Cairoli MX1 World Champion

Courtesy of Youthstream

LIEROP (THE NETHERLANDS) – A phenomenal Cairoli wrapped up the MX1 World Title at his first full season in the category, with the achievement matching Cairoli’s maiden MX1 GP win at a single selected outing in 2007 while he was a regular MX2 rider.

Cairoli now reaches countryman Chiodi’s tally of three World Titles, with the former World Champion having been the most successful Italian in this sport until the arrival of the 23 year old from Sicily. Cairoli has already beaten Chiodi in terms of Grand Prix victories this year when he collected his 28th of 29 overall wins at the German Grand Prix in Teutschenthal.

With the MX1 Championship being won again by an Italian – Philippaerts won last year to take over from Suzuki mounted Alex Puzar who had won in 1990 – Cairoli’s Title will raise the home fans’ attention to the forthcoming Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations set to make its return to Italy on the forthcoming October 4 after a 23 year absence.

Cairoli is the new MX1 World Champion

CAIROLI’S CAREER IN THE FIM MOTOCROSS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Making his debut in the FIM Motocross World Championship onboard a 125cc machine in 2002, Cairoli’s talent bloomed two years later in 2004 when the Sicilian entered the Yamaha squad headed by Claudio De Carli. Tony won his maiden GP at Namur, one of the toughest tracks ever, and ended the season with a rock solid third place in the Championship which fully showed his value.

In 2005 came the first of his two MX2 World Titles as Cairoli won six Grand Prix’s. It was not an easy season though as the Italian was disqualified at the French Grand Prix, letting rival McFarlane increase his points lead, and even broke his scaphoid during the qualifying for the Dutch GP. Eventually Cairoli raced Lierop in pain but wrapped up the Title with one race to go. Australian McFarlane was second, Italians Chiodi and Philippaerts and Frenchman Christophe Pourcel rounded off the top five. 19 year old Cairoli had just become the youngest Italian to have won a Motocross World Title.

Cairoli in action

Taking to the track with the number one on his Yamaha, Cairoli had a troubled start to the 2006 season which he ended in second place behind youngster Christophe Pourcel. 12 moto wins, against the four of Pourcel, demonstrated the Italian had the speed but missed the consistency at least in the first part of the year. Once Cairoli found himself again Pourcel had already built a solid lead though the Italian tried his hardest to close the gap rounding off the season with two heat wins in France, Pourcel’s home GP. The duo starred the 2006 season as third placed Philippaerts suffered a gap of almost 100 points. Cairoli then continued the momentum with a stunning heat win at the Motocross of Nations, leading Team Italy to fourth overall.

In 2007 Cairoli became World Champion for the second time, winning the MX2 series two rounds before its end at the GP of Northern Ireland where runner up in the Championship Pourcel was sidelined by a severe back injury. Holding the red plate in each single round, his 21 heat and 10 GP wins out of the series’ 15 meetings showed Cairoli was the dominator of the season. A special agreement with Yamaha gave Cairoli the chance to race the following GP at Donington Park in the MX1 class: qualifying in 12th, Tony ended second in heat one but took the overall courtesy of his victory in heat two. Getting back to the MX2 class to race and win the final GP of 2007 in Lierop, Cairoli had already left another important mark in the FIM Motocross World Championship.

Four wonderful years had passed by and Cairoli was struck by bad luck in 2008 when he pulled out of the South African Grand Prix in Nelspruit with a left knee injury. After winning four Grand Prix and taking two second places in the first nine rounds, Cairoli travelled to South Africa when he was a close second in the Championship, sandwiched in between eventual Champion Rattray and Searle. A first lap contact in moto one saw the Italian try and complete the rest of the heat in pain, though he had to pull off after just four laps to end his season a lot earlier than expected.

Cairoli’s comeback to action in 2009 saw him enter the MX1 class and leave the MX2. The many rumors and doubts about his fitness after the injury of the year before would be all proved wrong eventually. As the Championship opened in Italy Cairoli failed to take a podium finish with his team mate Leok winning and collecting the red plate, which went to De Dycker in Bulgaria. Though Cairoli took a clean sweep in Turkey, winning and snatching the red plate which he carried since then. Cairoli’s season continued with back to back podiums and another win in Portugal. An eighth place in Great Britain stopped Cairoli’s podium row but Tony was back to the rostrum in France with third overall, followed by two consecutive wins in Germany and Latvia. This time his podium row stopped at the Czech GP, with Cairoli starting to feel pain to his left knee one week ahead of Lierop. Nevertheless the Italian rode two brave moto’s in Holland, moving past Nagl and takin g the Title in moto two where he gave all that he had.

A new challenge is now ahead of Cairoli and the De Carli squad as well, both moving to KTM in 2010 to make up the Austrian manufacturer’s factory line up in the MX1 series together with current KTM Factory riders Goncalves and Nagl, the current runner up to Cairoli in this year’s series.

Cairoli shows the Gold Plate alongside Dr. Srb (President of FIM/CMS) and Mr. Zompetti (Vice President of Youthstream)

Cairoli will be back to action in Brazil in two weeks when the series will end. Then the newly crowned World Champion will be back into the saddle at Franciacorta to lead Team Italy in the Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations on October 4.

Kurt Nicoll leaves KTM

Image via Wikipedia

Courtesy of KTM

Murrieta, CA – KTM Motorsports extends its deepest gratitude to Kurt Nicoll as he transitions from his 11-year role as Racing Director for KTM to a new position as COO at Godfrey Entertainment, Inc.

Nicoll began his career with KTM in 1984 as a professional motocross racer. Nicoll raced aboard his KTM as a member of the factory team for 8 years in the World Championship Motocross Series. Nicoll’s extensive accomplishments as a racer made him the perfect choice for KTM’s Director of Racing when he neared retirement in 1998.

Nicoll has worked hand in hand with many great riders throughout his time at KTM and has helped the company grow its Motorsports effort through his experience and vast knowledge of the sport. “Kurt has always been the perfect fit for this position. His skills and understanding as a past rider helped him bond with the racers. His wild side was also well known as he was always the first to celebrate and provide entertainment which I feel will make warmly accepted at his new line of work,” remarked KTM President Jon-Erik Burleson. “We sincerely thank Kurt for his service and look forward to working with him on future business opportunities.”

Antti Kallonen will remain as KTM’s Off-Road Team Manager while Casey Lytle will takeover operational duties as KTM’s Motocross Team Manager. Lytle raced professionally as a Supercross and Motocross rider from 1996-2004. From 2006-07, Lytle served as team manager of the Red Bull/KTM Motocross/Supercross Team before transitioning back to the R&D department and eventually to a position as the West Coast Customer Service Manager. “Casey has been a great asset to KTM in every department he has worked and I am confident that will continue as he makes the move back into the racing department,” stated Burleson.

While Nicoll transitions to his new role at Godfrey Entertainment, Inc. fans will continue to see him at the track aboard his KTM motorcycle as he carries on his racing endeavors.

Goerke Claims Upset Win with First Career Victory at Southwick

Courtesy of Alli Sports
n a season highlighted by first-time winners, Factory Yamaha's Matt Goerke, of Lake Helen, Fla., captured an upset victory in New England to become the sixth rider in 2009 to win for the first time in the 450 Class. Rain greeted the riders at Moto-X 338 on Saturday at the penultimate round of the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship as consistent, light showers fell throughout the day. In the talented and deep 250 Class, GEICO Powersports Honda's Justin Barcia, of Cairo, Ga., claimed his first-career professional win while teammate Jessica Patterson, of Tallahassee, Fla., grabbed the victory in the WMX Class.

While newly-crowned premier class champion Chad Reed, of Australia, appeared to be on the way to his fifth straight victory, he crashed out of the lead in the final moto allowing Goerke to assume the top spot and hold on for the win to go along with his sixth place in the opening moto.

"This is the best day of my life," exclaimed Goerke, who is in just his third race as a replacement rider for the Yamaha team to close out the season. "I crashed in the first moto and thought my day was over. I really was hoping for a good overall (today) but luckily I got back up to sixth. In the second moto, I missed gate pick and had to start all the way outside so it wasn't looking good, but everything worked out."

Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki's Michael Byrne, of Australia, secured the runner-up position (3-3), tying for first in points but losing the position by virtue of the second moto tiebreaker. Local legend John Dowd, of Ludlow, Mass., finished third.

While most of the attention on the 250 Class centered on championship contenders Christophe Pourcel, of France, and Ryan Dungey, of Belle Plaine, Minn., it was Barcia who stole the spotlight on Saturday afternoon. The rookie competitor has shown considerable speed throughout the season and after winning the first moto, put in another consistent ride in moto two, finishing third to secure the overall.

"I'm just really excited," boasted Barcia. "Today just felt like my day. I woke up in a really good mood and everything just went smooth. I really love it here (at Southwick) and I'm really happy to get my first win here."

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Tyla Rattray, of South Africa, earned his first moto win in the U.S. in moto two to elevate him to a career-best second overall while GEICO Powersports Honda's Brett Metcalfe, of Australia, finished third.

Dungey captured fourth overall while Pourcel fell to 18th. A 30-point turnaround between the two riders saw Pourcel's 13-point lead heading into the race diminish into a 17-point deficit behind Dungey heading into the final round.

With an opportunity for rival Ashley Fiolek, of St. Augustine, Fla., to clinch the WMX Class title for the second year in a row, Patterson knew she needed to ride at her best in order to keep her title chances alive. She dominated both motos, sweeping for the first time this season and claiming her second straight victory. Fiolek followed in second aboard her Honda Red Bull machine while rookie Sara Price, of Canyon Lake, Calif., achieved a career-best third overall for her first podium.

"I've been working really hard to get support from a factory team and it finally worked out," said Patterson. "I knew that if I had the chance to ride a good bike I would be able to show what I could do and now I finally have that chance."

Next weekend, the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship commences with the American Motocross Festival from Steel City Raceway in Delmont, Pa. Same-day coverage of the 250 Class, where a champion will be crowned, can be seen on SPEED at midnight ET.

Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship
Moto-X 338 Motocross National
Moto-X 338 - Southwick, Mass.
August 29, 2009
Round 11 of 12

450 Class (Moto Finish)

1. Matt Goerke, Lake Helen, Fla., Yamaha (6-1)
2. Michael Byrne, Australia, Suzuki (3-3)
3. John Dowd, Ludlow, Mass., Kawasaki (10-2)
4. Tommy Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Kawasaki (9-4)
5. Robby Marshall, Stow, Mass., Suzuki (5-7)
6. Kyle Regal, Kemp, Texas, Yamaha (4-10)
7. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda (7-9)
8. Chad Reed, Australia, Suzuki (1-31)
9. Jake Moss, Australia, Kawasaki (2-30)
10. Ricky Renner, Lakeland, Fla., Honda (11-12)

450 Class Championship Standings

1. Chad Reed, Australia, Suzuki, 459
2. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda, 356
3. Ivan Tedesco, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda, 338
4. Michael Byrne, Australia, Suzuki, 316
5. Josh Grant, Riverside, Calif., Yamaha, 280
6. Thomas Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Kawasaki, 259
7. Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., KTM, 214
8. Cody Cooper, New Zealand, Yamaha, 184
9. Nick Wey, Dewitt, Mich., Yamaha, 182
10. Jimmy Albertson, Ozark, Mo., Yamaha, 164

250 Class (Moto Finish)

1. Justin Barcia, Cairo, Ga., Honda (1-3)
2. Tyla Rattray, South Africa, Kawasaki (6-1)
3. Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Honda (4-2)
4. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki (2-4)
5. Taylor Futrell, Clinton, N.C., Honda (7-7)
6. Tommy Searle, Great Britain, KTM (9-6)
7. Blake Wharton, Pilot Point, Texas, Honda (3-15)
8. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Yamaha (8-13)
9. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki (13-9)
10. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki (15-8)

250 Class Championship Standings

1. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki, 459
2. Christophe Pourcel, France, Kawasaki, 442
3. Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Honda, 352
4. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki, 322
5. Justin Barcia, Cairo, Ga., Honda, 312
6. Tommy Searle, Great Britain, KTM, 309
7. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Yamaha, 263
8. Blake Wharton, Pilot Point, Texas, Honda, 240
9. Tyla Rattray, South Africa, Kawasaki, 236
10. Kyle Cunningham, Ft. Worth, Texas, Kawasaki, 174

WMX Class (Moto Finish)

1. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda (1-1)
2. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda (3-2)
3. Tarah Gieger, Vero Beach, Fla., Yamaha (7-3)
4. Sherri Cruse, Bakersfield, Calif., Suzuki (2-9)
5. Heidi Cooke, Canada, Kawasaki (6-4)
6. Sara Price, Canyon Lake, Calif., Kawasaki (4-6)
7. Julie Anne Parizek, Willington, Conn., Kawasaki (5-5)
8. Alyssa Fitch, Denver, Colo., Honda (9-7)
9. Elizabeth Bash, Riverside, Calif., Kawasaki (8-8)
10. Jacqueline Strong, Sedona, Ariz., Honda (12-11)

WMX Class Standings

1. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda, 336
2. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda, 295
3. Sherri Cruse, Bakersfield, Calif., Suzuki, 258
4. Sara Price, Canyon Lake, Calif., Kawasaki, 208
5. Vicki Golden, El Cajon, Calif., Honda, 192
6. Elizabeth Bash, Riverside, Calif., Kawasaki, 187
7. Sarah Whitmore, Cheboygan, Mich., KTM, 149
8. Penni Cyrus, Queen Creek, Ariz., Kawasaki, 134
9. Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Honda, 126
10. Jacqueline Strong, Sedona, Ariz., Honda, 114

Things Get Topsy-Turvy in Southwick

Courtesy of Alli Sports

As the saying goes, there’s a reason why they run the races. Both classes proved that today at Southwick, round 11 of the 12-round Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship.

Coming into the event, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Christophe Pourcel led the 250cc class by a full 13 points over Rockstar/Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey, and Dungey needed help to win the title, because even if he won every moto from Southwick on to the end of the year, Pourcel would only have to finish second each time to secure the championship.

However, ask and ye shall receive. At Southwick, things went pear-shaped on Pourcel something fierce.

In moto one, Pourcel got a horrible start on the wet, sandy, rutted circuit and moved slowly forward until he sat fifth, while Dungey sat second. The points gap between the positions was six points, and if things stayed that way, the two would’ve gone into moto two only seven points apart.

However, with less than two laps to go, Pourcel’s bike gave up the ghost. He ended the moto with a DNF and no points scored. Dungey did all he could do in second, but he had to settle for the spot, as rookie sensation Justin Barcia, from the GEICO Powersports Honda team, took his first-ever moto victory after passing Dungey around the halfway point.

Barcia’s teammates Blake Wharton and Brett Metcalfe were third and fourth, and Pourcel’s teammates Austin Stroupe and Tyla Rattray were fifth and sixth.

Moto two was all Tyla Rattray out front, though. He got the holeshot and led every lap. However, Pourcel was the last one up in a first-turn pileup and rejoined the race in last while his title rival Dungey rounded lap one in 14th. Barcia was 17th. Metcalfe was second.

As Barcia chased Dungey through the pack, Pourcel worked his way forward, but his advance stalled at 10th place, and then he lost that spot to teammate Jake Weimer, who fell early in the race and took a long time starting his bike. Weimer eventually caught up to ninth.

Barcia worked on Dungey until they sat third and fourth at about the halfway point, and then Barcia took over the third position with two laps to go, solidifying his first-ever AMA National victory. Rattray won the moto over Metcalfe. Dungey was fourth, Ryan Sipes fifth, Tommy Searle sixth.

Pourcel finished well off the pace in 11th and leaves Southwick with a 17-point deficit to make up at the final next weekend at Steel City. It’s a daunting task, to be sure, but at the same time, Dungey made up 30 points in one day at Southwick, so anything’s possible.

In the 450cc class, it was all Rockstar/Makita Suzuki’s Chad Reed in moto one. He got the holeshot and led every lap, running away with a wire-to-wire victory over fellow Aussies Jake Moss (Monster Energy Kawasaki) and Michael Byrne. Rookie Kyle Regal was fourth in the first moto, in yet another strong ride, and local boy Robby Marshall was fifth, just in front of Valli Yamaha’s Matt Goerke, Honda Red Bull Racing’s Andrew Short, Jagermeister KTM’s Justin Brayton, Canidae/Motosport Kawasaki’s Tommy Hahn, local legend John Dowd and Floridian Ricky Renner (riding a 2007 Honda CRF450R practice bike).

In the second moto, Short got the holeshot but was quickly passed by Reed, then by Goerke for second, then by Dowd for third, Byrne for fourth, Hahn and Tedesco for fifth and sixth, etc. Reed led until just after the finish line on lap 9 of 16, when he cross-rutted and went down hard on the downside of the finish-line jump, handing the lead to Goerke.

Goerke led the rest of the race and, in his third race as a replacement rider at Team Yamaha, won his first-ever AMA National overall. He had never been on the podium at a national previous to this one.

Byrne finished second overall with a 3-3 and Dowd was a very popular third with a 10-2.

However, the championship was decided last week, so even if Reed sits out the finale as he recovers from his bruises and bumps, the championship is over.

Matt Goerke

Send some words of Encouragement to Charlie Ellis

Courtesy of MXPTV

Long Island pro Charles Ellis, who is recently coming back after a year off the bike and raced the Unadilla and Budds Creek nationals (qualifying for both rounds), was seriously injured in a practice crash this week on Long Island getting ready for Southwick this weekend. His injuries are extensive resulting in a shattered pelvis, dislocated one hip and broken the other, broken a few ribs, and broke L1, L2, and L3 vertabrae in his back.

Charles is in good spirits but pretty bummed about the entire situation. He was planned to have surgery this morning on his pelvis or hip. Also, just to let you know, Charles has health insurance. If you wish to send your support and best wishes, please use the contact information below:

Email: motoxxx181@aol.com

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1584352682&ref=search&sid=33700829.358193148..1

Spend Halloween with Tony D

Courtesy of Masters of Motocross

Sat. October 31, 2009 - San Bernardino Sturges Center for Performing Arts hosted by Bob Hurricane Hannah

Honoring 3-time AMA Motocross Champion 'Tony D' Distefano

Proceeds benefit Reeve-Irvine Research Center

The Monsters of Motocross event is going off on Halloween night in conjunction with the MTA Vet World Championships weekend at Glen Helen Raceway. This year the ceremony honors ‘Tony D’ Distefano.



The event, as it has in the past, promises to entertain the hardcore MX fan and serve as a showcase to award the Edison Dye Lifetime Achievement Award (which Tony D will receive).

Emcee Bob ‘Hurricane’ Hannah leads an all-star cast of presenters and speakers all of whom generally reveal the true inside line on each years’ award recipient.

If you want to spend an evening with motocross racing legends, get to Cycle Gear, Malcolm Smith Motorsports or Glen Helen Raceway and buy a $30 ticket to benefit the Reeve-Irvine Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research. You’ll also get a sneak peek at Pipline Digital Media’s newest film, “The Carlsbad USGP: 1980”

Industry Invited to 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship Celebration

Courtesy of MX Sports

Morgantown, W.Va. (August 26, 2009) - Members of the motocross and ATV industry who have followed the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship series and the AMA Pro ATV MX Series are invited to attend the Championship Celebration to help celebrate the accomplishments of the top 10 riders of each motocross discipline; the 450 class, 250 class, WMX and ATV. Personalities of the series, including riders, sponsors, mechanics and team managers, are invited as well.

The celebration will be held at the historic Grand Concourse Restaurant at Station Square in Pittsburgh, PA, the day after the final round of the Championship at Steel City Raceway in Delmont, PA, just 35 minutes from the Grand Concourse. The celebration will kick off at 6 p.m. with a cash bar and h'ors dourves followed by the awards ceremony.

A series of special awards will debut at the first-annual event, including Rookie of the Year awards in all four disciplines. Also, traveling trophies to honor past and current champions in each series will debut, with the past champions of the 450, 250, WMX and ATV MX classes listed on each trophy. Additional awards include Sportsperson of the Year, Event of the Year, Sponsor of the Year, Team Transport Driver of the Year, and the Doug Henry Perseverance Award.

Jason Weigandt, who serves as host of the Speed and NBC broadcasts of the season, will emcee the event. "This is going to be a good time," says Weigandt. "We've got lots of fun stuff planned, cool new awards, speeches and even a few jokes. Should be an unforgettable evening."The Sheraton Station Square Hotel, the host hotel for the event is conveniently located only a short walk away from the event location. For additional information please click here.

Directions From Steel City:
Exit track, turn left onto Story Road. Story Road ends at RT 66. Turn left onto RT 66 W to RT 22. Take RT 22 W to Monroeville. At Monroeville, take I-376 West (Parkway) to Pittsburgh. Follows signs to I-279 Airport across the Fort Pitt Bridge. Take Exit 5C off the bridge (DO NOT ENTER THE TUNNEL). At the first light (approx. half mile) turn right onto W. Station Square Drive. Semi parking in the amphitheatre lot.

Total Time: Approx. 36 minutes
Total Distance: 26 miles

About MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world's most prestigious motocross series - the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. An industry leader in off road powersport production and management, its mission is to raise awareness of motocross racing through the production of professional championship racing events nationwide. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing fields more than 60,000 action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of active fans, spectators and enthusiasts. For more information, please visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Moto-X 338 Motocross National Team Previews and Series Statistics

Courtesy of MX Sports

MORGANTOWN, W.V. (August 27, 2009) - Last weekend at Budds Creek MX Park in Mechanicsville, Md., Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki's Chad Reed stood atop the podium for the fifth time this season and was able to add the number one plate to his resume after clinching the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship 450 Class title. It is the first outdoor championship for the Australian rider and the third AMA title of his career. As the battle for second heats up between Honda Red Bull teammates Andrew Short and Ivan Tedesco, the focus shifts this weekend to the tight 250 Class title hunt.
During the Budds Creek race, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Christophe Pourcel extended his small advantage over Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki's Ryan Dungey to 13 points with two rounds remaining. The advantage puts Pourcel in a comfortable position for the final four motos in which he needs to finish at least second in order to guarantee the championship no matter what Dungey does. While experience will play into Dungey's hand, Pourcel has not appeared to suffer from unfamiliarity, landing on the overall podium at all 10 rounds this season. The duo will surely engage in a fight to the finish, providing stellar on-track action for the fans.
This weekend, professional Motocross makes its only stop in New England, home of some of the most dedicated fans in the country. Historic Moto-X 338, in Southwick, Mass., serves as host of the Moto-X 338 Motocross National and will challenge riders with the only sand track on the schedule. As the site of many memorable battles throughout the years, Moto-X 338 always provides some great racing. Same-day coverage of the race will feature each class for the first time in 2009. SPEED will present the 250 Class beginning at 9 p.m. ET immediately followed by the 450 Class at 10 p.m.


450 Class
Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki
With the championship in his hands, Reed can simply focus on winning from here on out. He has repeatedly stated how much he has enjoyed 2009 and now that the pressure is off, its time for the Aussie to have a little more fun and perhaps let it hang out. At his last appearance in Southwick back in 2006, he finished runner-up behind Ricky Carmichael and hopes to take the next step this weekend. His teammate Michael Byrne kept his solid season going last Saturday with a sixth overall. Last year in Massachusetts, he did not perform as well as he had hoped, finishing eighth overall. With the momentum he has built this season, he is confident that result will improve.
"I'm so happy to have gotten the championship wrapped up last weekend," stated Reed. "The Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki team was really patient with me while I tried to get my health issues under control this year, and they worked really hard to give me a bike I felt comfortable on. This is what that hard work is all about. I wanted to race AMA Motocross again this year because I wanted to support the series and have fun, and that's what I've been able to do. I'm looking forward to Southwick this weekend because now that the championship is settled, we can just go out and race and have a good time."
"Southwick has been somewhat up and down for me and hopefully this will be an up year," said Byrne. "I've been in Florida all week practicing in the sand so I can get a feel for it. I think the Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki RM-Z450 will be better this year in the sandy conditions because the team has been working hard on that. Hopefully, I can get some good starts and a good result."


Honda Red Bull Racing
Honda grabbed two of the three podium positions last weekend and added another name to the moto winner list with Davi Millsaps. The Georgia native held off a hard charging Reed in the first moto to take the win and backed it up with a sixth place finish in moto two to give him a career-best second overall. Since returning from injury, he has shown considerable speed, but has yet to put together a pair of equally strong motos. For Ivan Tedesco, Budds Creek was about gaining ground on his second place teammate Andrew Short, which he did. A third overall gave Tedesco a return to the podium and just an eight point deficit to his teammate. Short didn't appear to find his rhythm throughout the last round, posting seventh and 10th place finishes for eighth overall. However, he finished fourth at Moto-X 338 one year ago and could be looking at a nice rebound on Saturday.


JGRMX/Toyota/Yamaha
As quickly as the excitement in the Joe Gibbs pit rose with the return of Josh Grant at Budds Creek, it diminished equally as fast when Grant decided to sit out the rest of the season after a rough first moto. Despite the unfortunate news, Cody Cooper gave with a strong overall performance. While his result of 13th overall did not reflect how well he rode, the New Zealander showed strength and returns to the site of his best career finish on Saturday. Last season, Cooper broke through as a privateer with second overall and is undoubtedly looking forward to coming back to Southwick this weekend.


Monster Energy Kawasaki
After an up and down season, Timmy Ferry was able to capture his best result of 2009 with seventh overall. After a ninth place result in moto one, he bettered his finish in moto two in eighth and received a much needed boost of confidence. Last year, he took third overall at Southwick to solidify his runner-up finish in the standings and hopes to break into the top five and maybe even steal a podium on Saturday. Kawasaki's newest rider Jake Moss showed the speed the team knew he had in the first moto. However, misfortune bit the Australian rider late in the first moto and put a damper on an otherwise solid debut. He rebounded for ninth in the final moto for 16th overall. Saturday will mark his inaugural appearance in the 450 Class at Southwick, where he 15th last season in the 250 Class.
"Southwick is a good track for me," said Ferry. "Because there is a lot of sand, it reminds me of my place in Florida. I do a lot of riding in the sand so I think I can get a good finish. I just need to get better starts."
"I think I can get a win in the last two races," explained Moss. "I just need to work on my fitness a little bit and ride within my limits. The Kawasaki is awesome and I know I can get some good finishes this weekend."


Jagermeister KTM
With his confidence running high going into the last round, Justin Brayton was disappointed with his 11th overall at Budds Creek after a pair of fourth place finishes at the previous two races. Despite the result, Brayton ran as strong as ever but suffered a setback in the first moto that hurt his chances for the day. The California rider bounced back in moto two for seventh and hopes to get back to top form this weekend.
"Each week I was steadily getting closer to the podium and then I just had some bad luck at Budds Creek and it pushed me outside of the top ten," stated Brayton. "I am focused and ready to get inside the top three this weekend. I have been training hard, riding as much as I can and feel confident I can place in the top three."


250 Class
Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki
While Pourcel is leading the way with his chase for a championship, Jake Weimer is putting together a breakout season and it hasn't gone unnoticed as shown by his selection to the Motocross of Nations team. The Idaho rider captured his third win of the season last weekend in arguably the strongest ride he has ever had outdoors. Despite coming up just short of the moto one win, Weimer kept his teammate in his sights and the determination carried over into moto two where he took the lead late in a torrential downpour. After sitting in 10th after four rounds, he now sits fourth in the standings, on the cusp of taking third. For Pourcel, a smart ride in the rain showed his championship mentality. Knowing the pressure is somewhat relieved, it could be more of the same from the Frenchman. However, never one to back down, if a win is in his grasp don't be surprised if he makes a charge. For Austin Stroupe and Tyla Rattray, each rider continues to get back into top form after lengthy injuries. Each rider finished in the top 10 last weekend with Stroupe in fifth and Rattray in 10th. Neither rider competed at Southwick last season so it will be interesting to see how they fare in the sand.
"Southwick should be a good race for me," said Pourcel. "I race well on sandy tracks so hopefully I can win both motos and build a bigger cushion heading to the final race. I'm going to just concentrate on getting the best finishes I can."
"I need to get two good starts again," explained Weimer, who claimed both holeshots last weekend. "The second half of the season has been really good and I want to keep getting good finishes and try and finish third in the standings."
"It is good to be back on track," stated Rattray. "I'm glad I got a race in before coming to Southwick. Since it is a sand track, I think I can do well, but it helps having raced last weekend. I really want to get back on the podium and I think I have a good chance this weekend."
"I'm making good progress," added Stroupe. "I just want to finish out the season as strong as I can and hopefully get a couple of podiums."


Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki
Even though he has lost ground in the title hunt, Dungey has been at the top of his game. Top-five starts have forced him to work his way through the field a bit more than his rival, but the speed is there and so is the confidence. His runner-up finish last season at Southwick was surrounded by wins in three of the final four events. If any rider has what it takes to make a late season run, its Dungey and with every point on the line from here on out, its go time for the Minnesota native.
"I'm excited about racing Southwick this weekend," boasted Dungey. "It's a good track - it's a lot of fun and I feel pretty comfortable in the sand. We only have two rounds left in the season and everything is coming down to the wire. I've been focusing on doing my regular program this week and will just try to ride my own race this weekend and gain some more points in the championship."


GEICO Powersports Honda
Australian Brett Metcalfe was on the verge of claiming an elusive first moto win at Budds Creek, but as the rain came down harder, the track became increasingly difficult and a slight bobble relegated him to second. However, Metcalfe's never surrender mentality has brought him to third place in the standings and it is only a matter of time before that win occurs. Last year at Moto-X 338, he put together one of his best performances of the season, finished second and third in the motos for third overall and will look to improve on that on Saturday. Rookie Justin Barcia quietly took home fourth overall last weekend with moto results of fourth and seventh. The Georgia rider has become consistent late in the season, honing in on his endurance and using his stellar speed when necessary. For third member Blake Wharton, the final month of 2009 has been rough. After scoring no points two rounds ago, he suffered the same fate last weekend and can't seem to rid himself of bad luck. He hopes his 10th place result in Southwick last season will mean that things turn around for the final two races.


Muscle Milk/MDK/KTM
In just his second race back, Ryan Sipes led the way for the KTM team at Budds Creek. He finished eighth overall and rode at the front of the pack for the majority of the muddy second moto. British rookie Tommy Searle was one of the many riders who suffered from misfortune in the final moto, posting finishes of seventh and 21st for 13th overall. In his first race back from shoulder surgery, Wil Hahn brought home 25th.
"I have always heard stories about Southwick and I am very excited to see what this sand track is all about," said Searle. "Every track on the circuit is new to me and it is a thrill each weekend the first time I pull onto the track."


WMX Class
The talented competitors of the Women's Motocross (WMX) Class of the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship return to action this weekend after a break that began at the conclusion of Washougal on July 25th. Honda Red Bull Racing's Ashley Fiolek holds a 49-point lead over rival Jessica Patterson and needs to gain just one point on Saturday in order to claim her second consecutive women's championship. Patterson grabbed the overall victory at Southwick last season and will look to maintain the momentum she captured at Washougal with her first overall victory of the season and keep her title hopes alive.


Round 10 Series Statistical Report
Chad Reed became the winningest rider in the series by taking his fifth overall victory last weekend.
Reed's 44th career AMA victory (sixth in AMA Motocross) led to his first career motocross title ever and made him the 11th rider in AMA history to earn championships in both Supercross and Motocross.
As a whole, Roger DeCoster's riders have won 55% of the overall victories across both classes (11 of 20).
Reed has won seven of the last nine motos.
Christophe Pourcel remains the only rider in the series to finish on the overall podium at all 10 races. His worst finish of the season came at Washougal with third overall. It is the only time he didn't finish in the top two.
With a 13-point lead, Pourcel will win the 250 Class title regardless of what Ryan Dungey does if he finishes at least second in each of the final four motos.
Massachusetts native and motocross legend John Dowd will compete at Southwick at 44 years of age, more than 20 years older than of the majority of the competitors in the series. Last season, he finished sixth overall.
The WMX Class makes its return to action for the first time since Washougal. Ashley Fiolek needs to gain just one point to capture her second straight women's title.
450 Class Stats:
The first race held at Southwick was June 6, 1976. Pierre Karsmakers would win on a Honda. It was his final AMA Motocross victory.
This will be the 31st time the gate will drop for a 450 Class race at Southwick.
Ricky Carmichael, John Dowd, Mike Kiedrowski, Doug Henry and James Stewart have won at Southwick in both classes.
Ricky Carmichael won eight consecutive races at Southwick from 2000 to 2007.
Southwick has hosted a Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship event for all but three years since 1976 (break from1983-1985).
Honda has swept Southwick in both the 450 and 250 classes four times, while Yamaha has done it twice. Kawasaki did it for the first time last season.
Four riders have earned their final career AMA Motocross victory at Southwick.

Wins by brand at Southwick
Honda - 14
Kawasaki - 6
Suzuki - 6
Yamaha - 4
First Time Winners at Southwick
Jeff Emig, 1995 - Yamaha
Last win by brand at Southwick
Kawasaki - 2008
Suzuki - 2007
Honda - 2004
Yamaha - 1998
Riders to win Southwick in both classes
Ricky Carmichael
John Dowd
Doug Henry
Mike Kiedrowski
James Stewart
Brand Sweeps at Southwick
Yamaha: Bob Hannah, Broc Glover - 1978
Honda: Rick Johnson, Micky Dymond - 1987
Honda: Jeff Stanton, Jeff Ward - 1989
Honda: Jeff Stanton, Jean-Michel Bayle - 1990
Honda: Jeremy McGrath, Steve Lamson - 1996
Yamaha: Doug Henry, John Dowd - 1998
Kawasaki: James Stewart, Ryan Villopoto - 2008
Riders to Win Their Final Race at Southwick
Ezra Lusk - 1999
Jeff Stanton - 1992
Marty Smith - 1977
Pierre Karsmakers - 1976
450 Class Point Standings - Thru 10 of 12 Rounds
Chad Reed, Australia, Suzuki, 434
Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda, 330
Ivan Tedesco, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda, 322
Josh Grant, Riverside, Calif., Yamaha, 280
Michael Byrne, Australia, Suzuki, 276
Thomas Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Kawasaki, 229
Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., KTM, 201
Cody Cooper, New Zealand, Yamaha, 176
Nick Wey, Dewitt, Mich., Yamaha, 176
Jimmy Albertson, Ozark, Mo., Yamaha, 150
450 Class Overall Wins
Chad Reed - 5
Mike Alessi - 2
Josh Grant - 1
Ivan Tedesco - 1
Ryan Villopoto - 1
450 Class Moto Wins
Chad Reed - 9
Mike Alessi - 4
Josh Grant - 2
Ivan Tedesco - 2
Ryan Villopoto - 2
Davi Millsaps - 1
450 Class Wins by Brand
Suzuki - 7
Honda - 1
Kawasaki - 1
Yamaha - 1
450 Class Laps Led
Chad Reed - 93
Josh Grant - 62
Ivan Tedesco - 61
Mike Alessi - 52
Davi Millsaps - 18
Andrew Short - 15
Ryan Villopoto - 8
Jeff Alessi - 2
450 Class Muscle Milk Recovery Rider of the Day - Budds Creek
Christian Craig (M1: 30th, M2: 13th) - 17 positions


250 Class Stats:
The first race was held at Southwick on May 7, 1978. Broc Glover won on a Yamaha.
This will be the 26th time the gate will drop for a 250 Class race at Southwick.
Only three riders have won back-to-back races at Southwick: Doug Henry (93-94), Steve Lamson (95-96) and Travis Pastrana (00-01).
Kawasaki has won four of the last five races at Southwick, each with a different rider.
John Dowd won at Southwick in the 250 Class in 1998, one year after winning in the premier 450 Class.
Wins by brand at Southwick
Honda - 9
Kawasaki - 7
Yamaha - 5
Suzuki - 4
First time winners at Southwick
Craig Anderson, 2003 - Yamaha
Danny Smith, 2002 - Suzuki
Travis Pastrana, 2000 - Suzuki
Keith Bowen, 1986 - Yamaha
Last win by brand at Southwick
Kawasaki - 2008
Honda - 2006
Yamaha - 2003
Suzuki - 2002
250 Class Point Standings - Thru 10 of 12 Rounds
Christophe Pourcel, France, Kawasaki, 432
Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki, 419
Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Honda, 312
Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki, 302
Tommy Searle, Great Britain, KTM, 282
Justin Barcia, Cairo, Ga., Honda, 267
Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Yamaha, 242
Blake Wharton, Pilot Point, Texas, Honda, 214
Tyla Rattray, South Africa, Kawasaki, 196
Kyle Cunningham, Ft. Worth, Texas, Kawasaki, 174
250 Class Overall Wins
Ryan Dungey - 4
Christophe Pourcel - 3
Jake Weimer - 3
250 Class Moto Wins
Christophe Pourcel - 11
Ryan Dungey - 7
Jake Weimer - 2
250 Class Wins by Brand
Kawasaki - 6
Suzuki - 4
250 Class Laps Led
Christophe Pourcel - 121
Ryan Dungey - 80
Justin Barcia - 43
Trey Canard - 21
Jake Weimer - 18
Brett Metcalfe - 8
Martin Davalos - 6
Blake Wharton - 6
250 Class Muscle Milk Recovery Rider of the Day - Budds Creek
Willy Browning (M1: 28th, M2: 13th) - 15 positions


WMX Class Stats:
Last season was the first WMX Class race held at Southwick. Jessica Patterson won on a Honda.
WMX Class Point Standings - Thru 6 of 8 Rounds
Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda, 294
Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda, 245
Sherri Cruse, Bakersfield, Calif., Suzuki, 224
Vicki Golden, El Cajon, Calif., Honda, 192
Sara Price, Canyon Lake, Calif., Kawasaki, 175
Elizabeth Bash, Riverside, Calif., Kawasaki, 161
Sarah Whitmore, Cheboygan, Mich., KTM, 149
Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Honda, 126
Penni Cyrus, Queen Creek, Ariz., Kawasaki, 116
Tatum Sik, Temecula, Calif., Suzuki, 101
Wins by brand at Southwick
Honda - 1
WMX Class Overall Wins
Ashley Fiolek - 5
Jessica Patterson - 1
WMX Class Moto Wins
Ashley Fiolek - 10
Jessica Patterson - 2
WMX Class Wins by Brand
Honda - 6
Tickets are available are available at the box office or online at www.motocross338.org and www.allisports.com. Saturday tickets: Adults - $35, Children (6-12) - $20, 5 and Under - Free.
Fans can catch live video feed of the first motos in each of the three classes streaming on the internet at www.allisports.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET.
For more information about the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, please contact media coordinator Brandon Short via email at brandon@mxsports.com or by telephone at (949) 365-5752.
For fan and racing information on the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, log onto www.allisports.com.
MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world's most prestigious motocross series - the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. An industry leader in off road powersport production and management, its mission is to raise awareness of motocross racing through the production of professional championship racing events nationwide. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing fields more than 60,000 action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of active fans, spectators and enthusiasts. For more information, please visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand. The Alliance includes: the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, Maloof Money Cup, Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, King of Wake series, and the Gatorade Free Flow Tour; Alli TV Productions, which creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. More information can be found at www.allisports.com.
Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, greases, and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, greases, and problem-solving additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry.
Forrest Lucas and his wife, Charlotte, founded Lucas Oil Products in 1989 after he spent 20 years as a truck driver and owner of a nationwide long-haul trucking fleet. They experienced firsthand the need for better lubricants and fuel treatments to maintain their equipment.
Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the "Official Motor Oil of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship." For more information on Lucas Oil, please visit www.LucasOil.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. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization operates and manages AMA Pro Road Racing, which includes AMA Pro American Superbike, AMA Pro Daytona SportBike, AMA Pro SuperSport and AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT. AMA Pro Racing also manages and works closely with the day-to-day operational organizations of the AMA Pro Flat Track Championship and the AMA Pro Supermoto Championship Series in addition to other two-wheel and ATV series. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.

Same-Day Southwick MX Coverage on SPEED

Courtesy of MX Sports
As the season draws to a close, the demand for coverage of the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship has reached a pinnacle and SPEED has responded, presenting three hours of exclusive coverage this Saturday, August 29.

Ryan Dungey is racing for the series championship against racers like Christophe Pourcel and Jake Weimer.

Beginning at 8 p.m. ET, the super competitive 250 Class race from Budds Creek will kick-off an evening of the world's premier motocross racing. Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Christophe Pourcel and Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki's Ryan Dungey are in the midst of a major battle for the series championship, but a determined Jake Weimer had plans of his own.

Immediately following the Budds Creek 250 race at 9 p.m. ET, SPEED will present the first of two same-day coverage broadcasts from Saturday's Moto-X 338 Motocross National in Southwick, Mass. The 250 Class and its aforementioned title fight take center stage for the first time in 2009.

At 10 p.m. ET, newly-crowned 450 Class Champion Chad Reed looks for his sixth overall victory of the season and a continued dominance of the premier class aboard his Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki. However, Honda Red Bull Racing teammates Andrew Short and Ivan Tedesco are in the midst of a tight battle for the runner-up position in the standings and know a win would help solidify their efforts. Throw in Southwick legend John Dowd as a special guest competitor and the stage is set for a possible upset victory.

Official Class Rider List - Moto-X 338

Courtesy of MX Sports

Check out the Official Class Rider List for the Moto-X 338 in Southwick, MA round 11 of the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship.

---

250 Class

450 Class

WMX

Southwick Fan Fest Provides New England Enthusiasts a Chance to Mingle with the Stars of the Lucas Oil Motocross Championship

Courtesy of MX Sports
MORGANTOWN, W.V. (August 26, 2009) - Details for Friday afternoon's Monster Energy Fan Fest from Moto X-338, the official preview of the Moto-X 338 Motocross National, have been revealed and motocross fans throughout New England will have the chance to take advantage of their only opportunity to get up close and personal with the stars of the sport. A casual, laid-back setting will greet enthusiasts as several memorable activities are schedule to help them indulge in the atmosphere surrounding the national all free of charge. Gates open at 3 p.m. ET.
Kicking off the afternoon will be a media ride featuring the Star Yamaha and Valli Motorsports teams with their riders Darryn Durham, Michael Hall, Matt Lemoine, Lucas Moraes, Broc Tickle, Jimmy Albertson and Kyle Regal. Joining the men on-track will be WMX Class competitors Sara Price and Sarah Whitmore.
Following the riding at 4 p.m. ET, the pits will open for all in attendance to take their chance to interact with the riders on hand and receive autographs as well as take advantage of special tours a handful of Factory teams are offering through their race rigs. While fans mingle, the band Ten Man Push, the official band of motocross, will provide a live performance.
The track comes alive once again to bring the afternoon to a close as the always entertaining pit bike national brings bar-banging action to the masses on a smaller scale.
With a full slate of teams preparing for Saturday's race, fans can be sure to see the impressive machines of the 250, 450 and WMX classes on display as well as the chance to catch the series' biggest names making their way into town. You never know who might show up!
All proceeds from this weekend's Moto-X 338 Motocross National will be distributed for charitable cause, a trait that sets Southwick apart from other tracks in the country. Groups benefiting from the race include the Southwick Recreation Department, Southwick School Department and American Legion 338, among others.
Race day tickets are available are available at the box office or online at www.motocross338.org and www.allisports.com. Saturday tickets: Adults - $35, Children (6-12) - $20, 5 and Under - Free.
For more information, please contact Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship media coordinator Brandon Short via email at brandon@mxsports.com or by telephone at (949) 365-5752.
For fan and racing information on the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, log onto www.allisports.com.
MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world's most prestigious motocross series - the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. An industry leader in off road powersport production and management, its mission is to raise awareness of motocross racing through the production of professional championship racing events nationwide. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing fields more than 60,000 action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of active fans, spectators and enthusiasts. For more information, please visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand. The Alliance includes: the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, Maloof Money Cup, Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, King of Wake series, and the Gatorade Free Flow Tour; Alli TV Productions, which creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. More information can be found at www.allisports.com.
Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, greases, and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, greases, and problem-solving additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry.
Forrest Lucas and his wife, Charlotte, founded Lucas Oil Products in 1989 after he spent 20 years as a truck driver and owner of a nationwide long-haul trucking fleet. They experienced firsthand the need for better lubricants and fuel treatments to maintain their equipment.
Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the "Official Motor Oil of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship." For more information on Lucas Oil, please visit www.LucasOil.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. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization operates and manages AMA Pro Road Racing, which includes AMA Pro American Superbike, AMA Pro Daytona SportBike, AMA Pro SuperSport and AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT. AMA Pro Racing also manages and works closely with the day-to-day operational organizations of the AMA Pro Flat Track Championship and the AMA Pro Supermoto Championship Series in addition to other two-wheel and ATV series. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.

KarmaAlert put out for Stolen Bikes

Courtesy of MX Sports
Hi There - Senan Gorman here from both KarmaArmy.com and North Pole Design. I literally just launched KarmaArmy about a week ago, so it's a growing site as far as effectiveness goes. BUT that said, the idea is to utilize the power of social media and those who understand what kind of loss you guys and your racers just experience.

I saw your post and put out a KarmaAlert in your guys' names so that you may utilize the links to further extend your efforts. Please take a look at KarmaArmy.com and the KarmaAlert for the bikes. If you like what we're doing, please take 2 minutes (literally) to register. You can use your profile as a way to store your serial #'s, photos, descriptions, etc.

That just sucks and I'm very sorry to hear about the theft! Hoping you can recover their stuff quickly!!!

I appreciate it! Also, if you're interested in what we're doing -- there's an article that will be in the Wall Street Journal tomorrow, Wednesday 8/26 about Bike Theft. (not mx, but it's all a major problem!)

I appreciate it and hope that our Alert System can really start to help recover stolen property!!

Kind Regards,

Senan
Chief Creative Guy
North Pole Design
860.677.4569

http://www.northpoledesign.com
Creativity, @ Your Service.

Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship Invades New England for Penultimate Round

Courtesy of MX Sports

MORGANTOWN, W.V. - This weekend, the top riders of the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship will head to New England for the historic Moto-X 338 Motocross National, which also serves as the penultimate round of the 12-race series.

With Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki's Chad Reed clinching his first 450 Class championship last weekend at Budds Creek, the focus of the series turns to the hotly-contested 250 Class battle for the title between current points leader Christophe Pourcel and Ryan Dungey. Additionally, the talented women of the WMX Class make their return to action for round seven of eight. Honda Red Bull Racing's Ashley Fiolek leads the way in search of her second straight championship.

Affectionately known as the "sandbox," Moto-X 338 has been a home to motocross events since 1973. The Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship made its first appearance at the facility three years later and ever since, Southwick has been a favorite amongst fans and riders alike. The track is unique when compared to other tracks that host the series as it is the only one that is comprised primarily of soft and loose sand, held under the cover of the New England scrub pine trees.

Last weekend at Budds Creek MX Park, the chase for the 450 Class title came to a dramatic conclusion as Reed, a two-time AMA Supercross champion, finished second in moto one to Honda Red Bull Racing's Davi Millsaps. In the second moto, Reed came out swinging and won under persistent rainfall, claiming the championship with two rounds remaining. Millsaps captured second overall while his teammate Ivan Tedesco finished third.

Joining the fray on Saturday is local Massachusetts legend John Dowd, who lives in nearby Ludlow. Dowd, a two-time Southwick winner, won back-to-back races in 1997 and 1998, grabbing wins in both the 250 and 450 Classes (formerly known as 125 and 250). At the ripe young age of 44, he also holds AMA records as the oldest rider to win an overall event, earn a moto victory, stand on the podium and claim an AMA Championship. The beloved New England rider finished sixth overall at this event one year ago and will look to improve on that performance by using his experience at the track to overcome his much younger opponents in addition to scoring AMA championship points, which will allow him to keep his national number of 16.

Pourcel, a Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider, leads the 250 Class by 13 points over Dungey, who rides for Rockstar/Makita/Suzuki. To date, Dungey has four overall victories to Pourcel's three, but with the advantage, the French rider has placed his rival in a virtual must win situation for the remaining four motos. Last weekend, Pourcel's teammate Jake Weimer landed his third overall win of the season despite treacherous conditions thanks to torrential rain. Playing it smart, Pourcel cruised to second overall as Dungey settled for third.

As the WMX Class returns for its first race in over a month, the championship chase is taking shape as Fiolek carries the momentum of five wins in six rounds. Rival Jessica Patterson brought a halt to Fiolek's dominance at the previous race in Washougal, but with just two events remaining it may be too late as the reigning women's champion holds a 49-point lead. However, a win at Moto-X 338 last season will play into Patterson's favor. In order to claim the 2009 crown, Fiolek needs to gain just one more point over the field on Saturday. However, Patterson along with current third place rider Sherri Cruse are eager to keep their hopes alive and will pull out all the stops as the gates drop. Additionally, local Southwick competitors look to use familiarity to their advantage and pull off the upset.

Last season, James Stewart captured his 11th consecutive overall win en route to a perfect 2008 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship season and his first-ever 450 Class championship. 250 Class champion Ryan Villopoto nailed his 20th and final class victory in bringing one of the most dominant 250 careers to an exciting conclusion.

This weekend, the Southwick staff is preparing for what is sure to be yet another memorable event by providing a trio fundraising opportunities supporting local hero Doug Henry, the Southwick Recreation Center and School Department, as well as American Legion 338. Additionally, the track will host an open practice for all riders on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The excitement kicks-off on Friday at 3 p.m. as gates open for the Monster Energy Fan Fest that will feature live music, autograph sessions, pro team truck tours and a pit bike national.

Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship Standings
After 10 of 12 Rounds

450 Class

1. Chad Reed, Australia, Suzuki, 434
2. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, Honda, 330
3. Ivan Tedesco, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda, 322
4. Josh Grant, Riverside, Calif., Yamaha, 280
5. Michael Byrne, Australia, Suzuki, 276
6. Thomas Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Kawasaki, 229
7. Justin Brayton, Murrieta, Calif., KTM, 201
8. Cody Cooper, New Zealand, Yamaha, 176
9. Nick Wey, Dewitt, Mich., Yamaha, 176
10. Jimmy Albertson, Ozark, Mo., Yamaha, 150

250 Class

1. Christophe Pourcel, France, Kawasaki, 432
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki, 419
3. Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Honda, 312
4. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki, 302
5. Tommy Searle, Great Britain, KTM, 282
6. Justin Barcia, Cairo, Ga., Honda, 267
7. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Yamaha, 242
8. Blake Wharton, Pilot Point, Texas, Honda, 214
9. Tyla Rattray, South Africa, Kawasaki, 196
10. Kyle Cunningham, Ft. Worth, Texas, Kawasaki, 174

WMX Class (After 6 of 8 Rounds)

1. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda, 294
2. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Honda, 245
3. Sherri Cruse, Bakersfield, Calif., Suzuki, 224
4. Vicki Golden, El Cajon, Calif., Honda, 192
5. Sara Price, Canyon Lake, Calif., Kawasaki, 175
6. Elizabeth Bash, Riverside, Calif., Kawasaki, 161
7. Sarah Whitmore, Cheboygan, Mich., KTM, 149
8. Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Honda, 126
9. Penni Cyrus, Queen Creek, Ariz., Kawasaki, 116
10. Tatum Sik, Temecula, Calif., Suzuki, 101

Tickets are available are available at the box office or online at www.motocross338.org and www.allisports.com. Saturday tickets: Adults - $35, Children (6-12) - $20, 5 and Under - Free.

For more information, please contact Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship media coordinator Brandon Short via email at brandon@mxsports.com or by telephone at (949) 365-5752.

For fan and racing information on the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, log onto www.allisports.com.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world's most prestigious motocross series - the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. An industry leader in off road powersport production and management, its mission is to raise awareness of motocross racing through the production of professional championship racing events nationwide. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing fields more than 60,000 action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of active fans, spectators and enthusiasts. For more information, please visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand. The Alliance includes: the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, Maloof Money Cup, Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, King of Wake series, and the Gatorade Free Flow Tour; Alli TV Productions, which creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. More information can be found at www.allisports.com.

Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, greases, and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, greases, and problem-solving additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry.

Forrest Lucas and his wife, Charlotte, founded Lucas Oil Products in 1989 after he spent 20 years as a truck driver and owner of a nationwide long-haul trucking fleet. They experienced firsthand the need for better lubricants and fuel treatments to maintain their equipment.

Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the "Official Motor Oil of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship." For more information on Lucas Oil, please visit www.LucasOil.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. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization operates and manages AMA Pro Road Racing, which includes AMA Pro American Superbike, AMA Pro Daytona SportBike, AMA Pro SuperSport and AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT. AMA Pro Racing also manages and works closely with the day-to-day operational organizations of the AMA Pro Flat Track Championship and the AMA Pro Supermoto Championship Series in addition to other two-wheel and ATV series. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.

Jagermeister & Muscle Milk/MDK/KTM Race Report - Budds Creek

Courtesy of Muscle Milk MDK Racing

Mechanicsville, MD - The 10^th round of the Lucas Oil AMA Motocross Championship Series held at Budds Creek Motocross Park was up and down as was the weather for the KTM Factory Team riders.

Jagermeister/MDK/KTM rider Justin Brayton, who came to Budds Creek looking for his first podium, fell shy of that accomplishment after a bad start and mid-moto crash put him in 21^st overall after the first moto. "I was one of the unfortunate riders who got caught up on the start after Reardon crashed. I fought my way up to around 20^th from a poor start and then crashed setting myself back all the positions I had gained. In the end I was only able to climb back up to 21^st," commented Brayton.

The second moto proved to be much stronger for Brayton. "I got a 6^th place start and just focused on maintaining that position." Brayton was closing in on Andrew Short when Matt Goerke pulled out in front of him from pit row one lap down. Goerke got between to the two riders and Brayton lost some time and eventually lost a position to Michael Byrne. Near the end of the moto, Short had some problems and Brayton was able to move ahead. Brayton finished in 7^th position. His 21-7 positions awarded him 11^th overall for the day. "It's not where I wanted to finish, but it could have been a lot worse," remarked Brayton.

In the 250 Motocross class, Muscle Milk/MDK/KTM rider Ryan Sipes proved he is ready to return to racing. In only his second race back this season, Sipes was able to put together two decent scores. His 11^th place finish in the first moto coupled with an impressive 9^th place finish in the mud fest of a second moto put him in 8^th overall for the day. "I would obviously like to be finishing in the top five, but after sitting the entire season out with an injury, I am very happy to be back and to place within the top ten," reported Sipes.

Sipes teammates were not as fortunate at Budds Creek, as both Wil Hahn and Tommy Searle encountered problems. In the first moto Searle had a great 3^rd place start and managed to hang onto 7^th position. However, his second moto was a completely new story. Searle started 27^th on the first lap, charged hard to work his way up to 19^th on the second lap and then got stuck in a deep mud rut on the third lap to end up back in 29^th. With only 9 laps, (the second moto was cut short due to large amounts of rain fall) Searle was only able to climb to 21^st. His moto scores earned him 13^th overall for the day. Hahn also suffered from a bad start due to horrible gate pick in the second moto. Still recovering from shoulder surgery, the rough and muddy track was very demanding on Hahn as he still has some pain from his shoulder injury. His 21-18 moto scores were notable coming from the back of the pack but were not strong enough to put him inside the top twenty overall.

Next Round: Southwick Motocross - August 29, 2009

Overall Results 250 Motocross Class:

1) Jake Weimer (2-1)

2) Christophe Pourcel (1-3)

3) Ryan Dungey (3-4)

4) Justin Barcia (4-7)

5) Austin Stroupe (8-6)

6) Brett Metcalfe (18-2)

7) Matt Lemoine (14-5)

8) Ryan Sipes (11-9)

9) PJ Larsen (10-10)

10) Tyla Rattray (6-15)

11) Darryn Durham (5-35)

12) Broc Tickle (16-11)

13) Tommy Searle (7-21)

14) Taylor Futrell (23-8)

15) Kyle Cunningham (9-34)

16) Tucker Hibbert (27-12)

17) Alex Martin (13-20)

18) Blake Baggett (12-23)

19) Willy Browning (28-13)

20) James DeCotis (31-14)

Overall Results 450 Motocross Class:

1) Chad Reed (2-1)

2) David Millsaps (1-6)

3) Ivan Tedesco (5-3)

4) Kyle Regal (4-4)

5) Thomas Hahn (12-2)

6) Michael Byrne (6-5)

7) Tim Ferry (9-8)

8) Andrew Short (7-10)

9) Matt Goerke (3-27)

10) James Albertson (11-12)

11) Justin Brayton (17-7)

12) Tyler Bowers (10-15)

13) Cody Cooper (16-11)

14) Antonio Balbi (14-14)

15) Nick Wey (8-21)

16) Jake Moss (31-9)

17) Christian Craig (30-13)

18) Josh Grant (13-37)

19) Shaun Skinner (15-35)

20) Jason Thomas (39-16)

Overall Points 250 Motocross Class:

1) Christophe Pourcel - 432

2) Ryan Dungey - 419

3) Brett Metcalfe - 312

4) Jake Weimer - 302

5) Tommy Searle - 282

Overall Points 450 Motocross Class:

1) Chad Reed - 434

2) Andrew Short - 330

3) Ivan Tedesco - 322

4) Josh Grant - 280

5) Michael Byrne - 276

Steel City National to Host Mystery Rider Auction as Part of the Race to Cure Breast Cancer

Courtesy of Alli Sports

Fans Encouraged to Join Riders in a Show of Support by Wearing PINK

After a successful first event in 2008, the Steel City breast cancer fundraiser returns to the season finale for 2009, highlighted by The Mystery Rider Auction. With top name riders like Ryan Dungey, Andrew Short, Ryan Villopoto and Ashley Fiolek all donating their exclusive mystery items, the auction is sure to be a hit with the fans. These charitable riders will not only be donating an item but will also match the sale price of their item up to $1000.00 in support for the cure. The auction is scheduled to take place during the intermission between the first and second set of motos.

In addition to the auction, a variety of other activities are scheduled for the Labor Day fundraising event. A raffle will be held throughout race day on September 5th at the Breast Cancer booth. Fans will have the opportunity to win exclusive autographed memorabilia donated by athletes and supporters of the industry. Raffle winners will be announced prior to the final moto of the day. Those who attend the event wearing an item of PINK (clothing) will be awarded one free raffle ticket. Additionally, fans can show their support by wearing a limited edition Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship Bracelet, available for pickup at the Breast Cancer and Lucas Oil booths.

All proceeds from the fundraiser support the Philadelphia Breast Cancer 3-day Walk, a 60-mile walk to raise money in the fight against the disease. The net proceeds will support the combined efforts of the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust (NPT) Breast Cancer Fund in their mission to fund access to care and a cure for breast cancer.

Stop by the Breast Cancer booth in the sponsor village for more info and to show your support!

To Donate Today, Visit: http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/PhiladelphiaEvent2009?team_id=70610&....

For more information, please contact Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship media coordinator Brandon Short via email at brandon@mxsports.com or by telephone at (949) 365-5752.

For fan and racing information on the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, log onto www.allisports.com.

Chad Reed 2009 Champion

Courtesy of Suzuki
Team Suzuki Press Office - August 24.

Rockstar Makita Suzuki's Chad Reed clinched the 2009 AMA Motocross Championship with two rounds remaining at Budds Creek Motocross Park in Mechanicsville, Maryland.

The rainy weekend saw the two-time AMA Supercross Champion capture the overall victory with second- and first-placed moto finishes. En-route to his first-ever AMA Motocross Championship, Reed has picked up five overall wins so far this season.

Rockstar Makita Suzuki team mate Michael Byrne finished up with a sixth-placed finish overall. Australian Byrne had a rough first moto, charging hard from around 15th place to sixth. Then, in the second moto, he brought home a fifth-place finish with the final result being the sixth-placed overall at Budds Creek.

In the 250 class, Rockstar Makita Suzuki's Ryan Dungey battled flooding conditions in an abbreviated second moto before celebrating a third-place finish overall at Budds Creek. Dungey captured a third-place finish in the first moto and then went back out in the pouring rain for the second moto. The second moto as red-flagged after just 25 minutes because of the inclement weather. Dungey had moved into fourth place before the red flag and the combined moto results put him on the podium with third place overall.

Chad Reed:

"I feel like my career is complete, though I also feel like I have a lot of fight left in me but this is definitely a step in the right direction. In the first moto, I was pretty disappointed that I didn't put myself in a position to win. Winning the Championship is what this hard work is all about and I want to thank everybody at the Rockstar Makita Suzuki team because everybody did a great job. We were a last-minute entry and we gave it our all. We are all very, very happy to get this championship."

Michael Byrne:

"It was an OK race for me. I felt like I rode good, but I just didn't get the starts that I needed. In the first moto, I didn't go down but I got caught up in the first corner mess and that kind of ruined my start. Then, I just took too long to get going. I tried to make up time and pass people, but it was too little, too late. But overall I felt good at the end of both motos, I'm happy Chad got the Championship wrapped up -- I'm pumped for him and it's good for team -- and hopefully I can get a win before the end of the year."

Ryan Dungey:

"With the rain and the flooding, this was a crazy race but the fans made it all worthwhile. I had a pretty good first moto and got up on the podium. But then in the second moto I saw the water coming over the dams and onto the track. I lost my brakes -- it was just survival out there. But these things happen and you just have to take it one race at a time. I'm just happy to get out of here safe and healthy."

Rockstar Makita Suzuki Factory Racing will race next at Moto-X338 in Southwick, Massachusetts, on Saturday, August 29.

AMA Motocross 450 Class:

1. Chad Reed (Rockstar Makita Suzuki)
2. Davi Millsaps (Honda)
3. Ivan Tedesco (Honda)
4. Kyle Regal (Yamaha)
5. Tommy Hahn (Kawasaki)
6. Michael Byrne (Rockstar Makita Suzuki)
7. Timmy Ferry (Kawasaki)
8. Andrew Short (Honda)
9. Matt Goerke (Yamaha)
10. James Albertson (Yamaha)

AMA Motocross 250 Class:

1. Jake Weimer (Kawasaki)
2. Christophe Pourcel (Kawasaki)
3. Ryan Dungey (Rockstar Makita Suzuki)
4. Justin Barcia (Honda)
5. Andrew Stroupe (Kawasaki)
6. Brett Metcalfe (Honda)
7. Matt Lemoine (Yamaha)
8. Ryan Sipes (KTM)
9. PJ Larsen (Kawasaki)
10. Tyla Rattray (Kawasaki)

10 Things to Watch for at Budd's Creek

Courtesy of ALLI Sports

The Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship is back this weekend on NBC, with the second 450 race from Budds Creek Motocross Park in Maryland airing live at 3 p.m. ET (the 250 race will show later on SPEED TV). The race marks the tenth round of the 12-race championship tour, and you can watch the first motos live right here on Allisports.com, beginning at 1 p.m. ET. Also, check back here at Allisports.com all weekend long for updates, insight and more.

Here are ten things to watch for at Budds Creek!

1.) Chad Reed could become the champion

There may be six motos left in the 450-class title chase, but Chad Reed may only need a couple more to clinch the 2009 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. The Rockstar/Makita Suzuki rider has been on a tear lately, winning five motos and three national overalls in a row. At Unadilla last week he was absolutely flying, and now he’s on the verge of clinching a title that once seemed as distant as Australia is. Reed’s been the man this summer for American motocross fans, no doubt about it!

2.) Ryan Dungey needs a win!

Meanwhile, Reed’s teammate Ryan Dungey went down in defeat in both 250 motos last weekend in New York, as French import Christophe Pourcel was every bit as impressive as Reedy was. The Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki rider swept both motos and made it look easy; now he comes to a track many say resembles the ones in Europe—just like they say about Unadilla. That does not bode well for Dungey, but he can’t let that slow him down. He’s six points off the pace, which means he can get it back to even or better with a pair of moto wins in Maryland.

3.) This one may be a mudder

Meanwhile, somewhere off the coast of Florida and Georgia, a tropical storm is trying to get a promotion to full-blown hurricane as it heads north. Should this storm make a left-hand turn somewhere around the Carolinas, Budds Creek might become Muddy Creek for the riders and race fans! But this is motocross, and they race in all kinds of weather (as long as it’s safe for the athletes and the fans). If it does rain, throw the favorites out the window and watch this one go up for grabs!

4.) Tyla Rattray has returned

Tyla Rattray is the 2008 world motocross champion in MX2 (250-class) racing, but he’s had a tough time of it since moving to America last winter. The South African ended up breaking his thumb at the RedBud round on July 3, costing him any shot at adding a Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross title this summer. But he’s still coming back to compete, and with nothing to lose, he could be the one to watch on the Budds Creek circuit.

5.) Monster Triple Crown of Motocross

Budds Creek marks the third and final round of the Monster Energy Triple Crown of Motocross, a series within a series that puts $100,000 up for grabs, including a $50K bonus for anyone who can sweep all three rounds in either class—just like James Stewart did last year and Ricky Carmichael did a couple of times. But that’s not going to happen this year, as the opening-round High Point winners (Pourcel and Reed) did not repeat at the second round at Red Bud (Jake Weimer and Josh Grant won there), so the bonuses up for grabs are for privateers, moto wins, and more.

6.) Is Josh Grant really thinking about riding?

After injuring his ankle in a frightening crash at the X Games, Joe Gibbs Racing MX/Toyota Yamaha’s Josh Grant was thought to be lost for the summer. But the never-surrender Californian has been in rehab, working on the ankle and doing his best to get it stronger, and now there’s a real chance he may roll out for Saturday’s race. He was planning to make a decision today, but as of this post, it’s still up in the air whether we see #33 on the racetrack in Maryland. If he does go, that will throw a big wrench in the works!

7.) Kevin Windham found his CRF450R Honda

After struggling last Saturday in his return to outdoor motocross on a Honda CRF250R, Kevin Windham decided he didn’t want to give up 40 pounds again this weekend to his smaller, younger competition in the 250 class, so he’s back in the 450 class, which he’s ridden since 1997. Windham has always been fast in Maryland, and he won both an AMA National and the U.S. Grand Prix here back in 1999. Here’s betting that last weekend was just a bad race for K-Dub and we’ll have a better idea of his true speed this time around. (Windham’s GEICO Powersports teammate Dan Reardon is also back from a shoulder injury he suffered two months ago.)

8.) Team Honda is at full strength

After various injuries, illnesses and other issues, it appears that all three Honda Red Bull Racing riders—Andrew Short, Ivan Tedesco, and Davi Millsaps—should be riding at 100 percent this weekend in Maryland. Short looked like his old self at ‘Dilla, earning a season-best second overall. Millsaps got on the box in one moto, though Tedesco struggled after having a very tough week, only to be named to Team USA for the 2009 Motocross of Nations. Expect “Hot Sauce” Tedesco to be on his game this time around.

9.) Either Justin Barcia or Martin Davalos will get a holeshot

The two fastest, steadiest starters in the 250 class have been GEICO Powersports Honda’s rookie sensation Justin Barcia and Muscle Milk/MDK KTM’s Martin Davalos (at least when Davalos is healthy enough to ride). Last weekend Davalos split the starts with Pourcel, even though the race was held in Barcia’s home state of New York. This weekend in Maryland, the start is a tight left-hand U-turn, which means getting a fast time in practice, and thus an inside starting gate, will be important. Both of these guys can fly on this track.

10.) Jason Lawrence

You always have to watch Jason Lawrence because you just never know if he’s going to show up and do something spectacular. J-Law has had exactly one good moto this year (moto two at Washougal), and he pulled out of both motos at Unadilla, but that doesn’t mean he can’t go fast; he’s just having trouble going fast and finishing. People either love or hate Lawrence, but he really doesn’t care. But with three rounds left in this season, he needs to do something big or support for next year’s campaigns will not be easy to find. Desperate times call for desperate speed.

Check out the Racer X Pre-Race Show on Allisports.com Saturday morning, then tune in to the start of the Budds Creek National at 1 p.m. ET right here.