Rider Files

Tim Tillman, on his No. 32 Cycle Racer-sponsored Honda CBR600F2, leads Mike Reed (No. 50 Kawasaki ZX-6) and Ken Melville (No. 43 Honda CBR600F2) in the WERA National Challenge Series Michelin 600cc Superstock race at Putnam Park Road Course in July of 1994. The race was this close throughout with Tillman holding on for the victory over Reed and Melville. Tillman took the win in spite of racing with a broken leg he suffered in a mountain bike crash.

Tim Tillman, on his No. 32 Cycle Racer-sponsored Honda CBR600F2, leads Mike Reed (No. 50 Kawasaki ZX-6) and Ken Melville (No. 43 Honda CBR600F2) in the WERA National Challenge Series Michelin 600cc Superstock race at Putnam Park Road Course in July of 1994. (Larry Lawrence photo)

(NEWS RELEASE)

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association is pleased to recognize Americade as an AMA National Convention for 2012. The AMA Premier Touring Series event will run June 4-9 in Lake George, N.Y. Attracting motorcyclists on all types of bikes, especially tourers, sport-tourers and cruisers, Americade offers some of the best riding in the country in addition to a full slate of events and entertainment.

“Americade is one of America’s grandest motorcycle vacations, and draws thousands of true motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy having a great time on two wheels,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “As a longstanding proponent of responsible, safe and quiet riding, Americade features more fun activities than any one person could possibly do in one event.”

Americade Founder Bill Dutcher said that this will be a special year because of a significant milestone being set by the event.

“Because it’s our 30th birthday, we’re rippin’ out all the stops for the best AMA National Convention ever,” he said.

Added Americade Vice President Christian Dutcher: “Americade continues to steam along, always attracting the best vendors and probably more factory demo teams than anywhere else. This year marks the return of Ducati demos, joining over a dozen other OEMs; an exciting introduction of Shoei’s new helmet demo program for their high-end lids; and a hugely successful indoor/outdoor TourExpo.

“The AMA Poker Run will have a new route this year, extending into Vermont,” he continued. “Riders can post-enter at the Lake George Holiday Inn starting Tuesday, June 5.”

In addition to all the great two-wheel camaraderie of Americade, the event features tours in the Adirondack Park and Green Mountains of Vermont. The AMA is sponsoring the Stone Bridge & Caves mini-tour, an unguided 126-mile ride that explores the natural stone bridges and caves of the region.

Americade also features motorcycle trade shows with hundreds of vendors, demo rides, bike shows, barbecues, parades, music and comedy shows, boat cruises on Lake George, museum tours, displays from nearly all the major motorcycle manufacturers and more.

For more on Americade, see www.americade.com.

Americade is just one event on the calendar of AMA sponsored, promoted and sanctioned events for 2012. For more on AMA Road Riding events see AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Riding.

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)

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (May 17, 2012) – Only a day remains until the gate drops on the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, with the FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento. The world’s best riders and teams have spent countless hours over the past two weeks, testing and dialing in their bikes for the toughest championship on the planet.

Over the course of 12 weekends this summer, riders in the premier 450 Class and highly-competitive 250 Class will do battle for 24 motos. Additionally, the world’s fastest women riders will go head-to-head for eight rounds in the Women’s Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

With a season-ending injury to reigning 450 Class Champion Ryan Villopoto, who rides for Monster Energy Kawasaki, the premier division title is up for grabs this summer. Additionally, injured TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray Honda rider Chad Reed leaves one less title contender in the field.

In their absence, Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey and new Team Yoshimura Suzuki rider, James Stewart, assume the lead roles in the division. These two former champions know what it takes to win a title in the world’s most prestigious motocross championship, but they will be challenged by a talented field of former race winners and competitors eager to leave their mark on the series.

450 Class

Monster Energy Kawasaki
With Villopoto on the sidelines, former World Motocross MX2 Champion, Tyla Rattray, will make the move into the 450 Class after three seasons in the 250 Class. Rattray is no stranger to winning in Lucas Oil Motocross and will look to take advantage of his valuable experience to become an instant challenger in the premier class.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity to ride for Monster Energy Kawasaki in the 450 Class,” said Rattray. “I wanted to ride the KX450F outdoors and feel really comfortable on it already.”

Jake Weimer’s first season in the 450 Class in 2011 is sure to pay big dividends in his sophomore campaign. Unlike last season when he entered the championship coming off an injury, Weimer is at full-strength this summer and is prepared to take his shot at the title.

“I’m looking forward to Hangtown,” said Weimer. “I finished the Supercross season strong and look forward to being on the podium (at the Nationals) as well. The goal is to be there every weekend and battle up front.”

Red Bull KTM
This season, the Austrian-based KTM team signed 2010 Champion Ryan Dungey. The relationship has proven to be a fruitful one so far, with Dungey grabbing four victories in the AMA Supercross Championship. KTM’s success at the Nationals has been limited, having never won an overall, but Dungey has the tools to bring the brand into the forefront of the premier class and add to the history he’s already made for the team this season.

“I’m looking forward to getting the (motocross) season started,” said Dungey. “I’m in a good place on the new KTM, and the team and I have laid down a lot of laps in recent weeks testing. It’s great to be back working with Roger (DeCoster) again. I have total confidence in the team he has assembled and the new KTM 450SX-F as we prepare for the season opener this weekend at Hangtown.”

Team Yoshimura Suzuki
James Stewart’s move to Suzuki has been the biggest news coming into the 2012 season, and will likely remain the most prominent storyline throughout the season. Stewart has not raced full time in Lucas Oil Motocross since his championship-winning season in 2008, when he joined Ricky Carmichael as the only other rider in history to amass a perfect season, winning all 24 motos. What the effect of Stewart’s time away from the series will have on his speed and stamina remains to be seen, but with such impressive accolades, he is widely considered to be a title threat.

“I’m really looking forward to joining the team,” said Stewart. “I’m very excited. I love the bike. Ever since I rode it from day one, I knew it was a great opportunity for me to come out and showcase my talent.”

Brett Metcalfe will compete alongside Stewart at the Suzuki rig. Following a breakthrough motocross season one year ago in which he was able to grab his first career victory on U.S. soil, Metcalfe is poised to be one of the biggest threats to Dungey and Stewart. While he experienced some ups and downs during the AMA Supercross season, Metcalfe is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to race the Nationals and potentially even learn from his successful new teammate.

Team Honda Muscle Milk
American Honda’s efforts in the 450 Class this season will be anchored by Justin Brayton, who has already established a breakthrough season thanks to a strong effort in the AMA Supercross Championship. With Trey Canard out for the year with an injury, Brayton has stepped up and now enters Lucas Oil Motocross with a lot of momentum. Brayton is a former moto winner in the 450 Class, and will look to grab that elusive first career win this summer.

Tommy Hahn will step in as a substitute for the 2012 season. Like Brayton, Hahn has tasted victory in the 450 Class, coincidentally taking the overall win at the very same race that Brayton won his lone moto, back at Steel City during the 2009 championship. Hahn has been recovering from a broken leg for most of 2012, but he’s ready to get back out on the track and take advantage of the opportunity before him.

Toyota/Yamaha/JGRMX
Davi Millsaps is coming off the best AMA Supercross season of his career, finishing second in the championship, and now he enters Lucas Oil Motocross with considerable momentum and confidence. The Joe Gibbs Racing team hasn’t seen the success it had hoped for in 2012, but Millsaps has proven to be a bright spot. JGRMX is entering its fifth season at the Nationals and Millsaps will look to add to the team’s one overall victory over that span.

Joe Gibbs Racing announced just prior to the season that Kyle Regal will campaign the summer as its second rider. Regal has proven to be an impressive motocross rider over the past few seasons, with overall podium finishes to his credit. Now, with the best opportunity of his young career ahead of him, Regal will look to build on that success.

MotoConcepts Suzuki
Mike Alessi has been one of Lucas Oil Motocross’ most consistent threats since his runner-up finish in the 2007 premier class championship. This year, Alessi enters the Nationals aboard the same bike on which he achieved some of his greatest success – a Suzuki. Alessi will campaign the summer for the well-respected MotoConcepts team and while he may not be riding a factory bike, he is sure to be a regular at the front of the field.

Team Chaparral Honda
After a year away from the brand he has identified with for most of his 450 Class career, veteran rider Andrew Short is back aboard a Honda for the 2012 season. Short is the lone rider for the new L&Mc Racing team run by a couple of the sport’s most prominent figures – Larry Brooks and Jeremy McGrath. Short has already given the team a taste of victory in 2012, grabbing his first career AMA Supercross victory just about a month ago. As arguably the most consistent rider in the premier class over the past five seasons, Short will be looking to give his team even more success this summer.

Jeff Ward Racing Kawasaki
Former champion Jeff Ward has also ventured down the path of team ownership this season. Experienced riders Josh Grant and Kyle Chisholm will lead the way for the up-and-coming team, and both riders look to be challengers in the 450 Class this season. Grant is a former overall winner in the premier class and has also had some strong rides aboard his JWR machine during the AMA Supercross season. As for Chisholm, he has been a fixture in the top 10 in the 450 Class for the past few seasons and will be looking to take a step forward this summer.

250 Class

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki
Dean Wilson enters the 2012 season as the first rider in four years to defend his 250 Class title. While he is entering the Nationals on the mend with a lingering shoulder injury, Wilson is not going to let it slow him down or prevent him to wearing the coveted No. 1 plate all season long. As the champion, all eyes will be on Wilson throughout the season as a very talented field of riders look to unseat him from his position atop the 250 Class.

“I can’t wait to get out there,” said Wilson. “I’m confident in myself and my team and we’re ready to rock the number one.”

Last season, Blake Baggett was one of the 250 Class’ breakthrough stars, garnering more overall wins than any other rider in Lucas Oil Motocross, in either division. While consistency ultimately hindered Baggett’s chance at the title, he has a full year of experience under his belt and will likely be one of his teammate’s most formidable challengers this season.

“I’ve been counting down to Hangtown for a while now,” said Baggett. “(Motocross) is where I strive, so my expectations are to be on the box and take it from there.”

In one of the most interesting moves of the season, former 250 Class champion Ivan Tedesco is making his return to the division. The 2005 title winner has not competed full time at the Nationals since the 2009 season, when he broke through for his first career win in the 450 Class. He sees the chance to race for the very same team he won his championship with as an opportunity too good to pass up and will no doubt be a rider many will have their eyes on this summer.

GEICO Honda
Perhaps no team in the series has more momentum coming into the 2012 season than GEICO Honda. After sweeping the AMA Supercross Lites Regional titles this season, the team has two of the 250 Class’ hottest riders in Justin Barcia and Eli Tomac, and it is ready for the Nationals.

Barcia is entering his final season in the division and while his success in Lucas Oil Motocross has been mixed, he has shown tremendous growth this year. He gained valuable experience as a part-time competitor in the 450 Class last season and will no doubt look to use it to his advantage this summer.

“I’m looking forward to it definitely,” said Barcia. “I’m glad to be completely healthy going into (the) motocross season because that hasn’t happened in a while. Myself and the rest of the team had such a good year in Supercross and we want to be able to back it up during the (Nationals). We want to show everyone that we’re all-around riders.”

Tomac knows how to win in Lucas Oil Motocross, making history two seasons ago by becoming the first rider in history to win his professional debut. While he didn’t have the season he had hoped for last summer, Tomac has also shown considerable growth as a rider.

“I’m very much looking forward to Hangtown,” said Tomac. “I got a win there in 2010 in my first race as a pro. Last year wasn’t as good, but it was still a fourth-place finish. I think after the success the team had in Supercross, we’re all going to be dialed in right from the start. It’s going to be a really fun (motocross) season.”

Justin Bogle burst onto the Lucas Oil Motocross scene in the late stages of the 2011 season. While 2012 will officially be his rookie season, Bogle has already gone head-to-head against the best riders in the 250 Class and believes he can challenge for the podium consistently.

Wil Hahn rounds out a talented group of riders at GEICO Honda. While he has had to battle through some injuries this season, Hahn is back at full health and ready take on the Nationals with a team that is on the rise.

Red Bull KTM
The world-champion tandem of Marvin Musquin and Ken Roczen make KTM a major threat this season in the 250 Class. Between them, this duo has captured the last three World Motocross MX2 Championships and both riders are looking to achieve the same success on U.S. soil.

Musquin enters his second Lucas Oil Motocross season and prior to an injury last summer, he looked to be a contender. While he doesn’t have as much experience as he would have hoped coming into a second season, Musquin knows how to run at the front of the field.

“There are a lot of good riders here in the U.S., so I don’t expect the 250 Class Championship to be at all easy,” said Musquin. “However, I’ve had a lot of success racing motocross home in Europe and won two world titles prior to coming to America last year, so I will draw on that experience to perform my best each week.”

As the youngest rider in all of the series, Roczen will generate a lot of attention. He has shown incredible speed for such a young age, but he has never gone head-to-head with the world’s best 250 Class riders in Lucas Oil Motocross. His rookie season will be one to watch as he aims to claim a World Championship and National Championship, back-to-back.

“I’m super excited for the motocross season,” said Roczen. “I think this will be my series to shine in because I love (the) racing. The longer, sweeping tracks are more my style and I love going fast. Supercross has tight tracks with big jumps, whereas motocross tracks are longer and faster. After winning the World Championship in Europe last year, I made the move to America to race fulltime so this will be my first season racing motocross in the U.S. I’m really excited and think I will do well in the 250 Class.”

Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki
So far, the 2012 season has shown a surge in competitiveness for the Rockstar Suzuki team. With perennial front-runner Blake Wharton leading the way, this team is looking for big things this summer.

Wharton missed the 2011 season due to injury, but the year off has proven to be beneficial. Wharton took a win during the AMA Supercross season and is no doubt looking for similar success at the Nationals.

Veteran Martin Davalos picked up the pace towards the end of his AMA Supercross campaign and is looking to carry it into a strong summer. While he’s still searching for his first career win, Davalos knows better than anyone on the team how to run up front and will look to show that.

Following a rookie season where he learned the highs and lows of the sport, sophomore rider Jason Anderson possesses a much greater confidence this season, and it’s showed. Anderson is looking to turn some heads in 2012 and could be one of the riders to watch this season.

Hunter Hewitt has also experienced some strong results this season, taking advantage of the experience and success of his teammates to improve his confidence as well. He’s in the midst of one of his best years and hopes it will continue into the summer.

Star/Valli Yamaha
Veteran rider Kyle Cunningham will carry the flag for the Star/Valli Yamaha team in the 250 Class this summer. Cunningham grabbed solid results last season and while he hasn’t had the season he’d hoped for to this point in 2012, he’ll look to turn things around at the Nationals.

Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda
The Troy Lee Designs team has been hit hard by injuries coming into the 2012 season and as a result, will enlist the services of veteran rider Billy Laninovich to get the ball rolling this summer. Laninovich has the experience to run up front and will look to carry the flag high for the team.

WMX Class

The Women’s Motocross Championship is shaping up to once again be a showdown between rivals Ashley Fiolek and Jessica Patterson. Fiolek captured her third title in four years last summer and will carry the No. 1 plate for Team Honda Muscle Milk. Fiolek, no doubt, has what it takes to win, but she will be forced to defend her crown against a determined Patterson, who joins the Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki team this season.

Also looking to challenge this duo is fellow veteran Tarah Gieger, who will once again compete for Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda, along with Team Honda Muscle Milk’s newest rider Sayaka Kaneshiro. Additionally, stalwarts like Mariana Balbi, Jacqueline Strong and Vicki Golden will also be in the mix.

Television coverage for Saturday’s FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic begins with the return of live coverage of the opening motos for both the 450 and 250 Classes on FUEL TV as well as online at AlliSports.com, beginning at 4 p.m. EST. Final moto coverage of both classes can be seen via same-day coverage on NBC Sports Network at 12:30 a.m. EST.

Tickets for all 12 rounds of the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship can be found at www.allisports.com.

For additional information please visit AlliSports.com/motocross also, “like” the American Motocross Facebook page, “follow” @AmericanMX on Twitter and Instagram for exclusive content and information on the latest Lucas Oil Motocross news and developments.

For media information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please contact MX Sports Pro Racing via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. 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 Sports
Alli Sports, is an action sports lifestyle brand whose mission is to connect fans with athletes and brands through best in class events, media, and authentic branded products. Alli Sports includes: the Dew Tour, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship and the Red Bull Signature Series; Alli Media, which creates, produces, and distributes original content; Alli RideShop, an online retailer carrying top skate and BMX consumer products; and Alli MotoShop an online retailer carrying top moto consumer products. Alli Sports is owned by NBC Sports. More information can be found at www.allisports.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.

NBC Sports Group
When the Comcast-NBCUniversal transaction was completed in January of 2011, the broad reach and storied history of NBC Sports united with Comcast’s 24/7 ability to super-serve fans to create the NBC Sports Group. The new sports media company consists of an array of broadcast television, cable television and digital sports assets, including NBC Sports & Olympics, Golf Channel, Versus, 11 SportNets (regional sports networks) and their respective websites. Together, the new combined assets of the NBC Sports Group possess an unparalleled collection of television rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the Olympics, NFL, NHL, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, USGA, IndyCar, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, Wimbledon, French Open, Tour de France and Kentucky Derby.

FUEL TV
FUEL TV is the only cable and satellite television network that features the exciting world of adrenaline and thrill-seeking sports including UFC, surfing, motocross, snowboarding and more. This new generation of sports provides a rich landscape of some of the most vibrant and action-packed television entertainment in the world. With more hours of UFC coverage than any other network, FUEL TV is the place to be for live fights, weigh-ins, prelims, pre- and post-fight coverage, specials and events you won’t see anywhere else. See why adrenaline sports fans call FUEL TV the channel they never turn off. FUEL TV, part of FOX Sports Media Group, was launched July 1, 2003 and is seen in more than 36 million U.S. homes and can be accessed by broadband, mobile devices and other digital platforms such as iTunes®. FUEL TV programming is available in more than 50 countries around the world with 24/7 channels operating in Australia and Europe. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4 FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.

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 Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

(NEWS RELEASE)

FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic
Prairie City OHV Park – Rancho Cordova, Calif., May 19

• Hangtown enters its 44^th year as a motocross national. It is the oldest race on the schedule.
• A total of seven different countries will be represented on the starting gate across both the 250 and 450 Classes on Saturday afternoon.
• James Stewart has competed in just one Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship race since winning the 450 Class title in 2008 – the 2010 Unadilla National.
• Ryan Dungey will look to give KTM its first overall win in the 450 Class this season.
• Stewart and Dungey will each look to become the first multiple title winner since Ricky Carmichael, who retired following the 2007 season.
• Ivan Tedesco won the 2005 championship in the 250 Class for Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki. Six seasons later, he returns to the division as a member of the same team. Tedesco has not competed in the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship full time since the 2009 season.
• Dean Wilson is the first 250 Class Champion to defend his title since Ryan Villopoto in 2008.
• At 18 years of age, Ken Roczen is the youngest rider in the series.

450 Class Stats

• The first Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship race was held at Hangtown on April 8, 1974, with Bill Grossi winning on a Honda.
• This will be the 39^th time the gate will drop for the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship at Hangtown.
• Hangtown wins by brand:

Honda: 16
Kawasaki: 8
Suzuki: 6
Yamaha: 6
Can-Am: 1
Husqvarna: 1

• Last win at Hangtown by brand:

Honda: 2011
Kawasaki: 2010
Suzuki: 2009
Yamaha: 2000

• First time winners at Hangtown: Mike Alessi – 2009 (Suzuki); James Stewart Jr. – 2006 (Kawasaki); David Vuillemin – 2000 (Yamaha); Kevin Windham – 1999 (Honda); Rick Johnson – 1992 (Yamaha); John Dowd – 1991 (Honda); Jeff Stanton – 1989 (Honda); Alan King – 1984 (Honda); Kent Howerton – 1980 (Suzuki); Marty Smith – 1977 (Honda); Bill Grossi – 1974 (Honda).
• Ricky Carmichael is the winningest rider at Hangtown with five victories.
• James Stewart earned his first 450 Class victory at Hangtown in 2006.
• Yamaha has not won at Hangtown since 2000 when David Vuillemin earned his inaugural 450 Class victory.
• Chad Reed ended a six-year drought for Honda at Hangtown last season.
• From 2002 to 2008, only two riders won at Hangtown: Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart. Carmichael captured four straight victories from 2002-2005. Since then, only two additional riders have won: Mike Alessi and Chad Reed.
• Mike Alessi’s first-career victory in both the 250 Class and 450 Class came at Hangtown.

250 Class Stats

• The first Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship 250 Class race was held April 8, 1974, with Marty Smith winning on a Honda.
• This will be the 39^th time the gate will drop for a Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship 250 Class race at Hangtown.
• Hangtown wins by brand:

Kawasaki: 11
Suzuki: 11
Honda: 8
Yamaha: 5
KTM: 3

• Last win by brand at Hangtown:

Kawasaki: 2011
Honda: 2010
KTM: 2006
Suzuki: 1994
Yamaha: 1991

• First time winners at Glen Helen: Blake Baggett – 2011 (Kawasaki); Eli Tomac – 2010 (Honda); Christophe Pourcel – 2009 (Kawasaki); Mike Alessi – 2006 (KTM); Damon Huffman – 1994 (Suzuki); Jeremy McGrath – 1993 (Honda); Steve Lamson – 1992 (Honda); Doug Henry – 1991 (Yamaha); Brian Myerscough – 1979 (Suzuki); Bob Hannah – 1976 (Yamaha); and Marty Smith – 1974 (Honda).
• Steve Lamson and Mark Barnett are the winningest 250 Class riders at Hangtown with four wins apiece. Barnett won his four races consecutively.
• For the last three seasons, the Hangtown was the site of its winner’s first career win – Blake Baggett, Eli Tomac and Christophe Pourcel.
• Eli Tomac made history in 2010 by becoming the first rider in history to win his professional debut.
• Jeremy McGrath earned his first professional motocross victory at Hangtown in 1993.
• Yamaha and Suzuki have gone winless at Hangtown for a combined 31 years. Damon Huffman gave Suzuki its last Hangtown win in 1994. Doug Henry won for Yamaha in 1991.

Past Winners

HANGTOWN MOTOCROSS CLASSIC
Rancho Cordova, Calif.

450 Class
Date / Winner / Hometown / Machine
May 21, 2011 / Chad Reed, Australia / Honda
May 22, 2010 / Chad Reed, Australia / Kawasaki
May 30, 2009 / Mike Alessi, Victorville, CA / Suzuki
June 1, 2008 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 20, 2007 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Suzuki
May 21, 2006 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 22, 2005 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Suzuki
May 16, 2004 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Honda
May 18, 2003 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Honda
May 19, 2002 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Honda
May 20, 2001 / Sebastien Tortelli, France / Honda
May 21, 2000 / David Vuillemin, France / Yamaha
May 16, 1999 / Kevin Windham, Ethel, LA / Honda
May 17, 1998 / Jeremy McGrath, Menifee, CA / Yamaha
May 4, 1997 / Greg Albertyn, South Africa / Suzuki
May 5, 1996 / Jeremy McGrath, Menifee, CA / Honda
May 7, 1995 / Mike Kiedrowski, Canyon Country, CA / Kawasaki
May 1, 1994 / Mike Kiedrowski, Canyon Country, CA / Kawasaki
June 20, 1993 / Mike Kiedrowski, Canyon Country, CA / Kawasaki
June 14, 1992 / Damon Bradshaw, Mooresville, NC / Yamaha
March 24, 1991 / John Dowd, Chicopee, MA / Honda
April 1, 1990 / Jeff Ward, San Juan Capistrano, CA / Kawasaki
April 23, 1989 / Jeff Stanton, Sherwood, MI / Honda
March 27, 1988 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Honda
March 22, 1987 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Honda
April 6, 1986 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Honda
March 31, 1985 / Jeff Ward, Mission Viejo, CA / Kawasaki
April 8, 1984 / Alan King, Troy, MI / Honda
March 27, 1983 / Bob Hannah, Carson City, NV / Honda
March 28, 1982 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Yamaha
March 29, 1981 / Kent Howerton, San Antonio, TX / Suzuki
March 23, 1980 / Kent Howerton, San Antonio, TX / Suzuki
March 25, 1979 / Bob Hannah, Carson City, NV / Yamaha
April 9, 1978 / Bob Hannah, Carson City, NV / Yamaha
April 10, 1977 / Marty Smith, San Diego, CA / Honda
April 4, 1976 / Jim Ellis, East Hampton, CT / Can-Am
April 6, 1975 / Kent Howerton, San Antonio, TX / Husqvarna
April 8, 1974 / Bill Grossi, Santa Cruz, CA / Honda

250 Class
Date / Winner, Hometown / Machine
May 21, 2011 / Blake Baggett, Cortez, Colo. / Kawasaki
May 22, 2010 / Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo. / Honda
May 30, 2009 / Christophe Pourcel, France / Kawasaki
June 1, 2008 / Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, WA / Kawasaki
May 20, 2007 / Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, WA / Kawasaki
May 21, 2006 / Mike Alessi, Victorville, CA / KTM
May 22, 2005 / Grant Langston, South Africa / Kawasaki
May 16, 2004 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 18, 2003 / Ryan Hughes, Temecula, CA / KTM
May 19, 2002 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 20, 2001 / Grant Langston, South Africa / KTM
May 21, 2000 / Steve Lamson, Murrieta, CA / Honda
May 16, 1999 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Kawasaki
May 17, 1998 / Steve Lamson, Riverside, CA / Honda
May 4, 1997 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Kawasaki
May 5, 1996 / Steve Lamson, Pollock Pines, CA / Honda
May 7, 1995 / Ryan Hughes, Escondido, CA / Kawasaki
May 1, 1994 / Damon Huffman, Saugus, CA / Suzuki
June 20, 1993 / Jeremy McGrath, Murrieta, CA / Honda
June 14, 1992 / Steve Lamson, Pollock Pines, CA / Honda
March 24, 1991 / Doug Henry, Fairfield, CT / Yamaha
April 1, 1990 / Guy Cooper, Stillwater, OK / Suzuki
April 23, 1989 / Damon Bradshaw, Charlotte, NC / Yamaha
March 28, 1988 / Guy Cooper, Stillwater, OK / Suzuki
March 22, 1987 / George Holland, Kerman, CA / Suzuki
April 6, 1986 / Erik Kehoe, Granada Hills, CA / Suzuki
March 31, 1985 / Ron Lechien, El Cajon, CA / Honda
April 8, 1984 / Jeff Ward, Mission Viejo, CA / Kawasaki
March 27, 1983 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 28, 1982 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 29, 1981 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 23, 1980 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 25, 1979 / Brian Myerscough, Calimesa, CA / Suzuki
April 9, 1978 / Broc Glover, El Cajon, CA / Yamaha
April 10, 1977 / Danny LaPorte, Yucca Valley, CA / Suzuki
April 4, 1976 / Bob Hannah, Whittier, CA / Yamaha
April 6, 1975 / Tim Hart, Torrance, CA / Yamaha
April 8, 1974 / Marty Smith, San Diego, CA / Honda

500cc Motocross
Date / Winner, Hometown / Machine
March 31, 1985 / Broc Glover, El Cajon, CA / Yamaha
April 8, 1984 / David Bailey, Axton, VA / Honda
March 27, 1983 / Danny Chandler, Foresthill, CA / Honda

2011 Final Stats

450 Class Point Standings – After 12 of 12 rounds
1. Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki – 526
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki – 514
3. Chad Reed, Kurri Kurri, Australia, Honda – 429
4. Brett Metcalfe, Mannum, Australia, Suzuki – 374
5. Mike Alessi, Victorville, Calif., KTM – 304
6. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki – 271
7. Justin Brayton, Fort Dodge, Iowa, Yamaha – 218
8. Andrew Short, Colorado Springs, Colo., KTM – 196
9. Kevin Windham, Baton Rouge, La., Honda – 193
10. Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha – 173

Overall Wins
Chad Reed – 4
Ryan Dungey – 4
Ryan Villopoto – 3
Brett Metcalfe – 1

Moto Wins
Ryan Villopoto – 10
Chad Reed – 7
Ryan Dungey – 6
Justin Barcia – 1

Overall Wins by Brand
Suzuki – 5
Honda – 4
Kawasaki – 3

Laps Led (total)
Ryan Villopoto – 144
Ryan Dungey – 92
Chad Reed – 75
Justin Barcia – 37
Mike Alessi – 15
Christian Craig – 10
Davi Millsaps – 6
Kevin Windham – 6
Total: 369

Holeshot Winners (total)
Ryan Villopoto – 5
Ryan Dungey – 4
Chad Reed – 4
Mike Alessi – 3
Christian Craig – 2
Jake Weimer – 2
Justin Barcia – 1
Justin Brayton – 1
Brett Metcalfe – 1
Kevin Windham – 1

250 Class Point Standings – After 12 of 12 rounds
1. Dean Wilson, Glasgow, Scotland, Kawasaki – 538
2. Tyla Rattray, Durban, South Africa, Kawasaki – 472
3. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki – 469
4. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda – 314
5. Kyle Cunningham, Aledo, Texas, Yamaha – 311
6. Gareth Swanepoel, Johannesburg, South Africa, Yamaha – 300
7. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki – 253
8. Alex Martin, Millville, Minn., Honda – 213
9. Martin Davalos, Quito, Ecuador, Suzuki – 213
10. Darryn Durham, Butler, Pa., Honda – 195

Overall Wins
Blake Baggett – 5
Tyla Rattray – 4
Dean Wilson – 3

Moto Wins
Dean Wilson – 11
Blake Baggett – 8
Tyla Rattray – 4
Gareth Swanepoel – 1

Overall Wins by Brand
Kawasaki – 12

Laps Led (total)
Dean Wilson – 150
Blake Baggett – 79
Tyla Rattray – 66
Justin Barcia – 24
Gareth Swanepoel – 13
Darryn Durham – 11
Justin Bogle – 10
Ryan Sipes – 9
Eli Tomac – 9
Alex Martin – 3
Jimmy DeCotis – 2
Kyle Cunningham – 1
Nico Izzi – 1
Total: 363

Holeshot Winners (total)
Justin Barcia – 7
Dean Wilson – 4
Kyle Cunningham – 2
Jimmy DeCotis – 2
Tyla Rattray – 2
Gannon Audette – 1
Blake Baggett – 1
Justin Bogle – 1
Wil Hahn – 1
Marvin Musquin – 1
Malcolm Stewart – 1
Gareth Swanepoel – 1

For media information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please contact MX Sports Pro Racing via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. 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 Sports
Alli Sports, is an action sports lifestyle brand whose mission is to connect fans with athletes and brands through best in class events, media, and authentic branded products. Alli Sports includes: the Dew Tour, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship and the Red Bull Signature Series; Alli Media, which creates, produces, and distributes original content; Alli RideShop, an online retailer carrying top skate and BMX consumer products; and Alli MotoShop an online retailer carrying top moto consumer products. Alli Sports is owned by NBC Sports. More information can be found at www.allisports.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.

NBC Sports Group
When the Comcast-NBCUniversal transaction was completed in January of 2011, the broad reach and storied history of NBC Sports united with Comcast’s 24/7 ability to super-serve fans to create the NBC Sports Group. The new sports media company consists of an array of broadcast television, cable television and digital sports assets, including NBC Sports & Olympics, Golf Channel, Versus, 11 SportNets (regional sports networks) and their respective websites. Together, the new combined assets of the NBC Sports Group possess an unparalleled collection of television rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the Olympics, NFL, NHL, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, USGA, IndyCar, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, Wimbledon, French Open, Tour de France and Kentucky Derby.

FUEL TV
FUEL TV is the only cable and satellite television network that features the exciting world of adrenaline and thrill-seeking sports including UFC, surfing, motocross, snowboarding and more. This new generation of sports provides a rich landscape of some of the most vibrant and action-packed television entertainment in the world. With more hours of UFC coverage than any other network, FUEL TV is the place to be for live fights, weigh-ins, prelims, pre- and post-fight coverage, specials and events you won’t see anywhere else. See why adrenaline sports fans call FUEL TV the channel they never turn off. FUEL TV, part of FOX Sports Media Group, was launched July 1, 2003 and is seen in more than 36 million U.S. homes and can be accessed by broadband, mobile devices and other digital platforms such as iTunes®. FUEL TV programming is available in more than 50 countries around the world with 24/7 channels operating in Australia and Europe. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4 FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.

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 Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

(NEWS RELEASE)

Two-time MotoGP World Champion retiring after this season

INDIANAPOLIS, Thursday, May 17, 2012 – Red Bull Indianapolis GP fans can see one of the final races of the illustrious motorcycle racing career of two-time MotoGP World Champion Casey Stoner on Aug. 17-19 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, as Stoner announced May 17 that he will retire after the 2012 season.

Stoner, 26, from Australia, is the reigning World Champion with the Repsol Honda Team. He also won the championship in 2007 with the Ducati Team and is one of only five riders to win titles with different manufacturers since the World Championship started in 1949.

“After a long time thinking, a lot of time talking with my family and my wife, this has been coming for a couple of years now, but at the end of this 2012 season I will be not racing in the 2013 championship,” Stoner said. “I will be finishing my career at the end of this season in MotoGP and go forward in different things in my life.

“After so many years of doing this sport which I love, and which myself and my family made so many sacrifices for, after so many years of trying to get to where we have gotten to at this point, this sport has changed a lot, and it has changed to the point where I am not enjoying it. I don’t have the passion for it, and so at this time, it’s better if I retire now.”

Stoner won the 2011 Red Bull Indianapolis GP at IMS en route to the championship. He leads the 2012 World Championship by one point over 2010 World Champion Jorge Lorenzo, 66-65, entering the Grand Prix of France this weekend at Le Mans.

Stoner has won 35 races since his premier-class debut in 2006.

***

2012 tickets: Tickets for the 2012 Red Bull Indianapolis GP MotoGP event, scheduled for Aug. 17-19 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, are on sale now at www.imstix.com , by calling (800) 822-INDY or (317) 492-6700 or by visiting the IMS Ticket Office at the IMS Administration Building at the corner of Georgetown Road and 16th Street between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday-Friday.

Tickets for groups of 20 or more also are on sale. Contact the IMS Group Sales Department at (866) 221-8775 for more information.

Information on camping at IMS during the Red Bull Indianapolis GP is available at www.imstix.com. Hotel package information can be found at visitindy.com/redbull.

(NEWS RELEASE)

Masontown, WV (May 17, 2012) – Preston County is no stranger to hosting large events. However, instead of a music festival, Marvin’s Mountain Top in Masontown, W. Va., will become the mecca of motorsports. Over 1200 GNCC Racers and their families are set to come into the community Memorial Day Weekend, May 26 and 27, for Round 7 of the 2012 Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series.

Masontown’s Mountaineer Run GNCC will bring the world’s top talent in off-road motorcycle and ATV racing to the all-new facility. Professional racers will include top international talent, such as U.S. National Champions and World Champions from Europe, Australia and New Zealand, while hosting a full slate of classes for amateur racers all weekend long.

Top-level racing competition isn’t the only positive aspect the Can-Am GNCC Series plans to bring to the community. As a part of GNCC Racing’s “Help Students Stay on the Right Track Program,” professional athletes travel to local schools and afternoon programs to speak to students about the importance of positive living. Topics include: goal setting, anti-bullying, perseverance and motorcycle and ATV safety. The group will head to the Mountaineer Boys and Girls Club in Morgantown on Friday, May 25, as one stop on their positive living tour.

“We are pretty fortunate as professional racers to be able to do nothing but train and race for a living,” said Pro ATV racer Adam McGill, Clarksburg. “It’s always fun to have a race close to home like this and be able to hang out with the kids and share some of our experiences in a positive way.”

The inaugural Mountaineer Run GNCC is expected to draw several thousand spectators to the Marvin’s Mountain Top facility, in addition to the approximate 1200 racers, without the previous burden to community residents.

The event will ultimately bring an estimated $3 million in revenue to the surrounding communities through lodging, restaurants and fuel needs. GNCC families are dedicated to the sport of off-road racing and they strive to spend local dollars in order to continue attending premiere racing events in the communities that host GNCC events.

Four-wheeled ATVs will compete throughout the day on Saturday, May 26, and dirt bikes will race on Sunday, May 27. Local riders are invited to race the event, as GNCC racing offers classes for riders of all skill and experience levels. The amateur racer entry fee is $40 and riders can sign up at the track.

Spectator passes run $15 for the full weekend, with pro pit access and pro autographs at no additional charge. On both Saturday and Sunday, youth riders race at 8 a.m., amateur riders race at 10 a.m., and the top amateurs and the pros race at 1 p.m.

To get to the track, take I-68 Morgantown WV, Sabraton exit, take RT.7 east approx. 11 miles to Masontown, WV – make left at main pharmacy – follow signs 3 miles to Marvin’s Mountain Top.

For more information, visit the official series website at www.GNCCRacing.com or call 304-284-0084.

About GNCC Racing:
The Can-Am Grand National Cross Country series is America’s premier off-road racing series. Founded in 1975, the 13-round championship is produced exclusively by Racer Productions. Cross-country racing is one of the most physically demanding sports in the world. The grueling three-hour GNCC races lead as many as 1,500 riders through tracks ranging in length from ten to 12 miles. With varied terrain, including hills, woods, mud, dirt, rocks and motocross sections, GNCC events are tests of both survival and speed and draw talent from all over the U.S., Europe, Australia and New Zealand. GNCC Racing is televised and airs every week on NBC Sports Network. For more information, please visit www.gnccracing.com.

Former Santa Fe Short Track AMA Grand National winner Robert E. Lee is still riding today and sometimes blogs about it. Read more.

Blackhawk Racing was one of the leading endurance teams in AMA road racing during the 1993 season. This photo is from the EBC Brakes 3-Hour Team Challenge at Road America in June ‘93. Brian Kohl and Shawn Higbee (pictured) teamed to race the Blackhawk Racing Yamaha FZR1000. The squad went on to finish fifth in the final standings of the 1993 GTO class of the AMA endurance series.

Blackhawk Racing was one of the leading endurance teams in road racing in 1993. This photo is from the EBC Brakes 3-Hour Team Challenge at Road America in June 1993. Brian Kohl and Shawn Higbee (pictured) teamed to race the Blackhawk Racing Yamaha FZR1000. (Larry Lawrence photo)