Colton Haaker to represent Ride Engineering in WORCS and EnduroCross - News Release

Ride Engineering Inc. of Costa Mesa California has signed Colton Haaker to a one year contract to represent the company in WORCS and Endurocross racing. Although our focus is primarily motocross, we can improve the handling and stopping capabilities in all forms of off-road racing. "We are in our sixth year with Star Racing (Valli) Yamaha for motocross and supercross so it's time we added a top level off road guy. Although Colton is unproven at WORCS, my gut feeling is he will be a top five contender by the end of the series, especially after we get his bike set up with all our mods." Quote Adrian Ciomo, president Ride Engineering.  

CONTACT INFO: www.ride-engineering.com or info@ride-engineering.com 800 805 1516

Ride Engineering Inc, designs and manufactures the highest quality billet aluminum accessories to improve the performance, appearance and handling of motocross and off-road motorcycles. We combine hands on testing with feedback from past and present professional race teams to bring products to the average customer that are typically not available for sale. Located in Southern California, all Ride Engineering products are made in the USA. For more info on our company visit: http://www.ride-engineering.com/about.php

Wil Hahn, Mike McDade, David McDonald, Ben Spies, Jake Holden - News Release

Advance, North Carolina (February 7, 2012) - Top talent and industry insiders from the motorcycle world give their uncut opinions and race stories. Get your weekly motorcycle news live from Pit Pass Moto Weekly. Pit Pass Moto Weekly is now heard in over 50 countries around the world 5 pm to 7 pm Pacific, 8 - 10 pm Eastern.

Wil Hahn, GEICO Powersports Honda
In 2009 Wil landed five podium finishes and was considered a Lites title threat for the following year. In 2010 he placed second overall in the Supercross Lites West championship with two second place and three third place finishes. In the Outdoors that year he ended up tenth with his highest finish being fourth at Southwick. Since then the Texas native has shown some amazing speed but injuries have kept him from challenging for any titles. He is currently sidelined due to a fractured hip and he joins Pit Pass Radio to talk about his return.
http://powersports.honda.com/racing/motocross/mxsx2_2012_honda_team.aspx  

Mike McDade, Arenacross Lites East Champion - Reed and Reese Racing
This past weekend in Lexington Kentucky McDade sealed his championship in the Arenacross Lites East. This is only Mike's second year racing Arenacross and he did it as a privateer with the support of Shane Shipley, Motocross Ministries, and a few other sponsors. Even though he only won the Baltimore round he was consistent each week landing on the podium and proving consistency wins championships. He just signed with Reed and Reese Racing and will be competing on a new bike this Saturday at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.
www.arenacross.com  

David McDonald, President, Middle Tennessee Dirt Riders

The MTDR hosts the annual Spring Ride at the historic Loretta Lynn's Dude Ranch on March 30 through April 1. This is the 11th year and the event has grown into a regional gathering for off-road motorcycle and ATV enthusiasts. The ranch has over 3,000 acres of rolling hills and first class woods riding. In years past they've enjoyed the company of famous people like country music star Craig Morgan as well as several pro riders enjoying an off weekend. This year they expect over 1,000 riders in attendance for three days of fun.
www.mtdr.net  

Ben Spies, MotoGP - Yamaha
In January, Spies kicked off the 2012 season testing with teammate Jorge Lorenzo at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia on their 1000cc YZR-M1's. It was the first time Spies was on the bike since Valencia. The team worked on base settings for the bike and getting back into the groove for the 2012 season. Spies celebrated his first victory in MotoGP last season which was the first win for an American since 2006. In 2010, Spies won the Rookie of the Year award in MotoGP and finished 6th overall. In 2009 he won the World Superbike Championship in his rookie year. Prior to leaving the U.S. Spies won a number of AMA Superbike championships and broke numerous records.
 www.benspies.com

Jake Holden, AMA Superbike - BMW
Jake will be racing in the AMA Superbike series in 2012 with the ESP BMW team. After a season plagued with injuries in 2011, Jake is looking forward to getting back to the Superbike class and running up front. He has numerous podiums to his name in AMA racing and finished 3rd in the 2010 XR1200 Series and also finished 3rd in the 2008 in the AMA Superstock class. Holden recently teamed up with XCEL Track Days and will be instructing at select clinics this season.
www.jakeholden.com  
 www.evansteelperformance.com

Crew at Pit Pass Radio
Scott Casber, Tony Wenck, Ed Kuhlenkamp, Jack DeLeon.

About Pit Pass Radio
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KTM factory stars Knight and Aubert set to spice up sandy season opener, ensuring an explosive start to British Sprint Enduro Championship - Husqvarna News Release

The opening two rounds of the Husqvarna ACU British Sprint Enduro Championship, being held in Aldershot, Hampshire on February 11/12, will feature the strongest line-up of enduro racers seen in the UK since the British round of the World Enduro Championship in 2008. With both Husqvarna's Ricky Dietrich and KTMs Taddy Blazusiak already confirmed as joining Britains best, event organisers GMC Events are now pleased to announce that both KTM Enduro Factory Team riders David Knight and Johnny Aubert will also compete.

For David Knight, the 2010 BSEC champion, the series opener will mark the former Enduro World Champions return to the series following an injury plagued 2011 season. Knight, who last year won five out of the six rounds he contested, will be looking to make a triumphant return to the top of the Elite class. After a rigorous winters training followed by extensive testing in France and Spain during January and highly motivated Knight will take to the start determined to return to his winning ways.

Regarded as one of the fastest enduro riders in the world, double Enduro 2 World Champion Johnny Aubert is a welcomed late edition to BSEC entry list. Fresh from his recent assault on the Dakar Rally in South America, the Frenchman will use the opening two rounds of the BSEC as a training and testing exercise as he re-adjusts to racing an enduro bike once again. Returning to a 450cc machine for 2012, Auberts participation this weekend will mark his first event on British soil since competing in the WEC in Wales in 2008.

Jonty Edmunds BSEC Events Director: The opening event of this years Husqvarna ACU British Sprint Enduro Championship is promising to be the most hotly contested enduro event held in Britain since the World Enduro Championship last visited four years ago. It’s fantastic news that the 2012 BSEC series welcomes back all of the UKs top enduro racers the fact that it has also attracted some of the very biggest international names is a real boost for the enduro scene. After bowing out of last years championship due to injury, David is back once again and looks more determined than ever to win. For Johnny, the situation is a little different. He will use the event to conduct some essential pre-season testing under race conditions as he too prepares for this years EWC season. With a fantastic line up the BSEC championship opener promises some incredible racing.

The opening two rounds of the 2012 Husqvarna ACU British Sprint Enduro Championship takes place at Eelmoor, Aldershot, Hampshire on 11/12 February.

Spectator info
Directions:
The event is situated off the A323, Fleet Road. Follow event signs to the start/finish and parking areas.

Postcode:
GU11 2HL

Entry Fee:
Adults £10.00 each. Under 14 year olds free. Overnight camping £10.00

Parking:
Vehicles will be parked on a generous, flat parking area joining onto the riders paddock and start/finish area.

General info:
Racing starts at 9.30am both days. A sighting lap (starts 9.00am) and four timed laps will take place during the morning session before a 30-minute break and paddock autograph signing session. A three-lap afternoon session will then take place. On Sunday the event will end with a prize giving ceremony.

For more information visit www.enduro-sprint.com

Check out some footage from the LA Supercross afterparty that Monster Energy and BR4SS put on. - News Release

Over 400 industry tastemakers and personalities enjoyed an eclectic party packed with substance & style unique to Los Angeles.

Guests were treated to an Open Bar courtesy of Monster Energy & Pinnacle Vodka while their senses were stimulated by a mix of artwork & photography from Los Angeles Legends ELSE ICR, Pep Williams & others.

LA Speed Shop & Spitfire Motorcycles showcased $200,000+ worth of Custom Bobber Motorcycles & Tagger Design brought out custom airbrushed helmets from DEFT & Volcom.

It was a great time & we kicked it all off with a DJ from Aerial 7 and a surprise performance by International Hip Hop Artist MANN.

Video can be viewed HERE
Photos can be viewed HERE

Monster Energy Kawasaki News Release

Irvine, Calif., (February 5, 2012) – The fireworks and explosions are always bigger the second time around at Angel Stadium for Monster Energy AMA Supercross, but the winner remained the same on Saturday night in Anaheim, Calif. Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto grabbed his second holeshot of the season, established the lead, and never looked back leading every lap of the main event to regain the points lead. Villopoto’s teammate Jake Weimer found himself at the back of the field after crashing on the first lap and charged back to finish 11th, just behind Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Broc Tickle in 10th. Tickle’s teammate Dean Wilson rode a consistent race to finish just off the podium in fourth in the Supercross Lites class.

Monster Energy Kawasaki Under the Tent
Back on Top
It had been four long weeks since Villopoto stood atop the podium and after four different winners he was the first to capture a second win of the series. Villopoto was not the fastest in qualifying practice, but knew he had the speed to win. In the heat race, a win was looking like a long shot after a poor start left him buried in the pack. A few laps later, three of the leaders had gone down moving Villopoto into second place. With the leader in sight, Villopoto was able to reel him in and take the win. In the main event, Villopoto rode a near flawless race, grabbing the holeshot abroad his Kawasaki KX™450F and led from the green flag to the checkered flag.

“I pulled the holeshot and got passed on the inside going through the whoops, but was able to stay low off the triple and pass him back before the end of the first lap,” said Villopoto. “Once out front, I was just trying to keep tabs on second place. I saw that the guys behind me were doing a faster rhythm, so on the next lap I was able to take that line and from there I was able to keep a consistent gap until the finish.”

After a few weeks of shared points leaders, Villopoto has reclaimed the points lead and will be the sole rider carrying the red plate.

Chasing After the Win
Wilson came into Anaheim looking for a better result than the opening round at Angel Stadium. In the heat race, he started up front on his KX™250F and quickly began making passes. With a few laps remaining he made a move on the leader and was able to take his third heat race win of the season. For the main event, Wilson chose an outside gate, which ended up costing him as he started just inside the top ten. After the first lap, Wilson made his way up to fifth, but had allowed the leaders to sprint and gap the field. After 15 laps, Wilson finished in fourth place and still sits second in the points standings.

“The night started well getting the heat race win and I had planned to get the holeshot in the main,” said Wilson. “But my plan didn’t work out and I was forced to come through the pack. Once I got into fourth, I started catching third until we ran into lappers. I didn’t have the night I wanted, but it’s not over yet. All I’m focused on is getting wins.”

Wrong Place, Wrong Time
Weimer has shown that he has the speed to be up front every weekend, but has been robbed of a few opportunities to have results to show for it. Weimer started the night strong by running up front in the heat race and was handed the lead when the two leaders both fell in the same corner. Excited to inherent the lead, Weimer raced into the next corner bar-to-bar battling for position and was forced outside in the sand section, washing out the front end. He picked up his KX450F and finished sixth. For the main event, Weimer had a less than stellar gate pick and rounded the first corner mid-pack. In the following whoop section, another rider would go down directly in front of Weimer sending him down yet again. Weimer remounted in 16th and fought for the full 20 laps to cross the finish line in 11th place.

“Tonight I had a terrible gate pick for the main and had a rider go down right in front of me, leaving me nowhere to go,” said Weimer. “I feel like I’m riding well, but just have to put myself in better situations. I felt strong and consistent throughout the main, so I just need to put this behind me and show up next week with a good attitude, ready to do battle.”

Progression
Tickle has shown improvement each week thus far in the season and achieved his second top-ten finish Saturday night in Anaheim. In the heat race, he rode to a strong fifth-place finish, giving him a good gate pick for the main event. When the gate dropped for the main, Tickle rounded the first corner mid-pack and stayed in tenth position for nearly the entire race. He stayed consistent throughout the full 20 laps and once again proved he has the speed to be up front with the leaders.

“I’ve been building my confidence weekend by weekend and know I can ride better than I did,” said Tickle. “I’m happy with my finish tonight and we’re still improving, which is all that matters. We race to win, so I will keep working and making my way to the front.”

Pretty in Pink
This weekend the Monster Energy Kawasaki riders were sporting new pink riding gear in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month, but that did not change their focus or determination to ride their best. Villopoto will return next weekend running the red number one plate, signifying the current points leader.

“The red plate is important,” said Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Manager Dan Fahie. “But the most important thing is that we have the speed to win week-in, week-out and if we continue to do that, the red plate naturally comes along with it.”

Next weekend Monster Energy AMA Supercross heads to Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, Calif., on Saturday, February 11, 2012 for Round 6.

Results
Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series – Round 5
Angel Stadium – Anaheim, Calif.
February 4, 2012

Supercross Class Results
1. RYAN VILLOPOTO, POULSBO, WASH., MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI
2. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Yamaha
3. Chad Reed, Dade City, Fla., Honda
4. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM
5. Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
6. Kevin Windham, Centreville, Miss., Honda
7. Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha
8. Mike Alessi, Hillard, Calif., Suzuki
9. Brett Metcalfe, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Suzuki
10. BROC TICKLE, HOLLY, MICH., MONSTER ENERGY/PRO CIRCUIT/KAWASAKI
11. JAKE WEIMER, RUPERT, IDAHO, MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI

Supercross Class Points Standings
1. RYAN VILLOPOTO, POULSBO, WASH., MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI, 108
2. Chad Reed, Dade City, Fla., Honda, 105
3. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM, 103
4. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Yamaha, 95
5. Kevin Windham, Centreville, Miss., Honda, 73
6. JAKE WEIMER, RUPERT, IDAHO, MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI, 71
7. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda, 59
8. Brett Metcalfe, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Suzuki, 57
9. Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha, 56
10. Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., Honda, 53
14. BROC TICKLE, HOLLY, MICH., MONSTER ENERGY/PRO CIRCUIT/KAWASAKI, 41

Supercross Lites Class Results
1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda
2. Cole Seely, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
3. Marvin Musquin, Murrieta, Calif., KTM
4. DEAN WILSON, MENIFEE, CALIF., MONSTER ENERGY/PRO CIRCUIT/KAWASAKI
5. Nico Izzi, Menifee, Calif., Yamaha 
6. Michael Leib, Menifee, Calif., Honda
7. Matt Moss, Sussex Inlet, NS, KTM
8. Vince Friese, Cape Girardeau, Mo., Honda
9. Travis Baker, Temecula, Calif., Honda
10. Martin Davalos, Cairo, Ga., Suzuki

Supercross Lites Class Points Standings
1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda, 113
2. DEAN WILSON, MENIFEE, CALIF., MONSTER ENERGY/PRO CIRCUIT/KAWASAKI, 91
3. Marvin Musquin, Murrieta, Calif., KTM, 84
4. Cole Seely, Murrieta, Calif., Honda, 57
5. Zach Osborne, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha, 67
6. Nico Izzi, Menifee, Calif., Yamaha, 62
7. TYLA RATTRAY, WILDOMAR, CALIF., MONSTER ENERGY/PRO CIRCUIT/KAWASAKI, 60
8. Jason Anderson, Edgewood, N.M., Suzuki, 54
9. Ryan Sipes, Ekron, Ky., Yamaha, 53
10. Matt Moss, Sussex Inlet, NS, KTM, 53

Star Valli Yamaha’s Nico Izzi celebrates fifth-place result in Supercross Lites - Rockstar Energy News Release

ANAHEIM, CA (February 6, 2012) – The Rockstar Energy Racing teams returned to Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA, on Saturday night for the fifth round of AMA /FIM Supercross. In front of a screaming, sold-out crowd, all the Rockstar Energy Racing teams stepped up their respective games and turned in a supreme effort, with standout Nico Izzi of Star Valli Yamaha carding a top-five result in Supercross Lites.

“This was a good race for us,” said Izzi. “We had the fastest lap in practice and I felt really strong. I finished fourth in my heat race and then, in the main, I finished fifth. I wasn’t pushing out there because the track was super-slick and I didn’t want to do anything dumb and fall, I just wanted to try and come out with a top-five finish and I ended up doing that. San Diego should be a good one, I’ll just keep on working on my weaknesses and come back fighting.”

Star Valli Yamaha teammate Ryan Sipes also impressed at Anaheim, although his final results didn’t do justice to his concentrated efforts. Sipes was lightning-fast in his heat race and came from behind to finish second. In the Supercross Lites main, he turned fast, smooth, consistent laps for most of the race before he made a few mistakes that saw him finish 11th.

“I feel like I rode really good all day,” said Sipes. “In practice I was either first or a tenth off being first. In the heat race, I came from about 16th to second, and I felt like my speed was really good. In the main event, I rode 13 really good laps. I was as fast as the leaders or faster… Then, I had a mistake in the sand and went down. I got up and had another mistake and went down again. Now, all I can do is look forward to the next race and try to get better.”

Rounding out the Star Valli Yamaha squad in Supercross Lites is Gareth Swanepoel, who finished second in the LCQ. In the main, Swanepoel was running in the top 10 when a get-off resulted in his finishing 15th.

“I was going good for the first five or six laps,” said Swanepoel. “Then I made a stupid mistake and went down, and got up completely lost. But before that, I’d made some big improvements so I’m happy overall. My goal for San Diego is to get a solid top-10 result.”

For Rockstar Energy Racing, Martin Davalos was one to watch at Anaheim. The Supercross Lites rider was in the hunt for his heat race and carded a third-place finish. In the main, Davalos went down at the start but rallied quickly and worked his way through the pack to finish up in 10th. 

“I felt pretty good out there and got a good start,” said Davalos. “But it felt like someone hit me from behind and I went down. Then, I was coming through the pack and Jason (Anderson) lost his front end or rear end, and I went down with him, so I had to come from last to 10th. I kind of rode my own pace and there was definitely an improvement there. Now, I’m going to try and work on some starts and come back strong for San Diego.”

Rockstar Energy Racing teammate Jason Anderson had a tough weekend and struggled a bit as he was feeling remnants of his crash last weekend in Oakland. Although Anderson made it to the main event, he went down with Davalos early on and was unable to recover.

In the Supercross class, Rockstar Energy’s Brett Metcalfe and Nick Wey both turned in noteworthy performances. Metcalfe finished eighth in his heat race and ninth in the main, while Wey finished ninth in his heat race and 13th in the main.

“Coming into Anaheim, I really wanted to get things back on track,” said Metcalfe. “I had a rough weekend last week, I went down and didn’t have a good result, so I was really determined to put in a good result at Anaheim. I was feeling good on the track, but I was a little bit off all day, so that was kind of a bummer. But going into the heat race, I was feeling good and things were looking up. But I got a bad start and ended up finishing eighth. In the main event, I got a bad start again and just didn’t get it going. But I’m looking forward to getting back into it this week, and working hard and coming out for San Diego.”

Also in the Supercross class, Star Valli Yamaha riders Austin Stroupe and Ryan Morais remain sidelined by injury. Replacement riders Bobby Kiniry and Kyle Summers both put in a valiant effort in their heat races but didn’t make the main event.

The next event for the Rockstar Energy Racing teams is the sixth round of the 2012 AMA/FIM Supercross Championship on Saturday, February 11th, at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, CA.

About Rockstar: ROCKSTAR is the world's most powerful Energy Drink. Enhanced with the potent herbal blend of Guarana, Ginkgo, Ginseng and Milk Thistle, ROCKSTAR is formulated to provide an incredible energy boost for those who lead active and exhausting lifestyles - from athletes to rock stars. ROCKSTAR Energy Drink is available in nineteen amazing flavors and worldwide in 25 countries. For more information visit www.mx.rockstar69.com.

Yoshimura Suzuki Racing News Release

ANAHEIM, CA (February 5, 2012) – Yoshimura Suzuki’s Brett Metcalfe captured another top-10 finish in the 2012 AMA/FIM Supercross series, this time at round five on Saturday night. Metcalfe has been the epitome of diligence and consistency this season and this recent round was no different. The Yoshimura Suzuki rider’s latest top-10 result occurred at the tour’s second stop at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA, where the race was completely sold out.

Although Australian Metcalfe admitted he was a little underwhelmed by his performance this weekend, the Yoshimura Suzuki rider still put in some impressive laps in both his heat race and in the main event. In the former, Metcalfe overcame a rough start to card an eighth-place result in his heat race and transfer to the main event. In the 20-lap main, Metcalfe again struggled at the start but then charged hard on his Yoshimura Suzuki RM-Z450 and brought home a ninth-place finish.

“I had a rough weekend last week,” admitted Metcalfe. “I went down and didn’t have a good result. So I was really determined to put in a good result at Anaheim. I was feeling good on the track, but I was a little bit off all day, so that was kind of a bummer. Going into the heat race, I felt good on the Yoshimura Suzuki RM-Z450 and things were looking up. But I wheelied off the gate and got a bad start and ended up finishing eighth. In the main, I got another bad start and was never able to get it going. But now, I’m looking forward to getting back into it this week, and working hard on the Yoshimura Suzuki RM-Z450 and coming out for San Diego and trying to get things back on track.”

Team Yoshimura Suzuki Racing’s next event is the sixth round of the 2012 AMA/FIM Supercross Championship on Saturday, February 11th, at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, CA. You can meet Yoshimura Suzuki’s Brett Metcalfe on Friday, February 10th, from 6 to 7PM at North County House of Motorcycles at 1725 Hacienda Drive - Suite C, Vista, CA.

Anaheim 2 Supercross Class Results:
1.  Ryan Villopoto
2.  James Stewart
3.  Chad Reed
4.  Ryan Dungey
5.  Justin Brayton
6.  Kevin Windham
7.  David Millsaps
8.  Mike Alessi
9.  Brett Metcalfe
10. Broc Tickle

2012 Supercross Class Standings:
1.  Ryan Villopoto – 108
2.  Chad Reed – 105
3.  Ryan Dungey – 103
4.  James Stewart – 95
5.  Kevin Windham – 73
6.  Jake Weimer – 71
7.  Andrew Short – 59
8.  Brett Metcalfe – 57
9.  David Millsaps – 56
10. Justin Brayton – 53

About Yoshimura R&D of America: Yoshimura is “The Leader in Performance” and has been for more than 55 years. With unmatched skills, knowledge, and passion for racing, Yoshimura is on the forefront of the aftermarket exhaust industry. Yoshimura pipes are race bred and feature the same legendary performance, fit and quality that has been their trademark for more than five decades. To learn more about Yoshimura and view their wide variety of performance products, visit www.yoshimura-rd.com.

Suzuki: Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) founded The Motorcycle and ATV Division of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC), Brea, CA, in 1963. ASMC markets motorcycles and ATVs via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. ASMC's parent company, Suzuki Motor Corporation, based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of motorcycles, ATVs, scooters, automobiles and marine engines. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, it has 120 distributors in 191 countries. For more information visit www.suzukicycles.com.

Honda News Release

Torrance, CA: Round five of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship Series made its way back to Anaheim, California. For a second time this season Honda riders battled for the top podium position in front of a nearly sold-out crowd at Angel Stadium. Honda had an impressive night with GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac taking his third consecutive win, and TwoTwo Motorsports/Honda rider Chad Reed riding his way to a third-place finish. Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Brayton also had an impressive night, finishing in fifth.

After struggling the last few weeks to get the finishes he desires, Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Brayton was able to put together a very noteworthy ride at Anaheim Two. Brayton set the tone for the day during qualifying by laying down the fastest lap time, giving him first gate pick heading into the heat races. In his heat race Brayton got a good start, making his way to the front of the pack. He lead throughout the majority of the race but was eventually passed on the last lap, leaving him with a second-place finish. In the main, Brayton was able to put together a solid ride from start to finish. When the gate dropped he grabbed third place out of the first turn and battled the entire 20 laps, finishing a respectable fifth place.

“The day went really great for me, starting with a successful practice, which was able to set the tempo for the rest of the night,” said Brayton. “After the last few weeks of not placing where I know I belong, it was a great step in the right direction. We have been working really hard, especially on my starts because that is key to having a great race. This weekend was a confidence booster for me, but more than anything it was a relief knowing that all my hard work is starting to pay off.”

TwoTwo Motorsports/Honda rider Chad Reed had another successful night, leaving with a third-place finish and second place in the points chase. In heat one Reed finished second, followed by Supercross.com/Honda rider Andrew Short. Reed, who battled flu symptoms all day, got a second-place start in the main but was eventually passed and had to settle for third.

“It was a rough week for me, with myself and family being sick,” said Reed. “Despite not being 100 percent, I am happy with my third-place finish because I fought as hard as I could for a podium. We are ready to move forward and go into the next round positive and ready to take back the points lead and that red plate.”

For the third week in a row GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac dominated the Lites class and will go into San Diego with a 22-point lead. Tomac nabbed the holeshot in the Lites main event but was quickly passed by Cole Seely with Troy Lee Designs/ Lucas Oil/ Honda racing. Seely led the pack until going down on lap three but was able to recover and stay in second place, where he would remain the rest of the race. Tomac quickly capitalized on the mistake, taking the lead and running away with it.

“The day started off a little slow with practice. I wasn’t exactly where I wanted to be so that gave me a little fire going into the heat race,” said Tomac. “Going into the next round it is definitely nice having those 22 points as a cushion. I am going to try and keep getting good starts and try not to make any mistakes throughout the rest of the rounds. I am looking forward to San Diego since it is where I got my first Supercross win and is the home to my favorite football team.”
 
Supercross Main Event
1. Ryan Villopoto
2. James Stewart
3. Chad Reed (Honda)
4. Ryan Dungey
5. Justin Brayton (Honda)
6. Kevin Windham (Honda)
7. Davi Millsaps
8. Mike Alessi
9. Brett Metcalfe
10. Brock Tickle 

Supercross Championship Points (after 5 of 17 rounds)
1. Ryan Villopoto 108
2. Chad Reed 105
3. Ryan Dungey 103
4. James Stewart 95
5. Kevin Windham 73
6. Jake Weimer 71
7. Andrew Short 59
8. Brett Metcalfe 57
9. Davi Millsaps 56
10. Justin Brayton 53

Supercross Lites West Main Event
1. Eli Tomac (Honda)
2. Cole Seely (Honda)
3. Marvin Musquin
4. Dean Wilson
5. Nico Izzi
6. Michael Leib (Honda)
7. Mat Moss
8. Vince Friese (Honda)
9. Travis Baker (Honda)
10. Martin Davalos

Supercross Lites West Points (after 5 of 9 rounds)
1. Eli Tomac 113
2. Dean Wilson 91
3. Marvin Musquin 84
4. Cole Seely 79
5. Zach Osborne 67
6. Nico Izzi 62
7. Tyla Rattray 60
8. Jason Anderson 54
9. Ryan Sipes 53
10. Matt Moss 53

About Honda
American Honda Motor *** Inc. is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and MUVs in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing, and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

©2012 American Honda Motor *** Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Matrix Concepts News Release

Matrix Concepts would like to congratulate Ryan Villopoto on his 450 main event win at the Anaheim Supercross. James Stewart from JGR Yamaha/Toyota took a solid second place finish with Chad Reed of Two Two Motorsports right behind. Matrix Concepts 450 team riders still hold 9 out of the top 10 in point standings. Matrix Concepts would also like to congratulate Eli Tomac and his mechanic Brian Kranz from Gieco Honda on their third consecutive 250 main event win in a row. 

Be sure to LIKE our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/matrixconcepts, because our riders swept the podium and a lucky fan will receive a FREE product from Matrix Concepts this Friday.
 
1st Ryan Villopoto - KAW - 108
2nd Chad Reed - HON - 105
3rd Ryan Dungey - KTM - 103
4th James Stewart - YAM - 95
5th Kevin Windham - HON - 73
6th Jake Weimer - KAW - 71
7th Andrew Short - HON - 59
8th Brett Metcalf - SUZ - 57
9th Davi Millsaps - YAM - 56 
10th Justin Brayton - HON - 53
 
About Matrix Concepts:
Matrix Concepts is based in Valencia, California founded in 2009 and is used by the top MX/Off-road race teams in the world and offers a complete range of track/garage necessities that include personalized off road motorcycle Stands, Loading Ramps, Tie Downs, Utility cans and Worx Mats. For more information on Matrix Concepts products, visit: MatrixRacingProducts.com  

Moose Racing News Release

The Moose Racing AMA Arenacross Series riders were in Lexington, Ky. over the weekend, with Tyler Bowers capturing his 10th victory of the season. After a good battle back and forth for the lead, Bowers pulled away from second on Lap 11 and took the win in from of his hometown crowd in Rupp Arena. Teammate Chad Johnson finished the night just outside the top five in sixth place.

Tyler Bowers with win number 10.
(Photo: AMA Arenacross Series)
 
Moose Racing would also like to wish Jacob Argubright a speedy recovery. We had reported he finished third at the first round of the AMA Hare and Hound Series, but he had an unfortunate crash that took him out of the race with a broken collar bone. Moose Racing hopes to see him back on the bike soon. AMA National Hare and Hound opening round podium finishers were Kurt Caselli, David Pearson, and David Kamo. The top finishing Moose Racing rider was Justin Morrow in fifth.
 
Stay tuned to MooseRacing.com for the latest race updates, gear and accessories. Also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the most up-to-date news from Moose Racing.

About Moose and Moose Utility Division
As the industry leader in motorcycle/ATV parts and accessories, Moose has dedicated itself to providing riders and racers alike with quality and high performance products. With thousands of items ranging from riding gear, jackets and boots to gaskets, t-handles and fender bags, Moose has you covered. Whether you're trail riding with friends, hunting in the woods or jumping Supercross triples, Moose offers the most comprehensive list of products in the industry to satisfy all your riding needs.
 
About Parts Unlimited
Parts Unlimited is the world's largest distributor of aftermarket accessories in the powersports industry and is owned by LeMans Corporation headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin. Parts Unlimited sells to over 12,000 dealerships world wide and continues to expand its market penetration with its sister companies, Parts Canada, Parts Europe and Drag Specialties.
 
Parts Unlimited continues to promote racing through its campaign WE SUPPORT THE SPORT®, helping to drive consumers to dealerships, while entertaining its dealers through hospitalities at the events it sponsors.

WP Racing News Release

North Wilkesboro, N.C., (Feb. 6, 2012) - FMF/KTM/RPM Racing’s Josh Strang will race the Grand National Cross Country series this year with support from RidePG.com/Genuine Dirt Racer/WP Racing USA. The 2010 GNCC champ, who suffered a broken leg at the end of the 2011 season, will use WP Racing suspension for WORCS, Endurocross and GNCC for the 2012 season. The WP team, headed by Bart Hayes, will tend to Strang’s East Coast efforts, while RPM’s Mike Hurlbert will handle the chores in the West.

“Although the WORCS series will be my primary focus, I’m excited to be riding some of the GNCC rounds this year with the help of RidePG.com/Genuine Dirt Racer/WP Racing,” said Strang. “Right now I’m still working on getting the strength back in my leg, but hopefully I will be good to go by the time the opener rolls around.”

Hurlbert has received support from PG for several years and RPM’s Maria Forsberg used RidePG products and WP Racing suspension services to win the GNCC Women’s title in 2011. Other sponsors include KTM, Maxxis Tires, Motorex, SiDi Boots, Moose Racing, and DP Brakes.

WP Racing/PG team support riders:
Husaberg
Nick Fahringer
Jesse Robinson
 
KTM
Steward Baylor
Grant Baylor
Josh Strang
 
About WP Racing USA:
Based in North Carolina, WP Racing USA has established itself as the leader in KTM and Husaberg suspension services. Winning GNCC, National Enduro and regional championships as the representative for WP Suspension in the United States.

WP Racing USA and Genuine Dirt Racer products are part of the RidePG group and Kudzu Project LLC.

For more information go to www.wpracingusa.com or call 336-903-0363.

KTM Enduro Factory Team rider Taddy Blazusiak has brought an incredible 15 months of racing to a victorious close by clinching the 2012 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship. Competing inside the Palau Sant Jordi stadium in Barcelona, Spain Blazusiak again stamped his authority on the European indoor enduro scene, winning two of the night’s three SuperEnduro finals. Also finishing third in the second race it ensured Blazusiak remained the overall winner – something he’s achieved at each round of the 2012 SuperEnduro series.

Returning from the lengthy break between rounds two and three, Blazusiak arrived in Barcelona in confident mood. Entering the night’s racing with a healthy 39-point advantage over his closest competitor, he knew that by winning the opening race he would secure the world title. Winning the night’s qualification event Taddy was able to get that all-important first choice pick of the start for the opening SuperEnduro final. Grabbing the holeshot he immediately began to open up a sizeable lead until the race was red flagged due to a crash behind him. Facing the restart, Blazusiak again was fastest out of the gate and this time rode to a comfortable race win to clinch the world title.

With the start order reversed for the second SuperEnduro final of the evening Taddy had to start on the second row. Unable to slice a path through the field of riders ahead of him like he had done in both Italy and Poland, Taddy’s winning streak was finally brought to an end as he finished the race in third.

Reverting back to the original starting order of the final race, Taddy again claimed the holeshot and once again secured another commanding victory. While having already wrapped up the world championship during the opening race of the night, winning the final race of the series ensured Blazusiak claimed the overall win in Spain to remain undefeated in the 2012 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship.

Taddy Blazusiak: “Winning the 2012 SuperEnduro World Championship has capped off an incredible 15 months of racing for me. Tonight I knew that if I could win the first SuperEnduro final then that would secure the championship. I focused really hard on the start and knew that getting the holeshot would be crucial in winning the race. Thankfully, I did just that and I tried to race as hard as I could on a clear track to open up an advantage. I managed to open up a small lead and avoid any trouble to win the race and the championship. The team works so hard to ensure that I have the perfect setup to do my job and I’m delighted to reward them with this championship and also the 2011 AMA EnduroCross title. Now I’ll take a break for a few weeks and have some fun before getting ready for AMA Endurocross season that begins in May.

2012 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship – Final standings
1. Taddy Blazusiak (KTM) 174 points; 2. Jonny Walker (KTM) 120; 3. Joakim Ljunggren (Husaberg) 108; 4. Alex Salvini (Husqvarna) 94; 5. Ivan Cervantes (Gas Gas) 89

Jeff Ward Racing News Release

In front of another sold-out crowd at Angel Stadium on Saturday night for round five of the 2012 AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship season, Kyle Chisholm steadily brought home his fourth consecutive 12th place SX Main finish for the DNA Energy Drink / Jeff Ward Racing team. Codie Mackie, who was filling-In again for injured Josh Grant, unfortunately missed the SX Main for the DNA Energy Drink / Jeff Ward Racing team after finishing 18th due to sustaining a crash with Justin Sipes late in his Heat race and finishing fourth in the SX Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ).

Leading up to the SX Main, Chisholm finished 8th quickest in his SX Group A first qualifying practice with a lap time of 58.659. Mackie, who was in SX Group C, finished his first qualifying practice on top of the board with a lap time of 1:00.818. Both riders went on to pick up speed in their final qualifying practices with Chisholm finishing 7th fastest with a lap time of 56.804 and Mackie sitting on top of the board again in his group with a lap time of 58.707.

Those times put Chisholm 7th fastest overall in Heat 2 and Mackie 20th fastest overall in Heat 1. Chisholm ran another solid Heat race finishing seventh to make the Main, giving the DNA Energy Drink / Jeff Ward Racing their only entry of the evening. Mackie put together a solid Heat race as well and was running in the 8th position on the last lap of his race until Sipes crashed into him trying to make a pass. That caused Mackie to fall to 16th and unfortunately into the LCQ where he needed to finish first or second to advance to the Main.

Chisholm’s 12th place finish in the SX Main keeps him 13th in series points with 43, ten points outside of the top-10. Grant’s return from injury will continue to be evaluated on a week-to-week basis with Mackie filling-in until his return. Up next for the DNA Energy Drink / Jeff Ward Racing team is San Diego for Round 6 on Saturday, February 11th.

KTM News Release

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Red Bull/KTM Factory Supercross rider Ryan Dungey earned fourth overall for the second consecutive weekend at the fifth round of the AMA Supercross Series at Angel Stadium.

A sold out crowd was on hand for the fifth round of the series. Dungey looked great all day finishing the timed practice sessions with the fourth fastest time. He was placed in the first Supercross class heat race. He had a great jump off the gate rounding the first corner in third position. After one lap he was able to move around Josh Hansen to take over second place. He then set his sights on the early leader James Stewart. On the fourth lap of the heat, Stewart suffered a crash on his own which allowed Dungey to sneak pass. Dungey moved into the lead and went on to take the heat win.

Dungey’s heat win earned him a great gate choice for the main event. He chose a spot in the middle of the starting gate. When the gate dropped he leaped forward and found himself in sixth place at the end of the first few corners. It took him four laps to pass Davi Millsaps but he finally got around him with a smooth inside pass through a corner. Dungey spent the remainder of the first half of the race reeling in the fourth place ride of Justin Brayton. On the twelfth lap of the main event, he was able to secure the pass on Brayton in the same corner he passed Millsaps and took over the position. He continued to knock off impressive lap times throughout the remainder of the event but the top three riders had already pulled out to a sizeable gap that he was not able to close.

“I am not pleased to finish off the podium for a second weekend in a row. I had a better start in the main event this weekend but I struggled to make my passes and allowed those guys to move ahead. I will continue to work on my starts for next weekend and make sure I get my KTM back on the podium to remain in the points chase for the championship,” stated Dungey.

Next Round: San Diego, CA – February 11, 2012

AMA Supercross Class Results –
1) Ryan Villopoto
2) James Stewart
3) Chad Reed
4) Ryan Dungey – KTM
5) Justin Brayton
6) Kevin Windham
7) Davi Millsaps
8) Mike Alessi
9) Brett Metcalfe
10) Broc Tickle
11) Jake Weimer
12) Kyle Chisholm
13) Nick Wey
14) Andrew Short 
15) Weston Peick
16) Kyle Partridge
17) Justin Sipes
18) Jimmy Albertson
19) Jeff Alessi
20) Josh Hansen

AMA Supercross Class Overall Point Standings –
1) Ryan Villopoto – 108
2) Chad Reed – 105
3) Ryan Dungey – 103
4) James Stewart – 95
5) Kevin Windham – 72

KTM News Release

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Red Bull/KTM Factory rider Marvin Musquin made another trip to the podium at the fifth round of the AMA West Supercross Lites Series with a third place result in front of the sold out Angel Stadium crowd.

The two-time MX2 World Champion is focusing on consistency at this point in the series and has accomplished his goal the past two weekends. For the final Anaheim event, Musquin wowed the audience with a near holeshot in his heat event followed by a quick pass into the lead. He led the first three laps of the heat race before pressure from Eli Tomac forced him into making a mistake enabling Tomac to move into the lead. Tomac went on to take the heat win while Musquin finished a close second place.

Musquin’s second place heat finish earned him a top gate pick for the main event. “I really focused on my starting technique this week during my training,” remarked Musquin. “I have struggled at a few rounds with poor starts and it makes it too hard to come through the pack when I don’t put myself in good position from the start.”

His hard work paid off as he quickly propelled his KTM off the line to garner a fourth place start in the main event. Within the first lap he moved his 250 SX-F into third position behind Eli Tomac and Cole Seely. Musquin was able to maintain third place throughout the 15-lap main event despite heavy pressure from Dean Wilson in the final five laps. “I could feel that Wilson was close but I just continued to ride my own lines and I was able to hold him off and secure the podium spot,” commented Musquin.

Musquin’s third place finish moved him to third overall in the point standings. With three rounds remaining Musquin is only 7 points shy of second place.

Next Round: San Diego, CA – February 11, 2012

AMA West Supercross Lites Race Results –
1) Eli Tomac
2) Cole Seely
3) Marvin Musquin – KTM
4) Dean Wilson
5) Nico Izzi
6) Michael Leib
7) Matt Moss – KTM
8) Vince Friese
9) Travis Baker
10) Martin Davalos
11) Ryan Sipes
12) Killy Rusk
13) Billy Laninovich
14) Bruce Rutherford
15) Gareth Swanepoel
16) Jean Carlo Ramos
17) Ryan Marmont – KTM
18) Topher Ingalls
19) Gavin Faith
20) Jason Anderson

AMA West Supercross Lites Overall Point Standings –
1) Eli Tomac – 113
2) Dean Wilson – 91
3) Marvin Musquin – 84
4) Cole Seely – 79
5) Zach Osborne – 67

Moss Rebounds from Poor Start to 7th - KTM News Release

ANAHEIM, Calif. – JDR/J-Star/KTM Team rider Matt Moss turned a poor start into a remarkable race when he charged from dead last to 7th overall at the fifth round of the AMA West Supercross Lites Series held at Angel Stadium.

Moss and his teammate, Ryan Marmont, were both placed in the opening Lites heat. Both riders launched off the line with great speed and were inside the top five heading into the first corner. Marmont came out in 3rd position while Moss collided with another rider and went down in the turn. Marmont kept his composure and crossed the finish line in 5th to easily qualify for the main event. Meanwhile, Moss was busy climbing through the pack from his last place start. In only six laps he was able to pass over half of the field to earn the final transfer spot to the main event.

After his successful heat Marmont returned to the pits reporting a minor problem to his mechanic in regards to the motor. It resulted in his mechanic, Richard Matchett, replacing the entire engine in the small time frame between the heat and the main event. In exchange for his hard work, he was honored with the MMI Top Tech Award for the night.

With his bike in order Marmont hurried to the line to join his teammate for the start of the main event. When the gate dropped Marmont launched off the line mid-pack. Moss had a better jump but stalled his bike in the first corner. Moss quickly fired up the bike but suffered an additional delay in the next corner when he crashed with another rider causing him to again start the race from last position.

Moss quickly set to work and began to make up time on the riders ahead of him. By the third lap he had already passed six riders and was sitting in 14th. At the halfway point he had climbed into the top ten. From there he continued to turn impressive lap times and began to reel in more riders. He made three additional passes with only a few laps to go and eventually worked his way into 7th position.

“This is definitely not where I wanted to finish tonight,” remarked Moss. “But after suffering a poor start, I am happy with how I rode through the pack and the passes I was able to make. Next week I need to improve my starts and battle in the front of the pack at the beginning of the race. “

This race was the final race for Marmont who took home 17th overall for the night. Marmont will now head back to Australia to begin to prepare for the Australian Motocross National Series but not before stopping off to get married. A special congratulation goes out to him and his new wife on behalf of the entire JDR/J-Star/KTM Team.

Next Round: San Diego, CA – February 11, 2012

Overall Results –
1) Eli Tomac
2) Cole Seely
3) Marvin Musquin – KTM
4) Dean Wilson
5) Nico Izzi
6) Michael Leib
7) Matt Moss – KTM
8) Vince Friese
9) Travis Baker
10) Martin Davalos
11) Ryan Sipes
12) Killy Rusk
13) Billy Laninovich
14) Bruce Rutherford
15) Gareth Swanepoel
16) Jean Carlo Ramos
17) Ryan Marmont – KTM
18) Topher Ingalls
19) Gavin Faith
20) Jason Anderson

Overall Point Standings –
1) Eli Tomac – 113
2) Dean Wilson – 91
3) Marvin Musquin – 84
4) Cole Seely – 79
5) Zach Osborne – 67
6) Nico Izzi – 62
7) Tyla Rattray – 60
8) Jason Anderson – 54
9) Ryan Sipes – 53
10) Matt Moss – 53

Tomac Takes Third Consecutive Supercross Lites Class Win - AMA Monster Energy Supercross News Release

ANAHEIM, Calif. (February 4, 2012) – Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto, of Poulsbo, Wash., became the first rider of the 2012 Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, to win two races, leading all 20 laps of the Main Event tonight at Angel Stadium in front of a sold-out crowd. GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac, of Cortez, Colo., won his third consecutive Western Regional Supercross Lites Class race and extended his points lead to 22.

Villopoto picked up his second Nuclear Cowboyz® Holeshot of the season to start the Supercross Class Main Event with TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray/Honda’s Chad Reed in tow. Reed passed Villopoto on the opening lap but was passed back the following lap. Toyota/Yamaha/JGRMX’s James Stewart, of Haines City, Fla., moved into third place on Lap 1. On Lap 8, Stewart passed Reed for second place. Stewart finished second and Reed finished third.

“James (Stewart) and Chad (Reed) were riding good tonight,” said Villopoto. “I knew I had to stay on my toes and not make a mistake. We need to take it one race at a time. I had a great start and to be perfect on the start difficult.”

Tomac opened the Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites Class main Event with the Nuclear Cowboyz Holeshot with Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/Honda’s Cole Seely, who won the season opening race in Anaheim earlier this year, on his rear wheel through the first turn. Seely quickly passed Tomac for the lead. On Lap 3, Seely, of Murrieta, Calif., slid out and fell back to second place as Tomac assumed the lead. Seely finished second and Red Bull KTM’s Marvin Musquin finished third.

“Tonight’s track was difficult,” said Tomac. “It’s too bad Cole (Seely) slid out because he was going really fast, and I knew that I would have to work hard to get around him. I look forward to going to San Diego next weekend.”

Supercross Class Results: Anaheim
1.    Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki
2.    James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Yamaha
3.    Chad Reed, Dade City, Fla., Honda
4.    Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM
5.    Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
6.    Kevin Windham, Centreville, Miss., Honda
7.    Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha
8.    Mike Alessi, Hilliard, Calif., Suzuki
9.    Brett Metcalfe, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Suzuki
10.    Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki

Supercross Class Season Standings
1.    Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki – 108
2.    Chad Reed, Dade City, Fla., Honda – 105
3.    Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM – 103
4.    James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Yamaha – 95
5.     Kevin Windham, Centreville, Miss., Honda – 73
6.    Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki – 71
7.    Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda – 59
8.    Brett Metcalfe, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Suzuki – 57
9.    Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha – 56
10.    Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., Honda – 53

Western Regional Supercross Lites Class Results: Anaheim
1.    Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda
2.    Cole Seely, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
3.    Marvin Musquin, Murrieta, Calif., KTM
4.    Dean Wilson, Menifee, Calif., Kawasaki
5.    Nico Izzi, Menifee, Calif., Yamaha
6.    Michael Lieb, Menifee, Calif., Honda
7.    Matt Moss, Sussex Inlet, NS, KTM
8.    Vince Friese, Cape Girardeau, Mo., Honda
9.    Travis Baker, Temecula, Calif., Honda
10.    Martin Davalos, Cairo, Ga., Suzuki

Western Regional Supercross Lites Class Season Standings
1.    Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda – 113
2.    Dean Wilson, Menifee, Calif., Kawasaki – 91
3.    Marvin Musquin, Murrieta, Calif., KTM – 84
4.    Cole Seely, Murrieta, Calif., Honda – 79
5.    Zach Osborne, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha – 67
6.    Nico Izzi, Menifee, Calif., Yamaha – 62  
7.    Tyla Rattray, Wildomar, Calif., Kawasaki – 60
8.    Jason Anderson, Edgewood, N.M., Suzuki – 54
9.    Ryan Sipes, Ekron, Ky., Yamaha – 53
10.    Matt Moss, Sussex Inlet, NS, KTM

Tune into the enhanced exclusive weekly video content from Supercross LIVE! 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.

GEICO Honda News Release

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb. 4) -- GEICO Honda rider Eli Tomac scored his third consecutive Supercross victory Saturday night at a sold-out Angels Stadium, padding his lead in the Lites West standings from 15 to 22 points with four races left on the schedule.

"We got the turkey -- three in a row," Tomac said. "You never expect that to happen because it's so tough out here but the GEICO Honda is running strong and my riding has been there. Once I figured out my starts, the wins started coming."

After running the best time of all 250 riders in the Heat race, Tomac blasted from the gate in the Main and earned the Nuclear Cowboyz $1,000 Holeshot award for leading the pack into the first turn. Fellow Honda rider Cole Seely then slipped by and led for four laps before crashing, which allowed Tomac to assume the lead. He never looked back from there, riding away to a comfortable win over Seely, Marvin Musquin and reigning champion Dean Wilson.

"I got my first holeshot of the year, which was very cool, but Seely got around me on that second straightaway and the chase was on," Tomac said. "We kind of yo-yo'ed for the first few laps. I would push him, then he was pulling me. We were very close. Then he made his mistake and I got around him. From there I just knew I needed to ride solid and I could get the win.

"This was a tough course. It was a little bit longer than normal and the whoops were very hard. It was a case of trying to ride smart and protect my position."

Superstar Kevin Windham turned in a solid sixth-place result on his GEICO Honda 450CRF. He is now fifth in the points, just behind multi-time champion James Stewart.

"I had a great battle out there for most of the Main, it was just for sixth place instead of the lead," Windham said. "Davi Millsaps and I just went at it and I was able to get past him there in the second half and hold the spot. I needed a slightly better start and things could have been different.

"It seems like we're in a position to do something every race but we haven't found the podium yet. I think we're close. It's just a matter of getting the breaks."

Fill-in rider Gavin Faith earned a spot in the Main with an eighth place finish in the second Heat race but struggled with the demanding course and finished 19th overall.

The circuit moves to Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego for next Saturday's race, the sixth of the 2012 season.

Bowers Extends Points Lead with 10th Win in Front of Hometown Crowd - AMA ArenaCross Series News Release

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 4, 2012) – The ninth round of the 2012 AMA Arenacross Series season signified the series’ debut from Rupp Arena, and to commemorate the occasion, a champion was crowned as Motostar Kawasaki’s Michael McDade, of Edinburg, Pa., captured his first career American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) title in the Arenacross Lites Eastern Regional Championship. In the premier Arenacross Class, Babbitt’s Monster Energy/AMSOIL Kawasaki presented by Maxxis’ Tyler Bowers, of Danville, Ky., grabbed his 10th win of the season in front of his hometown crowd, extending his championship lead.

McDade entered the night with a 17-point lead over Dragon Racing Fuels/AG Motorsports KTM’s Michael Willard. When the gate dropped on the 18-lap main event, McDade took the holeshot and looked to pull away from the field. On Lap 2, Team Faith KTM’s Kevin Johnson, of Spring, Texas, slipped past McDade and asserted himself out front. As McDade attempted to battle back, he went down, allowing Airide KTM’s Daniel Blair, of Lodi, Calif., and Reed & Reese KTM’s Dave Ginolfi, of Lake Hopatcong, N.J., to slip past.

Johnson continued to pull away, while Blair and Ginolfi rounded out a podium sweep for KTM in second and third, respectively. McDade remounted but fell again on Lap 9, ultimately bringing home a 13th-place finish. Despite his misfortune, McDade was still able to secure the title.

In the 25-lap Arenacross Class Main Event, FMF Power/Poynt TUF Honda’s Jeff Gibson, of Blacklick, Ohio, grabbed the holeshot and early lead, with Bowers in tow. On Lap 2, Bowers passed Gibson, only to have his rival fight back one lap later.

The pair paced one another for the next eight laps before Bowers made another pass on Lap 11. Once he worked his way back into the lead, Bowers stayed out front while Bella’s Cupcakes/Club MX Kawasaki’s Zach Ames, of Prospect, Ohio, moved into second. Gibson finished third.

Bowers extended his points lead to 21 over Gibson, as the series heads west.

The 2012 AMA Arenacross Series season continues next weekend, with its 10th round of the championship from Fresno, Calif., and the Save Mart Center. Action kicks off next Saturday, February 11 at 7 p.m. PT.

Arenacross Class Results (Lexington, Ky.)
1.    Tyler Bowers, Danville, Ky., Kawasaki
2.    Zach Ames, Prospect, Ohio, Kawasaki
3.    Jeff Gibson, Blacklick, Ohio, Honda
4.    Willy Browning, Pleasantville, Ohio, KTM
5.    Kevin Johnson, Spring, Texas, KTM
6.    Chad Johnson, Rhinelander, Wis., Kawasaki
7.    Kelly Smith, Ludington, Mich., KTM
8.    Nathan Skaggs, Chillicothe, Ohio, Honda
9.    Michael Willard, Newark, Ohio, KTM
10.    Kyle White, Freeport, Ill., Honda

Arenacross Lites Class Results (Lexington, Ky.)
1.    Kevin Johnson, Spring, Texas, KTM
2.    Daniel Blair, Lodi, Calif., KTM
3.    Dave Ginolfi, Lake Hopatcong, N.J., KTM
4.    Austin Coon, Spencer, W.Va., Honda
5.    Kyle White, Freeport, Ill., Honda
6.    Steven Mages, Sardinia, Ohio, Kawasaki
7.    Kevin Markwardt, Freeport, Ill., Honda
8.    Michael Lang, Saugerties, N.Y., Honda
9.    Chad Cook, Oklahoma City, Okla., Kawasaki
10.    Jerry Lorenz, Morrice, Ill., Kawasaki

Arenacross Class Points (After Race 15 of 19)
1.    Tyler Bowers, Danville, Ky., Kawasaki (10 wins) – 330
2.    Jeff Gibson, Blacklick, Ohio, Honda (2 wins) – 309
3.    Chad Johnson, Rhinelander, Wis., Kawasaki (2 wins) – 268
4.    Kelly Smith, Ludington, Mich., KTM (1 win) – 241
5.    Zach Ames, Prospect, Ohio, Kawasaki – 220
6.    Nathan Skaggs, Chillicothe, Ohio, Honda – 210
7.    Willy Browning, Pleasantville, Ohio, KTM – 173
8.    Josh Demuth, North Richland Hills, Texas, Kawasaki – 127
9.    Travis Sewell, Westville, Ind., KTM – 126
10.    Michael Willard, Newark, Ohio, KTM – 113

Eastern Regional Arenacross Lites Class Points (After Race 10 of 10)
1.    Michael McDade, Indiana, Pa., Kawasaki (1 win) – 184
2.    Dave Ginolfi, Lake Hopatcong, N.J., KTM (2 win) – 170
3.    Michael Willard, Newark, Ohio, KTM (3 wins) – 159
4.    Steven Mages, Sardinia, Ohio, Kawasaki (1 win) – 155
5.    Kevin Johnson, Spring, Texas, KTM (1 win) – 127
6.    Daniel Blair, Lodi, Calif., KTM – 97
7.    Austin Coon, Spencer, W. Va., Honda – 95
8.    Travis Sewell, Westfield, Ind., KTM – 91
9.    Kyle White, Freeport, Ill., Honda – 88
10.    Maxx Malatia, Itasca, Ill., Honda – 68

Live timing and scoring from each round of the AMA Arenacross Series returns for the 2012 season! To follow the intense racing action live, log onto www.Arenacross.com.

For more information on the 2012 AMA Arenacross Series, log on to www.Arenacross.com. For all media requests, please contact Brandon Short brandon@nextlevelsportsinc.com or 949-365-5750.

Never miss out on the latest news! Follow the AMA Arenacross Series on Facebook and Twitter! Log on to http://www.facebook.com/AMAarenacross and http://twitter.com/arenacross today!

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.

Thor News Release

Once again Thor’s Ryan Villopoto shined at Angel Stadium, taking his second win of the season in front of a sold-out crowd in Anaheim, Calif. The night started off right with Villopoto earning the win in his heat race. He was able to transfer that speed into the main event, grabbing the holeshot and taking the wire-to-wire win.

Also in the Supercross Class, Brett Metcalfe battled his way through the pack to earn a ninth-place finish, while Supercross class rookie Broc Tickle earned his second top-10 finish of the season in 10th place. Jake Weimer pushed his way up to 11th, after starting 16th.

After earning his heat race win, Thor’s Dean Wilson pressured for a podium position for much of the Supercross Lites race, eventually finishing fourth. Wilson currently sits second in the points standings, 22 points behind first.

The sixth round of the Monster Energy Supercross is this weekend at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, Calif.
 
For all the latest from Thor, be sure to visit thormx.com, Thor on Facebook and follow @ThorMXOfficial on Twitter.

About Thor Motocross
Thor is the originator of motocross apparel. When Torsten Hallman made his first U.S trip to race and promote motocross in 1966, he began developing T.H.O.R. (Torsten Halman Original Racewear) riding gear. Thor is a hardcore, grass roots company that is continued proof of what it takes to reach the top and more importantly, how to stay there. It is the only company with over 40 years of experience in the motocross marketplace.
 
Thor combines design and marketing, with superior distribution through Parts Unlimited to reach it's thousands of dealers and consumers. Thor prides itself on key selling features like quality, strength and performance. Thor is more than a brand. It’s a lifestyle.

About Parts Unlimited
Parts Unlimited is the world's largest distributor of aftermarket accessories in the powersports industry and is owned by LeMans Corporation headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin. Parts Unlimited sells to over 12,000 dealerships world wide and continues to expand its market penetration with its sister companies, Parts Canada, Parts Europe and Drag Specialties.

Parts Unlimited continues to promote racing through its campaign WE SUPPORT THE SPORT®, helping to drive consumers to dealerships, while entertaining its dealers through hospitalities at the events it sponsors.

GEICO Honda News Release

SAN DIEGO (Feb. 6) – GEICO Honda's Eli Tomac will be gunning for his fourth straight Monster Energy AMA Supercross Lites West victory this Saturday in the same place --Qualcomm Stadium -- where he won his first Supercross race a year ago.

"I can't wait to get to San Diego," Tomac said. "There will definitely be a good vibe going. I got my first Supercross win there last year and this year we're coming in off the turkey (three wins in a row).

"Plus, the Chargers are my favorite NFL team and we'll be riding in their stadium. How cool is that?"

During his three-race win streak, Tomac has built a 22-point lead over second-place Dean Wilson. Tomac said he believes the football stadium track layout will suit his style and that he's hoping for another solid night before the two-month break in the Lites West schedule.

"It'll be cool to have the longer lanes and the longer whoops (section) that you typically get in a football stadium," Tomac said. "We actually had a pretty long section of whoops in Anaheim (on Feb. 4) so that kind of got us ready for what we'll most likely see in San Diego.

"We're sticking to the same program we've been on all season. There's no reason to change anything. I think having our condo out here in California has been huge because it's like a second home. You have a comfortable place to relax and live while we're out on the West Coast. I'm sure not missing all the travel. It wears you down."

Another GEICO Honda teammate who has found benefit to sticking around California is Supercross rider Kevin Windham, who has moved up to fifth place in the Supercross standings after consecutive sixth-place finishes.

"I'm staying out here again this week for a few more days of testing at the Corona track," Windham said. "It's a benefit, for sure, because the weather has been bad back home so it would be tough to ride there. I miss the family, but this is an important stretch for us.

"I love Qualcomm because it always sells out and the fans there are really into Supercross. That feeling reaches us down on the floor, believe me.

"The track will be a good bit different than what we've seen in these baseball stadiums. It should be more wide-open and faster and I think that suits my style of riding a little better. Plus, they always have good dirt in San Diego. I hope I can finally get this GEICO Honda on the podium. We're right there. We just need to get it done."

The team's other Lites rider, Gavin Faith, is entering his last race filling in for injured rider Wil Hahn. Faith said his riding has not met his own lofty expectations, but a solid showing in San Diego will take some of that sting away.

"I've definitely wanted more and expected more from myself so hopefully I can have my best showing this weekend," Faith said. "I'm making a lot of rookie mistakes. I've had a little bad luck. I feel like I've got the speed I just haven't been able to show it yet."

Practice for Saturday's Monster Energy AMA Supercross stop at Qualcomm Stadium begins at 12:30 p.m. PST with opening ceremonies starting at 7 p.m. SPEED TV will air the racing live starting at 10:30 p.m. EST.

James Stewart Finishes Second and Davi Milsaps Seventh in Main Event  - Pirelli News Release

Rome, Georgia, February 5, 2012 – A record crowd was on hand for the second time at Angel Stadium this season for round five of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship series. On the heels of his first main event win last week in Oakland, James “Bubba” Stewart started the night in spectacular form with a hole-shot in his heat race and stretched out a commanding lead through lap 3 when he suffered a hard crash as he skipped through the whoop section forcing him to race in the last chance qualifier (LCQ) which he later won convincingly. Teammate Davi Milsaps also experienced trouble in his heat race falling in a corner while leading but was able to remount and finish in a qualifying position for the main event.

The main event start was complicated for both riders as their positions were less than ideal, however, both were able to get through the first corner and start charging toward the front.  Stewart was running third mid-way through the main event when he caught and passed Chad Reed setting his eyes on race leader Ryan Villapoto who had checked out while the field battled one another. Villapoto opened up too large of a margin and a banged up Stewart came home second while Milsaps finished seventh, marking the second main event podium for Pirelli with Stewart in 2012.   

Stewart elected to run a Pirelli Scorpion MXMH Prototype front and a rear Pirelli Scorpion MX eXTra while Milsaps chose to run Pirelli Scorpion MXMH front and Pirelli Scorpion MXMS rear.  “We’re quite pleased with the results we are getting and how things are progressing”, stated Josh Whitmire Pirelli’s off road racing manager.  “The feedback has been great and I look forward to getting some more testing done this week before San Diego.”

With twelve rounds remaining in this year’s Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship series, Stewart is currently fourth in series points with Millsaps trailing in ninth.

Round six of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will be held Feb. 11 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, Calif. The event will air live on SPEED at 10:30 p.m. (EST).

Pirelli Tire North America designs, develops, manufactures and markets tires for passenger vehicles in both the original equipment and replacement markets as well as markets and distributes tires for motorcycles and motorsports. Located in Rome, Georgia, Pirelli’s Modular Integrated Robotized System (MIRS) employs state-of-the-art technology to manufacture tires for both export and domestic markets.  For more information please visit www.us.pirelli.com.

AMA ArenaCross Series News Release

AURORA, Ill. (February 3, 2012) – The AMA Arenacross Series is preparing to leave its mark on another new venue tomorrow night, and without a doubt, there isn’t a rider looking forward to the opportunity to race inside Rupp Arena, in Lexington, Ky., more than reigning series champion and current Arenacross Class points leader Tyler Bowers.

The Babbitt’s Monster Energy/AMSOIL Kawasaki presented by Maxxis rider has experienced a tremendously successful season, boasting a series-leading nine wins. Bowers hails from nearby Danville, which is a short 35-mile drive from Lexington. Sure, the AMA Arenacross Series has competed in Kentucky in the past, but this is Bowers’ back yard.

Like Bowers, who currently wears the number one plate as the defending champion, the permanent tenants of Rupp Arena, the University of Kentucky Wildcats Basketball Team, is also the number one team in the country. The state of Kentucky and the city of Lexington is passionate about its sports and the Wildcats program has established a legacy of success, winning a total of seven NCAA National Championships.

While Bowers has only one title to his credit, he is looking to establish a similar legacy as one of the most prolific athletes in the history of the AMA Arenacross Series. Since coming to the championship full time in 2010, Bowers has established himself as one of the most consistent competitors in the sport. He continues to find ways to improve, despite being faced with the arguably the toughest and most deeply-talented field of competitors in the history of the AMA Arenacross Series.

As one of its proverbial hometown sons, the city of Lexington and the surrounding Northern Kentucky region are sure to embrace Bowers and come out in droves to Rupp Arena to watch him take on the world’s best Arenacross competitors. Additionally, they will come in awe of the spectacle that is the AMA Arenacross Series, converting one of the most recognizable arena floors into a man-made dirt battleground.

While a large contingent of family, friends and local supporters are sure to be on hand to watch Bowers go for his 10th victory of the 2012 season, many of the champion’s closest rivals will be eager to ruin the homecoming. FMF Power/Poynt TUF Honda’s Jeff Gibson is hungry to get back on top of the box, as is Babbitt’s Monster Energy/AMSOIL Kawasaki’s Chad Johnson. Both riders sit within striking distance of Bowers in the championship, and are looking to make inroads as the season enters its final month.

Additionally, Team Faith KTM’s Kelly Smith is looking to keep the momentum going from his big win one week ago, becoming just the fourth different winner in the 2012 AMA Arenacross Series.

In the Arenacross Lites Class, an Eastern Regional Champion will be crowned tomorrow night. Currently, Motostar Kawasaki’s Michael McDade holds a 17-point lead in the championship thanks to tremendous consistency and he’ll be gunning for the win to set a high-energy tone for the rest of the evening.

Rupp Arena is the iconic venue of Lexington. Opening in 1976, it serves as the centerpiece of the Lexington Center, a local convention, shopping and entertainment center. With an official capacity of 23,500, it is viewed as the largest basketball arena in the Unites States. On Saturday night, the rafters will be filled with the roar of engines while thousands of fans pack into the stands to witness one of the most unique forms of racing on the planet for the first time.

The action commences for the inaugural Lexington Arenacross tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET. Amateur Day concludes an exciting weekend of action on Sunday, beginning at 10 a.m. ET

Live timing and scoring from each round of the AMA Arenacross Series returns for the 2012 season! To follow the intense racing action live, log onto www.Arenacross.com.

Never miss out on the latest news and updates from every stop of the 2012 season! Follow the AMA Arenacross Series on Facebook and Twitter! Log on to http://www.facebook.com/AMAarenacross and http://twitter.com/arenacross today!

For more information on the 2012 AMA Arenacross Series, log on to www.Arenacross.com. For all media requests, please contact Brandon Short: brandon@nextlevelsportsinc.com or 949-365-5750.

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.

Monster Energy Supercross News Release

AURORA, Ill. (February 3, 2012) – The 2012 Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, season is off to an historic start as each of the four past world champions have took the checkered flag through the first four races. Tomorrow night, the “Big Four” of Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey, TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray Honda’s Chad Reed, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto, and Toyota/Yamaha/JGRMX’s James Stewart will once again invade Angel Stadium, in Anaheim, Calif., for another memorable night of action.

Saturday night’s race is a significant one in terms of championship importance. With the aforementioned riders entering the evening as the favorites to win the race and the title, whoever can find a way to gain the upper hand inside Angel Stadium could very well generate enough momentum to carry through to the championship. From 1974 to 2011, the 38 seasons of Monster Energy Supercross, the first rider to win twice has gone on to win the title 23 times.

Dungey enters Saturday night’s race as the co-holder of the coveted red number plate that signifies the current championship leader. He, and Reed, sit atop the standings and following his first finish off the podium this season, Dungey will be looking to get back on the box.

This Saturday marks the 57th time the gate will drop for a Supercross Class race in Anaheim
Photo Credit: Hoppenworld.com

“My goal was to be on the podium last weekend and I fell just short of that by finishing fourth in Oakland,” said Dungey. “I got a bad start and was somewhere around 17th place on the opening lap so I had to work hard to get back to fourth by the races end. I definitely need to make sure I get a better start this weekend at Anaheim 2. I can’t afford to be giving Villopoto, Reed and Stewart head starts like last weekend because we’re all fairly similar when it comes to race pace so I need to put myself in a better position to battle for the win verse battling my way through the pack.

“It’s nice to be ahead in the points early in the season and my goal is to keep putting KTM and the new 450 on the podium going forward.”

Chad Reed will be racing for his seventh win in Anaheim this Saturday at Angel Stadium
Photo Credit: Hoppenworld.com

Reed backed up his win inside Dodger Stadium with a strong runner-up effort in Oakland, fending off a hard-charging Villopoto for a significant portion of the race.

“The starts are so important,” said Reed. “Hopefully we can keep building on these last couple weeks, keep getting the starts and accumulating those points.”

Villopoto’s night in Oakland was a solid one, despite missing out on the win. He secured his third podium effort of the season behind Stewart and Reed, and now sits just two points out of the championship lead as the schedule returns to the site of his season-opening victory one month ago.

“It was tough at Oakland,” said Villopoto. “The track was pretty rutted and got worse with every lap. The dirt was really soft underneath and it caused the ruts to mushroom out.  I was on the outside of the track most of the race looking for a place to pass. I kept reeling them in, moving out of the main line to pass, then having to fall back in line behind them around tight sections of track. If I had got a better start that would have fixed the problem so I put in a lot of time this week working on starts.”

Last weekend in Oakland, James Stewart earned his 43rd Supercross Class win; it was his first win of the 2012 Monster Energy Supercross season
Photo Credit: Hoppenworld.com

Stewart’s long-awaited maiden victory with JGR was an impressive one. The two-time champion capitalized on his best start of the season to put himself in position to slip by Reed for the lead, and once out front, Stewart was flawless through to the finish, gaining very valuable points in the championship.

"Coming off a win, it's always a good feeling you know; it's like you go into the new week a little more eager for what comes next,” said Stewart. “In Oakland, things were working good for us and we showed everybody that we are here to win.  Yeah the start to season was tough, but we never lost sight of that.  And we won't.  But, the Oakland race is in the past now and we’ve got to keep working to stay headed towards our best.  It's pretty exciting actually." 

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jake Weimer continues to enjoy a strong start to his first full season of Supercross Class competition. In Oakland, he got a mid-pack start and was forced to fight his way through the pack on the deteriorating track. He finished the night in eighth and currently sits fifth in the championship points.

“Last weekend was a bit of a struggle,” said Weimer. “The track layout was good, but the dirt was really rough and inconsistent. It got pretty rutted by the main event so I was having a difficult time connecting the track. You know it just wasn’t the best race for me, but I was happy to leave the event healthy and am ready to get to Anaheim.”

GEICO Honda’s Kevin Windham showed impressive speed in Oakland with a fourth-place overall qualifying time in practice. He also put together a solid main by finishing in sixth place

“The night was good, it was a nice rebound for me after Dodger Stadium,” said Windham. “I spent most of the week focusing on trying to come out and get my job done after last weekend. I saw the whole thing with Trey and it was really difficult for me. It felt like I had a good heat and great times during the day and I am pleased with my finish but I am really looking to get GEICO Honda on the podium.”

Supercross.com/Honda Racing’s Andrew Short had a solid outing in Oakland as well, capitalizing on a strong start in the main event to finish fifth, while American Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Brayton redeemed himself from a DNQ in Los Angeles to fight his way to a night-place result.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Brett Metcalfe captured a fifth-place finish in his heat race and was in the top 10 in the main when he had a minor get-off. He remounted to finish 14th.

“Looking back on Oakland, I had a bit of a bummer of a night, but still some positives to take, you know our setup now is really good,” said Metcalfe. “The Yoshimura Suzuki is working great out there; I’ve got a good bike underneath me and practice times went really good, and that was a good indicator that hopefully we’re going to have a good night. I actually got a really great start and the Suzuki launched out of the gate and I was up there early on and I got passed in the first couple of laps and went back and tried to make a pass and move up a spot, went out wide, washed the front end out and went down on lap three and that put me back you know, right at the back of the field, everyone went by. After that, the race was pretty tough, then we had a little issue with the front end, which I was feeling a little uncomfortable with, so I chose not to push it too hard and risk going down again.  We finished 14th, which was a real big disappointment but you know we have to look forward to Anaheim 2 and rebound and come out strong.”

Since his move to the Supercross Class, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Broc Tickle has been working hard to get comfortable on the bigger bike. In the heat race at Oakland, Tickle got a good start and pieced together a solid race to finish sixth. When the gate dropped for the main, Tickle got pinched off around the first turn and found himself near the back of the pack, but worked through the field to finish 13th.

“I really felt like I was struggling last weekend,” said Tickle. “I crashed early in practice and just couldn’t get comfortable on the track. The heat race went good and I felt good about the start, but in the main I got a bad start and just had a tough time. I’ve been working hard to improve and hopefully I can come back at Anaheim 2 and prove myself.”

Western Regional Supercross Lites Class leader Eli Tomac holds a 15-point advantage over the field heading into Anaheim’s Angel Stadium this Saturday.
Photo Credit: Hoppenworld.com
           
In the Western Regional Supercross Lites Class, GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac became the first rider in either class to take a second win following a dominant outing in Oakland. He brings the red number plate as the championship leader into Anaheim with a 15 points advantage over the field

“After the front two guys made some pretty big mistakes, I wanted to make sure I stayed consistent once out front,” said Tomac. “I didn’t do anything crazy and was able to ride a solid race. I’m excited, the red backgrounds look good on a Honda.”

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Dean Wilson came into Oakland second in the championship points, only one point behind the leader. After taking the win in his heat race, Wilson was aiming to take over the points lead and coveted red plate.  In the main event, he got a great start on his Kawasaki and quickly moved in behind the leader. He began looking for a place to pass, but on the second lap, he crashed, leaving him at the back of the pack. Wilson battled through the field to finish 10th, and salvaged enough points to hang onto the number two spot in the points standings.

“I was pretty disappointed last weekend,” said Wilson. “I got a good start in the main and I thought I had the holeshot, but someone slipped past me on the inside. Early in the race I made a push to get around the leader, but made a mistake and went down. It just sucks because I lost points when I should have taken over the lead. I’ve been working hard this week and I’m going to get after it in Anaheim.”

Fellow Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider Tyla Rattray came to Oakland sitting third in the points, only three points behind the leader. During practice, Rattray attempted to dial in the track, but couldn’t get into a rhythm and qualified in 10th position. In the heat race, Rattray crashed while trying to come through the pack and was injured, knocking him out of the competition for the night.

"I’m really bummed out about my injury,” said Rattray. “But I’m very thankful that it didn’t end up worse. I just want to thank everyone for their tremendous support. Hopefully I’ll be back soon."

Marvin Musquin rebounded from a misfortune-stricken previous round for Red Bull KTM, landing on the podium for the second time this season and tying a career-best finish in second.

“I was happy to be on the podium again last weekend,” said Musquin. “I am having a lot of fun racing Supercross and I think I am doing a good job for KTM especially as this is my first time racing in the US Supercross Lites series. I’m looking forward to racing at Angel Stadium again this weekend as we already raced there this year and it will be good to go to a stadium that I am already familiar with. That’s one of the toughest parts about racing for the first time in a new series; getting to know the tracks.”

For Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki, Martin Davalos came tearing out of the gate in Oakland to capture the holeshot and lead the first few laps of the Supercross Lites Class Main Event. Davalos gave it his all and battled for a podium spot for most of the race before a few minor mistakes saw him finish ninth.
“I got great starts this weekend,” said Davalos. “But I made a couple of mistakes and almost went down when I was leading, and I got passed. I know I have what it takes to be up front; I just can’t seem to put it together in a main event. So I’m going to work on a couple of things and try to make everything fall into place for Anaheim 2 this weekend.”

His Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki teammate Jason Anderson was also one to watch in the Supercross Lites Class Main Event in Oakland. After winning the LCQ, Anderson got a decent start in the main and then charged through the field to second place before a run-in with another rider set him back. Undaunted by this, Anderson kept his head down and finished the race in 12th position.

“Overall, this weekend was good,” said Anderson. “I kept building my pace and building my pace. In the main, I started out around eighth and I got up to second, but then I got tangled up with another rider. But all in all, it was a good night and I’m just pumped to keep pushing through to Anaheim 2.”

Star Valli Yamaha’s Ryan Sipes celebrated his best result of the year in Oakland, carding an impressive fourth-place finish in the Supercross Lites Class Main Event. 

“We’re getting better each weekend,” said Sipes, who finished sixth in his heat race. “I had about nine solid laps in the main, three at the beginning and six at the end. But I think we were one of the fastest guys on the track toward the end. I’m ready to go 15 solid laps and put it up there for Anaheim 2.”

Teammate Nico Izzi was right there with Sipes as well in Oakland. Izzi also captured a sixth-place result in his heat race, and then followed Sipes home to a seventh-place effort in the main.

“The Oakland race was a good one for us,” said Izzi. “We had a good main event, a good heat race and came out healthy in the end, and that’s all that matters. I’m looking forward to Anaheim 2 – all the Anaheim races are great and next weekend should be fun.”

Tune into the enhanced exclusive weekly video content from Supercross LIVE! 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.

AMA News Release

PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and AMA Grassroots Coordinator Jessica Irving have earned a prestigious Grassroots Innovation Award for their inventive campaign to involve the public in overturning a federal ban on the sale of kids' dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

The Public Affairs Council -- a nonpartisan, nonpolitical association for public affairs professionals -- presented the award to Irving in the "social media" category at its National Grassroots Conference held in Miami Beach, Fla., Jan. 30-Feb. 2.

The award was presented for the AMA Kids Just Want to Ride! grassroots campaign -- a national educational and recruitment movement that encouraged people nationwide to get involved in efforts to overturn the ban. Critical components of the campaign included the use of Facebook and YouTube videos.

The AMA Kids Just Want to Ride! campaign was instrumental in bringing hundreds of young motorcyclists, their parents and concerned riders from 20 states to Washington, D.C., on May 26 for the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb to lobby their U.S. representatives. The event was a strong demonstration of public opposition to the ban on the sale of kid-sized motorcycles and ATVs.

"We're honored and humbled to receive this prestigious award from the well-respected Public Affairs Council," said Rob Dingman, AMA president and CEO. "We put an awful lot of effort into the Kids Just Want to Ride! campaign, but the true heroes are all the AMA members, individuals and organizations who came together as a community for the good of the children.

"We're extremely pleased that we were able to provide some of the critical tools needed to exempt kids' dirtbikes and ATVs from the law," Dingman said. "We certainly learned that, as a united community, we are unstoppable."

On Aug. 12, President Barack Obama signed into law H.R. 2715 to exempt kids' off-highway vehicles (OHVs) from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, known as the lead law.

The CPSIA, which went into effect on Feb. 10, 2009, banned the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under, including kids' dirtbikes and ATVs, that contained more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part.

The president's signature ended nearly three years of intensive efforts by the AMA and its partner organization, the All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA), their members and millions of advocates of responsible OHV recreation to change the law.
 
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 Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. For more information, please visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.