Adam Sinclair
Adam has been a race fan since the first time he went through the tunnel under the Daytona International Speedway more than 30 years ago. He has had the privilege of traveling to races all across the state of Florida (as well as one race in Ohio), watching nearly everything with a motor compete for fame and glory, as well as participating in various racing schools to get the feel of what racecar drivers go through every week.
Adam spent several years covering motorsports for Examiner.com., where he had the opportunity to see the racing world from behind the scenes as well as the grandstands. He invites everyone to follow him on Twitter, Facebook, and Google Plus, and looks forward to sharing his enthusiasm for all things racing with the readers of SpeedwayDigest.com.
Be sure to tune in for his sports talk program, Thursday Night Thunder, where he discusses the latest in motorsports news with drivers, crew members, and fans. The show takes place (almost) every Thursday at 8:00 pm EST on the Speedway Digest Radio Network.
Contact Adam: Email
Friday Crowns 19 National Champions From the 2014 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship
The 33rd Annual Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship presented by AMSOIL crowned 19 National Champions on Friday as the penultimate day of racing took place in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. The Loretta Lynn Ranch hosted another perfect day for racing as temperatures and track conditions were nothing short of ideal for the start of the final set of motos.
RJ Hampshire en route to a historic 6-0 sweep in the premier A class divisions, something that hasn't been done in 19 years
Factory Connection/AMSOIL Honda's RJ Hampshire is well on his way to earning the coveted AMA Horizon Award after posting a flawless 6-0 win record. Hampshire came into the final set of motos with a load of confidence behind him, putting forth a dominant performance in Open Pro Sport after inheriting the lead from Bell Holeshot winner Jerry Robin early on. Monster Energy/Team Green Kawasaki's Colt Nichols took second in Moto 3, which was good enough for second overall in the class (3-2-2). Yamaha/bLU cRU's Aaron Plessinger had a tough run earlier in the week after a big crash in the 250 A class knocked him out of title contention, but the Ohio native bounced back in Open Pro Sport to capture third overall with 2-3-3 moto scores.
Not the weekend Aaron Plessinger had planned, but he still managed a top three finish in the Open Pro Sport Class
The final 250 A moto showcased perhaps some of the most exciting action within the A divisions, capping off with a close battle for the lead between Hampshire and Luke Renzland. In attempt to end Hampshire's perfect record, Renzland dug deep in Moto 3 and applied pressure on the newly crowned champion but it wasn't enough to seal the deal in the end. With moto scores of 4-2-2, Renzland secured second overall, while Monster Energy/Team Green Kawasaki's Chris Alldredge rounded out the podium with moto scores of 2-8-4.
week that RJ Hampshire had going
Lorenzo Locurcio dominated the 450 B moto to the tune of 1-2-1 scores to capture his first title at Loretta Lynn's. Later in the day, Luocurcio capped his week by finishing second in 250 B. Yamaha made it a clean sweep in 250 B, with Tristan Charboneau (2-1-1) capturing the title and Ryan Surratt (5-6-3) rounding out the podium.
After sweeping the first two motos of the College B/C class, Stone Edler held a commanding lead over the field as they entered the final moto. RJ Wageman made a last ditch run for the championship by grabbing the Bell Holeshot, while Elder sat in 29th following a bad start. Ashton Hayes eventually passed Wageman for the lead while Elder worked his way all the way up to sixth, which was good enough to keep the championship. Wageman (6-4-2) finished second overall, with Salvatore Colangelo (2-7-4) in third.
Stone Edler didn't win the final moto but a pair of victories in the first two
motos helped him secure the College B/C title
In Two-Stroke B/C 16+, Carlen Gardner finished strong to claim the title with 3-1-2 scores. Timmy Badour (1-2-4) and Bennett Mantooth (2-5-3) finished second and third.
Tristan Charboneau secured the 250 B title with 2-1-1 moto scores
In a crazy battle for the Schoolboy 2 (13-16) B/C championship, consistency proved to be the key. Dylan Merriam (4-5-2) didn't win a moto all week, but the Honda mounted rider was consistent enough to secure the title after three motos with scores of 7-7-1, Chase Marquier landed the second place position and Rookie White rounded out the overall podium with moto scores of 8-1-6.
In Vet action, Ricky Renner continued his perfect run in the highly competitive Junior 25+ to secure the championship on Friday. Robbie Reynard (2-5-3) stayed consistent in all three motos to lock in second, while James Povolny captured third with 3-2-6 moto scores. Reynard bounced back in Vet 35+ to capture his tenth career title at Loretta Lynn's. James Povolny grabbed another podium finish with solid 2-2-2 finishes for the week and Tony Lorusso (5-3-3) rounded out the overall podium.
Lorenzo Locurcio captured his first ever title at Loretta Lynn's with the
450 B championship
In minicycle, Stilez Robertson was the man on top after taking home two titles on Friday: the 85 (9-11) Limited with 1-2-1 scores and 85 (9-11) with a 2-1-1. Pierce Brown captured second overall with moto scores of 11-1-2 and Ethan Mann (5-5-4) rounded out the podium.
In Mini Sr. 2 (12-14), Garrett Marchbanks (1-1-2) outlasted his fiercest competition, Chase Sexton (2-2-1), to win his first title of the week.
Pierce Brown battled through injury to secure second overall in 85 9-11
Nicholas Romano (1-1-1) made it a clean sweep in the 51cc (7-8) Limited class, followed by Noah Geyer (4-3-2) in the second place spot. Daxton Bennick went 5-9-5 to capture third overall for the week. In 51cc (4-6) Limited, Kace Evans held on for the title with 1-2-2 moto scores, topping Mason Dixon (3-5-1) and Evan Woody (5-4-3). Wyatt McGrath swept the 51cc (4-6) Special Limited title over Reed Harrison (4-5-4) and Braxton Black (2-6-9). In the final 51cc class-(4-6) Shaft Drive Limited-Aiden Eyler (2-2-2) held off Holland Purser (5-3-4) and Tyler Mollet (6-4-3).
The calm before the 50cc storm
In the 65 divisions, Joshua Varize swept all three motos for the (10-11) Limited championship. Jett Reynolds (9-1-1) emerged victorious in a wild finish to the end, capturing the 65 (7-9) Limited title.
All four 51cc classes crowned champions on Friday. The rest of racing will
resume on Saturday morning
The final day of racing will begin at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday morning, crowning the remainder of National Champions. Live streaming coverage begins Saturday morning at 10 a.m. CT / 11 a.m. ET on RacerTV.com.
Archived coverage is now available from the first four days of racing on RacerTV.com, to view please click HERE.
Complete results from the 2014 National Championship can be found HERE and Live Timing & Scoring can be accessed HERE.
The 2014 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship presented by AMSOIL will take place July 27 - Aug. 2 at Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. For more information, visit the series website atwww.mxsports.com.
About the Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship
The Rocky Mountain ATV/MCAMA Amateur National Motocross Championship is the world's largest and most prestigious amateur motocross racing program. The national qualifying program consists of 52 Area Qualifiers (February through May) and 12 Regional Championships (June), hosted at select motocross facilities across the country. The qualifying system culminates in the National Final (first week of August) hosted annually since 1982 at the home of country music star Loretta Lynn in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Nearly 20,000 racers attempt to qualify in 36 classes for the 1,446 available positions at the National. Christened "The World's Greatest Motocross Vacation", the National event serves as a launch pad for some of the biggest names in professional motocross and supercross, including Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Ryan Villopoto, and Ryan Dungey. The national program is produced by MX Sports, Inc., a West Virginia-based race production.
(Rocky Mountain ATV/MCAMA Amateur National Motocross Championship PR)
Drivers in 27 Runoffs-eligible classes took to Summit Point Motorsports Park on Friday to start setting the grid for Round 13 of the SCCA Eastern Conference U.S. Majors Tour, part of the SafeRacer SCCA National Racing program. This weekend’s doubleheader event will mark the final two rounds on the conference calendar in 2014.
What started off as a challenging race, weather-wise, the 26-car starting field survived a light to moderate drizzle when the 40-minute timed race began but then all drove cleanly through the remainder of the race as the track dried out and the sun rose once more.
2. TC, (3), Steven Doherty, Plainfield, Ill., Nissan Altima Coupe, 20, -14.102.
3. TC, (4), Bryan Heitkotter, Fresno, Calif., Nissan Altima Coupe, 20, -1:05.735.
4. TC, (7), Tony Rivera, Lake Jackson, Texas, Scion FRS Coupe, 20, -1:12.949.
5. TC, (2), Adam Poland(R), Mt. Vernon, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 20, -1:19.353.
6. TC, (8), Ron Yarab(R), Youngstown, Ohio, Honda Civic Si, 20, -1:26.507.
7. TC, (10), Branden Peterson, Breckenridge, Colo., Honda Civic SI, 19, -1 lap.
8. TC, (5), Emilee Tominovich(R), Laurel, Md., Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 19, -1 lap.
9. TC, (6), Kevin Anderson(R), Huntington Station, N.Y., Mazda RX8, 0, Mech.
2. TCA, (2), Ernie Francis_Jr, Dania, Fla., MAZDA MX-5, 19, -1 lap.
3. TCA, (3), Jason Cherry(R), Gambrills, Md., Mazda MX-5, 19, -1 lap.
4. TCA, (1), Shea Holbrook, Groveland, Fla., Honda Civic Si, 19, -1 lap.
2. TCB, (1), John Heinricy, Clarkston, Mich., Chevrolet Sonic, 19, -10.419.
3. TCB, (5), Glenn Nixon(R), Mission, British Columbia, MINI Cooper, 19, -14.480.
4. TCB, (4), PJ Groenke, Toronto, Canada, Honda Fit, 19, -27.486.
5. TCB, (13), Chase Pelletier, Brampton, Ontario, Honda Fit, 19, -38.133.
6. TCB, (10), Austin Snader(R), Fulshear, Texas, FIAT 500, 19, -43.891.
7. TCB, (9), Jason Fichter(R), Jupiter, Fla., MINI Cooper, 18, -1 lap.
8. TCB, (11), Tom Noble(R), St. Louis Park, Minn., MINI Cooper, 18, -1 lap.
9. TCB, (2), Brian Price(R), Middletown, Va., Honda Fit, 18, -1 lap.
10. TCB, (7), Nathan Stacy(R), Owassa, Okla., Ford Fiesta, 18, -1 lap.
11. TCB, (12), Leo Parente, New York, N.Y., Fiat 500, 18, -1 lap.
12. TCB, (6), Paul Holton(R), Tallahassee, Fla., Honda Fit, 17, -2 lap.
13. TCB, (3), Andrei Kisel(R), N. Vancouver, British Columbia, MINI Cooper, 17, -2 lap.
Average speed: 68.574 mph
(Pirelli World Challenge PR)
An example of arguably the most famous and sought-after classic race car ever – the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – will be previewed by Bonhams at the Monterey Pre-Reunion August 9 and 10. The classic race car, of which only 39 were constructed, will be shown in the Bonhams hospitality area at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca where the historic car racing is taking place.
The Ferrari, chassis number 3851GT, is from the Maranello Rosso Collection and has been in one family’s care for the past 49 years. Bonhams will sell the car and nine other Ferraris from the collection at its Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction August 14.
“Collectors around the world are eagerly awaiting auction day to see what the market will command for such a historically significant and rarely available automobile,” said Mark Osborne, head of motoring for Bonhams in the U.S. “There is no reserve on this car, meaning that it will be sold to the highest bidder regardless of what that bid is. And what better way to showcase it than in front of racers and collectors who are at the Monterey Pre-Reunion.”
This car was the 19th Ferrari GTO to be completed. Since two of the preceding examples had been 330 GTOs with 4-litre engines instead of the GT-homologated 3-litre '250' units it may be regarded as the 17th 250 GTO. It was collected by its first owner, the experienced and rugged 34-year-old French privateer Jo Schlesser, who immediately entered it in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, with co-driver French skiing champion Henri Oreiller. The duo covered 3,418 miles and finished second overall.
The Monterey Pre-Reunion kicks off the Monterey Classic Car Week of activities including the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (August 14-17), Quail Motorsports Gathering (August 15) and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (August 17).
Bonhams returns to the Monterey Pre-Reunion for the fifth consecutive year showcasing auction cars at its Turn 4 chalet in the race paddock. Several other cars will join the Ferrari 250 GTO for visitors to inspect before they go on final display prior to the auction beginning.
“We are thrilled Bonhams has selected the Monterey Pre-Reunion to preview this superb race car to our guests,” said Gill Campbell, CEO and general manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. “It is a privilege to be working with Bonhams on enhancing the experience for our drivers and wish them great success in the auction of these very important cars.”
Admission to the Monterey Pre-Reunion August 9 and 10 is just $20 at the paddock entrance of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Advance purchase tickets for the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion August 14-17, featuring 550 historic race cars and the centennial of Maserati, are still available online at www.MazdaRaceway.com or by calling 800-327-7322.
74th Daytona 200 Set for Saturday, March 14
The 74th DAYTONA 200, which will showcase the return of the AMA Pro SuperBike class to America's most historic motorcycle race, will be held on Saturday, March 14. Tickets go on sale Monday, Aug. 4 at 9 a.m.
Earlier this year, AMA Pro Racing announced that its premier AMA Pro SuperBike class will return to the DAYTONA 200 in 2015. The season-opening event will be a 69-lap race contested on Daytona International Speedway's 2.91-mile short course. Since 2005, the smaller-displacement motorcycles of Formula Xtreme and GoPro Daytona SportBike have been showcased in the prestigious event. With the 2015 return of the AMA Pro SuperBikes, the top teams and riders will again headline the historic event.
"The DAYTONA 200 has a long and storied history on both the sands of Daytona Beach and on the high banks of the Speedway," Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III said. "We're looking forward to witnessing a new chapter in the event's history as the powerful SuperBikes from AMA's premier class return to compete in motorcycle's most historic and demanding race."
In addition to the Daytona 200, the Speedway will host a full complement of AMA Pro Road Racing classes March 12-14 with the GoPro Daytona SportBike and the Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson Series. The AMA Pro Flat Track doubleheader is scheduled for March 12-13.
The roots of the DAYTONA 200 can be traced back to the sands of Daytona Beach with Ed Kretz Sr. winning the inaugural event back in 1937 aboard an Indian. The DAYTONA 200 moved to Daytona International Speedway in 1961 and is the only endurance race on the AMA Pro schedule.
Triumph rider Danny Eslick dominated the 2014 edition of the DAYTONA 200. Eslick became the first rider to win the DAYTONA 200 aboard a Triumph since the late Gary Nixon in 1967 and joined a long list of motorcycle legends that have conquered the grueling race including Scott Russell, Miguel Duhamel, Mat Mladin, Kenny Roberts and Dick Klamforth.
Kicking off DAYTONA 200 Week on Saturday night, March 7 will be the prestigious Daytona Supercross- the only AMA Supercross event in Florida in 2015. The tough and challenging course will once again be designed by Supercross legend Ricky Carmichael.
Following the Daytona Supercross will be the sixth annual Ricky Carmichael Amateur Supercross on Sunday, March 8 and Monday, March 9 where amateur Supercross racers will have an opportunity to test their skills on the same course used in the Daytona Supercross.
Tickets for all motorcycle racing events are available by calling 1-800-PITSHOP or online at http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram andPinterest for the latest news all season long. Fans can follow the latest on DAYTONA Rising, the $400 million frontstretch renovation at the "World Center of Racing" by using #DAYTONARising on Twitter or visiting www.daytonarising.com.
Larsen Jet Girls make FireBall for Charity
Jet dragster drivers Elaine Larsen and Marisha Falk, from Daytona Florida based Larsen Motorsports, will make a new kind of Fire Ball for them this year without their jet dragsters.
The dynamic duo has been selected to participate in this year’s Fireball Run Adventure-Rally where America is literally the game board. The event will take them across North America on an eight day adventure through America's frontier covering thousands of miles. An actual trivial pursuit challenge, where America is the game board.
Providing support for Elaine and Marisha are multi-year sponsors of the Larsen Motorsports Jet Racing Teams, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Miller Welding, Simpson Race Products and Carlisle Events.
The core purpose of the event is to help find lost or missing children. Covering over 2000 miles, the teams will spread awareness and hand out flyers of missing children across America. Specifically, Elaine and Marisha will be racing to help bring home 17 year old Gloria Alvarado, missing from Sanford Florida who was last seen July 30, 2012.
Information about Gloria or any other missing children can be reported to any law enforcement agency or to the National Center For Missing and Exploited Children.
You can follow the teams on Fireballrun.com as well as on Elaine and Marisha’s Facebook where you can help the girls solve the clues and be a part of their adventure.
With only three races remaining in the 2014 IHRA Nitro Jam Drag Racing Series season, championship points are at a premium.
And that couldn't be any more true than at this weekend's pivotal stop at Pittsburgh Raceway Park as the stars of the IHRA return to the Steel City for the fourth annual IHRA Nitro Jam Pittsburgh Nationals presented by Good Vibrations Motorsports this Friday and Saturday.
Following a compelling race at Cordova Dragway Park two weeks ago that saw first-time winners in every professional category except one, fans and drivers are buzzing as the IHRA returns to the track this weekend with only three events remaining.
"We saw an exceptional race at Cordova earlier this month and that has created a lot of attention on the IHRA and the Nitro Jam Drag Racing Series. After what we saw in Illinois, I would expect similar results this weekend in Pittsburgh with another superior lineup heading to Pennsylvania," said Scott Gardner, President of IHRA Motorsports. "I expect, with only a few races left, the competition and intensity will be at an all-time high which should make for an extremely compelling race this weekend."
Adding to the racing excitement itself, two unique variables will play a key role at this weekend's event at Pittsburgh Raceway Park - track length and the crunch being placed on IHRA's Nitro Funny Car teams.
First up, Pittsburgh Raceway Park will host IHRA's only event not contested on the quarter-mile this season. For safety reasons, the IHRA Pittsburgh Nationals will be shortened to 1,000 feet for all nitro classes creating an extra challenge for IHRA teams. While 320 less feet doesn't sound like a lot, it could play a major role in the final outcomes with some teams better suited to shorter attacks.
The second variable is the Nitro Funny Car schedule. With one less event on the schedule than all of the other pro classes, the IHRA Pittsburgh Nationals will serve as the next-to-last race of the season for Nitro Funny Car competitors, meaning championships can be clinched this weekend.
Breakout star Jason Rupert in the Bays and Rupert "Black Plague" '69 Camaro can clinch his first IHRA Nitro Funny Car championship this weekend with a strong performance at the Pittsburgh Nationals as he holds a commanding 177-point lead over second place Mark Sanders. With four national event victories and a trip to the final round at every national event entered except one, Rupert can seal his first IHRA title and fourth career Nitro Funny Car championship in Pittsburgh.
But it won't be an easy task. Fellow 2014 national event winners John Hale in the "Mike Burkhart" tribute Camaro and Mike McIntire in the "McAttack" Camaro will join IHRA record holder and multi-time Pittsburgh winner Peter Gallen in trying add another Ironman to their collection. They will be joined in Pittsburgh by Sanders, Tim Boychuk, Bruce Litton, Mike Smith, Ronny Young, Greg Jacobsmeyer, Gary Kraus, John Crimmins and more.
The remaining professional classes still face three races, giving them extra time to lock up their respective championships.
One of the closest battles of 2014 is in Nitro Harley as Canadian Mike Scott sits just 15 points ahead of Louisiana native Randal Andras and a little over 100 points clear of fourth place Mark Cox. Multi-time IHRA champion Jay Turner sits in the middle in third. Scott leads the quartet with three wins this season, though he hasn't hoisted an Ironman trophy since early June. Cox has two wins, while Andras has one.
In Pro Stock, Oklahoma's Cary Goforth leads the championship standings by 32 points over John DeFlorian. Goforth and DeFlorian began the season as the class of the field, but have not visited the winner's circle since early April. They will look to regain momentum this weekend.
Goforth teammate Todd Hoerner sits third in the championship standings, followed by Kevin Bealko and Pete Berner. Dean Goforth is the most recent winner in the class, winning the Summer Nationals at Cordova earlier this month.
Rounding out the pro classes are Nitro Altered and Jet Dragster as Ron Maroney brings a healthy lead in the AA/FA category in the "Blind Faith" machine over Don Blackshear in "Bullet Bob." In Jet Dragster, Elaine Larsen leads the all-female lineup, just ahead of Dawn Perdue. 20-year-old Kat Moller, fourth in points, won her first career race last weekend in Cordova giving all four girls at the top of the standings a win this season.
The 2014 IHRA Nitro Jam Pittsburgh Nationals presented by Good Vibrations Motorsports will take place this Friday and Saturday at Pittsburgh Raceway Park. Tickets can be purchased online at www.nitrojam.com or at the gate on the day of the show. For more information, visit www.nitrojam.com or call Pittsburgh Raceway Park at (724) 668-7600.
(IHRA PR)
Brayton and Pourcel Make it a Clean Sweep of the MotoSport.com Holeshot Awards for Yamaha at Washougal
The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, returned to the west coast this past weekend for its annual visit to the Pacific Northwest and the picturesque Washougal MX Park. The Motosport.com Washougal National served as the ninth stop of the season and featured a day of dominance for the Red Bull KTM squad, in which both Ryan Dungey and Marvin Musquin swept the days motos in the 450 Class and 250 Class, respectively, en route to victory. KTM also had success in qualifying, while Yamaha showcased its power out of the gate all afternoon long.
Ryan Dungey topped the charts all around in the 450 Class Photo: Matt Rice / Alli Sports
Through partnerships with series sponsors, the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship will recognize the riders who achieve the series' specialty awards all summer long. Each week, MX Sports Pro Racing will recognize the riders who are able to lay claim to the Oakley Bomb Fastest Lap Program, the MotoSport.com Holeshot Award in each moto, and the Ricky Carmichael Hard Charger Award throughout the 2014 season.
The Oakley Bomb Fastest Lap Program is designed to present a unique challenge for the 2014 season, providing a different twist by recognizing the rider who sets the fastest lap of practice in both the 250 and 450 Classes. Each rider will receive special Oakley Bomb trophy, specially designed by the brand.As the season wears on, the total number of Oakley Bomb awards a rider receives will be tallied into a final season total. The competitor with the most awards at season's end will be presented with an Elite Oakley Time Bomb II Swiss Automatic Watch.
For just the second time in 2014, Dungey posted the fastest lap of practice in the premier class, beating out Team Honda Muscle Milk's Trey Canard by over half a second to earn the Oakley Bomb Award. In fact, Dungey's lap of 2:13.401 made him the only rider to break the 2:14.00 barrier. The last time the two-time series champion topped the charts was at the opening round from Glen Helen, and on that afternoon Dungey also walked away with the victory. At Washougal, he carried that impressive into the motos and was simply on another level from his competitors.
It was a good day at Washougal for Marvin Musquin, pictured with his first Oakley Bomb Award of the Season Photo: Matt Rice / Alli Sports
One week after Valli Motorsports Yamaha's Christophe Pourcel clinched the Oakley Bomb Fastest Lap Program title and the prized watch that comes with it, another Frenchman added his name to the list of Oakley Bomb Award recipients in 2014. Musquin made it clear early that he would be the rider to beat at Washougal after posting the fastest lap of any rider in either class at the conclusion of the first session. He maintained his spot on top in the final session, bettering his time to a 2:14.082 and finding a full second-and-a-half advantage over the rest of the field. After a pair of good starts in the motos, it looked easy for Musquin to make his way to the front and control the race.
The Motosport.com Holeshot Award is brand new to Lucas Oil Pro Motocross this season and it awards $500 to the rider who gets the holeshot of each moto - in both the 450 Class and 250 Class - at every round of the 2014 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. A total of $2,000 will be up for grabs at each event between the two classes, thanks to Motosport.com. Justin Brayton carried great momentum out of the gate in both motos of the day Photo: Simon Cudby / Racer X
In the 450 Class, the Toyota/Yamaha/JGRMX effort is known for its impressive speed off the start. After his teammate Josh Grant was forced to miss the action following a crash in practice, Justin Brayton rose to the occasion for his team in each moto. The veteran made a clean sweep of the Motosport.com Holeshot Awards in the premier class, pocketing $1,000 for his efforts and bringing some positive results to the JGRMX squad on an otherwise tough day. Brayton parlayed those starts into a solid top-10 effort, finishing ninth overall after 8-8 moto scores.
In the 250 Class, Pourcel shifted his affinity for posting a fast qualifying lap to impeccable launches out of the gate. Just one week after he swept the Motosport.com Holeshot Awards and Spring Creek, the Frenchman duplicated that effort at Washougal, giving him another $1,000 bonus and $2,000 in holeshot money the last two weeks. His current streak of four straight holeshots complements his streak of three-in-a-row earlier this season and brings his class-leading total to seven. There simply hasn't been a rider in the entire championship to collect as many specialty awards this season as the "Crafty Frenchman." Christophe Pourcel traded in his usual Oakley Bomb Fastest Lap for two holeshots at Washougal Photo: Simon Cudby / Racer X The RC Hard Charger Award is entering its sixth season in 2014. Named after Ricky Carmichael, the most winning motocross rider of all time, the award recognizes the one competitor at each of the 12 rounds of the championship who overtakes the highest number of his fellow racers in any of the four championship motos between the 250 and 450 Classes.The award is a testament to "The Greatest of All Time" or "The GOAT" and his never-give-up attitude over the span of a career that warranted 10 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross titles and 102 wins - two feats that will likely never be duplicated. All recipients of the RC Hard Charger Award are given a custom-designed trophy.
On an afternoon in which the top privateer was honored for his efforts in both the 450 Class and 250 Class, it was fitting that another privateer with Pacific Northwest roots ultimately earned the RC Hard Charger Award at Washougal with a resilient ride. Seattle-area native Tevin Tapia found himself in dead last to start the final 450 Class moto, crossing the line in 38th, but the Team 3BR Suzuki rider refused to let adversity get to him at his home race and put on a charge. After a grueling final moto on an extremely rough and challenging track, Tapia fought his way into a points-paying position in 20th, passing a total of 18 riders to salvage what could have been a forgettable outing.
2014 Specialty Award Winners
Oakley Fastest Lap Program
450 Class
Glen Helen - Ryan Dungey Hangtown - Ken Roczen Thunder Valley - Trey Canard High Point - Ken Roczen Muddy Creek - Eli Tomac Red Bud - Ken Roczen Budds Creek - James Stewart Spring Creek - Ken Roczen Washougal - Ryan Dungey
250 Class
Glen Helen - Christophe Pourcel Hangtown - Christophe Pourcel Thunder Valley - Christophe Pourcel High Point - Jeremy Martin Muddy Creek - Christophe Pourcel Red Bud - Christophe Pourcel Budds Creek - Christophe Pourcel Spring Creek - Christophe Pourcel Washougal - Marvin Musquin
Motosport.com Holeshot Award
450 Class
Glen Helen Moto 1 - Josh Grant Moto 2 - Ken Roczen
Hangtown Moto 1 - Ryan Dungey Moto 2 - Jake Weimer
Thunder Valley Moto 1 - Josh Grant Moto 2 - Trey Canard
High Point Moto 1 - Chad Reed Moto 2 - Chad Reed
Muddy Creek Moto 1 - Eli Tomac Moto 2 - Ryan Dungey
Red Bud Moto 1 - Ryan Dungey Moto 2 - Ken Roczen
Budds Creek Moto 1 - Justin Brayton Moto 2 - Ryan Dungey
Spring Creek Moto 1 - Ryan Dungey Moto 2 - Eli Tomac
Washougal Moto 1 - Justin Brayton Moto 2 - Justin Brayton
250 Class
Glen Helen Moto 1 - Jeremy Martin Moto 2 - Jeremy Martin
Hangtown Moto 1 - Zach Bell Moto 2 - Jeremy Martin
Thunder Valley Moto 1 - Jessy Nelson Moto 2 - Zach Bell
High Point Moto 1 - Christophe Pourcel Moto 2 - Christophe Pourcel
Muddy Creek Moto 1 - Christophe Pourcel Moto 2 - Justin Bogle
Red Bud Moto 1 - Matt Biscegila Moto 2 - Joey Savatgy
Budds Creek Moto 1 - Justin Bogle Moto 2 - Jeremy Martin
Spring Creek Moto 1 - Christophe Pourcel Moto 2 - Christophe Pourcel
Washougal Moto 1 - Christophe Pourcel Moto 2 - Christophe Pourcel
RC Hard Charger Award
Glen Helen - Josh Grant (+22) Hangtown - Andrew Short (+24) Thunder Valley - Fredrik Noren (+21) High Point - Shane Sewell & Zack Williams (+14) Muddy Creek - Josh Grant (+29) Red Bud - Fredrick Noren & Joey Savatgy (+21) Budds Creek - Dean Wilson (+21) Spring Creek - Jason Anderson (+25) Washougal - Tevin Tapia (+18)
Round 10 of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship heads to New Berlin, New York, for the Red Bull Unadilla National on Saturday, August 9. |
MX Sports Pro Racing MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world's most prestigious professional motocross series - the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. The industry leader in off road power sport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators. Visitwww.mxsportsproracing.com.
Alli Sports Alli Sports is a media, event and branded content company that specializes in action, adventure, and adrenaline based sports. Alli Properties include the Dew Tour, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, the Red Bull Signature Series and World of Adventure Sports presented by Go Pro. Alli Sports is a division of the NBC Sports Group. More information can be found at www.Allisports.com.
AMA Pro Racing AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.
Lucas Oil Products Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products, Inc is the world leader of High Performance Lubricants and Problem Solving Additives and produces and markets 272 unique formulations in thirty four countries around the globe and is growing country by country, market by market every year. Through innovative product research and development, along with progressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry. Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the "Official Motor Oil of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship." Visit: www.lucasoil.com.
MAVTV MAVTV is a television network with its roots deep in the automotive world. With an unparalleled line-up of motorsports events and exclusive automotive reality shows, MAVTV is the answer for motor-heads from all walks of life. But MAVTV is much more than a motorsports destination, with original action/adventure programming, live MMA and an unbelievable library of blockbuster movies - MAVTV is a network the whole family can enjoy. A network by the people and for the people, made in America and American Real. Visit: www.mavtv.com. |
(Lucas Oil Pro Motocross PR)
Hampshire, Harrison and Marchbanks Dominate Opening Day of 2014 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National
The 2014 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship presented by AMSOIL kicked off its racing schedule on Tuesday from the historic Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee for the 33rd running of the world's largest and most prestigious amateur motocross championship. Seventeen different riders emerged victorious through the first 20 gate drops and while there's still plenty of racing left to go, several of this year's key players were established in the opening set of motos.
RJ Hampshire is the man to beat in the A classes after the first set of motos
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
Some of the most highly anticipated competition of the week comes from the Open Pro Sport and 250 A divisions who are usually packed full of riders that will soon makea jump into the professional ranks. So far, in his final bid as an amateur racer this week, AMSOIL Factory Connection Honda's RJ Hampshire has laid the foundation as the rider to beat in the premier class. Hampshire began the day with a big win in the Open Pro Sport class, fending off Yamalube/Star Racing/Yamaha's Aaron Plessinger in the opening moto.
Garrett Marchbanks established himself early in the minicycle ranks
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
The Hampshire/Plessinger battle carried over into the opening moto of the 250 A division as the duo hooked up just behind KTM-mounted Daniel Baker, who captured the $100 Bell Helmet Holeshot Award and the early lead. Hampshire and Plessinger eventually moved into the lead and it was a head-to-head battle for the win. That is, until Plessinger abruptly went down in what would ultimately result in a DNF for the rising motocross star, who also plans to move into the pro ranks this season. Despite the chaos, Hampshire remained solid to capture his second moto win of the day in Pro Sport, where he now heads into the second set of motos with first gate pick and a slight advantage on his competition. Monster Energy Team Green Kawasaki's Chris Alldredge capitalized on the opportunity to take second, while Club MX's Marshal Weltin took third.
At the intermediate level, it was Monster Energy Kawasaki's Mitchell Harrison who emerged with a pair of wins through the first set of motos, one in Schoolboy 2 (13-16) B/C and another in 250 B. Although he swept both motos of the day, Harrison was challenged from all angles by riders such as Tristan Charboneau and Lorenzo Locurcio in 250 B, and Jon Ames and Mark Worth in the Schoolboy class. KTM Orange Brigade's Alexander Frye proved to be a big contender early on in 250 B until a big crash set him back quite a few positions near the end.
Mitchell Harrison heads into moto two with a nice gate pick
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
The Monster Energy Team Green Kawasaki squad carried its dominance into the Youth divisions as Garrett Marchbanks swept both of the Mini Sr classes for the day. While Marchbanks experienced plenty of competition from riders like Yamaha bLUcRU's Chase Sexton, who finished a close second in moto one, the Utah native held strong to put forth the only 1-1 performance in the minicycle divisions thus far.
Ricky Renner captured the Junior 25+ win
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
The age classes typically bring about some of the most intense battles of the week and Tuesday's racing was no different as many of the sport's most accomplished racers made their return to the Amateur National Championship. The Junior 25+ class showcased a host of talent once again with familiar names such as Robbie Reynard, James Povolny and Andrew Matusek, but this year it was all about Ricky Renner, who took the moto one win in a dominant fashion over a tough set of competition.
Mackenzie Tricker began her title defense in a favorable way
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
Yamaha bLU cRU/Rock River supported Mackenzie Tricker returned this year to defend her Women (14+) National Championship and so far so good for the Australian native as she captured the win in moto one. It wasn't an easy feat for Tricker, though, as her Rock River Yamaha-backed teammate Kaitlyn Morrow laid on the pressure near the end to finish less than one second behind the defending champ for the number two spot in moto one.
Hannah Hodges captured two podium finishes in the first set of motos
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
Hannah Hodges jumped into the Women (14+) ranks this season, finishing an impressive third place in moto one. Hodges continued her streak in the Girls (12-16) class with a dominant performance to capture the moto one win, while North Carolina's Jordan Jarvis took the Girls (9-13) class win.
Tuesday showcased 20 different gate drops to complete half of the first moto order
Photo: Ken Hill / MX Sports
Day two of racing will resume on Wednesday, July 30 with the remaining number of opening motos, as well as the beginning of the second set of motos. Live streaming coverage begins Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. CT / 11:30 a.m. ET on RacerTV.com. For more information on the viewing times for the rest of the week, please click HERE.
Complete results from the 2014 National Championship can be found HERE and Live Timing & Scoring can be accessed HERE.
The 2014 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship presented by AMSOIL will take place July 27 - Aug. 2 at Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. For more information, visit the series website atwww.mxsports.com.
About the Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship
The Rocky Mountain ATV/MCAMA Amateur National Motocross Championship is the world's largest and most prestigious amateur motocross racing program. The national qualifying program consists of 52 Area Qualifiers (February through May) and 12 Regional Championships (June), hosted at select motocross facilities across the country. The qualifying system culminates in the National Final (first week of August) hosted annually since 1982 at the home of country music star Loretta Lynn in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Nearly 20,000 racers attempt to qualify in 36 classes for the 1,446 available positions at the National. Christened "The World's Greatest Motocross Vacation", the National event serves as a launch pad for some of the biggest names in professional motocross and supercross, including Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Ryan Villopoto, and Ryan Dungey. The national program is produced by MX Sports, Inc., a West Virginia-based race production.
( Rocky Mountain ATV/MC AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship presented by AMSOIL PR)
GALLERY OF SPEED, THE NEW AMERICAN CAR CULTURE EXPERIENCE OPENS AT THE WALLY PARKS NHRA MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM
The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum presented by Automobile Club of Southern California announced today the opening of its new interactive exhibit hall Gallery of Speed, which vividly recreates historical moments in American motorsports and car culture.
The Gallery of Speed brings to life the humble beginnings of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) and how motorsports have impacted the world through innovation, engineering and design.
“The new Gallery of Speed is not just an exhibit but an entirely new learning experience with a unique look into the fascinating world of hot rodding and motorsports,” the NHRA Museum’s Executive Director Larry Fisher said. “Here we will begin to tell the stories of the great American hot rod and, those who built and raced them, in a new light. We will not only celebrate the cars but the people, the engineering, the science, and the sheer audacity of those who pushed the limits in their pursuit of speed.”
The Gallery of Speed features five new focal areas: the origins of hot rodding, land speed racing, the early days of the NHRA and the influence of custom car design. The eye-opening exhibit offers a unique collection of historical vehicles, artifacts, interactive touchscreens, images, oral histories, life-sized sculptures designed by Weldon Exhibits and other memorabilia.
The Gallery of Speed will spark the visitor’s quest for knowledge. The exhibit is designed to be a fun learning experience sprinkled with hands-on activities and touchscreens focused on S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math). Visitors can customize their own hot rod, learn the ‘language of hot rodding,’ and listen to candid stories from NHRA Founder Wally Parks and other motorsports legends.
“We wanted to develop a new approach to learning about the history of hot rodding, motorsports and the individuals who influenced American car culture,” said Greg Sharp, curator of the NHRA Motorsports Museum. “I believe that the new Gallery of Speed will capture the visitor’s imagination and inspire all ages for years to come. It’s an exhibit our Founder Wally Parks would be very proud of.”
Visitors will also want to browse an assortment of gifts and keepsakes in the museum’s newly renovated and expanded retail store. Take home a distinctive reminder of your visit to NHRA Motorsports Museum. Also, learn about upcoming events and sign up to become an exclusive museum member. Many museum gifts are available to purchase online at www.nhramuseum.org.
Plan your visit with us! The NHRA Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Become a member and enjoy free NHRA Museum admission year round.
General admission tickets are $10 adults, $8 seniors (60 and up), $8 youth (6-15) and free for children ages 5 and under. AAA discount is available. For more information, call (909) 622-2133 or visit www.NHRAmuseum.org. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to NHRA Museum on YouTube.
The NHRA Motorsports Museum is located at 1101 W. McKinley Ave. in Pomona, Calif. on the Fairplex grounds. From the 10 West, exit Fairplex Drive.
The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum presented by Automobile Club of Southern California is an independent California non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to celebrating the impact of motorsports on American culture. Neighboring the historic Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, the Museum collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets the vehicles, stories and artifacts that represent America’s affection for, and the influence of, automotive speed and style in all its forms. For more information, visit our website: www.nhramuseum.org.
(NHRA Communications Department)