands worldwide – is in a prime position to globally implement its sponsorship involvement.”

Paolo Flammini, CEO of Infront Motor Sports, declared: “We are particularly proud to welcome eni amongst the sponsors of the FIM Superbike World Championship in the role of Title Sponsor. I believe it is very important to underline that the collaboration between eni and Infront Motor Sports will not only be developed in Marketing aspects of the partnership, but also through the implementation of technological collaboration. Eni in fact will become the Fuel and Lubricant Supplier of Superbike, Supersport and the Superstock classes. This role will enable eni, as well as manufacturers and teams taking part in World Superbike and the other support categories, to make use of important opportunities for technological and commercial development.”

Thanks to its new status as Title Sponsor of the eni FIM Superbike World Championship, eni will be in the advantageous position to test its products in an authentic environment and exchange its experience with manufacturers present on the motorcycle market in a technological challenge of the highest level.

Operating in 79 countries around the world, the eni brand is well positioned to maximise on its Title Sponsorship on a global level. Superbike, as the leading international production-based motorcycle series, is like no other in terms of exciting, unpredictable racing and accessibility. Eni will take advantage of this opportunity to connect with consumers and fans in an emotional ambiance and activate its Title Sponsorship all round – onsite at the circuits, in petrol stations or via various online channels.

Eni will follow World Superbike and other racing competitions on eniwebracing.com, the new site dedicated to bike racing enthusiasts throughout the world.

Lucio Cecchinello and his LCR Honda team are part of the backbone of MotoGP. The Monaco-based squad is a small and tight knit team made up of people who love motorcycles and dedicate their lives to the sport. Read more.

(NEWS RELEASE)

Tour Master Saber Series 3 jackets up for grabs in AMA Get Out and Ride! trivia contest

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Throughout the month of April, hundreds of thousands of American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) members will be enjoying the thrill of motorcycling during “AMA Get Out and Ride! Month.”

Launching officially this weekend, AMA Get Out and Ride! Month highlights a different theme each week on the AMA’s Facebook page. The theme for the first week of the promotion — AMA Get Out and Ride Your Way! — taps into the individualism of motorcycling and highlights solo riding on favorite trails and twisties.

AMA members and riders are encouraged to visit the AMA Facebook page at Facebook.com/AmericanMotorcyclist to share information about places to ride, learn fun facts and to enter the AMA Get Out and Ride! Month trivia contest.

As part of the contest, the AMA is very pleased to announce that valued partner and longtime AMA supporter Helmet House will reward one resourceful (and lucky) AMA member with a Tour Master Saber Series 3 riding jacket each week during the AMA Get Out and Ride! Month trivia contest. The weekly winner will be drawn at random from correct AMA member submissions in the contest, and his or her name will be posted each Friday on both the AMA Facebook page and website at http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/GetOutAndRide.

“Motorcyclists everywhere are rolling out on the streets, tracks and trails, and we’re excited that Helmet House is on board, supporting our members doing what they love to do,” said AMA Director of Communications and Marketing Grant Parsons. “Everyone should make sure they check out the AMA Facebook page starting next Monday for the details on how to win a new Tour Master Saber Series 3 jacket.”

Distributed by Helmet House, the Tour Master Saber Series 3 riding jacket features a 600-denier Carbolex three-quarter length shell that includes a waterproof and breathable Rainguard barrier. The fully armored jacket includes a number of rider-friendly features, from zippered vents to reflective piping to a removable insulated liner to a chest map pocket. For a full list of complements, see http://www.tourmaster.com.

Now in its second year, AMA Get Out and Ride! Month encourages motorcyclists everywhere to enjoy the thrill of riding in the dirt and on the street. During AMA Get Out and Ride Your Way! week, AMA members can access some wonderful resources on the members section of the AMA website. Off-road riders can view a comprehensive list of places to ride in the AMA Trails Atlas, and street riders can learn about AMA member’s favorite roads at AMA Great Roads. Just visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Members Area to find your piece of riding nirvana during AMA Get Out and Ride Your Way! week.

AMA members are also encouraged to submit riding stories, photos and videos throughout AMA Get Out and Ride! Month to submissions@ama-cycle.org. The best stories will be featured on the AMA Get Out and Ride! Month blog.

A new feature this year is “Freedom Friday,” a special call-to-action that will be posted on the AMA Facebook page each Friday, beginning on Apr. 6, to alert motorcyclists about important issues that pose a threat to motorcycling freedoms.

For more on AMA Get Out and Ride! Month, and to find out how you can participate and win cool prizes, see http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/GetOutAndRide.

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 the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, the AMA honors the heroes and the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. For more information, please visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

(NEWS RELEASE)

AURORA, Ill. (March 30, 2012) – Following his seventh victory of the 2012 Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, season, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto is in search of history tomorrow night inside of Houston’s Reliant Stadium. Villopoto, the defending Supercross Class Champion, has the opportunity to become the first rider since Ricky Carmichael to capture back-to-back titles, while also securing the championship earlier than any rider in the 38-year history of the sport.

Villopoto became the first repeat winner in Toronto last weekend, taking over the lead on the second lap of the Supercross Class Main Event and cruising to victory. His points lead over Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey currently sits at 79 points, meaning Villopoto will need to accumulate 21 points tomorrow night to secure the title.

“The plan is the wrap it up this weekend in Houston,” said Villopoto. “I’d like to clinch the title in a domed stadium before we head back to outdoor stadiums, where weather can come into play. Houston is normally a fun track, so it could make for a great night.”

After suffering an injury that kept him out of Indianapolis and Toronto, JGRMX/Toyota/Yamaha’s James Stewart announced last night that he will return to action tomorrow night. The two-time Monster Energy Supercross Champion has two wins on the season is currently third in points.

“Yeah, it wasn’t fun to go down like that in Indy,” said Stewart. “Everybody knew I hit my head, but we found out the next day that I tweaked my knee pretty good and hurt my hand. Actually, I broke one of the small bones in my hand. I still tried to ride throughout the week and but just couldn’t do it for Toronto. That was hard to sit through; I didn’t like it at all. We talked about it for this week, and I felt a bit better so the team and I decided to come out and give it a shot in Houston. So we’ll see where we’re at. But it will feel good to be out there with the guys and to see all the fans again.”

Fellow Monster Energy Kawasaki rider Jake Weimer has improved his consistency in recent weeks, taking advantage of the absence of several championship contenders to put forth some of his strongest rides of the season. Weimer has already made the podium on two occasions and now expects nothing less.

“The last few weekends haven’t been what I wanted, but last weekend was a step in the right direction,” said Weimer. “I’m going to keep fighting and know I can be back on the box. Houston usually has really good dirt and it’s a big stadium, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Brayton has become one of the hottest riders in the Supercross Class in recent weeks. On the heels of back-to-back runner-up efforts in Indianapolis and Toronto, Brayton has finished on the podium three of the last four weeks. He’s also led 11 laps of competition over the last two main events and has the confidence to potentially grab his first career win.

“I was really happy to be back up on the podium for a second week in-a-row,” said Brayton. “Being able to lead for a few laps has been a big confidence builder for me. I really want a win, and I know that I can run up front now. Now that I have been able to start riding a little more during the week, it is really starting to come together.”

Wil Hahn joined the team in Toronto, riding for the Factory Honda effort in a substitute role for the first time this season, finishing 10th. Following an injury that left him sidelined for much of Western Regional Supercross Lites Class competition, Hahn is eager to take advantage of the opportunity to compete before he returns to action out west.

“I am happy with my finish (in Toronto),” said Hahn. “This was my first race back and my first ride on a 450. I came out to ride a solid 20 laps and will build on my finishes from here.”

GEICO Honda’s Kevin Windham posted his second podium finish in three weeks in Toronto, battling his way through the field to finish third. Surprisingly, Windham’s two recent podium efforts are his only ones in 2012 to this point, but with a pair of races close to his hometown of Centreville, Miss., over the next two stops, he’s looking to continue the upward progression.

“It was a long week of therapy for me after my crash (in Indy), but I was able to dig deep and get the GEICO Honda up on the podium,” said Windham. “The track was really tough in Toronto and my main focus was staying consistent and keeping the bike straight through the whoops.”

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Brett Metcalfe started his night in Toronto strong, posting a fourth-place result in his heat race. However, he went down while running seventh in the main event, and after having issues restarting his bike, was relegated to 18th.

“A rough weekend last weekend so I’m looking forward to getting back out there,” said Metcalfe. “I think my riding and my setup on the Yoshimura Suzuki is really good right now. Unfortunately, we had a crash last weekend but if we can get up there and get a good result, that’d be good. The stadium (in Houston) is really nice and I’ve had some good results in the past there. The dirt is really cool – it’s got a lot of moisture and traction, and that suits me really good. I’m looking forward to getting out there and hopefully putting the Yoshimura Suzuki up on the podium this weekend.”

A rider looking to take advantage of some opportunities in the premier class is Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Broc Tickle. Tickle has finished inside the top-10 for three consecutive weeks, and is now ready to break the top-five and challenge for the podium.

“The key for me is having a good day from the get go,” said Tickle. “I’m feeling better and better on the bike, and I’m looking to be inside the top-five this weekend. I’ve never raced Houston before, but have heard nothing but good things about it.”

Star/Valli Yamaha’s Bobby Kiniry celebrated his first top-10 result of the season in Toronto. Although Kiniry made it to the Supercross Class Main Event via the LCQ, he pulled out all the stops in the 20-lap race and compiled his best effort of the season so far, bringing home a well-earned ninth.

“Ultimately, we just had a good day in Toronto,” said Kiniry. “I was in the second-turn pile-up in my heat race, so I got into the main through the LCQ. I ended up getting a pretty decent start in the main and rode 20 hard laps. I put myself in a good position in the first 10, and kind of cruised those last 10 to a solid ninth. I’ve been really striving to make the top 10. I’ve been a top-10 guy all my career, and it’s been really frustrating these last few weeks, knowing I belong in the top 10. Now it feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders, so I’m really excited to move forward in Houston and keep getting up there.”

Star/Valli teammate Nico Izzi is a full-time Western Regional Supercross Lites Class contender, but has been competing in select races back east. In Toronto, Izzi started the evening strong with a fifth-place finish in his heat race, but made contact with another rider in the main event, aggravating an injury to his wrist. In an effort to remain healthy, he retired for the evening.

“I was having a great day and felt great,” said Izzi. “Then, I got tangled up with another rider and hit my wrist, and then a big rock hit my wrist and made my whole hand go numb. I pulled in because I couldn’t feel my hand and I was getting squirrelly in the ruts, and almost went down harder. I’m a little frustrated that it ended like that, but I’m healthy and we’ll be back for Houston and start plugging away again.”

In the Eastern Regional Supercross Lites Championship, GEICO Honda’s Justin Barcia captured his fifth win in six races, extending his already impressive points lead even more. The defending Eastern Regional Champion has been the class of the field throughout the season, and he’ll be looking for continued success tomorrow night in Houston, where he won last year.

“It was great to get another win in Toronto,” said Barcia. “I got my first supercross win there a few years ago, so it is really special to me. It was a great night for me, and the GEICO Honda was running great. After grabbing the holeshot and getting out front, I was able to breathe, ride my own race and check out.”

The Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki team gave it their all, and then some, in Toronto. Coming off his first Supercross Lites Class win since 2009 two weeks ago in Indy, Blake Wharton was on fire in Canada. The feisty young rider held nothing back, putting in an aggressive ride to take the final podium position in the 15-lap main event, and assume control of second in the standings coming into Houston.

“Toronto was a great race,” said Wharton. “The track was very technical with ruts, yet hard-packed, and I felt like I made the most of it. I would’ve liked to win, especially after winning (in Indy), and I want to get back on top at Houston. I was born there and I’ve spent a lot of time there, and my first supercross was in Houston.”

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Darryn Durham has shown the speed and determination to get the first Supercross Lites Class win of his career, particularly after breaking through with a heat race victory in Toronto. However, following an early crash last weekend, Durham missed out on the podium, falling a spot in the championship standings. Durham currently sits third in points, just three points out of second-place.

“I’m looking to bounce back from last weekend,” said Durham. “I felt really good and got a heat race win, but threw it away in the main event. I hope to limit my mistakes in Houston and battle for the win.”

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Blake Baggett has shown flashes of speed throughout the Eastern Regional Supercross Lites Championship. Baggett knows he can win races, so it is just a matter of being there from the start.

“I had a hard time figuring out the track last weekend,” said Baggett. “I know I have all the tools to win, so it’s just a matter of laying down 15 solid laps like I know I can. I rode almost every day this week and am ready to be up front Saturday night in Houston.”

Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen was eager to claim his first win of the 2012 season in Toronto, but was forced to battle a case of the flu. The German rider found himself up front early in the main event, but fell to second after an aggressive move from Barcia. Once in second, Roczen solidified himself in the position and brought home a solid runner-up effort, surprising even himself.

“I honestly didn’t expect to be on the podium last weekend as I was sick all week and had to sit out the first practice session,” said Roczen. “But, I just dug deep in the main and rode pretty good to finish in second. I’m slowly getting healthier and confident I can rise to the occasion again and be on the podium in Houston.”

Tune into the enhanced exclusive weekly video content from SupercrossLIVE! during the entire 2012 season on SupercrossOnline.com, the Official Website of Monster Energy Supercross.

Weekly Supercross LIVE! Video Content Schedule

The Official Supercross LIVE! Pre-Show Race Days at 11 AM Local Race Time
Behind the Scenes with Supercross LIVE! All Day on Race Days
2 Minutes on the Track Race Days at 3:30 & 5:30 PM Local Race Time
And on the Podium Tonight Following Each Round’s Main Events
The Official Supercross LIVE! Post-Show Saturday Nights at Each Round
Toyota Tailgate Talk Wednesdays at 5 PM ET
After The Checkered Flag Thursdays at 5PM ET

For more information on the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, please log on to www.SupercrossOnline.com, the official website of Monster Energy Supercross. For all media requests, please contact Denny Hartwig dhartwig@feldinc.com or 630-566-6305. To follow Monster Energy Supercross on Facebook and Twitter, log on to http://www.facebook.com/supercrosslive and http://twitter.com/supercrosslive.

About Feld Motor Sports®
Feld Motor Sports®, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Nuclear Cowboyz®, and IHRA® Nitro Jam®. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment. For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

(NEWS RELEASE)

A Powerful Dirt Bike Driveline Duo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunstar's new 520 MXR1 Works chain and Triplestar aluminum sprockets are the dynamic duo of motocross and off-road drive systems.

FRANKLIN, Ohio (March 30, 2012) — Sunstar’s new 520 MXR1 Works chain and Triplestar aluminum sprockets are the dynamic duo of motocross and off-road drive systems. Using the latest advancements in metallurgy and manufacturing, they offer the ultimate in high performance and durability, at affordable prices.

From 125cc two-stroke motocrossers to open-class desert sleds, the 520 MXR1 chain efficiently delivers every bit of dirt-pounding power through a tough, non-o-ring design. All of its components are heat treated to produce a tensile strength rating of 8,970 lbs. The Works’ burly construction mates 1.8mm-thick inner plates, 2mm outer plates and a clip-type connecting link to ultra hard, oversize, 17.7mm pins for unbeatable durability. Only 2.99 lbs. for 100 links, this lightweight drive chain comes in gold and is available in pre-cut lengths of 116 and 120 links.

Sunstar’s complementary Triplestar aluminum rear sprockets are the longest-lasting, lightweight sprockets available for motocross and off-road riding. They are carved from the highest quality, aerospace-grade, 7075 T-6 aluminum. The standard color is finished with an extra thick, hard-anodized coating for added durability, which gives it up to a 15% increase in life expectancy over sprockets that are not anodized. Strategically placed, computer-designed weight-reduction holes give the Triplestars class-leading lightness and stability. For smooth, efficient power transfer, their exclusive tooth-valley design provides up to 50% more chain contact area than competitors’ sprockets. Sunstar’s premium sprockets are now available in 43 to 55 teeth sizes in the standard, hard-anodized version; sprockets finished in a handsome, black-anodized color option come in 48- to 52-tooth sizes.

This dynamic drivetrain duo is an unbeatable combination–whether attacking motocross tracks, flying across the desert or threading narrow trails.

For more information on Sunstar sprockets and drive chains, as well as a streamlined shopping experience, visit Sunstar-MC.com. Additional company-related news can be found in its Facebook and Twitter postings.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Company: Sunstar Engineering Americas

Product Name: 520 MXR1 Works chain

Retail Price: $97.95

Defining Features:

Heat-treated components produce a tensile strength rating of 8,970 lbs.
1.80mm-thick inner plates and 2.0mm outer plates
Clip-type connecting link
Oversize, 17.70mm pins
Only 2.99 lbs. for 100 links
Pre-cut lengths of 116 and 120 links

Product Name: Triplestar Aluminum Sprocket

Retail Price: $65.95

Defining Features:

Made from the highest quality, aerospace-grade, 7075 T-6 aluminum
Finished with an extra-thick, hard-anodized coating which offers a 15% increase in life expectancy
Also available in a black-anodized finish
Computer-designed weight-reduction holes
Exclusive tooth-valley design provides up to 50% more chain contact area than competitors’ sprockets
Color & Sizes: Standard, hard-anodized version: 43 to 55 teeth; black-anodized option: 48 to 52 teeth
Availability: North America’s leading distributors and at Sunstar-MC.com

Sunstar Website: Sunstar-MC.com

Facebook Page: Facebook.com/SunstarEA

Twitter Feed: Twitter.com/SunstarEA

Sunstar eMail Address: Sales@Sunstar-MC.com

Sunstar Mailing Address: 700 Watkins Glen Dr., Franklin, OH 45005

Sunstar Phone Number: 937-743-9049

(NEWS RELEASE)

Jessica Patterson

CORONA, CA (March 30, 2012) – Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki Yoshimura Bel Ray One Industries Losi is pleased to announce the signing of Jessica Patterson as their newest addition to its stable of talented riders. The 28-year old Tallahassee native will compete for the 2012 Women’s Motocross Championship aboard her #2 Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki RM-Z250.

“The team is very excited that the opportunity has been presented to us,” said Team Manager, Dave Gowland. “We didn’t even realize that Jessica didn’t have a ride and we were really quite surprised. Once we had a chance to speak we became very excited – not just me but the entire team. I think this really rounds out our efforts and we look forward to Jessica competing on our bike and being apart of team for the rest of the season and beyond.”

Patterson, a six-time Women’s Pro Motocross Champion, will round out an already potent Rockstar Energy Racing team including riders Blake Wharton, Martin Davalos, Hunter Hewitt and Jason Anderson.

I’m very excited to be part of the Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki team,” said Patterson. “The bike is amazing and I’ve already had a lot of fun on it. I want to thank the team and sponsors who made this possible and look forward to going out there and bringing them home a championship.”

Patterson’s first race with the Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki team will be the first round of the 2012 Women’s Motocross Championship at the Hangtown Motocross Classic, in Sacramento, CA on May 19th.

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(NEWS RELEASE)

Jakub Smrz (Liberty Racing Effenbert Ducati) took provisional pole position in the first qualifying session at Imola.

Imola (Italy), Friday 30 March 2012 – Jakub Smrz (Liberty Racing Effenbert Ducati) took provisional pole position in the first qualifying session at Imola, right at the very end of the day, displacing the potential Kawasaki 1-2 of Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki Racing Team) and his team-mate Tom Sykes. Smrz’s time of 1 minute 48.146 seconds was only 0.030 faster than Lascorz after a day characterized by extraordinarily close competition.

Fourth in the early rankings was the perennially competitive Max Biaggi (Aprilia Racing). Jonathan Rea (Honda World Superbike Team) had a strong Friday and ended up fifth, his fellow Briton Leon Haslam (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) sixth and best BMW rider. Carlos Checa (Althea Racing Ducati), defending his championship crown this year, was seventh in timed qualifying.

Effenbert Liberty Racing Ducati’s Sylvain Guintoli held off the push of Eugene Laverty’s Aprilia Racing works bike in eighth place, with the top ten being rounded out on day one by Leon Camier and his Crescent Fixi Suzuki. The top ten riders were covered by a remarkable 0.410 seconds, the top 15 by only 0.813 seconds.

Althea Racing’s second rider Davide Giugliano was 11th today, one place up on this morning’s fastest man Ayrton Badovini (BMW Motorrad Italia Gold Bet).

Times: 1. Smrz J. (CZE) Ducati 1098R 1′48.146; 2. Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′48.176; 3. Sykes T. (GBR) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′48.246; 4. Biaggi M. (ITA) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1′48.247; 5. Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1′48.321; 6. Haslam L. (GBR) BMW S1000 RR 1′48.328; 7. Checa C. (ESP) Ducati 1098R 1′48.375; 8. Guintoli S. (FRA) Ducati 1098R 1′48.555; 9. Laverty E. (IRL) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1′48.555; 10. Camier L. (GBR) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1′48.556; 11. Giugliano D. (ITA) Ducati 1098R��� 1′48.728; 12. Badovini A. (ITA) BMW S1000 RR 1′48.741; 13. Zanetti L. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1′48.762; 14. 33 Melandri M. (ITA) BMW S1000 RR 1′48.773; 15. Davies C. (GBR) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1′48.959; 16. Berger M. (FRA) Ducati 1098R 1′49.343; etc.�

World Supersport

Sheridan Morais (Kawasaki DeltaFin Lorenzini) made the most of his recent test experiences at Imola to post provisional pole, heading off the Bogdanka PRT Honda of Sam Lowes. Broc Parkes (Ten Kate Racing Products Honda) went top three while Kawasaki Intermoto Step rider Fabien Foret ensured that four different teams would fill the first four virtual qualifying places on Friday.

Roberto Tamburini (Team Lorini Honda) found the form that was missing for him in round one at Australia to go fifth today, while PI sensation Jules Cluzel (PTR Honda) was sixth in his first visit to Imola. Talented Russian rider Vladimir Leonov (Yakhnich Motorsport Yamaha) ended his first day seventh.

Times: 1. Morais S. (RSA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.251; 2. Lowes S. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.302; 3. Parkes B. (AUS) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.582; 4. Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.826; 5. Tamburini R. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.927; 6. Cluzel J. (FRA) Honda CBR600RR 1′53.090; 7. Leonov V. (RUS) Yamaha YZF R6 1′53.338; 8. Quarmby R. (RSA) Honda CBR600RR 1′53.631; etc.�����

Superstock 1000

Markus Reiterberger (Team Alpha Racing BMW) was top man in the first qualifying session at Imola, holding off the early push from the all-new Ducati 1199 Panigale of Eddi La Marra (Barni Racing Team Italia). Lorenzo Baroni (BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet) showed well on day one, third fastest, while Lorenzo Savadori (Barni Racing Team Italia) went fourth on the early time sheets.

Sylvain Barrier (BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet) was fifth fastest, on a good day for European machinery. The top two Kawasaki riders were Loris Baz (MRS) and Bryan Staring (Team Pedercini); sixth and seventh fastest respectively.

Times: 1. Reiterberger M. (GER) BMW S1000 RR 1′51.242; 2. La Marra E. (ITA) Ducati 1199 Panigale 1′51.648; 3. Baroni L. (ITA) BMW S1000 RR 1′51.823; 4. Savadori L. (ITA) Ducati 1199 Panigale 1′51.837; 5.� Barrier S. (FRA) BMW S1000 RR 1′52.018; 6. Baz L. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′52.551; 7. Staring B. (AUS) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1′52.591; 8. Massei F. (ITA) Honda CBR1000RR 1′52.782; etc.

Superstock 600

EAB Ten Kate Junior Team Honda rider Michael van der Mark secured the provisional top grid spot today, by only 0.188 seconds, from Team Trasimeno Yamaha’s Nacho Calero Perez. Team Italia FMI Yamaha duo Luca Vitali and Riccardo Russo were third and fourth respectively. The fastest wildcard rider on show today was Niccol� Morrentino (Elle 2 Promotion Yamaha), fifth in a vast field of 38 riders. Swiss rider Bastien Chesaux, the team-mate of van der Mark this season, was sixth quickest, some way back from the top five riders in terms of lap times.

Times: 1. Van der Mark M. (NED) Honda CBR600RR 1′54.906; 2. Calero Perez N. (ESP) Yamaha YZF R6 1′55.094; 3. Vitali L. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 1′55.324; 4. Russo R. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 1′55.366; 5. Morrentino N. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 1′55.695; 6. Chesaux B. (SUI) Honda CBR600RR 1′56.126; 7. Cocco F. (ITA)� Yamaha YZF R6 1′56.224; 8. Egea S. (FRA) Yamaha YZF R6 1′56.461

Robby Braunscheidel was trying to keep the leaders of the 1985 WERA GNF A Production Final in sight when it all went wrong. This sequence was excellently captured by the Canon A-1 of Greg Sickmeier. I believe this is the turn four area.  The same weekend Sickmeier caught one of the best crash shots ever in the same turn. In this one Braunscheidel lost control of his Yamaha FZ750 and slid at a high rate of speed towards the tire-lined wall. Fortunately he scrubbed off enough speed that he didn’t hit the wall. Robby wasn’t badly hurt, but the same couldn’t be said of his FZ. (Click on photo for larger view)

Three of Kawasaki’s top hopes for the 1971 Daytona 200 line up for a photo before the race. The riders are New Zealand’s Ginger Molloy (No. 56), Ralph White (No. 47) and Canadian Yvon Du Hamel (No. 11). Team manager Bob Hansen is in white t-shirt and pants standing between White and Du Hamel. On the far right is Rex Beauchamp, a Harley-Davidson rider. Kawasaki’s 500cc Triple, the H1R, was not the most reliable race bike. Molloy and White made it 17 laps of the 53-lap race before their H1Rs quit. Du Hamel made it 25 laps before the motor on his bike expired. Dave Smith (not pictured) managed to crack the top-10 on a Kawasaki, finishing ninth. Kawasaki found enough reliability in the bike for Du Hamel to win on the H1R later that summer at Talladega to give Kawasaki its first AMA National victory.

Three of Kawasaki’s top hopes for the 1971 Daytona 200 line up for a photo before the race. The riders are New Zealand’s Ginger Molloy (No. 56), Ralph White (No. 47) and Canadian Yvon Du Hamel (No. 11). On the far right is Rex Beauchamp, a Harley-Davidson rider. Kawasaki's team manager Bob Hansen is in white t-shirt and pants standing between White and Du Hamel. (Courtesy DIS)