AMA Racer is published periodically by the American Motorcyclist Association. Copyright (c) 2010 by the American Motorcyclist Association. Printed in USA. No responsibility is assumed for loss or damage to unsolicited materials. Send story ideas and photos to AMARacer@ama-cycle.org. All submitted material becomes property of the American Motorcyclist Association. Return of special items may be arranged, but please call (614) 856-1900 before submitting. Please include your full name, AMA number and phone number with all submissions.
A New Season
Looking Ahead To The Best Racing Yet By
Joe Bromley
ON THE COVER: KTM’s David Pearson returned to the AMA Racing/Kenda National Hare & Hound Championship Series to claim the win at round two.
At the beginning of 2009, I resigned my position as a member of the AMA Board of Directors to become director of racing of the AMA. Being involved in motorcycling all my life—as a racer, a dealer, a District president, an AMA Congress representative and serving on the Board of Directors—I came into the AMA with my guns loaded. I was set on making changes that would pay off as soon as possible.
Now, a year after rolling up my sleeves, I have a new appreciation for what it takes to run a national motorsports sanctioning body.
When the AMA sold professional racing assets to focus on its core mission, one of the beneficiaries was our amateur-racing program. While professional racing had become a major resource burden on the AMA, amateur racing has always been an asset. Indeed, many of our members join primarily to compete as amateurs. The AMA recognizes this, and we continue to fulfill our responsibilities to the tens of thousands of AMA members who race.
Under the leadership of AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman, and with the full support of the Board, we have increased our dedication to amateur racing. One example is the $1 million endowment that the Board of Directors authorized in February 2009. The interest earned from that endowment exclusively funds amateur racing initiatives. Also, the Association has invested countless non-AMA Racing department resources from marketing, communications and information technology to improve our current programs and elevate amateur racing for the future.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with a staff dedicated to improving the state of amateur motorcycle racing. There’s long-time racer and AMA Congress rep Kip Bigelow, our motocross manager; Assistant Motocross Manager Heather Bowman; Off-Road Manager Chuck Weir; and Track Manager Ken Saillant. Bill Cumbow and Kevin Crowther are my deputy directors, and they help manage our efforts as the U.S. affiliate for the FIM, which include the U.S. rounds of MotoGP and World Superbike, as well as the Motocross of Nations.
Together, we’ve been working on a number of exciting developments for 2010. One area of growth is vintage racing. The Vintage Dirt Track National Championships are a 10-round series that will feature competition in period-correct vintage dirt-track machinery. Vintage racing is about celebrating our roots, and that’s what we’ve done with this new series. The rules are designed to make certain that, if they didn’t race it then, we don’t race it now.
Soon, we will apply this philosophy to national championship series in all vintage racing disciplines.
Speaking of vintage racing, this year will be our second year running the Vintage Grand Championships that are held in conjunction with AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Last year was a major effort, and AMA Racing is again looking forward to working with AMA-chartered clubs and promoters to shine an even brighter spotlight on the vintage racing community.
With all the attention levied on vintage racing, don’t think we’ll ignore those who race modern motorcycles. This year, we’re working closely with the National Hare & Hound Association to support the National Hare & Hound Championship Series. We fully expect this relationship to reap the same rewards we’ve seen with the National Enduro Promotions Group and the National Enduro Championship Series.
There’s a lot more, and I look forward to keeping you informed in AMA Racer and on the ground. Last year, I attended 84 events and expect to keep that pace this year. If you see me at an event, whether it’s a national championship or a local district race, feel free to say “hi.” I want to work with all of you to continue making amateur motorcycle racing better in America.
Joe Bromley is the AMA director of racing.
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. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rentals, transport, hotel stays and more. The AMA is everything motorcycling.
Photo: Mark Karyia.
Photo: Grogan Studios
SNAPSHOTS
Want to see more? Check out Gallery.AmericanMotorcyclist.com. Have a photograph that captures the spirit of AMA racing? Send it in, along with a few words, to AMARacer@ama-cycle.org. (And please be cool: Only submit photos for which you own the full copyright. Thanks!)
Greg Consier never let anyone tell him he didn’t have the perfect trackday bike.
Chris Foster and his riding bud found snow somewhere in Southern Arizona.
Action from Millville.
Photo: Brian Hennessy.
Kyle and Amanda Harold, Richard Harrison, Tuti Boy Tiznado, Doug McRady and Richie Harrison, after getting first in the plus-30 amateur class at the ’09 Vegas to Reno event.
to
to get his
regardless of the
and an incredible
on
Thanks
Mert Lawwill
desire
kicks
two wheels
circumstances, Jake Mccullough is digging an amateur shorttrack race at Springfield, Ill.
Big brother Victor (8) is following his younger siblings, Caesar and Vincent (both 6), around California’s Hungry Valley OHV Recreation Area.
Bill Sladek takes a break from motocrossing in the Cam Cau Ly Valley outside Da Lat, Vietnam.
Michael Herrenbruck would recommend a trackday to anyone who enjoys riding motorcycles.
Waiting to run at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Photo: Lindsey McMurren-Riggs
Clayton Archdale (No. 88) and Chase Banning on the short-track at a District 17 race in McComb, Ill.
Photo: Dave Reynolds.
VINTAGE DIRT TRACK COMES FULL CIRCLE
Real Bikes Of The Sport’s Golden Age
Vintage racing is about vintage bikes—not modern bikes wrapped in vintage bodywork. Staying true to the past is the idea behind the 2010 AMA Racing Vintage Dirt Track National Championship Series, which will recognize national champions in period-correct classes that reflect the storied history of AMA dirt-track competition.
“Much of AMA history was written on oval dirt tracks across America, from the original factory Class-A racing in the 1920s to the Class-C production-based structure that emerged shortly after,” says AMA Director of Racing Joe Bromley. “The AMA was there from the beginning, and this organization is in a unique position to lay claim to the history of this sport and give it the recognition it deserves on the national stage.
“We started that process in 2009 with the first-ever AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships, which were part of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days,” Bromley adds. “In 2010, AMA-sanctioned vintage dirt track will return to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, but
as part of the AMA Racing Vintage Dirt Track National Championship—a true national series that further elevates the heritage of our sport.”
Vintage racing expert Don Miller, owner of MetroRacing.com, is the technical adviser of the AMA Vintage Dirt Track National Championship Series. Miller worked hand-in-hand with AMA Racing to develop the class structure for the new series.
Miller says the class structure reflects all eras of dirt track’s history while avoiding nontraditional modifications that violate the spirit of a vintage meet.
“It is an honor to be part of this new venture as the recently appointed technical adviser,” Miller says. “As a vintage motorcycle enthusiast and lifetime dirt-track fanatic, I was thrilled when I was asked to help with the development of the series rules. I poured over old AMA rulebooks, competition bulletins and old photographs to make sure that this series stays true to the heritage of AMA Dirt Track Racing. This series is a great step in preserving motorcycling’s past by promoting historically correct racing in the
spirit of this first American motorcycle sport. I hope to see everyone at the races.”
Bromley adds that the new series is enjoying considerable promoter support. Promoters who are hosting rounds of the AMA Racing Vintage Dirt Track National Championship Series include Steve Nace Racing; the Orangeburg Motoplex, owned by former pro dirt tracker Ed Salley; the Square Deal Riders, the 2009 AMA Racing Club of the Year; the Waco Eagles Motorcycle Club, an AMA-chartered club since 1951; and AMA Racing.
The 2010 AMA Racing Vintage National Dirt Track Championship Series begins on Feb. 28 at the new short-track facility at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. The 10-round series includes stops in South Carolina, New York, Ohio, Illinois and Texas. Class rules and equipment regulations are available in an AMA Racing Competition Bulletin at AMARacing.com > Archived Results & Rules > AMA Racing Rules > Competition Bulletin: AMA Racing 2010 Vintage Dirt Track Classes.
Lake Whitney Rings In The Spring Early Season Motocross Event Rocks Texas
One of the biggest, baddest, highest-profile amateur motocross races of the year kicks off in a couple weeks in Whitney, Texas. Here are a few facts:
What? The 2010 AMA Thor Lake Whitney Spring Classic draws many of the country’s fastest talent and is one of the best places all year to test your skills against some uber-quick motocrossers. When? March 8-14; sign-up closes March 8 (A and A Pro Sport get until March 10).
Where? Take I-35 to Hillsboro, Texas. Exit 368A. Go 15 miles west to Whitney. Stay on Hwy. 22 for 3 miles out of Whitney to FM 2960. Turn left. Go 3.25 miles. The iron-gated WB Ranch is on the left. Looking for more details? See LakeWhitneyMX.com; or call (205) 699-8857.
Speed Demons Heat Up The Ice
First National Champions Of 2010 Crowned In Michigan
Just a few weeks into the calendar year, AMA Racing has already crowned national champions for the 2010 season. On Jan. 23, the AMA Racing Ice Race Grand Championships tore up the ice in Mount Pleasant, Mich., determining 15 champions in one of racing’s toughest disciplines.
Freezing temperatures, overcast skies and a stiff wind didn’t dampen the spirits of competitors on everything from 50cc minibikes to fire-breathing converted motocrossers to allterrain vehicles (ATVs). From the early morning heat races to the final main event late Saturday afternoon, racers attacked the track in search of the coveted AMA Racing national No. 1 plates.
To no one’s surprise, one of those plates was won by Craig Pickett. The perennial champ, who isn’t really sure how many national titles he has now (he thinks it’s just over 20), added another in this year’s 50-plus Open Studded class.
“I don’t miss the Ice Race Grand Championships for anything,” Pickett says. “No matter what, I’ll be here.”
Pickett lived up to that promise again by digging his well-worn KX500 two-stroke out of mothballs just in time for the Grand Championships. He blew up the motor on his 450cc four-stroke racebike just before the event.
“One thing I don’t have to worry about is power,” he says.
As always, Pickett was able to transfer that power from the motor to the ice, winning his heat race and the main event to add another AMA Racing No. 1 plate to his collection.
Other champions from Saturday included: Brett Boulis (401cc-505cc B Studded), Preston Conquest (50cc 4-8 Shaft Studded), Matthew Gross (65cc 6-11 Studded), Joey Crown (85cc 7-11 Studded), Dustin Hoffman (ATV Open Rubber), Jace Kessler (50cc 4-8 Chain Studded), Billy Travis (201cc-250cc B Studded), Daniel
Kujula (ATV Open Studded), Ricky Klomp (Senior 40-plus B Studded), Zachary Balough (85cc 12-15 Studded), Luke Guoan (ATV 0-330cc 2-Stroke/450cc 4-Stroke), Beau Sizemore (ATV 4-Wheel Drive Rubber), Keith O’Boyle (86cc200cc Studded) and Aaron Clare (Modern Vintage Pre 1982).
Unfortunately, there’s one thing Mother Nature dishes out that even ice racers can’t take: a thaw. On Sunday, warmer temperatures and pouring rain made the ice un-raceable, forcing the cancellation of the second day of the two-day event.
For photos from the 2010 AMA Racing Ice Race Grand Championships, see AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Gallery. For full results, see BajaAcres.com.
Your Rules Are Ready
The 2010 Rulebooks Are Here
Going to race? Then play by the rules!
AMA Racing, the Pro-Am and amateur competition arm of the AMA, has announced that the 2010 rulebooks governing competition in AMA-sanctioned events are now available.
The rulebooks are broken down by discipline, so you can grab just what you need for whatever you race. Visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com/ rulebooks to find:
• 2010 AMA Racing Rulebook
• 2010 AMA Racing Motocross-only Rulebook
• 2010 AMA Racing Track Racing-only Rulebook
• 2010 AMA Racing Off-Road-only Rulebook
• 2010 AMA Racing All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)-only Rulebook
• 2010 National Enduro Championship Supplemental Regulations
• 2010 ATV Hare Scrambles National Championship Supplemental Regulations
• 2010 East & West Hare Scrambles Championship Supplemental Regulations
• 2010 East & West Youth Hare Scrambles Championship Supplemental Regulations
• 2010 National Hare & Hound Supplemental Regulations
Who’s it for? AMA/ATVA racers, support crew and officials at AMA-sanctioned amateur events.
What does it do? RAMP pays an amount up to the maximum benefit amount (after the deductible) for covered medical expenses that are above and beyond other insurance you may have.
For example: RAMP coverage includes doctor-provided services, hospital room and board, prescriptions, necessary dental work, physical therapy, artificial limbs, braces, and the ambulance ride.
Anything else? RAMP also includes accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) benefits. Three plan levels are available. Why RAMP? This insurance is designed specifically for participants in AMAsanctioned events, and you won’t be denied coverage simply because you were riding your motorcycle.
For more information and to apply for RAMP, see Insurance4AMA.com.
New Era For Desert Racers
Chris Blais Helps Guide Hare & Hound Series To New Heights
Chris Blais is a former KTM factory rally racer whose competitive two-wheel career was cut short by a riding accident. That didn’t slow Chris down off the track, however. The likeable rider has instead turned his focus to the administrative side of event management, helping breathe new life into the AMA Racing/Kenda National Hare & Hound Championship Series.
Working with Ryan Sanders, of the recently formed National Hare & Hound Association, Chris has been instrumental in providing series-wide support and promotional services to one of the AMA’s premier National Championships.
We caught up with Chris to talk about the changes to the series and how he and Ryan hope to continue to make the discipline better.
AMA Racer: First off, Chris, exactly what is the National Hare & Hound Association and what’s your role?
Chris Blais: The National Hare & Hound Association is a group of racers and club
members of some of the AMA-sanctioned clubs that host rounds of the AMA Racing/Kenda National Hare & Hound Championship.
The group was formed to help protect the series and help it grow. With all the talk of land closures and series buy-outs, we didn’t want the individual clubs to lose their role. We are just trying to give it a little boost to help it grow, to keep the races fun for everyone, and for the series to remain in the public eye through more advertising and to keep it going for years and years.
I’m the series promotions manager. Being a former professional off-road racer for KTM in rally racing, Baja, and a past participant in this series, our group felt that I would be the best fit for this role. We felt that it was time for a series of this caliber to receive some major sponsorship. We have been soliciting sponsorships since September 2009 and are now working with several companies who are on board and are
now part of this series as sponsors and who are doing some great contingency programs.
Our title sponsor is Kenda, and they are on board for at least the next three years. We have nine other contingency sponsors as well who are all giving away product or discounts at each event.
AR: What are some of the specific improvements that racers are seeing on the ground?
CB: In working with AMA Racing, we are now recognizing the “C” level riders, which hasn’t been done before (in this series). They will be scored for National points in their various National classes just like the intermediate and expert classes. We are also giving more points to the finishers of these races in our own AMA District 37 (Southern California). Racers receive 125 percent District points for completing a National event.
We have implemented a same-day scoring program. This allows for same-day preliminary results to be posted within a few hours after the racers cross the finish line. It also helps the promoting clubs post their final results much quicker.
We have added an additional two rounds this year, so instead of seven rounds this year, there are nine. We are also open to adding additional rounds in the future.
After hearing from most of the pro riders, we implemented “no throw-out races” for the Pro class. This is what they’ve asked for, so we voted on it and implemented it. The amateur classes all have one throw-out race.
We have a top-notch series website that is updated daily and where anyone can sign up for the most recent and current news, view schedules, race fliers, results, race reports, photos and contingency programs. Check it out at NationalHareandHound.com.
We are giving out contingency discount coupons from nine different sponsors at every event to the winners of all the classes, including the ATV classes, and we are randomly giving out coupons to the “C” riders at sign-ups at each event. We want to recognize all levels of racers in some form or fashion. We are also randomly handing out Scott Goggles at the finish lines. We are continuing to receive more sponsorship inquiries from other companies daily.
We now have a newly constructed finish-line podium trailer and a race announcer at each event. Our announcer, George Antill, hangs out on pit row during the race and does interviews, gives race feedback as the race is going on, and he also does interviews with the top few riders
Blais, riding for the KTM team at the 2006 Dakar Rally.
Chris Blais consults for the AMA Racing/Kenda National Hare & Hound Championship Series.
MY RACE 2009 Ironman GNCC
A Factory Racer For A Day By
Every year, one of the highlights of my season is the Can-Am Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) event in Crawfordsville, Ind. But the Ironman GNCC, as it’s known, was going to be a little different for me in 2009. I was given the opportunity to participate in Husqvarna’s Guest Factory Rider for a Day Program.
Bob Brooks
This is a way-cool experience that Husqvarna has provided to former pros, such as Terry Cunningham, as well as regular riders who are military veterans. Basically, you show up, they hand you a fully prepped 2009 TXC 450 and you just go race.
I arrived at the track with my buddy, Brent, in the early afternoon the day before and met up with my mechanic, Wyatt Seals. Today, Wyatt is the head tuner for the Husqvarna off-road team, but I knew his name from back in the day when he was a factory Supercross mechanic. As I
expected, Wyatt was the epitome of professionalism, and the bike ran great. Most impressive was the suspension. The TXC glided over the trail.
Before I got to ride the bike, though, I was knocked back by how slick the bike is in person. The red and white plastic contrasted great with the black rims and wheels and it was just a real racy-looking package. The color scheme reminded me a lot of the red, white and black Harley XR750 flat trackers that Ricky Graham and Scotty Parker raced in the late ’70s and early ’80s with Klotz/Wiseco sponsorship and colors. I always thought those Harleys were the raciest looking machines I’ve ever seen, and just seeing the Husqvarna in person got me in the mood to go fast.
The race was the next morning. I was a bit more nervous than usual because I would be on
someone else’s motorcycle. I didn’t want to do anything stupid and crash it, and I also didn’t want to go so slow that I embarrassed myself. But Wyatt and the rest of the crew were soothing. They told me to just have fun, enjoy the fresh air and not worry about a thing.
On the starting line, I had three or four guys in red Husqvarna polo shirts hovering around me, asking if I needed a drink of water or anything in the world. It was neat. I felt like a big-time racer, but I have to say, I’m not used to getting that much attention! During the national anthem, it felt like the calendar had turned back a full two decades, and I was lining up for a pro dirt-track national again.
Soon, the green flag waved, motors fired and we all launched for the first turn. The Husqvarna fired effortlessly for me on the line, thanks to the electric start, and I got a decent start. The first turn was a left-hander, and I went to the outside and left the gas on and passed a few riders. At that point, all my nervousness evaporated and it was another motorcycle race.
I finished 19th out of 35 in the Sportsman class, and 130th out of 465 finishers overall in the morning race. I think I rode fairly well, and I believe I had the speed to finish top-10 in the Sportsman class. Some of my line selections and decisions at the bottlenecks cost me.
I rode my slowest pace on the first lap, but it was actually my quickest lap. On my third and fourth laps, I rode my hardest and had my best speed by far, but my lap times were my slowest, due to getting snagged in the bottlenecks and mud pits. But, I accomplished what I set out to do, and overall, I’m content. I was tired when the checkered flag came out, but I also didn’t want it to end.
The bike was very easy to ride and I had no trouble adapting to it. According to Wyatt, the motor is box stock other than jetting—just a standard, off-the-showroom TXC 450. The exhaust is even standard. Wyatt said they tried an aftermarket pipe on it for a race or two, but it didn’t help anything, so they put the stock exhaust back on it.
The power on the TXC 450 is fantastic. It’s smooth off the bottom and has some old-school thump, at least in the lower RPMs. It’s very user-friendly. It’s linear, no big hits, but it’s very responsive. The jetting is dead-on, and when you roll the throttle on, it transfers to the rear wheel instantly, but smoothly and predictably. The power is as good as anything I’ve ridden.
The event was run as smoothly as any GNCC I’ve raced. This is one crew that has its act together. Despite the incredibly muddy conditions and huge crowd that this race typically attracts, there were no hiccups—just what you want in a race. Leave the drama for the track!
Another Ironman in the books. I had a wonderful time and I’m already looking forward to next year. The weather was terrific, the company was good, and with the fall colors, it was a wonderful weekend to spend in the woods. Of course, getting to ride that Husqvarna didn’t hurt my attitude either.
Bob Brooks is an AMA Life Member from Joliet, Ill. A former pro dirt-track racer, Bob now gets his kicks in off-road racing.
Have a race you want to write about? Let us know at AMARacer@ama-cycle.org.
Photos Brooks: James Holter; Dirt track: Jim Bowie
RACE TECH
Want To Race Dirt Track? Your MX Bike Is Almost There DTX Rules Updated For 2010
Go straight. Turn left. It’s so simple, yet so fun—especially with 11 of your fastest friends. Now it’s even easier for more racers to experience the amazing sport of dirt-track racing. DTX rules—“DTX” refers to “dirt-track cross”—have been updated for 2010 to allow for a minimum amount of modifications to fresh-offthe-showroom-floor motocross and dirt-track bikes.
2010 AMA RACING DTX RULES
Additional Equipment Standards
Note: This is only a partial list of DTX rules. For the full rulebook, see AMARacing.com.
• To be eligible for a DTX class, the following cannot be changed or modified: airbox, carburetor, (jetting allowed), electronics, complete exhaust, all engine components, body work, intake (aftermarket reeds allowed), swing arm, wheel hubs, triple clamps (including handlebar clamps), frame and subframe.
• Engine must be the same year as frame.
• Front fender must be OEM or OEM replacement. It may be removed. A dirttrack style plate may be used.
• Front brake must be used for TT events but must be disabled or removed for DT events.
• Any standard production tire that is available through normal commercial channels will be accepted. Knobby tires are promoter’s option.
• For DTX classes that use oil injection systems, only oil may be put in the reservoir. Injection pumps must be working at all times. Pre-mix gasoline is not allowed in the oil injection system or fuel tank.
• Violations of the DTX class rules as determined by the protest process or by the event referee will result in disqualification from the event. A second violation of the DTX class rules will warrant a one-year suspension from all AMA-sanctioned competition. A warning or fine may be imposed if the violation is deemed by the meet referee to be cosmetic in nature and/ or non-performance enhancing.
By Ken Saillant
DTX classes have been around for some time. However, the original rules were written 15 years ago. This was before the four-stroke motocross revolution. The new rules take into account not only modern engine technology, but suspension changes. The most important thing, though, is they reflect the growing interest of off-road and motocross racers in dirt-track racing.
The rules are printed on the left but, basically, you can now line up and race by simply swapping out your front rim for a 19-inch and spooning on some dirt-track tires. Considering motocross bikes now come with 19-inch rear tires from the factory, the rear is ready to be fitted with standard dirt-track rubber.
Also—this is a simple, but important one—lose the front brake! Front brakes are only legal for TT competition. This can be as simple as taking off the lever, but it needs to come off. Please don’t forget. One thing I don’t enjoy is disqualifying riders for this basic oversight.
If you want to go to the next level, consider getting your suspension modified for dirt-track racing. However, for most local races, you’ll be just fine with the stock setup. For advice on clicker and sag settings, simply talk to some of the more experienced riders in the pits.
On the left is a summary of the new rules. These are taken from the 2010 rulebook. You’ll notice it closely resembles the rules for other disciplines. If you have any specific questions about how you can get involved in dirt-track racing, on a converted motocross bike or a traditional dirt-tracker, feel free to drop me an e-mail at ksaillant@ama-cycle.org.
Ken Saillant is the track racing manager for the AMA.
AMA Amateur Dirt Trackers Race At Daytona
Be First On The Short Track
If you want to roost limestone into the record books, you need to get to the new Daytona Flat Track facility just outside turns one and two of the Daytona International Speedway. There, on Feb. 27, 28 and March 1, amateur racers will throw down on the new quarter-mile short-track.
The three-round AMA Racing Winter National Short-Track Championships will feature competition in youth, vet/senior and other amateur classes, with No. 1 plates on the line.
That’s only part of the program, however. On March 2, top riders from the AMA Pro Grand National Championship will take to the track. Running in their own class, the pro riders will share track time with the AMA Racing Vet/Senior Shootout, which will include amateur classes for riders over 30-, 40- and 50-years old.
Race entry for the amateur events is $50 per rider per class. Paddock passes are $15 per person.
Amateur SX Racers At The Speedway
The Ricky Carmichael AMA Amateur Supercross Comes To Daytona
For many race fans, the ultimate experience is the Daytona Supercross by Honda. Set on the infield of the Daytona International Speedway, this unique round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship Series is always good for a surprise or three.
This year, some of those fans will get a chance to race on the famed track itself.
On March 7, the Ricky Carmichael AMA Amateur Supercross at Daytona International Speedway will see amateur AMA racers compete on the same track as the pros.
“Daytona International Speedway is the ‘World Center of Racing,’ and America’s motocross riders and their families should be racing there,” says Tim Cotter, event director for MX Sports, which is organizing the event. “We are excited to have this opportunity to work with Daytona International Speedway and look forward to reintroducing amateur Supercross to the facility.”
VINTAGE RACING, TOP AMATEUR ROADRACERS COME
TO MID-OHIO
Week Of Motorcycling Makes Lexington, Ohio, A Summer Sensation
July 9-14 is quickly becoming one of the year’s biggest weeks in motorcycling.
Kicking off with AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days on July 9-11 and flowing right into the 2010 AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships on July 12-14, there will be something for everyone who’s into two wheels at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
To most motorcyclists, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days needs no introduction. The event includes the country’s biggest motorcycle swap meet, vintage racing in all major disciplines as part of the AMA Vintage Grand Championships, demo rides of modern motorcycles, seminars, bike shows, and opportunities to meet motorcycling superstars of the past. More information is at AMAVintageMotorcycleDays.com.
This year’s celebrated Marque of the Year is Husqvarna while the grand marshal is the legendary Malcolm Smith (see stories, next page).
The AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships are your opportunity to see tomorrow’s professional roadracing stars today. The event features national championshiplevel competition by the country’s top amateur roadracers before they make the leap to the pro ranks. More information can be found at
AMARacing.com.
“In 2009, we made a number of changes to the program at the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships, and it was reflected in the attendance, flow of the program and satisfaction of the racers,” says AMA Director of Racing Joe Bromley. “In 2010, we are going to maintain that momentum, expand our partnership agreements and deliver an even better competition experience to roadracers.”
This year, the AMA is teaming with WERA as its operational partner for both the roadracing portion of the AMA Vintage Grand Championships, as well as the AMA Racing Road Race Grand Championships. In addition to AMA national recognition, AMA racers also will compete for WERA championship points in select classes.
“WERA Motorcycle Roadracing is honored to work with AMA again in the organizing of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days and the AMA Road Race Grand Championships for 2010,” says WERA’s Evelyne Clarke. “It has always been WERA’s goal to further the sport of motorcycle roadracing, and participating in partnerships with the AMA shows that the sport is strong and growing. We would like to educate more folks and show them that this is one of the most exciting types of racing out there.”
It’s Malcolm!
Hall Of Famer To Serve As Grand Marshal At 2010 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
One afternoon in the mid-1960s, a man walked into a Southern California motorcycle shop looking for someone to race an unproven motorcycle with a funny-sounding name. Lucky for that man, he walked into the right shop and found the right racer. Malcolm Smith took Edison Dye’s offer and their partnership would help establish the Husqvarna motorcycle brand as a force in American off-road.
In recognition of Smith’s contributions to the success of the Husqvarna brand, AMA and Husqvarna Motorcycles North America will honor Smith at the 19th annual AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days this summer.
“Even today, decades after Smith’s racing prime, his fan base rivals some of the top names in the sport,” says AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “To anyone who has met him, the reason for that is clear: Malcolm Smith is synonymous with everything positive about motorcycling—fun, sportsmanship, excitement. He will serve as an exceptional Grand Marshal at this year’s AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days as we celebrate the brand on which he became famous: Husqvarna.”
Adds Husqvarna National Sales and Marketing Manager Scot Harden: “When it came to
honoring a grand marshal at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, Malcolm was the obvious choice. We look forward to celebrating the storied history of Husqvarna with Malcolm, as well as a large number of other past Husqvarna legends and champions on July 9-11.”
Smith says he’s looking forward to meeting fans and enjoying the activities himself at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days this summer.
“I was last at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days three years ago and had a wonderful time,” Smith says. “I particularly like walking around the large field where they sell all the old bike parts, buying a truckload and then figuring out how to get it all back to California. I’m spoiled. I like to ride new bikes, but I really enjoy working on old motorcycles. I work on them every day.”
Smith vividly remembers the day he was introduced to Husqvarna motorcycles.
“When Edison Dye brought me the bike, we laid out a track and some trail that went up into the hills,” Smith says. “When I came back from that ride, I said, ‘Mr. Dye, you have yourself a rider.’ The bike was so far ahead of anything else available at the time, and so reliable.”
Smith’s positive evaluation of those first Husqvarnas also persuaded Dye to become the U.S. Husqvarna importer in 1966. That decision paved the way for Dye to bring in reigning Swedish world motocross champion Torsten Hallmen to race the bikes in the United States, which helped establish the sport of motocross on American soil.
In his role as grand marshal, Smith will participate in numerous fan-friendly activities, from autograph signings to discussions of his history with Husqvarna. This will be a rare and unique opportunity for Smith’s thousands of fans to meet and greet the off-road legend.
Husqvarna Named Marque Of The Year
Storied Off-Road Brand Will Anchor Summer Celebration
Husqvarna, the legendary make that ruled AMA Racing off-road racing in the 1970s and 1980s, has recently made a full-throttle return to national championship contention.
This summer, the iconic brand will celebrate its heritage and build toward its future as the Marque of the Year at the 19th annual AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the world’s largest gathering of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is July 9-11 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, with activities also scheduled for the Ashland County Fairgrounds in Ashland, Ohio.
“Launching the new decade with this prestigious recognition is indeed an honor,” says Husqvarna Motorcycles North America President Mark Brady. “Everyone at Husqvarna Motorcycles is aware of the great history of the brand, and we are determined to bring back the glory days.”
As part of Husqvarna’s participation at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, fans can get up close and personal with Husqvarna’s motocross and off-road racing history, from its genesis in Sweden in the early 1900s to the high-tech off-road, motocross and dual-sport bikes the company sells and races today.
2010 CALENDAR
AMATEUR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP EVENTS
AMA Racing Winter National Short-Track Championships Feb. 27-March 2
Daytona Flat-Track, Daytona, Fla. AMARACING.COM
AMA Racing Amateur National Arenacross Championships
May 9
Sam Boyd Stadium Las Vegas, Nev. ARENACROSS.COM
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
AMA Racing/Rekluse National Enduro Championship Series, presented by Moose Racing
Round 3: March 4
Tomoka Farms Rd., Daytona Beach, Fla.
Steve Pettenger, Daytona Dirt Riders (386) 615-0722, daytonadirtrider@aol.com DAYTONADIRTRIDERS.ORG
Round 4: March 28
Glass Ranch, Kalgary, Texas
Kelly Simmons, Lubbock Trail Riders (806) 548-1260, krsiii@nts-online.net LUBBOCKTRAILRIDERS.ORG
Round 5: April 18
West Point, Tenn.
Paul Traufler, NATRA (256) 837-0084, wintrak@hiwaay.net NATRA.DIRTRIDER.NET
Round 6: May 16
St. Joe ORV Park, Park Hills, Mo. Michael Silger, Missouri Mudders (636) 639-6373, michael.silger@avnet.com MOMUDDERS.COM
AMA Racing/Kenda National Hare & Hound Championship Series
Round 3: March 7
Superstition OHVA, El Centro, Calif.
Kirk Hester, Roadrunner Off-Road Racing (760) 275-9852, roadrunneroffroad@hotmail.com ROADRUNNEROFFROAD.ORG
Round 4: March 21
Murphy, Idaho
Bill Walsh, Dirt, Inc. No ATVs per the U.S. BLM rules (208) 459-6871, braaap@cableone.net DIRTINCRACING.COM
The following events are on the AMA Racing National Championship calendar from March 1 through May 31. Additional events are listed at AMARacing.com. Nearly all events include classes for riders ranked novice to expert. Contact the promoters for more information.
Round 5: April 10
Jericho, Utah
Kari Christman, Sageriders MC
No ATVs per the U.S. BLM rules (435) 851-1138, dezchik111@yahoo.com SAGERIDERS.COM
Round 6: April 25
Johnson Valley OHVA, Lucerne, Calif.
Alex Rodriguez, Vikings MC (760) 834-5006, alexrodriguez_4@msn.com VIKINGSMC.COM
Round 7: May 15
Jericho, Utah
Rob Davies, Sugarloafers No ATVs per the U.S. BLM rules (435) 743-4180, offrdsp@hotmail.com SUGARLOAFERSMC.COM
AMA Racing/NATC Observed Trials National Championship Series
Round 1: May 1
Tishomingo, Okla.
Robert Shaw, Texhoma Trials Club (580) 504-6750, roshaw@cableone.net TEXHOMATRIALSCLUB.COM
Round 2: May 2
Tishomingo, Okla.
Robert Shaw, Texhoma Trials Club (580) 504-6750, roshaw@cableone.net TEXHOMATRIALSCLUB.COM
AMA Racing East Hare Scrambles Championship Series
Duane Fisher, Evansville MX Park (570) 759-2841, info@ evansvillemxpark.com EVANSVILLEMXPARK.COM
Round 4:
May 1 (Youth), May 2 (Amateur) Dorchester, N.J.
Dennis McKelvey, Tri County Sportsmen (609) 390-3772, drm3772@yahoo.com TEAMHAMMER.ORG
AMA Racing West Hare Scrambles Championship Series
Round 2: March 13 (Youth), March 14 (Amateur) Cow Mountain, Lake Port, Calif.
Jeff Bauer, SCSCA (707) 480-0792, jabracing@aol.com AMA-D36.ORG/EVENTS
Round 3: March 27 (Youth), March 28 (Amateur) Nixon, Nev.
Jeff Henning, WSRA (775) 851-1527, jh4303@yahoo.com WESTERNSTATESRACING.COM
Round 4:
April 17 (Youth), April 18 (Amateur) Chappie-Shasta OHV Area
Kurt Schneider, Redding Dirt Riders (530) 245-0342, info@ reddingdirtriders.com REDDINGDIRTRIDERS.COM
AMA Racing National Vintage Dirt Track Championship Series
Round 2: March 2 Half-mile Volusia Speedway, Barberville, Fla. Steve Nace, Steve Nace Racing Promotions (270) 442-7532, snace@apex.net STEVENACERACING.COM
Round 3: April 17 Short Track Orangeburg, S.C.
Ed Salley, Orangeburg Motoplex (803) 664-2942, orangeburgmotoplex@gmail.com ORANGEBURGMOTOPLEX.COM
Round 4: April 18
TT Orangeburg, S.C.
Ed Salley, Orangeburg Motoplex (803) 664-2942 orangeburgmotoplex@gmail.com ORANGEBURGMOTOPLEX.COM
AMA Racing ATV Hare Scrambles National Championship Series
Round 1: April 17 Berwick, Pa. Duane Fisher, Evansville MX Park (570) 759-2841, info@ evansvillemxpark.com EVANSVILLEMXPARK.COM
Round 2: May 15 Rhinelander, Wis. Scott Schwalbe, Sugar Camp Racing (715) 272-1101, sugarcampracing@frontiernet.net SUGARCAMPEENT.COM
ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA ATV Motocross Championship, presented by Parts Unlimited ATVMOTOCROSS.COM
Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Championship Series GNCCRACING.COM
AMA Racing/USA Speedway National Championship Series USASPEEDWAY.ORG
AMA Dragbike Championship Series AMADRAGBIKE.COM
AMA EnduroCross Championship Series ENDUROCROSS.COM
AMA Racing XiiR Speedway Ice Race National Championship Series XIIR.COM
CLOSING SHOT
Mike Lafferty makes a Husaberg go fast at the AMA Racing/Rekluse National Enduro Championship Series opener in Wedgefield, S.C. (Photo: Shan Moore.) Have a photograph that captures the spirit of AMA racing? Send it in, along with a few words, to AMARacer@ama-cycle.org. (And please be cool: Only submit photos for which you own the full copyright. Thanks!)
