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Moto News Wrap for April 16, 2019 by Darren Smart

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The LATEST News

  • Another Kawasaki sweep at Denver AMA SX
  • Gibbs, Todd and Duffy win at Broadford MX Nationals
  • Jasikonis and Jacobi win in Holland
  • Searle and Mewse win in UK
  • Spain wins X-Trial of Nations
  • Barcia OUT!
  • 2019 A4DE cancelled
  • Team Australia sorted for 2019 WJMX
  • Brook and Koppe Shine at Trackmasters
  • Ultimate Motocross Coaching wins Australian Small Business Award
  • Entries open for 2019 Australian Classic Dirt Track Championship

Another Kawasaki sweep at Denver AMA SX

Denver was the 15th straight weekend of the AMA Supercross Championship and it was Eli Tomac who kept his slim 450SX championship hopes alive with a win over Cooper Webb. Meanwhile Adam Cianciarulo extended his narrow championship lead in the penultimate 250 West Coast main with a win over his closest rival Dylan Ferrandis.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Tomac Savatgy Webb Multiple JK SX Denver
Tomac, Savatgy, Webb – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

There were several extra challenges for the riders at Denver, the first being the freezing cold, in fact, the first practice session was cancelled because of the snow all over the circuit. Horse-power sucking altitude also caused issues as the riders stretched their way over some of the trickier jump combinations, and finally the cold soil became hard and slippery leaving the riders fighting for traction on what ended up being a relatively one-lined layout.

450SX Report

Marvin Musquin grabbed the holeshot over Joey Savatgy, Ryan Breece, Justin Bogle, Webb, Tomac and Zach Osborne and as Breece dropped outside the top ten, Tomac was storming forward to pass Webb, Bogle, Savatgy and finally Musquin to take the lead by the end of lap four.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Bogle Starts JK SX Denver Cover
Justin Bogle – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

All eyes were on Webb who looked patient in fifth but steadily, and I mean steadily, the championship leader moved by Bogle and Savatgy to take the final podium position but Cooper was not done and methodically closed in to pass teammate Musquin for second and that is where they all stayed to the line with Tomac taking the win from Webb, Musquin, Bogle and Savatgy.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Savatgy Webb Tomac Multiple JK SX Denver
Joey Savatgy – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

Behind the front runners we saw Blake Baggett, Ken Roczen, Osborne, Josh Grant and Justin Hill rounding out the top ten while Cole Seely and Dean Wilson were both involved in separate crashes that ended with neither rider crossing the finish line.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Roczen Osborne Multiple JK SX Denver
Ken Roczen, Zach Osborne – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

With just the East Rutherford and Las Vegas rounds remaining, Webb holds an 18-point lead over Tomac while Musquin sits a further 5 points back.

Eli Tomac

“That was the loudest race I have ever been in with the crowd noise, it was so much fun, gosh, it wouldn’t be Denver without some snow, we even rode in hail on Wednesday, but what a cool day for us, luckily the track stayed good so overall a pretty good weekend.”

AMA SX Rnd Denver Tomac JK SX Denver
Eli Tomac – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld
Cooper Webb

“We were hitting first gear in a couple of places (because of the horsepower loss) and then when it started snowing you almost had to laugh it off, in the end the track was dry and slick, you had to have good throttle control but overall the crowd was really into it which was cool and there was some good racing so it was a good weekend for me.”

AMA SX Rnd Denver Webb JK SX Denver
Cooper Webb – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld
Marvin Musquin

“Coming into this weekend we knew it was going to be tough on the bikes (horsepower wise), the track was super slick but I did my best, I am glad I got a good start and had a better feeling in the main to land on the podium.”

AMA SX Rnd Denver Musquin Savatgy Multiple JK SX Denver
Marvin Musquin – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Main Event Results

  1. Eli Tomac
  2. Cooper Webb
  3. Marvin Musquin
  4. Justin Bogle
  5. Joey Savatgy
  6. Blake Baggett
  7. Ken Roczen
  8. Zach Osborne
  9. Joshua Grant
  10. Justin Hill
    …19. Cole Seely
    …20. Dean Wilson
AMA SX Rnd Denver Tomac Webb Musquin Podium JK SX Denver
450SX Podium – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

 450SX Points after 15 of 17 Rounds

  1. Cooper Webb – 332
  2. Eli Tomac – 314
  3. Marvin Musquin – 309
  4. Ken Roczen – 283
  5. Blake Baggett – 255
  6. Dean Wilson – 223
  7. Joey Savatgy – 192
  8. Cole Seely – 180
  9. Justin Bogle – 157
  10. Justin Barcia – 154
  11. Chad Reed – 151

250 West Coast Report

Rookie Michael Mosiman earned the holeshot from Cianciarulo, Gareth Marchbanks, Jimmy Decotis, RJ Hampshire and Dylan Ferrandis so the expectation was that Cianciarulo would move to the lead and check out. But Mosiman was enjoying his time at the front to keep the championship leader at bay for a full six laps.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Decotis McAdoo Starts JK SX Denver
AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Start – Image by Hoppenworld

Just as Cianciarulo moved into the lead, Ferrandis slotted into third with a move on Decotis and it wasn’t long before both Ferrandis and is teammate Colt Nichols sliced by Mosiman for second and third.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Ferrandis JK SX Denver
Dylan Ferrandis – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

That was where the main players remained to the flag with Cianciarulo taking maximum points over Ferrandis, Nichols, Hampshire, Mosiman and Cameron McAdoo.

AMA SX Rnd Denver Mosiman Starts JK SX Denver
Michael Mosiman – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

Cianciarulo takes an eight-point lead over Ferrandis as they head to Vegas for the East/West Shootout in two weeks’ time so nothing is in stone as far as this championship goes.

Adam Cianciarulo

“I, like most was struggling with the lack of horsepower and the dirt got really hard and slick but luckily I had a good night, I felt pretty good in those conditions, I can’t say enough about the crowd, they were unreal so a shout out to those guys.”

AMA SX Rnd Denver Cianciarulo Mosiman Multiple JK SX Denver
Adam Cianciarulo & Michael Mosiman – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld
Dylan Ferrandis

“It wasn’t a great weekend, the temperature made it not so much fun to ride for me in particular, I struggled to get warm, I know it is the same for everyone but for me it was difficult so to be second is good.”

AMA SX Rnd Denver Ferrandis Nichols Podium JK SX Denver
Dylan Ferrandis & Colt Nichols – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld
Colt Nichols

“It was definitely different with the snow during practice but the track was pretty simple but became technical with the way the soil was so you had to be on your toes, overall we are happy, third is good, we needed to start a little better but all good.”

AMA SX Rnd Denver Nichols Starts JK SX Denver
Colt Nichols – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

250 West Coast Main Event Results

  1. Adam Cianciarulo
  2. Dylan Ferrandis
  3. Colt Nichols
  4. RJ Hampshire
  5. Michael Mosiman
  6. Cameron McAdoo
  7. James Decotis
  8. Justin Starling
  9. Dylan Merriam
  10. Enzo Lopes
AMA SX Rnd Denver Cianciarulo Ferrandis Nichols Podium JK SX Denver
250SX West Podium – AMA Supercross Round 15 Denver – Image by Hoppenworld

250 West Coast Points after 9 of 10 Rounds

  1. Adam Cianciarulo – 208
  2. Dylan Ferrandis – 200
  3. Colt Nichols – 163
  4. RJ Hampshire – 145
  5. James Decotis – 128
  6. Michael Mosiman – 128
  7. Cameron McAdoo – 128
  8. Shane McElrath – 123
  9. Chris Blose – 119
  10. Garrett Marchbanks – 100

250 East Coast Points after 7 of 9 Rounds

  1. Austin Forkner – 151
  2. Chase Sexton – 148
  3. Justin Cooper – 144
  4. Martin Davalos – 115
  5. Mitchell Oldenburg – 105
  6. Alex Martin – 105
  7. Brandon Hartranft – 100
  8. Kyle Peters – 98
  9. Kyle Cunningham – 97
  10. Jordon Bailey – 76
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Gibbs, Todd and Duffy Win at Broadford MX Nationals

Victoria’s Broadford circuit hosted the third round of the 2019 Pirelli MX Nationals and after a hard days racing on a technically demanding layout Kirk Gibbs, Wilson Todd and Regan Duffy came away with the overall victories in the MX1, MX2 and MXD classes respectively.

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Todd Waters
Todd Waters – MX Nationals Round 3, Broadford, 2019

The Broadford motocross track always has been and always will be a hard packed, rock infested layout which demands huge amounts of watering to keep the dust down.

This translates into everything from deep boggy ruts in patches of the track coupled with slippery blue groove, square edged acceleration and braking bumps as well as loose powdery berms on the outside of some corners but all up it is a test of man and machine which is what motocross is all about.

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Rowe
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

THOR MX1 Report

The MX1 class riders were faced with two back-to-back 8 lap motos which when the points were tallied accounted for one moto result with the third 17 lap moto being the second points paying moto.

R Broadford MX Nationals MX
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Todd Waters led all eight laps of the first moto with fellow Husqvarna rider Daniel Sanders of enduro racing fame convincingly holding down second place for the first four laps before Gibbs got past to claim second.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Kirk Gibbs
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Sanders finished a solid third ahead of Hayden Mellross, Luke Clout and Jesse Dobson who was once again fastest privateer with sixth. Interestingly, another enduro ace in Daniel Milner earned ninth place ahead of Brett Metcalfe.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Daniel Sanders
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Moto two saw Mellross take the holeshot with Sanders in second once again, this time ahead of Waters, Lawson Bopping, Gibbs and Clout but it wasn’t long before Water got around Sanders and Mellross for first.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Hayden Mellross
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Clout and Sanders then went toe to toe before Sanders got crossed up on the face of the triple at the top of the hill and came off second best with a huge crash.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Luke Clout
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

This left Clout and Gibbs to battle over the final podium spot but Gibbs sliced by his CDR teammate before mowing down Mellross for second place with a lap to go. Waters took the win from Gibbs, Mellross, Clout and Dobson while Milner ended the race in seventh. On a very bent bike Sanders was forced to retire from the race.

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Jesse Dobson
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

MX1 – Raceline Superpole

  1. Todd Waters – 1:30.125
  2. Hayden Mellross – 1:30.630
  3. Kirk Gibbs – 1:31.643
  4. Jesse Dobson – 1:31.686
  5. Justin Rodbell – 1:32.106

MX1 – Moto 1 – Race Time: 14:35.210

  1. Todd Waters
  2. Kirk Gibbs
  3. Daniel Sanders
  4. Hayden Mellross
  5. Luke Clout
  6. Jesse Dobson
  7. Justin Rodbell
  8. Erki Kahro
  9. Daniel Milner
  10. Brett Metcalfe

MX1 – Moto 2 – Race Time: 14:40.220

  1. Todd Waters
  2. Kirk Gibbs
  3. Hayden Mellross
  4. Luke Clout
  5. Jesse Dobson
  6. Justin Rodbell
  7. Daniel Milner
  8. Richie Evans
  9. Ryan Shadbolt
  10. Erki Kahro

MX1 – Moto 1 and 2 Combined

  1. Todd Waters
  2. Kirk Gibbs
  3. Hayden Mellross
  4. Luke Clout
  5. Jesse Dobson
  6. Justin Rodbell
  7. Daniel Milner
  8. Erki Kahro
  9. Richie Evans
  10. Jayden Rykers

In the third moto Richie Evans led the first of the 17 laps with a solid holeshot over Sanders, Mellross, Waters, Gibbs and Clout.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Richie Evans
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

After the dust settled (literally) it was Mellross over Bopping, Waters, Gibbs and Clout while the gutsy Sanders, feeling the effects of the earlier crash as well as racing Enduro-X during the lunch break dropped back to sixth.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Bopping
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Bopping soon dropped out of the front running leaving a fast freight train of Mellross, Gibbs, Waters and Clout trading fastest lap times. With three laps to go Gibbs needed to pass Mellross for the round win and just when it looked like Mellross had everything in hand the KTM rider crashed on one of the downhill sections with a lap to go.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Hayden Mellross
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

This allowed Gibbs into the lead and he went on to take the race win over Waters, Clout, Mellross, Dobson and Sanders while Milner bounced back from a poor start to finish 12th.

Gibbs took his first round win for the year over Waters and Clout while Mellross keeps the red plate for another round as he leads the championship by five-points over Gibbs, seven-points over Clout and nine-points over Waters.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Todd Waters
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3
Kirk Gibbs

“The weekend was much better for me and it’s nice to finally get a win under my belt for the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team. It was also good to have a dry round and actually get a gauge of how things are progressing and what our strengths and weaknesses are as the first two rounds were extremely wet and difficult to get a handle on the opposition as well as our own riding. But, really pleased to get the win and get my season back on track. The team did a great job again today and my bike was working well on a pretty technical race track. We now have a couple of weeks off before Murray Bridge so lots of riding and training still to be done and lots of laps still left in this championship.”

R Broadford MX Nationals M Kirk Gibbs
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3
Luke Clout

“I felt pretty good all day and the track was good to ride but I was probably just a bit off in my starts. With the track watered heavily and multiple ruts around every corner, it was difficult to move forward at times so getting a good start and being up the front early was the key here. Everything else was good and its always nice to be on the podium and be right in contention for the championship. It’s a long haul, especially with these back to back races so it’s important to keep logging good results in every race and be there at the end of round 10.”

R Broadford MX Nationals M Luke Clout
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Australia’s two best enduro riders were far from outclassed by our best motocross riders with Milner ending the day in ninth overall. That was one place ahead of the hard charging Sanders despite not finishing the second moto and let’s not forget, both of these riders did three 10-minute EnduroX races during the lunch break while the rest of the MX1 riders were resting in the pits.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Daniel Milner
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

MX1 – Moto 3 – Race Time: 27:33.009

  1. Kirk Gibbs
  2. Todd Waters
  3. Luke Clout
  4. Hayden Mellross
  5. Jesse Dobson
  6. Daniel Sanders
  7. Erki Kahro
  8. Jayden Rykers
  9. Justin Rodbell
  10. Brett Metcalfe
  11. Daniel Milner

MX1 – Round 3 Overall

  1. Kirk Gibbs – 67
  2. Todd Waters – 67
  3. Luke Clout – 58
  4. Hayden Mellross – 58
  5. Jesse Dobson – 52
  6. Erki Kahro – 47
  7. Justin Rodbell – 47
  8. Jayden Rykers – 44
  9. Daniel Milner – 43
  10. Daniel Sanders – 40

MX1 – Championship Standings After Round 3

  1. Hayden Mellross – 152
  2. Luke Clout – 147
  3. Kirk Gibbs – 145
  4. Todd Waters – 143
  5. Jesse Dobson – 121
  6. Justin Rodbell – 110
  7. Erki Kahro – 107
  8. Jayden Rykers – 102
  9. Brett Metcalfe – 97
  10. Charlie Creech – 94
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Pirelli MX2 Report

Wilson Todd scored the opening moto holeshot and the eventual win but it was only by a few meters after a late moto charge by Kyle Webster with Nathan in tow throughout the last couple of laps making for the by far most exciting MX2 race this season.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Wilson Todd
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Moto two was less exciting with Todd blitzing his way through the first corner to earn another holeshot. This time the DPH Husqvarna pilot cleared out from the fast-starting duo of Isaac Ferguson and Cooper Pozniak while Crawford was way down in 18th place.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Kyle Webster
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Webster was once again in good flow around the rough and technical layout and soon broke free from Ferguson, Riley Dukes, Aaron Tanti and Jay Wilson. As the race wore on Wilson also found some lines to make his way to third place before make a late charge at second placed Webster.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Aaron Tanti
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

As Todd was cruising his way to another win, Jay Wilson had worked his way up to the back of Webster and was looking to take second place but ultimately fell a few seconds short and had to settle for third, ahead of Tanti, Dukes, Dylan Wills and Crawford.

Todd once again scored maximum points for the round to extend his lead in the championship to 28 over Wilson with Tanti, Webster and Crawford rounding out the top five in the championship chase.

Kyle Webster

“I was definitely under the weather on Friday but thankfully that cleared by race day and it turned out to be a solid weekend. The first moto was good, right away I was able to make a bunch of passes and got myself up into second behind Wilson Todd and in the closing stages of the race I made a charge at Wilson, but just couldn’t get him. Then in the second moto I got an okay start but Wilson got away from me a bit, and we just stayed the same gap through the rest of the race and I finished second, with a 2-2 score giving me second overall on the day.”

R Broadford MX Nationals M Kyle Webster
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3
Jay Wilson

“Today was the best I have felt on the bike in motocross so far this year. The first race I was covered in mud and just did what I had to do to get back to fifth as the first four were long gone but in the second moto I really began to gel with the bike and attack the track. I felt awesome and just wished it was the 30 minute race and not the 20. So, happy with today and happy to come out with some good points. It wasn’t looking real good after Wonthaggi but thanks to the RACESAFE team we were able get on track and keep the championship alive.”

R Broadford MX Nationals M Jay Wilson Jay Wilson
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3
Aaron Tanti

“A lot of good to come from today but also a few things I need to improve on to get some round wins. My starts were good, and I had excellent track position in both races but just didn’t keep pace later in the race, so that’s something we will need to look at. But the racing is tight in the MX2 class and I was never further than 10 seconds out of the lead all day but didn’t make the podium. No one can afford to take their foot off the peddle at the moment as there are five guys who ride at a similar pace and the intensity is there all the way to the end. I’m now third in the championship after three rounds which considering a couple of races I have had, isn’t too bad but there is always room for improvement.”

R Broadford MX Nationals M Aaron Tanti
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3
Nathan Crawford

“It feels good to finally be back in the battle again. It’s been a long eight months off the bike and I have worked so hard to get, not just my fitness and speed back, but also my health in general. My one was awesome and just after half way I felt things begin to come easier for me, like a little barrier was broken. I was able to ride my turns better, flow on the track better and ride with some speed. While I didn’t win it, it was a little victory to me as I come back. Race two and I did all I could to salvage the best result I could. First turn crashes are tough as the whole field goes past and it’s a long way back but I fought hard and feel like things are on the right track. The weekend gives me more motivation to keep working hard.”

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Nathan Crawford
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Pirelli MX2 Results

MX2 – Moto 1 – Race Time: 28:11.686

  1. Wilson Todd
  2. Kyle Webster
  3. Nathan Crawford
  4. Aaron Tanti
  5. Jay Wilson
  6. Dylan Wills
  7. Jye Dickson
  8. Bailey Malkiewicz
  9. Ricky Latimer
  10. Joel Evans

MX2 – Moto 2 – Race Time: 18:32.870

  1. Wilson Todd
  2. Kyle Webster
  3. Jay Wilson
  4. Aaron Tanti
  5. Riley Dukes
  6. Dylan Wills
  7. Nathan Crawford
  8. Isaac Ferguson
  9. Cooper Pozniak
  10. Bailey Malkiewicz
R Broadford MX Nationals M Wilson Todd
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

MX2 – Round 3 Overall

  1. Wilson Todd – 70
  2. Kyle Webster – 64
  3. Jay Wilson – 56
  4. Aaron Tanti – 56
  5. Nathan Crawford – 54
  6. Dylan Wills – 50
  7. Bailey Malkiewicz – 44
  8. Jye Dickson – 43
  9. Riley Dukes – 42
  10. Ricky Latimer – 42

MX2 – Championship Standings After Round 3

  1. Wilson Todd – 170
  2. Jay Wilson – 142
  3. Aaron Tanti – 133
  4. Kyle Webster – 126
  5. Nathan Crawford – 122
  6. Cooper Pozniak – 115
  7. Dylan Wills – 113
  8. Jye Dickson – 107
  9. Riley Dukes – 103
  10. Issac Ferguson – 93
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Motul MXD Report

Rhys Budd led the early running in the first moto ahead of Max Purvis, Regan Duffy, Jack Kukis and Mason Semmens. The pace was hot in the early going but after just over 18 minutes of racing it was Kiwi Purvis who got the win from Budd, Semmens and Duffy.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Rhys Budd
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Duffy scored the holeshot in the second moto but he had to contend with the determined duo of Budd and Semmens in the early laps. He eventually broke away while first moto winner Purvis was making his way through the pack after a poor start.

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Regan Duffy
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Duffy got the win ahead of Semmens and Budd who rode unchallenged to second and third while Purvis was only able to make it back to sixth by race end. Duffy’s 4-1 moto results was good enough for the round overall while Semmens and Budd tied on points for second and third, with Semmens getting the nod for second on account of his better second moto result.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Mason Semmens
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Duffy now has a five-point lead over Budd who in turn has a 12-point gap back to Purvis.

Rhys Budd

“P1 in Qualifying is always a great start to the day! I then made a good start in the first moto and made my way into the lead on lap one and held the lead until two laps to go and eventually finished second just 4.6 seconds behind Maximus Purvis (Yamaha). I made another great start in race two and made my way into the lead early but unfortunately I didn’t have the pace to hold it, as the track was pretty brutal by the end of the day. So I was happy to eventually finish third behind Regan Duffy and Mason Semmens and take third overall for the round with 2-3 placings.”

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Rhys Budd
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Motul MXD Results

MXD – Moto 1 – Race Time: 18:15.696

  1. Maximus Purvis
  2. Rhys Budd
  3. Mason Semmens
  4. Regan Duffy
  5. Jayce Cosford
  6. Noah Ferguson
  7. Brodie Ellis
  8. Jack Kukas
  9. Liam Walsh
  10. Jai Walker

MXD – Moto 2 – Race Time: 18:39.787

  1. Regan Duffy
  2. Mason Semmens
  3. Rhys Budd
  4. Brodie Ellis
  5. Jack Kukas
  6. Maximus Purvis
  7. Liam Walsh
  8. Korey McMahon
  9. Jai Walker
  10. Mackenzie O’Bree
R Broadford MX Nationals MXD Podiums
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

MXD – Round 3 Overall

  1. Regan Duffy – 63
  2. Mason Semmens – 62
  3. Rhys Budd – 62
  4. Maximus Purvis – 60
  5. Brodie Ellis – 52
  6. Jack Kukas – 49
  7. Liam Walsh – 46
  8. Jayce Cosford – 45
  9. Jai Walker – 43
  10. Noah Ferguson – 42

MXD – Championship Standings After Round 3

  1. Regan Duffy – 157
  2. Rhys Budd – 152
  3. Maximus Purvis – 140
  4. Mason Semmens – 125
  5. Jack Kukas – 113
  6. Noah Ferguson – 111
  7. Brodie Ellis – 110
  8. Jayce Cosford – 99
  9. Mason Rowe – 98
  10. Liam Walsh – 98

Yamaha Rising Star Rookies Report

The opening round of the Yamaha Rising Star Rookies was held at Broadford and it was Yamaha’s Levi Rogers who took both wins. Alex Larwood and Brad West rounded out the podium on 56 points but front runners Blake Hollis (2-dnf) and Blake Fox (4-dnf) will look for better results in future rounds.

R Broadford MX Nationals M Levi Rogers
2019 MX Nationals – Broadford Round 3

Yamaha Rising Star Rookies Overall and Championship Points

  1. Levi Rogers – 70
  2. Alex Larwood – 56
  3. Brad West – 56
  4. Joe O’Donnell – 50
  5. Benny Novak – 49
  6. Jake Kowal – 47
  7. Cameron Torpy – 46
  8. Brock Ninness – 44
  9. Ryan Alexanderson – 43
  10. Kipp Adams – 43
R Broadford MX Nationals RSR Podiums
Rising Star Rookies Podium – MX Nationals Round 3, Broadford, 2019

The championship now moves to Murray Bridge in South Australia for the first of the double round weekends in two weeks’ time.

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Jasikonis and Jacobi win in Holland

Despite each class being riddled with GP regulars Arminas Jasikonis and Henry Jacobi have won the MXGP and MX2 class respectively at the opening round of the Dutch Masters of Motocross which was held at Oss in Holland last weekend.

Jasikonis rode hard to score two wins to better Gautier Paulin and Max Anstie while Jacobi got the nod over Jago Geerts and Adam Sterry while Jed Beaton went 10-5 for sixth overall.

MXGP Moto 1

  1. Arminas Jasikonis
  2. Gautier Paulin
  3. Glenn Coldenhoff
  4. Max Anstie
  5. Pauls Jonass
  6. Brian Bogers
  7. Benoit Paturel
  8. Petar Petrov
  9. Lars Van Berkel
  10. Yentel Martens

MXGP Moto 2

  1. Arminas Jasikonis
  2. Gautier Paulin
  3. Max Anstie
  4. Brian Bogers
  5. Pauls Jonass
  6. Petar Petrov
  7. Lars van Berkel
  8. Yentel Martens
  9. Benoit Paturel
  10. Alfie Albers

MX2 Moto 1

  1. Henry Jacobi
  2. Ben Watson
  3. Tom Vialle
  4. Jago Geerts
  5. Adam Sterry
  6. Mike Kras
  7. Eric Leijtens
  8. Davey Pootjes
  9. Kade Walker
  10. Jed Beaton

MX2 Moto 2

  1. Henry Jacobi
  2. Jago Geerts
  3. Rohen vd Moosdijk
  4. Horgmo
  5. Jed Beaton
  6. Adam Sterry
  7. Kade Walker
  8. Dankers
  9. Freek vd Vlist
  10. Eric Conijn
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Searle and Mewse win in UK

The old-school sand circuit at Cadders Hill in Norfolk hosted the second round of the British Motocross Championship last weekend and it was Tommy Searle who came away with the MXGP class overall. Searle swapped moto wins with arch rival Shaun Simpson while Conrad Mewse won both of the MX2 motos.

Maxxis British Motocross Championship Rnd Norfolt Tommy Searle
Tommy Searle – Image www.mxgb.co.uk

Searle went 2-1 on the day to earn the overall ahead of Simpson’s 1-2 moto results with Harri Kullas scoring third with 5-3 finishes so in the championship chase Simpson has 94 points and Searle 92 points.

MXGP Overall

  1. Tommy Searle – 47
  2. Shaun Simpson – 47
  3. Harri Kullas – 36
  4. Lewis Tombs – 36
  5. Mel Pocock – 34
  6. Gert Krestinov – 29
  7. Ryan Houghton – 28
  8. Jake Millward – 28
  9. Brad Todd – 21
  10. Brad Anderson – 21

MXGP Championship Points

  1. Shaun Simpson – 94
  2. Tommy Searle – 92
  3. Lewis Tombs – 70
  4. Harri Kullas – 58
  5. Jake Millward – 57
  6. Ryan Houghton – 55
  7. Gert Krestinov – 53
  8. Mel Pocock – 52
  9. Brad Todd – 48
  10. Brad Anderson – 43

Conrad Mewse won the opening moto by 18 seconds over Josh Gilbert, Alvin Ostlund, Bas Vaessen and Martin Barr. The second moto saw Kiwi Dylan Walsh come home second ahead of Vaessen, Gilbert, Ostlund and Barr.

Mewse now has a 12-point lead over Vaessen who in turn has a nine-point lead over Ostlund.

MX2 Overall

  1. Conrad Mewse – 50
  2. Josh Gilbert – 40
  3. Bas Vaessen – 38
  4. Dylan Walsh – 36
  5. Alvin Ostlund – 36
  6. Martin Barr – 31

MX2 Championship Points

  1. Conrad Mewse – 97
  2. Bas Vaessen – 85
  3. Alvin Ostlund – 76
  4. Josh Gilbert – 70
  5. Dylan Walsh – 70
  6. Martin Barr – 64

Spain Wins X-Trial of Nations

Toni Bou and Jaime Busto set the record for the biggest margin of victory in the history of the FIM X-Trial of Nations as Spain continued its X-Trial of Nations domination at Vendéspace, France last weekend.

X Trial TDN Spain ps
Toni Bou – 2019 X-Trial of Nations

Behind the dominating Spanish duo the French pairing of Benoit Bincaz and Alexandre Ferrer earned second ahead of British youngsters Jack Price and Toby Martyn who performed superbly to take third for the second year in a row.

X Trial TDN Spain ps
Toni Bou – 2019 X-Trial of Nations

The Italian team of Luca Petrella and Matteo Grattarola finished fourth ahead of Norway’s Sondre Haga and Hakon Pedersen who had a pdium in their sights after the first round but struggled badly on their second lap to finish in fifth place.

Toni Bou

“It has been an extraordinary triumph because we had two superb rounds to start and the Final was more demanding. We endured the pressure of competing against France well, largely because we had an important points advantage starting the Final. Jaime rode to a great level and I think we have done a great job as a team.”

X Trial TDN Spain ps
Toni Bou – 2019 X-Trial of Nations
Jaime Busto

“Competing with Toni is always exceptional and it possibly makes you feel less pressure. I think we have ridden to a high standard right from the start and have not left anything to chance. The atmosphere and the spectators have been extraordinary and they really recognised our great performance.”

X Trial TDN Spain ps
Toni Bou and Jaime Busto – 2019 X-Trial of Nations

The FIM X-Trial World Championship season comes to an end at X-Trial Andorra la Vella on April 27th.

X Trial TDN Podium ps
2019 X-Trial of Nations podium

X-Trial des Nations 2019 Vendée Final Tally

  • Spain – Toni Bou (Montesa); Jaime Busto (Gas Gas) 12
  • France – Benoit Bincaz (Beta); Alex Ferrer (Sherco) 34
  • Great Britain – Jack Price (Gas Gas); Toby Martyn (Beta) 13
  • Italy – Matteo Grattarola (Honda); Luca Petrella (Beta) 16
  • Norway – Hakon Pedersen (Gas Gas); Sondre Haga (TRRS) 41
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Barcia OUT!

Yamaha’s Justin Barcia will sit out the remaining rounds of the 2019 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship to spend the time needed to return to full fitness in time for the start of the AMA Motocross Championships which kicks off on May 18 at Hangtown.

Justin Barcia

“At this point it seems that the best thing to do is to let my body recover. I’m just going to keep on training, skip the last few Supercross races and let my body heal up. Thinking about that now, I probably should have done that a few weeks ago because I was injured already but I really wanted to be at the Supercross race with my team and fans, and put on a good showing. For right now, I’m going to regroup and be ready for the first Outdoor.”

AMASX Rnd Glendale Pits Justin Barcia JK SX Glendale
Justin Barcia

2019 A4DE Cancelled

Motorcycling Australia (MA) has advised that government red tape has forced the cancellation of the 41st Australian Four Day Enduro (A4DE) which was set for Moruya, NSW in late April.

The Motorcycling New South Wales (MNSW) Enduro Committee and Far South Coast Motorcycle Club have confirmed that due to government approval delays surrounding the environment in which the event was to be held, the postponement of the event has officially been changed to cancellation.

The top Masters riders about to head off on Day 3
A4DE 2019 cancelled! 2020 event in the making – Image by Jeff Mawston

Ensuring that Moruya, NSW has the opportunity to host a National Enduro event, MA can confirm that 2020 will feature a two-day, two round Enduro format in Moruya for the Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC).

This new two-day Enduro event will provide both club and competitor to experience a multi-day Enduro competition in preparation for the 2020 A4DE and FIM International Six Day Enduro (ISDE).

Following the same format as the A4DE and ISDE, this two-day two-round AORC event will feature a parc ferme, overnight lock-up, plus the opportunity for competitors who dropped out on day one to return for day two with a new, scrutineered bike.

Upholding Australia’s undisputed Enduro talent internationally, this new two-day AORC event will support in fostering the growth of Off-Road competitors across the nation.

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Team Australia Sorted for 2019 WJMX

Motorcycling Australia has officially announced the selected competitors chosen for Team Australia in the 2019 FIM Junior Motocross World Championship (WJMX) which will be held in Moscow, Russia in July.

With over 20 nations expected to take part in the internationally renowned event, Team Australia will land in Russia with a large target on their back as the nation to beat this year!

MX Juniors Australian team
Australia’s 2018 WJMX team

2018 was the year of Australian domination in WJMX, with our own Bailey Malkiewicz taking out the WJMX 125cc Championship, Braden Plath taking out the WJMX 65cc World Cup and Australia being awarded the 2019 Team of Nations trophy!

The 2019 WJMX classes Team Australia riders have been selected for include:

FIM Junior 65cc Motocross World Cup – Age Restrictions-minimum 10 years of age and maximum 12 years of age:

  • Kayden Minear
  • Ky Woods

FIM Junior 85cc Motocross World Championship – Age Restrictions-minimum 12 years of age and maximum 14 years of age:

  • Cambell Williams
  • Ryder Kingsford

FIM Junior 125cc Motocross World Championship – Age Restrictions- minimum 13 years of age and maximum 17 years of age:

  • Alex Larwood
  • Blake Fox
Mark Willingham – Team Manager

“I’m looking forward to this year’s trip to Russia! We have a fantastic group of riders this year that brings a variety of experienced and first-timers to the table, as far as overseas trips go. This collection of riders are all products from our successful 2018 event in Horsham, so they understand what it takes to win but also how to work together as a team who represents their nation.”

MA thanked all applicants for their submissions during the application period and said all queries regarding team selection should be forwarded to Willingham, via [email protected]. You can get updated on all news and updates via the MA website, Facebook and Instagram.

Brook and Koppe Shine at Trackmasters

The Barleigh Ranch dirt track facility near Raymond Terrace (NSW) hosted the 30th annual Trackmasters event and despite several of the finals being cancelled due to rain, it was Jarred Brook and Damien Koppe who battled tooth and nail in the premier Pro-Open and Pro 450 classes while James Chapman won the Pro 250 class.

With most of the heats done and dusted a heavy downpour put pay to any chance of the Pro 250, Pro 450 and Pro Open class finals being run so it was the heat scores that the final results were declared on.

Trackmasters img ShereeGriffin
Trackmasters 2019 – Koppe (560) leading Vecchi (329) and Davies (65) – Image by Sheree Griffin

In the Pro 450 class Jarred Brook won all three of his heats so he edged out Damien Koppe who earned two wins and a loss to Brook with Connor Ryan coming home third. In the Pro Open class Brook and Koppe were declared joint winners after both were unbeaten in the heats, obviously not having met, with Jordan Dall taking third.

After a string of impressive performances on the oiled tracks, James Chapman was able to transfer that form to the Barleigh Ranch track to take the honours in the Pro 250 class ahead of Jake Farnsworth and Kye Andrews.

Briony Hendrickson continued her domination of the women’s class while Jim Jobling / Ben Gardner got the better of Kai Frame / Lync Frame in the Dirt Track Sidecars class.

Kevin Griffith took the overall victory in the ATVs before Anthony Farrell (Over 35s) and Jake Farnsworth (Pre 90s) won their respective classes.

Harrison Ryan added two more class wins to his record in the 13 to Under 16s ahead of Forbes rider Tom Drane who also cleaned up in the 2-stroke class, while his brother Sam earned two class victories as did Jayden Holder.

Other class winners were Luke Bush, Thomas Bullen, Anika Loftus, Lachlan Russell and Chayse Trappel.

Despite the rain, Hunter Motor Cycle Club President Keith Davies was well pleased with the weekend. With the track again widely praised by riders it augers well for the 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championship which will be held at the Barleigh Ranch track on the weekend of October 5-6.

PRO OPEN

  1. Jarred Brook (North Brisbane)
  2. Damien Koppe (Townsville)
  3. Jordan Dall (Gunnedah)

PRO 450

  1. Jarred Brook (North Brisbane)
  2. Damien Koppe (Townsville)
  3. Connor Ryan (Kurri Kurri)

PRO 250

  1. James Chapman (Kempsey)
  2. Jake Farnsworth (Hunter)
  3. Kye Andrews (Taree)

OVER 35s

  1. Anthony Farrell (Central Coast)
  2. Jason Griffin (Hunter)
  3. Peter Knight (Central Coast)

PRE 90s

  1. Jake Farnsworth (Hunter)
  2. Darren Saxon (Hunter)
  3. Angus Maslin (Forbes)

WOMENS PRO OPEN

  1. Briony Hendrickson (North Brisbane)
  2. Laura Saxon (Hunter)
  3. Shannon Fyfe (Tamworth)

DIRT TRACK SIDECAR

  1. Jim Jobling / Ben Gardner (Gunnedah)
  2. Lync Frame / Kai Frame (Cowra)

ATV OPEN

  1. Kevin Griffith (Hunter)
  2. Josh White (Hunter)
  3. Shay Walker (Hunter)

50cc Auto Div.2 7 – U/9

  1. Chayse Trappel (Kempsey)
  2. Bailey Carpenter (Central Coast)
  3. Jaxon Ekert(Maitland)

65cc 7 – U/9

  1. Sam Drane (Forbes)
  2. Brendan Eklund (Central Coast)
  3. Ruby James (Kurri Kurri)

65cc 9 – U/13

  1. Jayden Holder (Kempsey)
  2. Jordy Loftus ((North Brisbane)
  3. Lachlan Russell (Central Coast)

85cc 4-str Modified 7- U/10

  1. Sam Drane (Forbes)
  2. Jordy Loftus ((North Brisbane)
  3. Ruby James (Kurri Kurri)

85cc 4-str Modified 10- U/14

  1. Lachlan Russell (Central Coast)
  2. Varis Fleming (Harley, Vic)
  3. Cody Wilby (Taree)

85cc 2str / 150cc 4str 9 – U/12

  1. Jayden Holder (Kempsey)
  2. Cody Wilby (Taree)
  3. Lachlan Russell (Central Coast)

85cc 2str / 150cc 4str 12 – /16

  1. Thomas Bullen (Kurri Kurri)
  2. Lincoln Knight (Central Coast)
  3. Caleb Wilkes (Hunter)

85cc 2str / 150cc 4str 11 – /16 Girls

  1. Anika Loftus (North Brisbane)
  2. Kirby Maslin (Forbes)

100-150 2-str 13 – U/16

  1. Tom Drane (Forbes)
  2. Luke Bush ((Kurri Kurri)
  3. Jarred Loveday (Kempsey)

200-250 4-str 13 – U/16

  1. Harrison Ryan (Kurri Kurri)
  2. Tom Drane (Forbes)
  3. Jayden Rogers (Kurri Kurri)

2str &  4str. 13 – U/16

  1. Harrison Ryan (Kurri Kurri)
  2. Tom Drane (Forbes)
  3. Jayden Rogers (Kurri Kurri)
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Ultimate Motocross Coaching wins Small Business Award

Ultimate Motocross Coaching from Alexandra Hills, Brisbane has been named ‘Champion Sport and Recreation’ at the Australian Small Business Champion Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony held on Saturday 6th April at The Star – Sydney, with over 1,100 guests in attendance.

Ultimate Motocross Coaching Jodie Herson and wife awards night
Ultimate Motocross Coaching awarded

The Australian Small Business Champion Awards is the only national recognition program for Australian small businesses and the program aims to recognise outstanding Australian small businesses and encourage high standards of excellence in small business practice.

Steve Loe – Managing Director of Precedent Productions

“The Australian Small Business Champion Awards is a way to recognise the efforts of small business people whose efforts contribute to the prosperity and vitality of communities across Australia. As a small business owner myself, I know the vision and dedication to excellence required to succeed. These traits have been displayed in abundance by all of our 2019 Small Business Champions.”

Small businesses from across Australia delivered an impressive array of entries, with winners representing a broad range of industries from all states and territories and Jodie Herson and his wife (pictured), of Ultimate Motocross Coaching received an award statuette, certificate and gained national recognition as an industry leader for their on-going coaching and support of junior dirt bike riders in Brisbane.

Ultimate Motocross coaching has won the Australian Small Business Award
Ultimate Motocross Coaching awarded

The Awards are proudly presented by Precedent Productions, a small business in its own right, and supported by Major Sponsors, NOVA Employment and Castaway Forecasting.

Entries open for 2019 Australian Classic Dirt Track Championship

As the countdown begins for the 2019 Australian Classic Dirt Track Championship, Motorcycling Australia have announced that entries are now open, ahead of the massive weekend from 8-9 June at Broadford State Motorcycle Complex, Victoria.

2019 Australian Classic Dirt Track Championship heads to town
2019 Australian Classic Dirt Track Championship heads to town

Entries are open until last mail on Friday 10th May. All late entries received between 10-17 May will incur an additional fee of $30.00. Racing will commence after practice on Saturday 8th June, followed on Sunday 9th June at 9AM.

The entry form can be accessed and downloaded here (link). Any queries regarding entries or the upcoming event should be directed to the Race Secretary, Kelly Spargo, via [email protected].

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Source: MCNews.com.au

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Moto News Wrap for April 9, 2019 by Darren Smart

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The LATEST News

  • Tomac and Davalos win Nashville AMA SX
  • Gasjer and Prado double up at Trentino GP
  • Locals win EMX rounds at Trentino
  • Milner sweeps Dungog AORC – Full Results TBA
  • Smith wins fifth Condo 750
  • Haaker wins SuperEnduro Championship
  • Sam Sunderland wins Abu Dahbi Desert Challenge
  • Adrien Van Beveren wins Merzouga Rally 2019
  • MXGP Calendar Updates
  • AUS-X moves to Melbourne
  • MX Nationals return to Broadford this weekend
  • Metcalfe in doubt for Broadford
  • Monson/Summerhayes earn sidecar double at Gillman

Tomac and Davalos win Nashville AMA SX

Nashville hosted the 14th round of the AMA Supercross Championships last weekend and on a night that saw a series of ups and downs for the green team, it was Kawasaki riders Eli Tomac and Martin Davalos who won the 450SX and 250SX East main events respectively.

AMA Supercross Rnd Tomac Starts JK SX Nashville Cover
Eli Tomac – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld

The first blow for Kawasaki was when 250 East Coast championship leader Austin Faulkner took his traditional practice crash but this time the Pro-Circuit Kawasaki pilot was forced to sit out the night with a knee injury while Eli Tomac was forced to the LCQ after his KX450 ground to a halt while leading his heat race.

Find the full report here: Triumphs and tragedies for Kawasaki men at Nashville SX

450SX Report

Heat race winner Ken Roczen was in a class of his own leading into the main event while championship leader Cooper Webb looked far from convincing during qualifying and his heat.

AMA Supercross Rnd Roczen JK SX Nashville
Ken Roczen – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld

Eli Tomac found his mojo and raced by Wilson, Baggett and Webb to take the lead and just a few laps later Baggett move to second ahead of Webb. Savatgy was carted off the track with what looked like a broken collar bone, while Musquin worked his way through to field in a desperate attempt to salvage points.

It ended up being another 26-lap main event and Tomac took the chequered flag well ahead of Baggett, who had Webb right on his back wheel all of the way to the line.

AMA Supercross Rnd Webb JK SX Nashville
Cooper Webb – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld

Webb now has a 21-point lead over Tomac and Musquin with three rounds remaining so no matter the winners, three top four finishes would hand Webb the championship but there is plenty of mouth-watering racing to come.

Eli Tomac

“It was tough, you can use it (going to the LCQ) to your advantage or not, I actually felt that I kept warm and found some rhythm but it was pretty wild, the truck was a mile away so when we had the mechanical I had to push it all the way back which made it a time crunch (to get back in time for the LCQ) so I just poured it on in the main, got back to our old self and it felt good to do that.”

AMA Supercross Rnd Tomac JK SX Nashville
Eli Tomac – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Main Event Results

  1. Eli Tomac
  2. Blake Baggett
  3. Cooper Webb
  4. Dean Wilson
  5. Zach Osborne
  6. Marvin Musquin
  7. Cole Seely
  8. Ken Roczen
  9. Justin Bogle
  10. Tyler Bowers
    …19. Justin Barcia
    …20. Justin Hill
    …21. Joshua Grant
    …22. Joey Savatgy

450SX Points after 14 of 17 Rounds

  1. Cooper Webb – 309
  2. Eli Tomac – 288
  3. Marvin Musquin – 288
  4. Ken Roczen – 267
  5. Blake Baggett – 238
  6. Dean Wilson – 220
  7. Cole Seely – 176
  8. Joey Savatgy – 174
  9. Justin Barcia – 154
  10. Chad Reed – 151
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250 East Coast Report

Chase Sexton and Justin Cooper came into Nashville 26 and 28 points behind Faulkner respectively so this was as good a chance to make up serious ground on the championship leader.

AMA Supercross Rnd Sexton JK SX Nashville
Chase Sexton – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld

Unfortunately for both riders Cooper had a complete brain fade in the second corner to not only dive bomb Sexton but then run the Honda rider so high they locked bikes and fell into each other. While Cooper and Sexton went through the traditional frantic bike pick up scenario Davalos inherited the lead and the eventual win, to do his teammate in Austin Forkner a massive favour.

AMA Supercross Rnd Webb Bogle Tomac Multiple JK SX Nashville
Cooper Webb – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld
Martin Davalos

“I was forced to recover from a myriad of injuries during the off-season and my neck was one of them that I didn’t think would be an issue but I had problems with my arms and hands locking up so I spoke to Mitch and we got a heap of doctors in California to check me out and find solutions, as far as tonight goes the guys made a mistake and I took advantage of it, put myself in the right position and what we did with my neck a week ago definitely calmed my neck a little bit but all up, I am pumped to be here and this is awesome. I am looking for a 450 ride next year, I feel that would suit me better.”

AMA Supercross Rnd Davalos JK SX Nashville
Martin Davalos – 2019 AMA Supercross – Nashville Round 14 – Image by Hoppenworld

250 East Coat Main Event Results

1. Martin Davalos
2. Chase Sexton
3. Justin Cooper
4. Kyle Peters
5. Brandon Hartranft
6. Mitchell Oldenburg
7. Kyle Cunningham
8. Ryan Sipes
9. Mitchell Falk
10. Alex Martin

250 East Coast Points after 7 of 9 Rounds

  1. Austin Forkner – 151
  2. Chase Sexton – 148
  3. Justin Cooper – 144
  4. Martin Davalos – 115
  5. Mitchell Oldenburg – 105
  6. Alex Martin – 105
  7. Brandon Hartranft – 100
  8. Kyle Peters – 98
  9. Kyle Cunningham – 97
  10. Jordon Bailey – 76

250 West Coast Points after 8 of 10 Rounds

  1. Adam Cianciarulo – 182
  2. Dylan Ferrandis – 177
  3. Colt Nichols – 142
  4. RJ Hampshire – 126
  5. Shane Mcelrath – 123
  6. James Decotis – 112
  7. Chris Blose – 111
  8. Cameron Mcadoo – 111
  9. Michael Mosiman – 110
  10. Garrett Marchbanks – 99
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Gasjer and Prado double up at Trentino GP

On one of the most picturesque motocross circuits in the world, Tim Gajser has won a huge battle with championship leader and local Italian hero Antonio Cairoli to win the MXGP of Trentino. Jorge Prado completely dominated the MX2 class to move closer to the championship leader Thomas Kjer Olsen.

MXGP Rnd Trentino SANAYEI
MX2 Start – Trentino MXGP

MXGP Report

Cairoli holeshot the first race with Gajser a few spots back but the Honda rider has definitely found some serious mojo. He moved to the lead a few laps later and over the next 30 minutes he and Cairoli went toe-to-toe with Gajser getting the win by just 1.08 seconds from Cairoli, while third placed Gautier Paulin was almost a minute further back.

MXGP Rnd Trentino Tony Cairoli
Antonio Cairoli

Moto two saw Gajser earn the holeshot but once again it was a war between Cairoli and Gajser with some of the most hard-core racing one will ever see. Finally Cairoli over-committed going into a left hand corner and threw his KTM into the ground allowing Gajser to go through for a well-earned win and GP overall ahead of Cairoli.

Paulin earned another third for third overall and has moved to third in the points while Gajser has narrowed the championship point deficit to Cairoli by six points, to now sit just 16 points with 14 rounds remaining.

Tim Gajser

“It is just unbelievable and it is my first win in more than a year. To be here in Arco is always special, to race in front of so many people, so many fans. Today we had two great races with Tony battling, we were both pushing. I’m just so happy and thankful that we won that overall. The fans, they just push you on because every lap you can hear them cheering for you, it’s just an unbelievable feeling here.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Gajser bybavo
Tim Gajser
Antonio Cairoli

“The level was very, very high, we were on the limit every lap, pushing and pushing. I did my best lap time in the race faster than the time practice even with the track rougher, so it’s not often that you have this. I was trying to win the GP but Tim was better this time and he won so congratulations to him.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Antonio Cairoli
Antonio Cairoli
Gautier Paulin

“It’s always great to be on the podium, I’m actually happy about the riding and being on the box at the end of the day, but definitely, Tim and Antonio were faster today. So, we need to improve, we need to step up to the challenge and ride with them, be in that fight because as a racer when you fight for a win like that is unbelievable, it’s nice, it’s fun. The crowd was awesome here in Italy, the fans were crazy and I wasn’t in the battle but I was hearing the crowd from everywhere, actually every corner, so it was kind of special but congrats to these guys today!”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Gautier Paulin
Gautier Paulin

MXGP Race 1 Top Ten

  1. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), 34:13.822
  2. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), +0:01.081
  3. Gautier Paulin (FRA, Yamaha), +0:53.919
  4. Arnaud Tonus (SUI, Yamaha), +1:00.314
  5. Ivo Monticelli (ITA, KTM), +1:03.786
  6. Alessandro Lupino (ITA, Kawasaki), +1:05.635
  7. Shaun Simpson (GBR, KTM), +1:06.887
  8. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Yamaha), +1:07.631
  9. Arminas Jasikonis (LTU, Husqvarna), +1:13.322
  10. Jeremy Van Horebeek (BEL, Honda), +1:20.698.

MXGP Race 2 Top Ten

  1. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), 34:11.454
  2. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), +0:24.305
  3. Gautier Paulin (FRA, Yamaha), +0:53.333
  4. Arnaud Tonus (SUI, Yamaha), +0:57.384
  5. Arminas Jasikonis (LTU, Husqvarna), +0:58.712
  6. Ivo Monticelli (ITA, KTM), +1:18.314
  7. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, KTM), +1:18.657
  8. Tommy Searle (GBR, Kawasaki), +1:25.075
  9. Brian Bogers (NED, Honda), +1:31.843
  10. Alessandro Lupino (ITA, Kawasaki), +1:36.522.
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MXGP Overall Top Ten

  1. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 50 points
  2. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 44
  3. Gautier Paulin (FRA, YAM), 40
  4. Arnaud Tonus (SUI, YAM), 36
  5. Ivo Monticelli (ITA, KTM), 31
  6. Arminas Jasikonis (LTU, HUS), 28
  7. Alessandro Lupino (ITA, KAW), 26
  8. Shaun Simpson (GBR, KTM), 24
  9. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, KTM), 21
  10. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, YAM), 20

MXGP Championship Top Ten

  1. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 191 points
  2. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 175
  3. Gautier Paulin (FRA, YAM), 142
  4. Arminas Jasikonis (LTU, HUS), 120
  5. Jeremy Van Horebeek (BEL, HON), 113
  6. Clement Desalle (BEL, KAW), 112
  7. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, YAM), 98
  8. Shaun Simpson (GBR, KTM), 88
  9. Julien Lieber (BEL, KAW), 79
  10. Arnaud Tonus (SUI, YAM), 71

MX2 Report

Prado’s domination was impressive with the defending champion scoring three holeshots, the Qualifying race win and the two GP race wins all by substantial margins. The hard charging Jago Geerts put together 2-2 moto results to put him on the podium for the second round in a row while young Tom Vialle’s 3-6 took the French rider to the final podium position, his second this season as well.

MXGP Rnd Trentino Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado

Red Plate holder Thomas Kjer Olsen seemed to be a little wild on his way to 5-4 moto results for fifth overall and now holds a 20-point lead over Prado and 23 points over Henri Jacobi, who went 4-5 for sixth overall on the day.

MXGP Rnd Trentino Thomas Olsen
Thomas Kjer Olsen

Mitch Evans battled through the pain of a qualifying race knee injury to finish 7th overall in his first visit to the iconic Italian venue to now sit eighth in the championship and has over a month to heal up before the next round on May the 12th in Mantova for the MXGP of Lombardia.

Jed Beaton is still struggling with the lack of bike time, but battled on to earn 12th and 13th for 12th outright and now sits 13th in the championship.

Jorge Prado

“I love racing here, the fans are just crazy. When you’re on the bike riding just the atmosphere makes you feel comfortable, this is what we like to see. We love to see this atmosphere at the track and when people are cheering during a Grand Prix like this, it is always very nice.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado
Jago Geerts

“It was a really good weekend for me, I had top five starts so that was a really positive and the riding was good, I felt good on track all weekend and ended up second overall. I’m really up with the results…I’ve been working hard at getting better on hard pack tracks.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Jago Geerts
Jago Geerts
Tom Vialle

“It was a really great weekend, the season so far is going very well. Im having fun, everything is going well in both training and the races so far. It’s not easy as a rookie to deal with the pressure but I’ve had good starts so this gives me the opportunity to stay in front. This weekend again I had two good starts and the opportunity to race at the front for a solid result.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino om Vialle
Tom Vialle
Thomas Kjer-Olsen

“It’s not been the perfect weekend here, but I’m still leading the MX2 championship and I think I showed some good speed. Everyone knows this track is really difficult to pass on and I experienced that in the first moto. The second race was better, but after running third for so many laps it’s tough not getting a top three result. But finishing 5-4 gives me good championship points. I’ll keep working hard during the weeks off to be 100% ready for the next GP.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Thomas Kjer Olsen
Thomas Kjer Olsen
Mitchell Evans

“I’ve not raced at Trentino before but it’s a cool track. It just took me a while to learn it. I tweeked my knee in the qualifying race and that made it a struggle to come through the pack as it was a little one-line out there. But no excuses, I know what I need to do to improve. For the races, I strapped up my knee and pushed through the pain and got good starts. From 24th in the qualifying race to seventh overall today, I couldn’t be any happier and really pleased with how Sunday went.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Mitch Evans
Mitchell Evans
Jed Beaton

“I feel like it’s been an ok weekend for me. Things started off a little slow on Saturday and certainly not how I wanted it to go. But Sunday was much better. Two poor starts held me back in both motos though. I felt like my riding was good, but I have to get out the gate better. We have a good break now in the championship, so it gives me plenty of time to keep working and to focus on improving ahead of the re-start of the series.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Jed Beaton
Jed Beaton

MX2 Race 1 Top Ten

  1. Jorge Prado (ESP, KTM), 35:17.013;
  2. Jago Geerts (BEL, Yamaha), +0:12.125;
  3. Tom Vialle (FRA, KTM), +0:14.130;
  4. Henry Jacobi (GER, Kawasaki), +0:31.658;
  5. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, Husqvarna), +0:33.302;
  6. Mitchell Evans (AUS, Honda), +0:38.284;
  7. Ben Watson (GBR, Yamaha), +0:39.054;
  8. Adam Sterry (GBR, Kawasaki), +0:44.903;
  9. Michele Cervellin (ITA, Yamaha), +0:47.005;
  10. Bas Vaessen (NED, KTM), +0:50.563.
    …12. Jed Beaton (AUS, HUS).

MX2 Race 2 Top Ten

  1. Jorge Prado (ESP, KTM), 34:49.733;
  2. Jago Geerts (BEL, Yamaha), +0:02.862;
  3. Ben Watson (GBR, Yamaha), +0:06.293;
  4. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, Husqvarna), +0:09.387;
  5. Henry Jacobi (GER, Kawasaki), +0:19.496;
  6. Tom Vialle (FRA, KTM), +0:21.773;
  7. Mitchell Evans (AUS, Honda), +0:33.318;
  8. Adam Sterry (GBR, Kawasaki), +0:37.485;
  9. Brent Van doninck (BEL, Honda), +0:38.333;
  10. Davy Pootjes (NED, Husqvarna), +0:47.400.
    …13. Jed Beaton (AUS, HUS).
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MX2 Overall Top Ten

  1. Jorge Prado (ESP, KTM), 50 points
  2. Jago Geerts (BEL, YAM), 44
  3. Tom Vialle (FRA, KTM), 35
  4. Ben Watson (GBR, YAM), 34
  5. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, HUS), 34
  6. Henry Jacobi (GER, KAW), 34
  7. Mitchell Evans (AUS, HON), 29
  8. Adam Sterry (GBR, KAW), 26
  9. Bas Vaessen (NED, KTM), 21
  10. Michele Cervellin (ITA, YAM), 21 p.
    …12. Jed Beaton 17 p

MX2 Championship Top Ten

  1. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, HUS), 170 points
  2. Jorge Prado (ESP, KTM), 150
  3. Henry Jacobi (GER, KAW), 147
  4. Ben Watson (GBR, YAM), 129
  5. Jago Geerts (BEL, YAM), 125
  6. Tom Vialle (FRA, KTM), 121
  7. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, HON), 107
  8. Mitchell Evans (AUS, HON), 89
  9. Adam Sterry (GBR, KAW), 89
  10. Davy Pootjes (NED, HUS), 76
    …13. Jed Beaton 54

Locals win EMX rounds at Trentino

The second rounds of the EMX250 and EMX125 Championship took place at the Trentino circuit where Italy’s own Alberto Forato and Mattia Guadagnini took the respective wins in front of a very vocal crowd.

MXGP Rnd Trentino EMX Start
EMX125 Start – Trentino

Incredibly, last weekend’s two EMX Championships had a combined list of 193 entries so Saturday’s qualifying sessions were split into two groups where only the top 20 of each qualified to line up in the Championship points paying races.

 EMX250 Report

After winning both races at the opening round, Forato carried on his dominant and perfect season to Trentino while Stephen Rubini was next best with two distant second place with Giuseppe  Tropepe taking the final podium spot.

Alberto Forato

“For sure I feel very good because the home GP is always fun. Here there is a lot of fans and a lot of friends came too. I got 1st and 1st so it couldn’t be any better.”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Alberto Forato
Alberto Forato

EMX250 Overall Top Ten

  1. Alberto Forato (ITA, HUS), 50 points
  2. Stephen Rubini (FRA, HON), 44
  3. Giuseppe Tropepe (ITA, YAM), 36
  4. Pierre Goupillon (FRA, HON), 33
  5. Rene Hofer (AUT, KTM), 31
  6. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, KTM), 31
  7. Karlis Sabulis (LAT, KTM), 28
  8. Ruben Fernandez (ESP, YAM), 28
  9. Roan Van De Moosdijk (NED, KAW), 28
  10. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 18
MXGP Rnd Trentino EMX Podium
Alberto Forato topped the EMX250 Overall Podium from Stephen Rubini and Pierre Goupillion

EMX250 Championship Top Ten

  1. Alberto Forato (ITA, HUS), 100 points
  2. Stephen Rubini (FRA, HON), 80
  3. Pierre Goupillon (FRA, HON), 67
  4. Roan Van De Moosdijk (NED, KAW), 63
  5. Rene Hofer (AUT, KTM), 59
  6. Ruben Fernandez (ESP, YAM), 57
  7. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, KTM), 53
  8. Giuseppe Tropepe (ITA, YAM), 51
  9. Karlis Sabulis (LAT, KTM), 50
  10. Josh Gilbert (GBR, HON), 33

EMX125 Report

Guadagnini basically led every lap on the way to the overall with 1-1 finishes and he extended his points lead in front of the home fans while Tom Guyon and Kay De Wolf rounded out the podium going 2-2 and 3-3 respectively.

Mattia Guadagnini

“It was a perfect weekend, I had two good starts and then took the lead in the first lap. I had a good feeling on the bike and the track plus there are a lot of friends here and to win in Italy is something special, it was so good!”

MXGP Rnd Trentino Mattia Guadagnini
Mattia Guadagnini

EMX125 Overall Top Ten

  1. Mattia Guadagnini (ITA, HUS), 50 points
  2. Tom Guyon (FRA, KTM), 44
  3. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 36
  4. Guillem Farres Plaza (ESP, KTM), 33
  5. Jorgen-Matthias Talviku (EST, HUS), 31
  6. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), 27
  7. Alberto Barcella (ITA, KTM), 27
  8. Matias Vesterinen (FIN, KTM), 26
  9. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 24
  10. Mike Gwerder (SUI, KTM), 22
MXGP Rnd Trentino EMX Podium
Mattia Guadagnini claimed top EMX125 honours in Trentino, from Tom Guyon and Kay de Wolf

EMX125 Championship Top Ten

  1. Mattia Guadagnini (ITA, HUS), 93 points
  2. Tom Guyon (FRA, KTM), 83
  3. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 74
  4. Jorgen-Matthias Talviku (EST, HUS), 73
  5. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), 61
  6. Mike Gwerder (SUI, KTM), 48
  7. Guillem Farres Plaza (ESP, KTM), 43
  8. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, KTM), 40
  9. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 37
  10. Alessandro Facca (ITA, KTM), 30
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Milner and Sanders shine at Dungog AORC

The NSW country town of Dungog hosted rounds 3 and 4 of the AORC and despite the Sunday results not being official yet nothing is surer that Daniel Milner and Daniel Sanders were the fastest riders over both days with Milner posting the fastest overall time on Saturday before getting pipped my Sanders on Sunday.

AORC Dungog Daniel Milner Spray
Daniel Milner

Milner dominated the E2 class while Luke Styke got the nod in the E1 class and predictably Daniel Sander won the E3 class.

Motorcycling Australia has announced that Sunday’s results are being tallied manually and will be available as soon as possible.

2019 AORC Round 3 E1 Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Luke STYKE 42:04.943
  2. Michael DRISCOLL 42:35.031
  3. Fraser HIGLETT 42:39.572
  4. Lyndon SNODGRASS 42:52.364
  5. Jonte REYNDERS 44:05.529

2019 AORC Round 3 E2 Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Daniel MILNER 40:57.420
  2. Joshua GREEN 41:48.814
  3. Scott KEEGAN 43:20.579
  4. Jeremy CARPENTIER 43:30.164
  5. Broc GRABHAM 43:32.914

2019 AORC Round 3 E3 Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Daniel SANDERS 41:09.640
  2. Beau RALSTON 44:02.716
  3. Jesse LAWTON 45:33.445
  4. Matt MURRY 46:02.060
  5. Timothy LONSDALE 48:46.117
AORC Dungog Daniel Sanders
Daniel Sanders

2019 AORC Round 3 EJ Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Kyron BACON 1:03:32.667
  2. Joshua BRIERLEY 1:03:47.912
  3. Korey MCMAHON 1:07:10.894
  4. Riley NANCARROW 1:08:08.863
  5. Nathan HOWE 1:08:18.808

2019 AORC Round 3 J4 Provisional Results

  1. Blake HOLLIS 36:29.379
  2. Mackenzie JOHNSON 38:12.209
  3. Oscar COLLINS 39:27.318
  4. Cody CHITTICK 39:33.392
  5. Kobe CONLEY 39:48.993

2019 AORC Round 3 J3 Provisional Results

  1. Riley MCGILLIVRAY 38:14.406
  2. Kodi STEPHENS 38:52.922
  3. Will DENNETT 40:01.809
  4. Jethro CARRIAGE 42:01.306
  5. Maxwell LIEBEKNECHT 42:20.174
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2019 AORC Round 3 J2 Provisional Results

  1. Billy HARGY 39:33.675
  2. Max PHILLIPS 39:51.370
  3. Jett YARNOLD 40:03.587
  4. Cody KILPATRICK 41:15.609
  5. Campbell HALL 41:26.716
AORC Dungog Jess Gardiner
Jess Gardiner

2019 AORC Round 3 Women’s Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Jessica GARDINER 49:08.717
  2. Emelie KARLSSON 50:23.125
  3. Emma MILESEVIC 53:09.863
  4. Ebony NIELSEN 54:23.041
  5. Danielle FOOT 54:45.531

2019 AORC Round 3 Masters Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Kirk HUTTON 46:38.371
  2. Brad WILLISCROFT 46:40.374
  3. Timothy MARTIN 47:55.218
  4. Peter RUDD 50:16.811
  5. Michael WIDDISON 51:46.765

2019 AORC Round 3 Veterans Top 10 Provisional Results

  1. Lee STEPHENS 47:46.798
  2. Scott DUNN 48:17.805
  3. Chris THOMAS 49:19.009
  4. Ben LINDSAY 50:31.995
  5. Paul CHADWICK 51:01.346

Smith wins fifth Condo 750

53 riders hit the small country town of Condoblin, NSW for the 31st running of 750km navigational event known as the Condo 750, and for the fifth time in his career Jacob Smith managed to win the event with an overall time of just under nine hours.

Smith didn’t have it his own way and was sitting third after the opening day behind Lachlan Manwarring, and Sam Davie while Rod Faggotter was not far off the pace in fourth. On the second day Smith and his Husqvarna found form to run away with the fastest time to overtake Manwarring and Davie for the win,with Faggotter maintaining fourth.

Smith wrote this on his FB page

“Stoked to come away with my 5th @condo750 win. Had to work for it but got it by a little over 4 minutes. Huge thanks to everyone that supports me and the team, but a special thanks to the best mechanic in the business @youngcobba wouldn’t be doing without him!!”

Jacob Smith Condo FB page
Jacob Smith – Image from his Facebook page

From all accounts the 31st Condo 750 was once again a huge success with the whole town and local land owners getting behind the event. However one has to ask how it came about that two NSW country towns, Condoblin and Dungog, just six hours from each other, both host national off-road events on the same weekend?!?!

Haaker wins SuperEnduro Championship

Bizkaia Arena in Bilbao, Spain hosted a controversial final round of the Maxxis FIM World SuperEnduro Championship. The round saw Cody Webb celebrating the final moto win and what he thought was the championship win before blowing up when Colton Haaker crossed the finish line in a championship winning third place thanks to his teammate Alfredo Gomez’s disqualifiable actions.

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain colton haaker
Colton Haaker – Image by Future7Media

There were three finals on the night and here is a recap:

SuperEnduro Final 1

While Webb stormed his way to the front in the opening final, Haaker appeared to have crumbled under the pressure and was dropping valuable positions.

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain Cody Webb
Cody Webb

He was handed a life line when this first race was red-flagged due to track conditions, but in the restart it was Webb who was a fastest to take the win ahead of Taddy Blazusiak and a thankful Haaker so just 6 points separated Haaker from Webb going into race two.

Heat 1

  1. Cody WEBB
  2. Taddy BLAZUSIAK
  3. Colton HAAKER
  4. Alfredo GOMEZ
  5. Pol TARRES

SuperEnduro Final 2

The second ‘reverse grid’ race saw Haaker ruthlessly slice his way to the lead after just three laps then go on to take the win over Webb and Blazusiak. Heading to the final race of the season Haaker had to finish fourth or better to wrap up the title.

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain colton haaker
Colton Haaker – Image by Future7Media

Heat 2

  1. Colton HAAKER
  2. Cody WEBB
  3. Taddy BLAZUSIAK
  4. Alfredo GOMEZ
  5. Pol TARRES
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SuperEnduro Final 3

Webb was fastest out of the gate, snatching the holeshot from Blazusiak while Haaker momentarily lost his concentration and made a small mistake in the rock garden. The Husqvarna rider nevertheless managed to maintain good pace and he focused on the title to stay in third. Blazusiak dropped out of the early running after quite obviously trying to hinder Haakers progress on one of the log jumps.

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain Taddy Blazusiak
Taddy Blazusiak – Image by Future7Media

It all turned to poo for Haaker on the last lap with several crashes seeing the Husky rider drop to fifth place and as Webb crossed the line for the win he could actually see Haaker struggling on the previous straight so it seemed that KTM rider would therefore have enough points to win the 2019 title.

But that is when Alfredo Gomez, the teammate of Haaker, stepped in to not only block pass third placed Pol Terres in the final corner, he basically stopped them both long enough to hand Haaker the two positions for third and the Maxxis FIM SuperEnduro World Championship title.

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain alfredo gomez
Alfredo Gomez – Image by Future7Media

Webb was obviously infuriated with the outcome and it was little consolation that Gomez was later disqualified for this action. In a final shocking twist, Haaker suffered a huge crash over the finish line and knocked himself out.

Heat 3

  1. Cody WEBB
  2. Taddy BLAZUSIAK
  3. Colton HAAKER
  4. Kevin GALLAS
  5. Pol TARRES

Colton Haaker was therefore crowned 2019 Champion by just 4 points in front of Webb and Blazusiak.

Colton Haaker

“I’m a little bit lost for words right now, it’s been an eventful night but to end it as the world champion is an incredible feeling. I can’t thank the guys at Husqvarna enough for the support they’ve given me, not just tonight but throughout the entire series. This title is very much a team effort as it is mine. Tonight was tough. I’m not quite sure yet what it was but it certainly wasn’t my best night on a bike. The track wasn’t good and I had some serious arm pump issues, which is something I never really get. I made so many mistakes in race one and was riding too tight. Then I got it together in race two and felt more like I should.  It was all on the line for the final and I did what I needed to do on the first few laps. But then the arm pump kicked in again and I stalled my bike so many times. With about a lap to go I got things together again and put everything I had left into that lap and won the title. It wasn’t pretty, but it doesn’t matter, we’re world champions and it feels awesome.”

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain colton haaker
Colton Haaker claims the 2019 SuperEnduro championship title! Image by Future7Media

Webb was obviously disappointed not to retain his title and felt the championship should have been his after the controversial night.

Cody Webb

“Obviously I’m disappointed with the final championship result tonight, I felt I rode really good out there today and deserved the title. The night started off well with a good time in superpole and then in the restarted first final I took my time, rode smooth and took the win by a good margin. I am kicking myself now for the mistakes I made in the second final, I got caught up in traffic a few times, but still got second – I knew then I would have to really go for it in the last one. I got off the line well in the third final and set about catching Colton. After I got past him, I just stayed smooth and could see he was struggling. I’m happy because I did my best, won that third final and believe the championship should have been mine. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, but I’ll learn from it, and come back even stronger next time.”

SuperEndur Rnd Bilbao Spain Cody Webb Taddy Blazusiak
Cody Webb – Image by Future7Media

Taddy Blazusiak finished the night in third and also concluded the championship in the same position.

Taddy Blazusiak

“This was always going to be a tough one. I am happy with how I rode today and feel I did a good job. My pace over the whole season has been good, there have just been a few instances where luck simply hasn’t been on our side. I have had some amazing events this year, I obviously still have the speed – overall race wins in Hungary and Poland show that. The track here was tight and I feel the championship should be decided on more of a flowing track that lets us really race. But this is SuperEnduro, I know I can still improve in a couple of areas – Superpole for one is something I need to work on. I’ll come back swinging next year for the title, I would love to get a seventh!”

SuperEnduro Round Hungary Taddy Blazusiak
Taddy Blazusiak – SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

Provisional Standing

  1. Colton HAAKER 263pts
  2. Cody WEBB 259pts
  3. Taddy BLAZUSIAK 234pts
  4. Pol TARRES 155pts
  5. Alfredo GOMEZ 145pts.
  6. Diogo VIEIRA 124pts
  7. Blake GUTZEIT 121pts
  8. Kevin GALLAS 119pts
  9. Xavi LEON SOLE 100pts
  10. David LEONOV 74pts
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Sam Sunderland wins Abu Dahbi Desert Challenge

Sam Sunderland has won the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge which was also round one of the 2019 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship while Luciano Benavides and Jose Ignacio Cornejo rounded out the podium.

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Sam Sunderland Luciano Benavides
Sam Sunderland and Luciano Benavides with the KTM Factory Rally Team

Sunderland bookended the event with wins in the first and fifth day to end up with an 8 plus minute gap back to Benavides.

Sam Sunderland

“Things went perfectly today, we knew coming into today’s final stage that we would have to stick to our planned strategy. The stage brought us closer to Abu Dhabi and as such, the tracks towards the end were a lot faster away from the dunes. I knew I would have to push really hard right from the start of the special. I arrived at the refuelling and the team let me know everything was good, so from there it was just a case of bringing it home safely to the finish. I’m really happy with the job done by the team all week and myself in the way I rode. It’s great to get my 2019 championship off to the perfect start with a win.”

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Sam Sunderland
Sam Sunderland

The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge marks Benavides’ maiden podium in an FIM Cross-Country Rallies event.

Luciano Benavides

“It’s been an incredible day for me, I knew I had to push a lot to make up the difference to the guys in front, gain some minutes and take second place. I tried my best to go fast, but stay on the bike and not go too crazy. The bike was feeling super-good so I decided to attack and it worked out, I got second place and the team got the first two places. I am really happy and now it’s time to celebrate.”

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Luciano Benavides
Luciano Benavides

Andrew Short placed fifth overall showing impressive speed in the dunes of the Liwa Desert the American overcame several challenges to secure a well-deserved top-five result.

Andrew Short

“This last day has been good for me, I felt really good all day and had a good pace. Just near the end I had a small issue but I was able to quickly get going again and complete the stage. Overall, I have really enjoyed the race here in Abu Dhabi, it’s been a great experience and fun to be here with the crew. I feel my riding has improved here, each rally I do it feels like I move up another level and it’s very important to keep that momentum going. Real race experience is so valuable and it’s good to leave here healthy and even faster. Admittedly, it’s not quite the result I was hoping for but we had to play the cards we were dealt and I think we handled it perfectly. I’m now really looking forward to the next race.”

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Andrew Short
Andrew Short

The second round of the 2019 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship – the Silk Way Rally commences on July 6 in Russia.

Provisional Results Stage Five

  1. Sam Sunderland (GBR), KTM, 2:39:59
  2. Luciano Benavides (ARG), KTM, 2:43:25 +3:26
  3. Joan Barreda (ESP), Honda, 2:46:42 +6:43
  4. Jose Ignacio Cornejo (CHL), Honda, 2:49:40 +9:41
  5. Kevin Benavides (ARG), Honda, 2:53:34 +13:35

Provisional Overall Results – 2019 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge

  1. Sam Sunderland (GBR), KTM, 17:46:42
  2. Luciano Benavides (ARG), KTM, 17:55:02 +8:20
  3. Jose Ignacio Cornejo (CHL), Honda, 17:56:41 +9:59
  4. Kevin Benavides (ARG), Honda, 18:21:33 +34:51
  5. Andrew Short (USA), Husqvarna, 18:48:22 +1:01:40
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Adrien Van Beveren wins Merzouga Rally 2019

Yamalube Yamaha Rally Team rider Adrien Van Beveren has won the motorcycle class at the five-day Merzouga Rally 2019 ahead of Ross Branch and Oriol Mena.

Merzouga Rally Adrien Van Beveren
Adrien Van Beveren

Focused on using the 10th running of the Merzouga Rally as the start of his preparation towards the 2020 Dakar Rally, Van Beveren’s winning result was valuable navigational experience thanks to several long and challenging stages.

Adrien Van Beveren

“I’ve had a great feeling with my bike throughout the week and I have to say a huge thanks to all the team, who have worked so hard to support me. The Merzouga Rally was all about improving. Improving my navigational skills, and generally starting our preparations ahead of Dakar 2020. We came here focused on improving and I absolutely feel that we did that. The navigation here is very tricky, so to be opening the tracks as much as I did, that gives me a lot of confidence. This is a great team result. Next, we have the Silk Way Rally, but before then there’s more testing and training to do. We keep working…”

Merzouga Rally Adrien Van Beveren
Adrien Van Beveren

Stage 5 Provisional Classification

  1. Adrien Van Beveren (FRA), Yamaha, 55:01
  2. Jamie McCanney (GBR), Yamaha, 55:02 +0:01
  3. Joaquim Rodrigues (PRT), Hero, 55:04 +0:03
  4. Jaume Betriu (ESP), KTM, 55:18 +0:17
  5. Ross Branch (BWA), KTM, 56:40 +1:39
  6. Maurizio Gerini (ITA), Husqvarna, 57:36 +2:35

Provisional Overall Final Classification

  1. Adrien Van Beveren (FRA), Yamaha, 15:28:02
  2. Ross Branch (BWA), KTM, 15:52:39 +24:37
  3. Oriol Mena (ESP), Hero, 16:01:03 +33:01
  4. Joaquim Rodrigues (PRT), Hero, 16:02:23 +34:21
  5. Alessandro Botturi (ITA), Yamaha, 16:15:43 +46:41
  6. Maurizio Gerini (ITA), Husqvarna, 16:23:53 +55:51

MXGP calendar updates

With the 2019 MXGP season well underway Youthstream regretfully announces that the previously anticipated 2019 MXGP of Hong Kong scheduled to take place on the 22nd of September has been cancelled so the revised calendar will now see the MXGP of China in Shanghai as the final stop of the now 18-round FIM Motocross World Championship season.

The cancellation comes as a request by the organizer who is eager to refocus on holding an MXGP in March 2020. Due to the timing of the cancellation no replacement will be made giving riders and teams an additional week prior to racing the final event of 2019, the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations.

The updated 2019 Calendar can be viewed below:

MXGP Calendar Update
Updated 2019 MXGP Calendar
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AUS-X moves to Melbourne

November 30 will see the AUS-X Open and all that it encapsulates run under the roof of Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium in what is set to be the largest international Supercross and action sports event ever seen in Australia, with Supercross, Freestyle Motocross, live music, pyrotechnics and non-stop entertainment.

Melbournes Marvel Stadium will host AUS X
AUS-X moves to Melbourne in 2019

AUS-X Open Chairman – Tony Cochrane (Founder of V8 Supercars), states a move to Melbourne will open up a world of opportunity as this exciting event looks to expand and build on its already popular foundations.

Tony Cochrane

“Since its inception, the AUS-X Open has grown from strength-to-strength to a point where we’ve found ourselves in the fortunate situation of needing to expand to cater for the growing appetite of Supercross racing and more broader sports fans across the country. The AUS-X Open Melbourne will be bigger, faster, louder, featuring more entertainment and greater accessibility to these international megastars than ever before, and I can’t wait for November 30 to showcase this amazing spectacle to the people of Melbourne. It really has to be seen to be believed.”

The AUS-X Open is now part of a partnership with the Victorian Government via its tourism and major events agency, ‘Visit Victoria’ and it has the full support of the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula.

Martin Pakula

“Victoria is unmatched as the sporting and event capital of Australia and we’re so excited to bring the AUS-X Open to a world-class venue like Marvel Stadium,” said Mr Pakula. “Melbourne’s sporting calendar continues to be the envy of cities across Australia and around the world. We’re thrilled to add AUS-X Open to the list, this November.”

As we have come to expect, the Monster Energy AUS-X Open Melbourne will double as the Grand Final round to the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship and Peter Doyle, the CEO for the sanctioning body for Supercross racing, Motorcycling Australia (MA) had this to say of the move.

Peter Doyle

“The Australian Supercross Championship is Australia’s premiere off-road motorcycle racing Championship. To have the grand finale here in Melbourne, at an incredible event like the AUS-X Open, is a huge positive for the sport and fans alike.”

Marvel Stadium will host AUS X on November

Tickets start from $39.99*. For more information and the exclusive opportunity to sign-up to access tickets during the pre-sale before they’re on sale to the public, you must ensure you sign up to an exclusive Pre-Sale ticketing opportunity at www.ausxopen.com.

Pre-Sale tickets will be available from May 15 via Ticketmaster.com.au and stay tuned to @SXOpenSupercross on social media for further announcements.

MX Nationals return to Broadford this weekend

With the Victorian State Motorcycle Complex in Broadford hosting the third round of the Pirelli MX Nationals this weekend the local communities will benefit from an estimated $350,000 coming into the region. A myriad of businesses are set to host and serve not only the hundreds of racers converging on the region but also the thousands of spectators.

mx nationals coolum rnd saturday amateur cup line up ImageScottya
MX Nationals head to Broadford – Image by ScottYa

On top of the MX1, MX2 and MXD championship classes and the Rising Star Rookies, there will also be a demonstration in between races to highlight the new Enduro-X track. This will feature world class riders in Chucky Sanders and Daniel Milner on hand doing double duties as they also race the MX Nationals.

MX Nationals Series Promoter Kevin Williams today explained that the venue is well equipped to welcome thousands of motocross fans and the track will be prepared to a world class standard.

Kevin Williams

“With Broadford again hosting a national event of this size it is sure to keep venue on the radar, and provides the sport in the area with fantastic national exposure, riders and teams alike are excited to see the new revamped track after Josh Proctor from Pro Traxx has rebuilt the track to GP spec,” shared Williams

The Broadford layout is very spectator friendly with a plethora of great viewing areas but if you are unable to make it to the track itself you can watch all the action live for free at http://www.nrgtv.com.au

To stay up to date with all this MX Nationals simply go https://www.mxnationals.com.au or follow the series and the riders on instagram @mxnationals

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Metcalfe in doubt for Broadford

After a tough weekend at the Wonthaggi round of the MX Nationals, Penrite Honda Racing’s Brett Metcalfe has sustained several injuries which has left the veteran battling the clock to be ready to line up at Broadford, Victoria on April 14, which is the third round of the 10-round series.

Brett Metcalfe

“My sole goal is to line up at Broadford, brave the pain and get as many points as we can to stay in the Championship. The biggest concern right now is the spiral fracture I have in my finger. I will head back to the clinic next Monday and we will make a decision following the second round of results.”

MX Nationals Rnd Wonthaggi MX Brett Metcalfe
Brett Metcalfe

Metcalfe felt he was on track for a top three finish at Wonthaggi.

“Qualifying was good, I made a few changes in practice and I knew I could run a strong pace during the races. I felt fast but it was hard to pass, I lost a lot of time throughout the race being stuck behind riders as the track was very one lined. In the end, I settled for 5th and I was able to make up 18 seconds on the winner so we certainly had great pace. I felt the changes we made were perfect for the conditions. The bike felt amazing during the siting lap and I believed we could race for the win, so I am really bummed but that is motocross, anything can and usually does happen. No matter what, we will come back and win races.”

MX Nationals Rnd Wonthaggi MX Brett Metcalfe
Brett Metcalfe

Monson/Summerhayes earn sidecar double at Gillman

After winning all but one race on their local track, Warren Monson and Andrew Summerhayes have spectacularly won the 2019 FIM Speedway Sidecar 1000cc World Cup and 2019 FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship over two nights of action at Gillman Speedway.

The FIM Speedway Sidecar 1000cc World Cup final saw the Mark Plaisted/Ben Pitt fly to the fastest lap, but that wasn’t good enough to best Monson/Summerhayes while defending champion Darrin Treloar and Blake Cox earned third ahead of Shane Rudloff and Scott Morris.

On the very next night the final of FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship required six restarts and two exclusions to finally leave Monson/Summerhayes and Cohen/Egan to battle it out, with Monson/Summerhayes on top once again to leave them FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar champions as well as World Cup winners.

Monson was thrilled to add the FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship to his trophy collection from the weekend.

Warren Monson

“Just as happy as last night! It was very hard for us tonight, the track was very hard to read, and we just had to push through it. I don’t think I’ve ever been in a final that had that many restarts! But we came through on top, so we’ve got to be happy with that.”

A double FIM World Cup and FIM Oceania Championship winner (2017 and 2019), Monson remarked after the event that he’d only ever won four events at Gillman Speedway – his two World Cups and two Oceania Championships. “I can’t even win a club night at Gillman!” he laughed.

Defending champion Darrin Treloar had a day to forget, after finishing third, second and first in his first three heats he was struck with mechanical issues and took no further part in the event.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

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Moto News Wrap for March 19, 2019 by Darren Smart

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The LATEST News

  • Musquin and Forkner victorious in Indianapolis SX
  • Waters and Roberts Win at Appin mudfest
  • Russell fights back at Georgia GNCC
  • Bauman wins Daytona TT
  • Janisch wins Daytona TT AFT Singles – Max Whale fifth
  • Ferris replaces Febvre in MXGP
  • Ryan brothers shine at Canberra Long Track
  • Courtney Duncan joins Bike It DRT Kawasaki for WMX

Musquin and Forkner Victorious at Indy SX

Indianapolis has hosted the latest round of the AMA Supercross Championships and on a predominantly one lined, rut infested layout it was KTM’s Marvin Musquin who won the 450 main event for the second year in a row while Austin Forkner slaughtered the 250 East class by winning the main by over six seconds.

AMA SX Rnd Indy Baggett Tomac Multiple JK SX Indy
Baggett, Tomac, Webb

450SX

Musquin entered Indianapolis 19 points back from his teammate Cooper Webb, and by lap 18 it was a four rider freight train with Musquin, Baggett, Webb and Tomac all within a few seconds of each other but no matter how hard each rider tried.

AMA SX Rnd Indy Webb JK SX Indy
Cooper Webb

That is how they finished while Justin Barcia’s first ride back from concussion earned the veteran a sensational fifth ahead of Savatgy, Zach Osborne, Ken Roczen, Dean Wilson, Justin Brayton and Chad Reed who passed 11 riders to earn solid points and stay seventh in the championship.

AMA SX Rnd Indy Tomac JK SX Indy
Eli Tomac

As far as the championship goes Webb leads by 14 points over Musquin who in turn has a seven-point gap back to Tomac while the biggest looser on the night was former red plate holder Roczen who just couldn’t get his shit together to end up 27 points back from Webb with six rounds remaining.

Marvin Musquin

“It was a long main event and I knew they were charging behind me so I just wanted to stay smooth, my whoops were pretty clean, I didn’t know if it was the best way but towards the end I was able to get it all clean and it feels good to get it done. Tonight I was very confident on the starting gate and to get a holeshot tonight was super important so yeh, it was time (for the win).”

AMA SX Rnd Indy Musquin JK SX Indy
Marvin Musquin

450SX Main Event Results

  1. Marvin Musquin
  2. Blake Baggett
  3. Cooper Webb
  4. Eli Tomac
  5. Justin Barcia
  6. Joey Savatgy
  7. Zach Osborne
  8. Ken Roczen
  9. Dean Wilson
  10. Justin Brayton
  11. Chad Reed
AMA SX Rnd Indy Podium JK SX Indy
450SX Main Event Results
Marvin Musquin
Blake Baggett +02.449
Cooper Webb +05.298

 450SX Points after 11 of 17 Rounds

  1. Cooper Webb – 243
  2. Marvin Musquin – 229
  3. Eli Tomac – 222
  4. Ken Roczen – 216
  5. Blake Baggett – 184
  6. Dean Wilson – 163
  7. Chad Reed – 149
  8. Joey Savatgy – 141
  9. Justin Brayton – 140
  10. Justin Barcia – 138

250 East Coast Report

Unfortunately for the fans of close racing when Austin Forkner gets the holeshot in the East Coast series it is game over, with his Ryan Villopoto like style racking up the best lap times over and over which left long time arch rival Chase Sexton to reluctantly settle for second place all of the way to flag while Justin Cooper had to make his way from tenth to third to land on the podium.

AMA SX Rnd Indy Starts Davalos JK SX Indy
250 Start
Austin Forkner

“Justin (Cooper) was beside me in the heat race and I didn’t want to let off until he did, went in way too deep, jumped into the tuff block and got run over by a couple of guys so that sucked but in the main I ended up with a decent gate two inside the box and got a good start in the main and that helped.”

AMA SX Rnd Indy Forkner JK SX Indy
Austin Forkner

250 East Coast Main Event Results

  1. Austin Forkner
  2. Chase Sexton
  3. Justin Cooper
  4. Mitchell Oldenburg
  5. Martin Davalos
  6. Kyle Peters
  7. Kyle Cunningham
  8. oshua Osby
  9. Alex Martin
  10. Jordan Bailey
AMA SX Rnd Indy Podium JK SX Indy
250 East Coast Main Event Results
Austin Forkner
Chase Sexton +06.289
Justin Cooper +09.098

250 East Coast Points after 6 of 9 Rounds

  1. Austin Forkner – 151
  2. Chase Sexton – 125
  3. Justin Cooper – 123
  4. Alex Martin – 92
  5. Martin Davalos – 89
  6. Mitchell Oldenburg – 88
  7. Brandon Hartranft – 82
  8. Kyle Cunningham – 81
  9. Kyle Peters – 79
  10. Jordon Smith – 70
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Waters and Roberts Win at Appin Mudfest

In what has been a massive disappointment to everyone who is involved with or a fan of the Australian MX Nationals, the opening round of the 2019 championships ended up being a mudfest of the highest calibre and it was Todd Waters and Jy Roberts who won the premier MX1 and MX2 classes respectively while Kiwi Max Purvis won the MXD class.

MX Nationals Rnd
MX Nationals 2019 – Round 1, Appin

A massive low across a large part of the East Coast of Australia caused torrential rain fall in Sydney and the surrounding areas so due to safety concerns WEM, the series promoter, reduced each championship class to one moto.

MX1 Report

Little known American Justin Rodebell grabbed the holeshot in the lone MX1 moto and led for the best part of the opening lap before Hayden Mellross made his way to the lead. Todd Waters was making his way from dead last after getting tangled with a track side sprinkler going into the first corner.

ISDE winner Daniel Milner was also a victim of multiple first corner incidents while pre-race favourites Kirk Gibbs and Brett Metcalfe also got less than ideal starts but both managed to edge their way through the treacherous conditions to move by Rodebell, Luke Clout and Jesse Dobson to slot into third and fourth.

After six laps that took almost 17 minutes, Hayden Mellross greeted the chequered flag ahead of Waters, Gibbs, Metcalfe and Dobson but thanks to a couple of incidents where it was deemed that Mellross rode outside the track barriers Waters was gifted maximum points ahead of Mellross.

Todd Waters

“It’s kind of strange, I didn’t think I won it. It was quite good for me because when I get excited, I go full gas and make big mistakes. I had no goggles and thought this is a bit of a write off. I just rode smooth and tried my best to just stay on the track.”

MX Nationals Rnd Appin MX Todd Waters
Todd Waters

Rodbell, Tomas Ravenhorst, Luke Clout, Joben Baldwin and Cody Dyce rounded out the top 10 while the likes of Richie Evans, Jayden Rykers, Caleb Ward ended the moto far from where they would have like but they fared better than Dylan long and Milner who didn’t get to finish the race.

Richie Evans

“The result today wasn’t what I was after, but the conditions threw up all sorts of challenges. It was hard work out there today. I went all out at the start and got the track position I needed but that crash just made things so hard to ride and grip the bike that I had to swap gloves and goggles to even continue. But despite the result, I know my preparation has been good and I have done the work over the off season so I’m not going to let this affect me. I will learn from todays round and improve myself in these conditions and I’m ready to get things back on track at round two regardless of what we are faced with.”

MX Nationals Rnd podium
MX Nationals 2019 – Round 1, Appin

Thor MX1 – Moto Result and Overall

  1. Todd Waters
  2. Hayden Mellross
  3. Kirk Gibbs
  4. Brett Metcalfe
  5. Jesse Dobson
  6. Justin Rodbell
  7. Tomas Ravenhorst
  8. Luke Clout
  9. Joben Baldwin
  10. Cody Dyce
  11. Charlie Creech
  12. Joel Wightman
  13. Levi McManus
  14. Richie Evans
  15. Jayden Rykers
  16. Brandon Gray
  17. John Prutti
  18. Caleb Ward
  19. Zak Small
  20. Izak Maule

MX2 Report

Jay Wilson scored the holeshot and for most of the moto the Yamaha rider looked like a shoe-in for the win until a mistake near the end allowed Jy Roberts to come through to claim the win ahead of Wilson and third placed defending champion Wilson Todd. Todd ended the race ahead of Issac Ferguson, Riley Dukes, Nathan Crawford, Cooper Pozniak, Dylan Wills and Wyatt Chase.

MX Nationals Rnd Appin MX Podum Roberts Wilson Todd
Pirelli MX2 – Moto 1 – Appin Results – Top 15
Jy Roberts
Jay Wilson +15.866
Wilson Todd +1:03.716
Jy Roberts

“It was brutal, every line just crisscrossed and there where holes you couldn’t see. I had to throw my goggles on the second lap, so I was just getting roosted by lappers, but I ended up getting it done by just pulling off consistent laps. I made it work, so I am happy with that.”

MX Nationals Rnd Appin MX Jy Roberts
Jy Roberts
Jay Wilson

“It was a strange set of circumstances that lead to us finishing second and as a team, everyone was a little disappointed in the outcome given we have such as good lead. But, we will move on from here, learn from what happened and ensure we aren’t in that situation again. We had a chat about it and its no-one’s fault, just the way it played out but from now on, we have decided we are just going to be ruthless if we are ever in the situation again.  The team did a great job today on the bike and keeping it running smoothly. It’s tough because the track was so hard on the bikes. They get so hot, you have to keep off the clutch and stay away from the deep water, ruts and mud but the bike was awesome and for me, I’m happy with the start we have made for the championship and ready to go the full ten rounds.”

Aaron Tanti was up front in the early going but thanks to a series of mistakes the hard charger ended up tenth ahead of talented enduro rider Lyndon Snodgrass who in turn got the nod over some of the best MX2 riders in Australia including Morgan Fogarty, Kyle Webster, Bailey Malkiewicz and Joel Evans.

Kyle Webster

“It was a bloody tough day to say the least; the track was so next-level wet to state the obvious. I actually made a good start in the MX2 race and was running fourth or fifth after a couple of laps when I got completely and utterly bogged. I was stuck for almost a lap! Luckily another rider stopped to help me, otherwise I wouldn’t have gotten the bike out. That incident dropped me back to about 28th place, and from there I just clawed my way up to 15th by the finish of the race. It certainly wasn’t an ideal day, but I’m just super-lucky and thankfully I managed to keep going and it wasn’t a DNF result.”

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Pirelli MX2 – Moto Result and Overall

  1. Jy Roberts
  2. Jay Wilson
  3. Wilson Todd
  4. Issac Ferguson
  5. Riley Dukes
  6. Nathan Crawford
  7. Cooper Pozniak
  8. Dylan Wills
  9. Wyatt Chase
  10. Aaron Tanti
  11. Lyndon Snodgrass
  12. Jai Constantinou
  13. Morgan Fogarty
  14. Chandler Burns
  15. Kyle Webster
  16. Jye Dickson
  17. Ricky Latimer
  18. Sam Pelz
  19. Riley Stephens
  20. Jesse Bishop

MXD Report

Leading riders Rhys Budd and Regan Duffy were back and forth for several laps before Budd looked to have the race in the bag but a small over on the last lap gave Kiwi flyer Max Purvis the win over Budd, Michael Murphy, Hugh Roach and Caleb Clifton.

Rhys Budd

“What a day! I got out in front in Qualifying and put down one heater lap to get the fastest time, which gave me first gate pick for the race, which just helped make things a little easier. I got a great start in the race and got the holeshot and pretty much tried my best to keep it up on two wheels. I had the lead with one lap to go and unfortunately, I put it down, but I managed to get up in second place and hold it to the end. It was a really challenging race and I have never raced in mud that bad before. But I just tried to make the most of it and tried to have fun, which is all you can really do in situations like that.”

Motul MXD – Moto Result and Overall

  1. Maximus Purvis
  2. Rhys Budd
  3. Micheal Murphy
  4. Hugh Roache
  5. Caleb Clifton
  6. Liam Walsh
  7. Regan Duffy
  8. Jayce Cosford
  9. Dale Lyons
  10. Liam Andrews
  11. Jack Kukas
  12. James Beston
  13. Tye Jones
  14. Lochie Smith
  15. Mason Rowe
  16. Noah Ferguson
  17. Aaron Mason
  18. Jake Barron
  19. Mason Semmens
  20. Denzel Woulfe

Russell Fights back at Georgia GNCC

Washington, Georgia hosted the second round of the 2019 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series with the 15th Annual Specialized General GNCC and it was defending champion Kailub Russell who bounced back from last weekend’s defeat to take the win and garner the championship lead.

GNCC Washington Kailub Russell Podium KH
Kailub Russell claimed top honours – Image by Ken Hill

XC1 Report

On his new Kawasaki KX450F Josh Strang grabbed the holeshot but it was Kailub Russell who pushed his way to the front of the pack as they came through timing on the opening lap. But it wasn’t a runaway victory for Russell who had Trevor Bollinger and Thad Duvall not only holding pace but also at times looking for a way around the defending champ.

GNCC Washington Josh Strang KH
Josh Strang took the holeshot – Image by Ken Hill

Bollinger would in fact make the pass on Russell, holding the lead spot as they came through scoring on the second and fourth laps but when it mattered Russell crossed the finish line in the lead ahead of Bollinger, Duvall and last week’s winner Steward Baylor Jr.

Baylor Jr. found himself running in fourth overall for the majority of the race to now sit second, just seven points behind Russell in the National Championship points standings.

Strang would battle throughout the day to stay inside the top five ahead of Josh Toth, Jordan Ashburn, Andrew Delong, Cory Buttrick and Christopher Venditti.

XC1 Pro Event Results

  1. Kailub Russell (KTM)
  2. Trevor Bollinger (HQV)
  3. Thad Duvall (HQV)
  4. Steward Baylor Jr. (KTM)
  5. Josh Strang (KAW)
  6. Josh Toth (KTM)
  7. Jordan Ashburn (KAW)
  8. Andrew Delong (HON)
  9. Cory Buttrick (YAM)
  10. Christopher Venditti (KAW)

Overall National Championship Standings

  1. Kailub Russell (55)
  2. Steward Baylor Jr. (48)
  3. Thad Duvall (42)
  4. Trevor Bollinger (41)
  5. Ben Kelley (32)
  6. Josh Strang (30)
  7. Josh Toth (30)
  8. Andrew Delong (23)
  9. Jonathan Girroir (23)
  10. Jordan Ashburn (22)
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XC2 Report

Beta’s Michael Witkowski grabbed the holeshot but it wouldn’t take long for Ben Kelley to take over the lead and proceed to gap the rest of the field by 2 minutes and 23 seconds at the chequered flag while Evan Smith, Jonathan Girroir, Witkowski and KTM’s Ryder Lafferty rounded out the top five.

XC2 250 Pro Event Results

  1. Benjamin Kelley (KTM)
  2. Evan Smith (HQV)
  3. Jonathan Girroir (KTM)
  4. Michael Witkowski (BET)
  5. Ryder Lafferty (KTM)
  6. Tegan Temple (KTM)
  7. Liam Draper (KTM)
  8. Austin Lee (HON)
  9. Zack Hayes (KTM)
  10. Jesse Groemm (KTM)

XC2 250 Pro Series Standings

  1. Benjamin Kelley (60)
  2. Jonathan Girroir (46)
  3. Evan Smith (43)
  4. Michael Witkowski (39)
  5. Tegan Temple (31)

XC3 Report

In the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class, it was Jason Thomas who held the lead position throughout the first lap but Cody Barnes would make the move around Thomas for the lead on the second lap and the Beta rider would not look back after taking the lead. Barnes ultimately finished five minutes ahead of Thomas who was followed by Yamaha’s Jason Raines, while defending Champion Jesse Ansley would find himself only completing four of the six laps after spending a lot of time in his pit area trying to figure out what looks to be a carby issue.

GNCC Washington Becca Sheets KH
Becca Sheets – Image by Ken Hill

WXC Report

Tayla Jones held the lead in the WXC class but as the women headed out on on lap three Becca Sheets would make her move to take over the lead, with Mackenzie Tricker following her as she moved into the second place. Sheets would hold onto the lead, taking the chequered flag ahead of Tricker, Jones, Rachel Gutish and New Zealand’s Rachael Archer rounding out the top five.

Bauman Wins Daytona TT

AFT Daytona AFT Twins ERV
AFT Twins prepare at the Daytona TT – Image by Scott Hunter

The annual Daytona TT kicked off the 2019 American Flat Track season and it was Indian factory rider Briar Bauman who kicked off his championship campaign with a 5.149-second margin ahead of fellow Indian rider Henry Wiles and Yamaha’s Jake Johnson.

AFT Daytona TT Briar Bauman AXI
Briar Bauman – Image by Scott Hunter
Briar Bauman

“To hop out there in the front — it’s all about trying to put in a gap in the beginning. I’ve been training hard this offseason. I tried to throw down as much as I could and get a little bit of a gap and maintain the rest of the race.”

AFT Daytona TT Bryan Smith AXI
Bryan Smith – Image by Scott Hunter

Bauman’s triumph also brings defending champion Jared Mees’ Daytona TT win streak to a halt at two after Mees retired with a mechanical issue in the Main while running fifth.

AFT Twins – Main Event Daytona – 2019

  1. Briar Bauman
  2. Henry Wiles +5.149
  3. Jake Johnson +16.037
  4. Jarod Vanderkooi +19.248
  5. Bronson Bauman +22.314
  6. Kayl Kolkman +1 Lap
  7. Robert Pearson +0.517
  8. Brandon Robinson +2.161
  9. Donald Mullen II +2.200
  10. Jeffrey Carver Jr. +6.174
AFT Daytona TT AFT Twins Podium ERV
2019 AFT Twins Round 1 Podium – 1) Briar Bauman, 2) Henry Wiles, 3) Jake Johnson – Image by Scott Hunter

AFT Twins Standings

  1. Briar Bauman 25 points
  2. Henry Wiles 20
  3. Jake Johnson 17
  4. Jarod Vanderkooi 15
  5. Bronson Bauman 14
  6. Kayl Kolkman 13
  7. Robert Pearson 12
  8. Brandon Robinson 11
  9. Donald Mullen II 10
  10. Jeffrey Carver Jr. 9
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Janisch Wins Daytona TT AFT Singles – Max Whale fifth

AFT Daytona TT Singles AXI
AFT Singles – Image by Scott Hunter

At the Daytona TT Yamaha’s Jesse Janisch battled hard all day and in particular the AFT Singles main event to take the win ahead of Dalton Gauthier (KTM), Dan Bromley (KTM), Mikey Rush (Honda) and Max Whale (Kawasaki).

Jesse Janisch

“To start off Daytona with a victory… it’s amazing. Last year, we left here with a second, and that was a great way to start off the season. Just putting in all the work over the course of the winter and leaving here with a win is amazing. The Roof Systems team has really made a home for me. We’ve really built a great program.”

AFT Daytona TT Jesse Janisch AXI
Jesse Janisch – Image by Scott Hunter

After earning last year’s crown on the strength of 13 podiums in 18 races, Bromley began his title defence with a solid third-place result while neither Shayna Texter (KTM) nor Jeff Ward (Honda) qualified for the night program. Former ISDE winner Ryan Sipes (KTM) made the program and rounded out the top 10 in the Singles final after competing in the Daytona Supercross and the GNCC during the previous weekend.

AFT Daytona TT Singles Podium ERV
Daytona TT Singles Podium – – Image by Scott Hunter

American Flat Track will be back in action for round two of the 2019 season in just over a week’s time as the series travels to Dixie Speedway in Woodstock, Ga., for the Atlanta Short Track presented by Cycle Gear on Saturday, March 23.

AFT Daytona TT Jesse Janisch AXI
Jesse Janisch – Image by Scott Hunter

AFT Singles – Main Event Daytona – 2019

  1. Jesse Janisch
  2. Dalton Gauthier +2.577
  3. Dan Bromley +4.665
  4. Mikey Rush +5.179
  5. Max Whale +6.320
  6. Ferran Cardus +7.112
  7. Jacob Lehmann +9.342
  8. Jake Lewis +9.833
  9. Oliver Brindley +10.526
  10. Ryan Sipes +11.022

AFT Singles Standings

  1. Jesse Janisch 25 points
  2. Dalton Gauthier 20
  3. Dan Bromley 17
  4. Mikey Rush 15
  5. Max Whale 14
  6. Ferran Cardus 13
  7. Jacob Lehmann 12
  8. Jake Lewis 11
  9. Oliver Brindley 10
  10. Ryan Sipes 9

Ferris Replaces Febvre in MXGP

Dean Ferris is arguably the fastest Aussie on the planet right now and on the back of a text to the team manager the multiple Australian champ will join Yamaha Motor Europe into the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team as a temporary replacement for the injured Romain Febvre.

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Dean Ferris
Dean Ferris joins the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team to replace Febvre temporarily

After a crash during the second moto at the opening round of the World MX Champs a few weeks ago in Argentina, Febvre underwent a successful operation on Wednesday March 13 at the University Antwerp Hospital (UZA) and it is expected to take six-weeks to heal. Therefore Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP has called upon Ferris to fill the Frenchman’s seat for the next three rounds of the MXGP World Championship.

The next three World Motocross Championship rounds are back-to-back so Ferris will make his 2019 MXGP debut this weekend at Matterley Basin, England before heading to round three in Valkenswaard, The Netherlands, and round four in Pietramurata, Italy.

Dean Ferris

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity. I know the next GP is close but we still have a few days to get comfortable with the bike. I have ridden these three tracks before so I will be pulling on my experience a lot. It’s great that I can stay with Yamaha as I’ve had a great experience with them in the past few years. It’s a bummer that Romain got hurt, we never want to see that but it can happen. I will be trying my very best for these GP’s and I look forward to the experience and opportunity.”

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Ryan Brothers Shine at Canberra Long Track

Connor and Harrison Ryan have dominated the annual Stay Upright Kings and Queens of Canberra two-day long track meeting last weekend.

Since entering the senior ranks Connor Ryan has not had a problem qualifying for finals, but his victory in the Pro 450 final in Canberra ranks as his biggest success to date.

Connor took the lead early in the 6-lap final and the classy line-up could make no impact on his advantage, with David Smith, Thomas Herrick, Michael Vecchi, Jesse Davies and Kale Galeano chasing him home.

Kings and Queens Day
2019 Stay Upright Kings and Queens of Canberra

Earlier in the Pro Open final the same six riders finished in the top half of the field with Herrick an impressive winner ahead of Vecchi, Smith, Galeano, Davies and Ryan.

The Pro 250 class as usual produced a close tussle on points over the five rounds with Jake Farnsworth outpointing Victorian Bradley Burns and Kye Andrews.

Albury rider Jesse Davies scored a double with victory in the Slider class, after having won the exciting IDH Projects Senior Shoot-out on the Saturday afternoon.

The Canberra Motorcycle Centre Junior Shoot-out started the run of success for 15 year old Harrison Ryan who later went on to win the 2-stroke and Lites classes as well as the Feature Race. Harrison had to overcome some good starts by Victorian Max Berry with Callan Butcher always finishing in third place.

Brothers Kai and Lync Frame dominated the Dirt Track Sidecars while Lawrence Fairey was the stand-out in the racing from the old riders and old bikes.

Besides Harrison Ryan in the juniors there were good displays from Hayden Nelson from Taree, Hugh Hope-Hodgetts from Forbes, Kurtis Jackson and Alexander Codey from Sydney.

Courtney Duncan joins Bike It DRT Kawasaki for WMX

New Zealander Courtney Duncan joins the Bike It DRT Kawasaki team to compete in the FIM Women’s World Motocross Championship which kicks off at Valkenswaard in The Netherlands later this month.

With two world titles and a further three medals in the Women’s World Championship, Kawasaki is proud to announce that talented New Zealander Courtney Duncan joins the Green family this season to compete in the high-profile five-round series.

AFT Daytona TT Courtney Duncan joins Kawasaki
Courtney Duncan joins Bike It DRT Kawasaki for WMX

The fast twenty-three-year-old young lady has been a major protagonist in the series since her debut three years ago, claiming an amazing seven GP victories and fourteen heat wins from just fifteen starts within that short space of time. Twice she was denied the world title through injury and lost the title by just two points on the other occasion.

More determined than ever to finally achieve her goal Courtney has made the conscious decision to join the highly-experienced British Kawasaki squad run by Steve Dixon to race a KX250 alongside male teammates Darian Sanayei from the USA and Brazilian Gustavo Pessoa in a truly international squad. Apart from the GPs Courtney, currently in Europe to prepare for the GP season, will also race in her native country with the support of Kawasaki New Zealand.

Courtney Duncan

“I’m stoked to announce my signing with the Bike It DRT Kawasaki race team. They’ve given me an awesome opportunity and I’m very motivated to put them on top in 2019. A fresh start is what I needed and I couldn’t be more excited than to do that with Kawasaki. Kawasaki New Zealand have also come on board to support me at home, for which I am also very thankful.”

Steve Dixon, DRT team owner

“It’s ten years since our team was involved in the Women’s World Championship with Tarah Gieger, when she even helped Puerto Rico to qualify for the Motocross of Nations, but we have always maintained a keen interest in the series. It was actually a friend who mentioned to me that Courtney was looking around for a competitive ride in this year’s GPs; it took some thinking about but Kawasaki were keen, especially since their previous champion Livia Lancelot retired. I confidently expect Courtney to bring Kawasaki the world title.”

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Source: MCNews.com.au

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Moto News Wrap for March 12, 2019 by Darren Smart

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The LATEST News

  • Kawasaki tames ‘The Beast’ at Daytona
  • Bollinger Draws First Blood at GNCC
  • Cooper and Harwood Win NZ MX Champs
  • Snodgrass, Milner and Sanders Win Toowoomba AORC
  • Simpson Wins Opening Round of British MX Champs
  • Toni Bou Wraps Up 2019 X-Trial Championship
  • Major Sponsors Announced for MX Nationals
  • Honda Switches to Bridgestone Tyres
  • Kings and Queens of Canberra This Weekend
  • Honda ‘Ride Red’ Program continues in 2019

Kawasaki Tames ‘The Beast’ at Daytona

The famous Daytona Speedway hosted the tenth round of the AMA Supercross Championships last weekend and it was as good a night as it can get for Kawasaki with Eli Tomac earning an important win in the 450 class while Austin Forkner kept his championship win streak alive in the 250 East class.

AMA SX Rnd Starts JK SX Daytona
Daytona AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 10 – Image by Hoppenworld

You can find the full report here:
Tomac & Forkner give Kawasaki the sweep at Daytona SX (link)

The Ricky Carmichael designed layout was nicknamed ‘the beast’ as it had a bit of everything thrown in with a very technical ‘1000 feet’ rhythm lane, two sand sections, a wall jump and a series of off-set small whoops called ‘moguls’.

AMA SX Rnd Pits JK SX Daytona
Daytona AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 10 – Image by Hoppenworld

Despite the deteriorating track conditions Tomac looked untroubled as he went on to win for the third time this season while Webb showed his intestinal fortitude to finish second despite looking far from comfortable in the early laps and once again it was Musquin rounding out the podium in third, this time ahead of Baggett, Joey Savatgy, Zach Osborne, Justin Hill, Roczen, Justin Brayton, Reed, Dean Wilson and Shane McElrath who rode his KTM250SX-F at Daytona.

Eli Tomac

“Earlier in the day Marvin had a lap time that was two and a half seconds faster than me so I was questioning myself so we were playing catch up but then we made some improvements through practice and even in the main, it took some time to get into the groove and I got shuffled back to third but I finally found my lines, was making good time in the whoops and to get this third win at Daytona is pretty special.”

AMA SX Rnd Tomac JK SX Daytona
Daytona AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 10 – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Main Event Results

  1. Eli Tomac
  2. Cooper Webb
  3. Marvin Musquin
  4. Blake Baggett
  5. Joey Savatgy
  6. Zach Osborne
  7. Justin Hill
  8. Ken Roczen
  9. Justin Brayton
  10. Chad Reed
  11. Dean Wilson
  12. Shane McElrath

450SX Points after 10 of 17 Rounds

  1. Cooper Webb – 222
  2. Eli Tomac – 203
  3. Marvin Musquin – 203
  4. Ken Roczen – 201
  5. Blake Baggett – 161
  6. Dean Wilson – 149
  7. Chad Reed – 137
  8. Justin Brayton – 127
  9. Joey Savatgy – 124
  10. Aaron Plessinger – 123

250 East Coast Report

Forkner and Sexton have been the fastest riders all day and it wasn’t long before they were 1-2 with Cooper in third and that is the way it stayed until the chequered flag while Mitchell Oldenburg, Alex Martin and Brandon Hartranft all made their way into the top six after poor starts.

AMA SX Rnd Forkner JK SX Daytona
Daytona AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 10 – Image by Hoppenworld
Austin Forkner

“The start helped and doing that big rhythm every lap, it was easy to miss-time it and the whoops were tough so the difference for me was to not make any mistakes, I made some small ones but there were only six turns in the track which weren’t a big deal, it was getting the ruts in the rhythm sections and the whoops which were tough.”

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Forkner JK SX Atlanta
Daytona AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 10 – Image by Hoppenworld

250 East Coast Main Event Results

  1. Austin Forkner
  2. Chase Sexton
  3. Justin Cooper
  4. Mitchell Oldenburg
  5. Alex Martin
  6. Brandon Hartranft
  7. Kyle Peters
  8. Joshua Osby
  9. Kyle Cunningham
  10. Martin Davalos
AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX Daytona
250SX Podium – Daytona AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 10 – Image by Hoppenworld

250 East Coast Points after 6 of 9 Rounds

  1. Austin Forkner – 125
  2. Justin Cooper  – 102
  3. Chase Sexton – 102
  4. Alex Martin – 78
  5. Martin Davalos – 71
  6. Brandon Hartranft – 71
  7. Jordon Smith – 70
  8. Mitchell Oldenburg – 69
  9. Kyle Cunningham – 65
  10. Kyle Peters – 62
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Bollinger Draws First Blood at Wildboar GNCC

The deep sand of Palatka, Florida hosted the opening round of the GNCC and it was Steward Baylor Jnr who managed to earn the outright win against his KTM teammate and defending champion Kailub Russell while Josh Strang earned a solid seventh outright and sixth in the XC1 class in his debut for the Kawasaki team.

GNCC Florida Rnd Steward Baylor Jr KH
Steward Baylor Jr – Image by Ken Hill

Ben Kelly scored fourth outright and first in the XC2 class ahead of rising stars Jonathan Girroir and Michael Witowski while Aussie girls Tayla Jones and Mackenzie Tricker were split on the WMX podium by the talented Becca Sheets and it was Jesse Ansley who won the 125cc XC3 class.

GNCC Florida Rnd Tayla Jones KH
Tayla Jones – Image by Ken Hill

The second round will be next weekend in Washington for ‘The General’ GNCC where the inaugural eMTB (Electric Mountain Bike) round will be included in the championship.

Overall Top 10 with Points

  1. Steward Baylor Jr – 30
  2. Kailub Russell – 25
  3. Thaddeus Duvall 3 – 21
  4. Benjamin Kelley – 18
  5. Trevor Bollinger – 16
  6. Joshua Toth – 15
  7. Josh Strang – 14
  8. Jonathan Girroir – 13
  9. Michael Witkowski – 12
  10. Andrew Delong – 11
GNCC Florida Rnd Steward Baylor KH
Steward Baylor Jr on the podium – Image by Ken Hill

XC2 250 Pro with Points

  1. Ben Kelley. 30
  2. Jonathan Girroir – 25
  3. Michael Witkowski – 21
  4. Evan Smith – 18
  5. Tegan R Temple – 16
  6. Ben Parsons – 15
  7. Jonathan T Johnson – 14
  8. Philippe Chaine – 13
  9. Alex Teagarden – 12
  10. Zack Hayes – 11

FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am with Points

  1. Jesse Ansley – 30
  2. Cody J Barnes – 25
  3. Jake H Froman – 21
  4. Michael Beeler Jr – 8
  5. Nate Smith – 16

WXC with Points

  1. Tayla Jones – 30
  2. Becca N Sheets – 25
  3. Mackenzie Tricker – 21
  4. Korie Steede – 18
  5. Brooke Cosner – 16
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Cooper and Harwood Polish Off NZ MX Champs

Taupo’s iconic Digger McEwen Park hosted the fourth and final round of the New Zealand Motocross Championships and it was veteran Cody Cooper who managed to win his seventh MX1 championship by just six points over defending champion Kirk Gibbs while ironman Hamish Harwood won the MX2 and MX125 championships.

Cooper came into the final round with a slender 3-point lead over Gibbs and he extended that to 6 after winning the opening moto but he then lost the second shortened moto to Gibbs before completely dominating the final race to earn the championship.

Cody Cooper

“It was hard, one of the hardest races I’ve ever done I think, it was kind of good that I got a bad start because I managed to find some good lines that I would not have seen. It was a blessing in disguise really.

Kirk Gibbs

“I wasn’t feeling well actually at the start of the day. I woke up last night feeling cold and hot and I had diarrhoea this morning. I felt like I wanted to be sick. I drank some sugary drinks and that seemed to help. The last race I got out front early but struggled with the track a bit. Cody rode really well and passed me. I made a big mistake and came off the track. I lost a lot of ground and he got away and ended up winning.”

NZ MX Champs Kirk Gibbs final round MX Champs Taupo
Kirk Gibbs

Kayne Lamont finished 3-8-3 after a crash in the red-flagged second race, giving him fourth overall for the weekend and third in the championship.

Kayne Lamont

“I was third in the championship, the same as last year, behind the same two riders – they just swapped places this season. I was a bit frustrated with my pre-season injury but I’m pleased to be healthy coming out of these three rounds. I’ve got a good base to work from for the winter and I’ll prepare better and hope to stay injury-free for next season.”

NZ MX Champs Kayne Lamont final round MX Champs Taupo
Kayne Lamont

There was a unique sound that rang out throughout the entire 12 motos that made up the four rounds of the MX1 championship and that was the screaming KTM250SX two-stroke of apprentice electrician Blake Gillard who ended the championship in a more than credible fifth outright.

MX1 – Total Points Round 3

  1. Cody Cooper – 72
  2. Kirk Gibbs – 69
  3. Cohen Chase – 56
  4. Kayne Lamont – 53
  5. Hadleigh Knight – 47
  6. Blake Gillard – 44
  7. Cam Negus – 40
  8. Sam Guise – 40
  9. Roydon White – 35
  10. Richard Horne – 29

2019 FOX NZ Motocross Championship – MX1

  1. Cody Cooper – 285
  2. Kirk Gibbs – 279
  3. Kayne Lamont – 233
  4. Cohen Chase – 186
  5. Blake Gillard – 166
  6. Brad Groombridge – 151
  7. Hadleigh Knight – 141
  8. Roydon White – 139
  9. Sam Guise – 130
  10. Jacob Steel – 129
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Hamish Harwood competed in 24 motos and won most of them to earn the MX2 and MX125 championships ahead of class fields and it even more impressive when you figure in the fact that Hamish is working full time as a house builder between each round.

Wyatt Chase and Max Purvis rounded out the podium in the MX2 class while it was 15-year-old Ben Broad who earned the runner up position in the MX125 class ahead of Joshua Bourke-Palmer.

Hamish Harwood

“This is the first time I’ve won two titles in one season, four in a row for MX2 and now a 125cc title too. I didn’t make it easy for myself in the MX2 class. I had a couple of bad starts, but I only finished outside of the top three on one occasion. I had good points lead at the start of racing at Taupo, so I wasn’t too concerned about winning every MX2 race today.”

MX2 – Total Points Round 3

  1. Wyatt Chase – 72
  2. Hamish Harwood – 67
  3. Mason Semmens – 56
  4. Ethan Martens – 49
  5. Morgan Fogarty – 44
  6. Kyle Hartley – 41
  7. Maximus Purvis – 40
  8. Broc Martens – 35
  9. Sam Cuthbertson – 33
  10. Shaun Fogarty – 32

2019 FOX NZ Motocross Championship – MX2

  1. Hamish Harwood – 265
  2. Wyatt Chase – 214
  3. Maximus Purvis – 203
    Morgan Fogarty – 177
  4. Brad Groombridge – 108
NZ MX Champs Maximus Purvis final round MX Champs Taupo
Maximus Purvis

MX 125 – Total Points Round 3

  1. Hamish Harwood – 75
  2. Benjamin Broad – 66
  3. Tommy Watts – 56
  4. Joshua Bourke-Palmer – 56
  5. Jack Dunlop – 46
  6. Cam Dillon – 44
  7. Ethan Waters – 43
  8. Zac Jillings – 39
  9. Joseph Andrell – 32
  10. Charlie Richardson – 25

2019 FOX NZ Motocross Championship – MX 125

  1. Hamish Harwood – 300
  2. Benjamin Broad – 234
  3. Joshua Bourke-Palmer – 221
  4. Tommy Watts – 215
  5. Jack Dunlop – 172

Snodgrass, Milner and Sanders Win Toowoomba AORC

The Queensland country town of Toowoomba hosted the opening two rounds of the AORC last weekend and it was an action packed weekend in dry and dusty condition but as you would expect the cream always rises to the top and it was Daniel Sanders, Daniel Milner, Lyndon Snodgrass and Luke Styke who managed victories in the major classes.

Sanders was three minutes ahead of Beau Ralston and Andrew Wilksch on the opening day and it was a similar margin back to Wilksch and Ralston on the second day – Jesse Lawton and Matt Murray rounded out the top five on both days.

Daniel Sanders

“I experienced some crashes this weekend but kept my body healthy to recover as quickly as I could. Coming out of this weekend I know how much harder I need to work on my fitness to close those gaps ahead of Dungog next month.”

AORC Rnd Toowoomba Daniel Sanders
Daniel Sanders – 2019 AORC Rounds 1-2

Yamaha AORC E3 Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Daniel Sanders 58:18.484
  2. Beau Ralston 1:02:19.321
  3. Andrew Wilksch 1:02:35.440
  4. Jesse Lawton 1:06:09.427
  5. Matt Murry 1:08:07.233
  6. Daniel Welsh 1:10:06.429
  7. Timothy Lonsdale 1:10:45.304

AORC E3 Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Daniel Sanders 37:27.786
  2. Andrew Wilksch 40:10.830
  3. Beau Ralston 40:31.481
  4. Jesse Lawton 41:47.381
  5. Matt Murry 43:37.824
  6. Daniel Welsh 45:26.922
  7. Daniel Middleton 45:49.855
  8. Timothy Lonsdale 46:42.994
  9. Jackson Caldwell 46:48.398
  10. Luke Morrison 48:28.428
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Milner clocked the fastest day outright both days but in the E2 class he won the opening day by well over two minutes from Joshua Green, Jeremy Carpentier, Broc Grabham and Brad Hardaker and that line-up was repeated on Sunday with Milner’s margin cut to just 90 seconds over Green.

Daniel Milner

“Yesterday I found myself struggling in navigating the track, keeping the ball rolling and knowing what gear to ride. It doesn’t matter how hard we test in the off season, conditions seen today really put you to the test, all in all it was an awesome weekend for me, and I’ve picked up where I left off from last year. Everyone on the field seems to be getting faster, and it really goes to show that us Aussie riders are putting it to the world.”

AORC Rnd Toowoomba Daniel Milner F
Daniel Milner – 2019 AORC Rounds 1-2

Yamaha AORC E2 Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Daniel Milner 58:12.545
  2. Joshua Green 1:00:36.815
  3. Jeremy Carpentier 1:01:43.370
  4. Broc Grabham 1:05:06.627
  5. Brad Hardaker 1:05:19.209
  6. Kristian Sprenger 1:06:58.993
  7. Kaleb Treasure 1:07:18.907
  8. Brent Dean 1:08:08.480
  9. Jack Judge 1:08:24:042
  10. Wesley Keeley 1:08:35.773

AORC E2 Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Daniel Milner 37:04.789
  2. Joshua Green 38:33.191
  3. Jeremy Carpentier 39:03.107
  4. Broc Grabham 41:17.709
  5. Brad Hardaker 41:57.983
  6. Kristian Sprenger 42:34.533
  7. Kaleb Treasure 42:56.997
  8. Wesley Keeley 43:17.885
  9. Brent Dean 43:30.524
  10. Jack Judge 43:31.188

Defending champion Styke narrowly got the win on day one over Snodgrass, Michael Driscoll, Fraser Higlett and Matthew Phillips (digest that line-up for a second) but on Sunday Snodgrass got the win by just 4 seconds over Styke, Driscoll and Higlett – unfortunately Phillips retired with an injury.

Lyndon Snodgrass

“Round 2 featured a different track that was more technical than yesterday. Coming into today I made some small changes, studied the new track extensively during yesterday’s walk, and today ended up being a lot better!”

AORC Rnd Toowoomba Lyndon Snodgrass
Lyndon Snodgrass – 2019 AORC Rounds 1-2

Yamaha AORC E1 Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Luke Styke 1:00:11.804
  2. Lyndon Snodgrass 1:00:44.286
  3. Michael Driscoll 1:01:12.331
  4. Fraser Higlett 1:01:27.354
  5. Matthew Phillips 1:03:22.590
  6. Jonte Reynders 1:04:10.772
  7. Seton Broomhall 1:07:58.887
  8. Lachlan Allan 1:09:14.454
  9. Kye Malone 1:11:00.681
  10. Alexander Ruloff 1:12:36.447

AORC E1 Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Lyndon Snodgrass 38:03.337
  2. Luke Styke 38:07.726
  3. Michael Driscoll 38:48.957
  4. Fraser Higlett 39:09.410
  5. Jonte Reynders 40:35.042
  6. Seton Broomhall 43:43.988
  7. Lachlan Allan 44:30.347
  8. Joseph Cole 46:05.772
  9. Mackenzie Bowser 46:07.220
  10. Jarrad Vanderhor 46:15.756

Matthew Phiilip’s protégé Kyron Bacon lived up to expectations to win the EJ class while Jess Gardner (Womens), Kirk Hutton (Masters), Lee Stephens (Veterens), Adam Giles (2-Stroke Cup), Blake Hollis (J4), Riley McGillivray (J3) and Campbell Hall (J2) all won their respective classes.

AORC Rnd Toowoomba EJ Kyron Bacon
Kyron Bacon – 2019 AORC Rounds 1-2

Yamaha AORC EJ Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Kyron Bacon 1:03:47.489
  2. Joshua Brierley 1:04:06.772
  3. Harrison Teed 1:05:20.839
  4. William Price 1:06:57.405
  5. Korey McMahon 1:07:55.681
  6. Cooper Sheidow 1:08:00.325
  7. Matt Waters 1:09:45.791
  8. Riley Nancarrow 1:10:22.995
  9. Nathan Howe 1:11:08.932
  10. Jordan Ryan 1:11:24.177

AORC EJ Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Kyron Bacon 40:21.778
  2. Joshua Brierley 41:09.418
  3. Harrison Teed 41:53.032
  4. Korey McMahon 42:38.214
  5. William Price 43:05.254
  6. Cooper Sheidow 43:38.153
  7. Riley Nancarrow 44:00.211
  8. Nathan Howe 44:08.461
  9. Matthew Pye 44:31.791
  10. Matt Waters 44:32.447

AORC Women’s Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Jessica Gardiner 1:13:37.414
  2. Emelie Karlsson 1:15:26.672
  3. Ebony Nielsen 1:18:10.896
  4. Emma Milesevic 1:18:41.568
  5. Danielle Foot 1:21:02.977
  6. Zoe Boccari 1:35:23.828
  7. Charlotte Gamble 1:58:19.594
  8. Isabella Hood 2:11:14.505

AORC Women’s Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Jessica Gardiner 44:21.944
  2. Emma Milesevic 47:36.299
  3. Ebony Nielsen 48:16.332
  4. Danielle Foot 48:57.051
  5. Emelie Karlsson 49:28.960
  6. Zoe Boccari 56:57.933
AORC Rnd Toowoomba Womens Podium
Women’s Podium – 2019 AORC Rounds 1-2

AORC Masters Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Kirk Hutton 1:10:43.091
  2. Timothy Martin 1:15:21.955
  3. John Baker 1:17:56.029
  4. Ian Jenner 1:18:18.986
  5. Craig Treasure 1:18:20.476
  6. Peter Rudd 1:18:20.476
  7. Adam O’Connor 1:20:46.668
  8. Andrew Dennett 1:21:20.530
  9. Ian McGillivray 1:21:54.783
  10. Kenneth Hicks 1:22:29.499

AORC Masters Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Kirk Hutton 44:12.694
  2. Timothy Martin 45:34.107
  3. John Baker 47:36.194
  4. Ian Jenner 48:11.147
  5. Craig Treasure 48:30.065
  6. Peter Rudd 49:47.717
  7. Ian McGillivray 49:58.049
  8. Kenneth Hicks 50:19.411
  9. Andrew Dennett 50:29.575
  10. Zac Williams 50:40.066

AORC Veterans Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Lee Stephens 1:10:18.984
  2. Benjamin D’Arcy 1:12:16.018
  3. Matthew Keipert 1:12:23.882
  4. Christopher Thomas 1:12:57.099
  5. Jason Pearce 1:15:20.680
  6. Daniel Sawtell 1:16:22.776
  7. Paul Chadwick 1:17:00.579
  8. Luke Ablitt 1:20:20.680
  9. Phillip Chillemi 1:21:57.526
  10. Phil Newman 1:22:35.185
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AORC Veterans Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Lee Stephens 43:19.237
  2. Matthew Keipert 43:43.326
  3. Christopher Thomas 44:30.010
  4. Benjamin D’Arcy 45:30.266
  5. Jason Pearce 45:55.472
  6. Daniel Sawtell 47:39.455
  7. Paul Chadwick 47:40.939
  8. Luke Ablitt 48:41.890
  9. Phil Newman 51:19.834
  10. Daniel Wall 51:54.248

AORC 2 Stroke Cup Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Adam Giles 1:10:52.544
  2. John Isherwood 1:15:40.846
  3. Todd Charlick 1:18:53.919
  4. Luke Francis 1:23:35.349

AORC 2 Stroke Cup Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Adam Giles 42:25.605
  2. John Isherwood 46:53.488
  3. Todd Charlick 48:56.977
  4. Luke Francis 50:56.691

AORC J4 Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Blake Hollis 53:02.256
  2. Mackenzie Johnson 54:32.036
  3. Zac Perry 55:33.284
  4. Oscar Collins 55:58.836
  5. Charlie Milton 56:14.068
  6. Hayden Campbell 59:00.487
  7. Cody Chittick 59:22.145
  8. Kobe Conley 59.25.085
  9. Jay Simister 59:43.729
  10. Lochie Stafford 1:01:05.230

AORC J4 Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Blake Hollis 40:11.651
  2. Mackenzie Johnson 41:29.590
  3. Oscar Collins 41:58.118
  4. Charlie Milton 42:04.277
  5. Cody Chittick 42:08.592
  6. Zac Perry 42:23.625
  7. Kobe Conley 43:30.128
  8. Jay Simister 45:34.060
  9. Hayden Campbell 45:51.944
  10. Clay Parsons 46:42.581

AORC J3 Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Campbell O’Donnell 55:19.273
  2. Riley McGillivray 55:25.586
  3. Kodi Stephens 56:49.768
  4. William Dennett 57:20.674
  5. Tom Park 58:08.907
  6. Jack Bithell 58:58.440
  7. Maxwell Liebekner 59:11.116
  8. William Cooper 1:00:41.351
  9. Kelly Woolston 1:00:53.803
  10. Jake Hayes 1:02:32.856

AORC J3 Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Riley McGillivray 40:57.774
  2. Campbell O’Donnell 41:25.296
  3. William Dennett 43:17.461
  4. Kodi Stephens 43:18.250
  5. Jack Bithell 44:11.868
  6. Maxwell Liebeknech 44:24.802
  7. Kelly Woolston 46:47.542
  8. Jethro Carriage 46:57.343
  9. William Cooper 47:03.253
  10. Jake Hayes 47:12.359
AORC Rnd Toowoomba J Podium Overall
J3 Podium – 2019 AORC Rounds 1-2

AORC J2 Round 1 Provisional Results

  1. Billy Hargy 57:11.271
  2. Campbell Hall 57:27.053
  3. Jett Arnold 58:38.884
  4. Max Phillips 59:46.669
  5. Luke Chellas 1:04:36.666
  6. Kyle Sandstrom 1:05:49.553
  7. Jack Shearer 1:06:02.664
  8. William Vella 1:06:18.928
  9. Jack Hendrickson 1:07:35.950
  10. Eli Tripcony 1:08:33.760

AORC J2 Round 2 Provisional Results

  1. Jett Arnold 43:59.560
  2. Campbell Hall 44:40.490
  3. Max Phillips 45:00.793
  4. Kyle Sandstrom 47:43.948
  5. Luke Chellas 48:30.285
  6. Jack Shearer 48:55.449
  7. Thomas Vance 50:08.795
  8. Jack Hendrickson 51:34.044
  9. Max Mensforth 52:32.781
  10. Jet Brien 54:46.064

Simpson Wins Opening Round of British MX Champs

Shaun Simpson has put together a 1-2 result to win the opening round of the British MX1 championships ahead of Tommy Searle who was second overall with 3-1 results and third was Lewis Tombs with 5-4 results.

MX1 Moto One

  1. Shaun Simpson 31:07.023
  2. Harri Kullas 31:49.581
  3. Tommy Searle 32:36.734
  4. Mel Pocock 32:45.749
  5. Lewis Tombs 33:02.766

MX1 Moto Two

  1. Tommy Searle 32:15.581
  2. Shaun Simpson 32:38.463
  3. Jake Millward 32:57.623
  4. Lewis Tombs 33:04.516
  5. Ryan Houghton 33:06.107

MX1 Overall

  1. Shaun Simpson – 47
  2. Tommy Searle – 45
  3. Lewis Tombs – 34
  4. Jake Millward – 29
  5. Ryan Houghton – 27
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Toni Bou Wraps Up 2019 X-Trial Championship

Marseille, France has hosted the penultimate round of the 2019 FIM X-Trial World Championship and as expected Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou won his 13th X-Trial title to incredibly take his world championship tally to 25.

X Trial Rnd Toni Bou
Toni Bou

Bou´s direct rival for victory in Marseille was Gas Gas’ Jeroni Fajardo, who progressed from Heat One in sensational fashion by countback after he and TRRS’ Adam Raga were tied. But Fajardo was unable to complete any of the demanding Grand Final sections, and Bou already had victory on the night sewn up with a clean Section Five – his third completed section of the lap.

Toni Bou

“It´s been as demanding as it has enjoyable. This was my first chance to claim the Championship and I took it, even though it wasn´t easy. The sections meant we had to give our absolute best, and that meant the spectators enjoyed the show. But I was keen to claim the title here and avoid being under pressure in X-Trial Andorra, where there were will already be enough expectation as it is my home race. Now I know that we will be there to celebrate, and I hope to win in front of my fans to finish the season. This thirteenth title has been more complicated than some of the others, since my rivals have really pushed hard all season and I have never been able to relax. But I have gradually been improving and tonight has been the culmination of my hard work.”

X Trial Rnd Toni Bou
Toni Bou

Adam Raga, meanwhile, saw his fading Championship hopes extinguished for another year against Bou´s dominance.

Adam Raga

“It was a tough X-Trial right from the start, and I didn´t manage the time very well on the second lap, so ended up short on time and out of the Final. The atmosphere was incredible and the public really pushed us with their encouragement.”

X Trial Rnd Toni Bou
Toni Bou tops the X-Trials podium

The next date on the X-Trial calendar will see another Champion declared as the riders head on to Vendée for the X-Trial of Nations on 13th April.

Major Sponsors Announced for MX Nationals

Williams Event Management (WEM), promoters of the MX Nationals, have announced that on the back of an ongoing relationship with LINK International, Pirelli has the naming rights to the MX2 class while Motul will be the MXD title sponsor along with brands including Polisports and RK Chains.

mx nationals coolum rnd saturday start ImageScottya
MX Nationals – Image by Scottya

GAS Imports via their leading product THOR will be the MX1 title sponsor as well as round six and eight presenting partners, GAS will also be represented by other key products including Neken, EBC Brakes, Akrapovic throughout the series.

Kevin Williams – Series Director

“As I approach my 23rd year of running the Australian MX Nationals, I’m very excited to announce the continued support of LINK International as well as GAS Imports, these brands play an integral part in the motocross industry and it’s great to have their support for the 2019 championship.”

In other MX Nationals news, Yamaha Motor Australia have again renewed their partnership within the national motocross scene, their continued support and commitment to the Pirelli MX Nationals insures a strong 2019 series ahead.

Series promoter Kevin Williams also expressed his thoughts on the long and ongoing partnership with Yamaha Motor Australia.

Kevin Williams

“Yamaha have been an integral part of the motocross landscape for as long as i can remember. The on going support for not only the series but teams and privateers alike, along with the innovative bLU cRU experience engaging and capturing the future talents of the sport. They are a brand I’m proud to be partnered with.”

National Sales and Marketing Manager Matthew Ferry, explained the importance of the long partnership they have with the MX Nationals.

Matthew Ferry

“We have been a long time partner of the MX Nationals. The series provides for a large variety of motocross talent from the professionals all the way down to the bLU cRU 65 cup riders. The series helps create the dreams and aspirations for the up and coming riders and stars.”

The opening round of the 2019 season takes place next weekend (March 17th) at Appin Raceway on the outskirts of Sydney, NSW.

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Honda Switches to Bridgestone Tyres

With the full support of their lead rider Brett Metcalfe, Honda’s factory off road/motocross racing team in Australia have partnered with Bridgestone Tyres for the 2019 Australian MX Nationals and Supercross Championships.

Lincoln McFayden – Executive General Manager of McLeod Accessories

“McLeod’s are committed to providing race ready Bridgestone tyres to customers. The new range of Battlecross tyres are the race level spec ‘Made in Japan’ tyres that Bridgestone now sell to the general public as well. This is so important to us, to be able to sell the exact products we race, right here in Australia; it’s something not all tyre manufacturers can claim, it’s the Bridgestone advantage that’s for sure.”

After finishing the year out with a solid 2nd overall in the Australian Supercross Championship, Brett Metcalfe was eager to get some solid testing under his belt before making any changes to his set up.

Brett Metcalfe

“At this level we are always working on ways to improve ourselves and the bike. I have raced with Bridgestone before and I know what they are capable of. We needed to be sure we would stay at that level and I believe we will be at an advantage on many tracks with the new tyres. The predictable drive in certain conditions was incredible. Bridgestone has such a good variety with 4 different terrain options and we will be able to take advantage of them as conditions change throughout the day when racing.”

Honda Brett Metcalfe Bridgestone tyres Australian MX Nationals

Metcalfe and the team have made it clear they want to come into the new season with the same competitive momentum they finished with in 2018.

Round 1 of the MX Nationals will be held on 17th March in Appin, NSW.

Kings and Queens of Canberra This Weekend

Fairbairn Park will host the annual Stay Upright Kings & Queens of Canberra dirt track meeting this coming weekend Both the Pro Open and Pro 450 classes have attracted the biggest entry which will necessitate three heats of racing in each round.

Abrum and Bailey Richards lead the locals in those classes taking on a blend of experienced campaigners and some more recent recruits in to the senior ranks.

Victorian Bradley Burns always rides the Canberra track well, and he leads the experienced brigade along with South Coast rider Kale Galeano, former Canberra rider Michael Vecchi, consistent Sydneysider Nathan Smith and Edward Grabham from Forbes.

Racing this weekend will showcase the likes of former Australian Junior champion Kye Andrews from Taree, Melbourne rider Bryce Holmes, Tom Herrick from Temora, Connor Ryan and Jake Farnsworth from the Central Coast.

Albury rider Jesse Davies and South Coast Jake Schneiders will contest the Pro Open class as well as clashing in the small line-up of slider machines.

ACT riders are prominent among the entries for the older age brackets (over 35s and 45s) and the Pre 1985 machines which invariably provide plenty of close racing amid invariably great spirit shown by the competitors. Dirt Track Sidecars are also programmed with entries drawn by various NSW country clubs.

Junior racing continues to impress with all the age divisions produce exciting racing from riders who quickly establish themselves as polished performers.

Taree rider Hayden Nelson has an Australian Junior Dirt Track Championship to his credit and his most recent outing showed his versatility as he contested the Australian Junior Championship round for road racing and supermoto.

The oldest junior class (for 13 to Under 16s) is always a feature with Melbourne rider Max Berry likely to be battling for honours with Central Coast rider Harrison Ryan, Callan Butcher from Temora and Jack Joel from Gunnedah.

Saturday sees practice at 9am followed by the first round of competition, while on Sunday it will be straight in to racing at 9am.

While the finals of all classes of racing will wrap up the meeting on Sunday, an additional feature has been added to the Saturday afternoon schedule when fans will see two Shoot-Outs when senior and junior riders will compete in a series of one-on-one battles to find the winners.

The Fairbairn Park track is situated on Pialligo Avenue, Majura and best of all spectator entry is free.

Honda ‘Ride Red’ Program continues in 2019

In 2018, Honda Racing in Australia launched a new off road racing program, geared around supporting privateer riders working towards a factory seat and becoming future Motocross and Supercross stars.

Lachie Davis

This year, Honda have extended the program to incorporate three new female riders in a bid to support more of Australia’s up and coming talent in all areas of off road racing.

Emma Milesevic, Tanesha Harnet and Alysha Goullet will spearhead Honda’s female Ride Red campaign, with hopes to inspire other sportswomen to chase their respective dreams.

Glyn Griffiths – Honda’s Brand and Motorsport Manager

“Over 1000 females compete across all disciplines of motorcycle racing each year and when these three talented riders contacted Honda for support we were thrilled to provide them with a RIDE RED contract. Tanesha Harnett is no stranger to the Honda family, having raced as a very successful rider in Honda’s Junior program with Lee Hogan. Supporting female talent is something we are proud of and to offer a pathway for Tanesha to continue to grow her moto career was really important to us, along with the inclusion of 2 other talented riders, it’s going to be a great season.”

Tanesha Harnett will race in the MXD of the MX Nationals and the Women’s Nationals as well as her State Championship.

Tanesha Harnett

“Honda supported me through juniors and their loyalty towards me as I head into seniors is sincerely appreciated. This program is fantastic and to be given the chance to continue my career with Honda is awesome. I look forward to another year of competition and learning.”

Emma Milesevic will race selected Australian Off Road Championship events, including Hattah and the Women’s Nationals.

Emma Milesevic

“Wow, this is an amazing opportunity. I have raced around the world and to come home and get an opportunity like this is a dream come true. My Auntie raced Honda and won many women’s motocross titles and I hope to do the same and make my family, Honda and our sponsors proud.”

Emma Milesevic Catherine Owen Photography
Emma Milesevic

Alysha Goullett will race in selected MXD races, the Women’s Nationals and her respective State Championship.

Alysha Goullett

“This is my first real sponsorship and I won’t take it for granted. Sometimes all we need is some encouragement and I will do my best to represent everyone and show all of the girls out there that all you need to do is try and not to give up on your goals.”

Honda’s Ride Red program was developed to encourage senior competition participation by providing support to privateers. Penrite Honda Racing’s team owner Yarrive Konsky worked with Honda to get the program up and running.

Yarrive Konsky

“Growing up racing was difficult. The hardest part, aside from the expense was getting the right information. I didn’t know how to train, eat or set my bike up effectively. RIDE RED provides riders with what they need. Not all riders use our factory suspension and engine providers, but they can. They can also talk to our factory riders and capitalise on their wealth of experience. We have an open door policy.”

Honda Genuine will continue to be the Ride Red team’s title sponsor and the entire 2019 Honda Genuine Ride Red includes:

  • Emma Milesevic – CRF250R – MXD, Women’s Nationals and selected Off Road Events
  • Tanesha Harnett – CRF250R – MXD and Women’s Nationals
  • Alysha Goullet – CRF250R – MXD and Women’s Nationals
  • Lachie Davis – CRF450R – MX1 and SX1
  • Joel Wightman – CRF450R – MX1 and SX1
  • Izak Maule – CRF450R – MX1 and SX1
  • Caleb Goullet – CRF250R – MXD and SX2
  • Jai Constantinou – CRF250R – MX2 and SX2

For more information on Honda’s MX range, visit: https://motorcycles.honda.com.au/Off_Road_Competition (link)

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Source: MCNews.com.au

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Moto News Wrap
March 5, 2019 – By Darren Smart

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Moto News Latest

  • Webb and Cianciarulo storm Atlanta AMA SX
  • Cairoli and Prado take first blood at Argentina MXGP
  • Evans creates history at Argentina
  • Barcia concussed – misses Atlanta
  • Holcombe kicks off 2019 with win in Italy
  • Price to be honoured at Aussie F1 GP
  • Dacka ready for season 2019
  • The stars of the AORC hit Toowoomba this Weekend
  • Mentoring role brings Matthew Phillips to AORC
  • Cosford wins Coolum 2-Stroke Cup
  • 2020 Aussie Speedway Solo Champs calendar announced
  • 2020 & 2021 Australian Junior and Senior Speedway Sidecar calendar

Webb and Cianciarulo storm Atlanta AMA SX

Atlanta, Georgia hosted the ninth round of the AMA Supercross Championships last weekend and it was an all KTM podium in the 450 class with championship leader Cooper Webb taking the win over Blake Baggett and Marvin Musquin while it was Adam Cianciarulo who won the first of the 250 East/West Shootouts ahead of Dylan Ferrandis and Austin Forkner.

See the full report here:
KTM 1-2-3 in Atlanta as Webb takes fifth victory of season (link)

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Webb Roczen Tomac Multiple JK SX Atlanta
2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld

Unfortunately, Chad stalled his Suzuki late in the race to drop back to a disappointing 13th place but the Aussie still sits seventh in the championship, two spots ahead of Justin Barcia who was forced to sit out the event thanks to suffering a concussion after crashing during the week.

Cooper Webb

“Yeh, it was tough, the track was changing a lot but I knew where I was good but there were also places where Marv would catch me, I knew where he was catching me but I didn’t know what line he was using, it is hard when you are leading so I just hit my marks and they weren’t working as good as I would have liked so I started changing things up, made a few mistakes in front of Blake who I knew would be good through the whoops but towards the end I found some lines so another win, that was sweet.”

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Webb JK SX Atlanta
Cooper Webb – 2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld

Blake Baggett

“It was really hard to pass, you could make a run on someone but to get by was another thing, Marv and Cooper were making runs at each other, I could see it going on in front of me then I got into second and could do the same but when they have that horseshoe sand section over the tunnel I will hands down voice my opinion that I am not for it, it is supercross with steep obstacles and no sand.”

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Baggett JK SX Atlanta
Blake Baggett – 2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld
Marvin Musquin

“It was tough being the chaser tonight, you had to follow through the sand section and same with the whoops, I didn’t want to chance going to the right, it was a really tough track, I missed the main line in the sand and Blake got me and I would gain some ground then lose some ground, it was tough.”

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Musquin JK SX Atlanta
Marvin Musquin – 2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Main Event Results

  1. Cooper Webb
  2. Blake Baggett
  3. Marvin Musquin
  4. Ken Roczen
  5. Aaron Plessinger
    …13. Chad Reed

    AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Webb Baggett Musquin Podium JK SX Atlanta

    450SX Main Event Results
    Cooper Webb
    Blake Baggett
    Marvin Musquin

 450SX Points after 9 of 17 Rounds

  1. Cooper Webb – 199
  2. Ken Roczen – 186
  3. Marvin Musquin – 182
  4. Eli Tomac – 177
  5. Blake Baggett – 142
  6. Dean Wilson – 137
  7. Chad Reed – 124

250 East-West Shootout Report

There was no catching Cianciarulo with the East Coast championship leader taking the win by four second over Ferrandis who dropped Forkner by seven seconds while Sexton, Cooper, McElrath, Nichols, Martin Davalos, Michael Mosiman and Brandon Hartraft rounded out the top ten.

Adam Cianciarulo

“After the start I stayed patient behind Chase, made the move to second behind Austin and obviously didn’t want to do anything stupid which came to mind but I had a good race, mistake free and learned a lot throughout the day.”

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Cianciarulo JK SX Atlanta
Adam Cianciarulo – 2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld

250SX East/West Shootout Results

  1. Adam Cianciarulo
  2. Dylan Ferrandis
  3. Austin Forkner
  4. Chase Sexton
  5. Justin Cooper
  6. Shane McElrath
  7. Colt Nichols
  8. Martin Davalos
  9. Michael Mosiman
  10. Brandon Hartranft

250 East Coast Report

For the current top three riders in the East Coast series the shootout did them no harm with Forkner’s third place earning him a handy 18-point margin back to Cooper, who in turn has a two-point buffer back to Sexton.

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Forkner Sexton JK SX Atlanta
Austin Forkner – 2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld

250 East Coast Points after 4 of 9 Rounds

  1. Austin Forkner – 99
  2. Justin Cooper – 81
  3. Chase Sexton – 79
  4. Jordon Smith – 70
  5. Alex Martin – 60

West Coast Report

The shootout couldn’t have gone better for Cianciarulo who now holds a 15-point lead over Ferrandis who moved into second in the championship by two points over McElrath, who in turn has a three-point lead over Nichols.

AMA SX Rnd Atlanta Ferrandis JK SX Atlanta
Dylan Ferrandis – 2019 AMA SX Round 9 Atlanta – Image by Hoppenworld

250 West Coast Points after 6 of 10 Rounds

  1. Adam Cianciarulo – 140
  2. Dylan Ferrandis – 125
  3. Shane McElrath – 123
  4. Colt Nichols – 120
  5. RJ Hampshire – 86
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Cairoli and Prado take first blood at Argentina MXGP

The MXGP of Patagonia, Argentina hosted the opening round of the 2019 FIM Motocross World Championship and it was the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing duo of Antonio Cairoli and Jorge Prado who earned double moto victories in the MXGP and MX2 classes respectively.

MXGP Rnd Patagonia prado start qual
2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

MXGP Race Report

The only thing Cairoli failed at all weekend was his starts but the Italian managed to use all of his veteran savvy to squeeze his way to the lead before the end of the opening lap in moto 1 but it took 6 laps in the second moto to move into the lead.

While defending champion Jeffrey Herlings is on the sidelines with injury Cairoli is under no illusion as to how important these points are and he was doggedly determined to walk away with maximum points in Argentina.

Antonio Cairoli

“I am happy overall today because after yesterday I wasn’t sure how I will do off the starts. The rhythm was high in the beginning but I was just trying to see where I could gain some time. I managed to have 2 good starts, both were in the top ten…I found some good lines and I had a good race taking the overall which makes me really happy. There are a lot of Argentinian fans who cheer for me all year on social media so it is nice to give them a win especially on this track which I have never had the chance to win at, I was close last year but it is always nice to race where people don’t see us often and make them happy.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia antonio cairoli on the finish line
Antonio Cairoli – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

Honda’s Tim Gajser took a hit after crashing on Saturday and was on the sore side on race day but he came through from a poor start in moto one to end the race in second, just 6 seconds back from a cruising Cairoli but in the second moto Tim was right there all race and was just 2 seconds back at the chequered flag – the former champ is showing form that will see him win races in 2019 – Herlings or no Herlings.

Tim Gajser

“It was good, I am really happy, yesterday I had a big crash and today I was a bit sore. In the first race I had a solid start inside the top ten and had to work hard to come through the pack but I finished 2nd which was good. In the second race I was a bit tight and didn’t relax, then Febvre and Tony passed me. I tried to stay with them to see where I was losing time then I passed Romain and with Tony we were about the same times, I tried to push but couldn’t get closer. It was a nice race and I’m looking forward to the next round already.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia Gajser shotbybavo
Tim Gajser – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

Romain Febvre scored third in the opening moto and was running a solid third in the second moto until a huge crash on lap 14 put the French Yamaha star out of the race and to rub salt into the wound former Yamaha rider Jeremy Van Horebeek put his Honda into third in the moto and third overall in his debut for his new team.

Jeremy Van Horebeek

“It is still unbelievable, until two weeks ago I didn’t know we would be here so it has been a crazy ride since last year. I am so thankful to this team for giving me the chance. I am thankful and I am going to keep on working to make this a great season.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia vanhorebeek action
Jeremy Van Horebeek – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

Veterans Clement Desalle and Gautier Paulin earned top five positions with Arminas Jasikonis, Tommy Searle. Shaun Simpson, Jeremy Seewer and Pauls Jonass rounding out the top ten while Romain Febvre ended up 12th, one position ahead of Max Anstie and several ahead of Glenn Coldenhoff who was on deck to score points while recovering from injury.

MXGP Round 1, 2019 – Race 1

  1. Cairoli, Antonio ITA KTM 34:41.270
  2. Gajser, Tim SLO Honda +0:06.253
  3. Febvre, Romain FRA Yamaha +0:09.838
  4. Desalle, Clement BEL Kawasaki +0:11.464
  5. Paulin, Gautier FRA Yamaha +0:02.566
  6. Van Horebeek, Jeremy BEL Honda +0:32.226
  7. Lieber, Julien BEL Kawasaki +0:39.435
  8. Jasikonis, Arminas LMSF Husqvarna +0:49.752
  9. Jonass, Pauls LAT Husqvarna +0:50.285
  10. Seewer, Jeremy SUI Yamaha +0:59.164

MXGP Round 1, 2019 – Race 2

  1. Cairoli, Antonio ITA KTM 34:56.475
  2. Gajser, Tim SLO Honda +0:02.386
  3. Van Horebeek, Jeremy BEL Honda +0:37.829
  4. Anstie, Max GBR KTM +0:42.332
  5. Paulin, Gautier FRA Yamaha +0:43.070
  6. Desalle, Clement BEL Kawasaki +0:47.509
  7. Searle, Tommy GBR Kawasaki +0:49.602
  8. Jasikonis, Arminas LTU Husqvarna +0:58.810
  9. Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM +1:01.941
  10. Tonus, Arnaud SUI Yamaha +1:03.513
MXGP Rnd Patagonia RA MXGP Podium
2019 MXGP Round 1 – Argentina – 1) Tony Cairoli, 2) Tim Gajser, 3) Jeremy Van Horebeek

MXGP Round 1, 2019 – Standings

  1. Cairoli, A. ITA KTM 50
  2. Gajser, Tim SLO HON 44
  3. Van Horebeek, J. BEL HON 35
  4. Desalle, C. BEL KAW 33
  5. Paulin, G. FRA YAM 32
  6. Jasikonis, A. LTU HUS 26
  7. Searle, Tommy GBR KAW 22
  8. Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 22
  9. Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 21
  10. Jonass, Pauls LAT HUS 21
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MX2 Race Report

The defending champ Prado was expected to be the man to beat in Argentina but the Spaniard led every lap to win the opening moto from Thomas Kjer Olsen, Henry Jacobi, Calvin Vlaanderen and Mitchell Evans before handing down the same punishment in the second moto to take the win from Kjer Olsen, Evans, Vlaanderen and Jacobi.

Jorge Prado

“It was great to be back at the GPs, it is a long season but I have so much fun. Yesterday I had a good day but today I woke up and felt even better. I had 2 good starts which is very important because everyone is going fast and it is hard to make a difference. I am very happy with two firsts, for first overall, and points lead so it is a good start to the season.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia jorge prado
Jorge Prado – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

Kjer Olsen and his Husqvarna were working a treat all weekend but his starts on Sunday saw the Dane playing catch up all day.

Thomas Kjer Olsen

“The first race I did slide on the gate…I felt like a came through the pack pretty good but once I got to second Prado was already like 12 seconds ahead so I tried to save some energy for the second race. Again not the greatest of starts but we will go back and work on those for sure to be more consistent. Overall I feel my riding was good and I felt good on the bike so I’m happy about that and it is a great feeling at the start of the season.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia olsen action
Thomas Kjer Olsen – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

Mitch Evans sat in seventh place for most of the opening moto before passing Ben Watson and Tom Vialle late in the race to earn fifth place but in the second moto Evans was right on leader Prado’s rear wheel until Kjer Olsen dropped the Aussie to third on lap 5 but Mitch pushed hard to end the moto in third, only 12 seconds behind Prado after 18 laps – impressive!

Mitch Evans

“I couldn’t be any happier, I didn’t really know what to expect being my first GP.  I enjoyed every moment of it, it was awesome being here, the fans were awesome so I really enjoyed it. I knew the work that we put in during the off season and the preseason races that we had if I got good starts I could run with these boys.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia Mitch Evans
Mitch Evans – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

Vlaanderen, Jacobi, Watson, Vialle, Jago Geerts, Adam Sterry and Davy Pootjes rounded out the top ten while New Zealand’s Dylan Walsh ended up in 15th overall, five spots ahead of Evans’ teammate Zach Pichon who would have been hoping for better than 20th overall.

Jed Beaton was unable to compete in Argentina thanks to picking up an injury just a week before the opening GP but the Aussie will definitely be at the second round in the UK in a few week’s time so two Aussies on the podium in the coming rounds is more than possible.

MX2 Round 1, 2019 – Race 1

  1. Prado, Jorge ESP RFME KTM 34:50.385
  2. Olsen, Thomas Kjer DEN DMU Husqvarna +0:16.677
  3. Jacobi, Henry GER DMSB Kawasaki +0:23.565
  4. Vlaanderen, Calvin NED KNMV Honda +0:25.535
  5. Evans, Mitchell AUS MA Honda +0:27.289
  6. Watson, Ben GBR ACU Yamaha +0:29.198
  7. Vialle, Tom FRA FFM KTM +0:37.127
  8. Sterry, Adam GBR ACU Kawasaki +0:39.496
  9. Mewse, Conrad GBR ACU KTM +0:41.631
  10. Pootjes, Davy NED KNMV Husqvarna +0:52.057
    …13 Walsh, Dylan NZL Husqvarna +1:07.458
MXGP Rnd Patagonia Mitch Evans
Mitch Evans – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

MX2 Round 1, 2019 – Race 2

  1. Prado, Jorge ESP RFME KTM 33:48.208
  2. Olsen, Thomas Kjer DEN DMU Husqvarna +0:04.825
  3. Evans, Mitchell AUS MA Honda +0:12.437
  4. Vlaanderen, Calvin NED KNMV Honda +0:23.647
  5. Jacobi, Henry GER DMSB Kawasaki +0:30.601
  6. Geerts, Jago BEL FMB Yamaha +0:31.623
  7. Watson, Ben GBR ACU Yamaha +0:34.405
  8. Vialle, Tom FRA FFM KTM +0:46.909
  9. Sterry, Adam GBR ACU Kawasaki +0:51.470
  10. Pootjes, Davy NED KNMV Husqvarna +0:53.754
    …18. Walsh, Dylan NZL Husqvarna +1:26.232
MXGP Rnd Patagonia evans action
Mitch Evans – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

MX2 Round 1, 2019 – Standings

  1. Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 50
  2. Olsen, T. DEN HUS 44
  3. Evans, M. AUS HON 36
  4. Vlaanderen, C. NED HON 36
  5. Jacobi, Henry GER KAW 36
  6. Watson, Ben GBR YAM 29
  7. Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 27
  8. 193 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 25
  9. Sterry, Adam GBR KAW 25
  10. Pootjes, Davy NED HUS 22
  11. Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 21
  12. Vaessen, Bas NED KTM 15
  13. Cervellin, M. ITA YAM 13
  14. Östlund, Alvin SWE HUS 13
  15. Walsh, Dylan NZL HUS 11
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Evans creates history at Argentina

Mitch Evans has sensationally created history by becoming the first Aussie to podium on his GP debut, bettering the likes of Robert Scott, Lyndon Heffernan, Jeff Leisk, Craig Dack, Andrew McFarlane, Chad Reed, Hunter Lawrence and Jed Beaton (to name a few) along the way.

MXGP Rnd Patagonia Mitch Evans shotbybavo
Mitch Evans – 2019 MXGP Round 1 – Patagonia-Argentina

After his solid performance in tough conditions at the 2018 Motocross of Nations in America, Evans was starting to get calls from teams in Europe and it wasn’t long before Hunter Lawrence’s old team Honda 114 came knocking and the rest is history.

Mitch Evans

“I am grateful for the opportunity that Honda 114 Motorsports has presented me. Racing in the FIM Motocross World Championship has been a goal of mine since I competed in the world junior championship in 2010. There is a lot for me to learn and I am looking forward to the challenges ahead. I am excited to be racing with the best in the world.”

MXGP Rnd Patagonia Mitch Evans CreditTeamMotorsportsFacebook
2019 MXGP Round 1 – Argentina – Mitch Evans – Image courtesy of Team 114 Motorsports Facebook Page

Evans will now head to the MXGP of Great Britain at Matterley Basin in three weekend’s time and there is nothing surer that the Aussie has learned a lot in Argentina and will hit the second round with a belly full of confidence.

Barcia concussed – misses Atlanta

Justin Barcia has been evaluated to see if he sustained a concussion and was forced to sit out last weekend’s Atlanta Supercross following a training crash at his riding facility in Florida. Barcia

Below is the Monster Energy Yamaha statement:

“Following a medical check at TOC in Tallahassee, Florida, Barcia is being evaluated for concussion and as a precautionary measure will not take part in this weekend’s Monster Energy Supercross round at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.

AMA SX Rnd Texas Justin Barcia Pits JK SX Arlington
Justin Barcia

“The news of Justin’s accident this morning is a real pity, but our main concern is Justin’s health and recovery. Following the Concussion Protocol, we hope that Justin will be back to 100% and cleared to participate soon.”

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Holcomba kicks off 2019 with win in Italy

In an effort to get some valuable race miles under his belt ahead of the Enduro World Championships in March, Beta Factory Racing’s Steve Holcombe has started his 2019 racing season with a confidence inspiring result at the opening two rounds of the Italian Enduro Championship in Gioia dei Marsi last weekend.

Steve Holcombe imgCristianoMorello
Steve Holcome – Image by Cristiano Morello

As the reigning Assoluti d’Italia champion, Holcombe was bettered by TM rider Loic Larrieu on the opening day but the World Champ rose to the occasion on day two to take the win from Larrieu and his teammate Daniel McCanney who scored third on both days.

Steve Holcombe

“It’s been a really strong start to the 2019 season for me. I had a good ride on Saturday to finish second and then with some improvements to our setup I was able to take the win on Sunday, which is a real boost. On day one we opted to use a hard compound rear tyre. But with overnight rain that choice didn’t work in our favour and I struggled to find grip on the first lap, especially in the enduro test. As conditions improved, so did my pace and I worked my way back into contention. Fastest on the final extreme test, I got close to topping the results but I wasn’t able to make it happen on the last cross test. However, with a strong end to the day I was able to carry that speed into Sunday. I won the first test to put myself into the lead, before going on to set the fastest time in three more tests and claim victory. I honestly didn’t expect to hold this sort of pace so soon in the year as this race is part of my training plan towards the Enduro World Championship. Overall, it’s been a great result for us as a team and one that will keep us pushing hard as we head towards round one of EnduroGP in Germany at the end of this month.”

Results – Italian Enduro Championship
Round 1

  1. Loic Larrieu (TM) 48:18.93
  2. Steve Holcombe (Beta) 48:25.39
  3. Daniel McCanney (TM) 48:29.79

Round 2

  1. Steve Holcombe (Beta) 47:46.11
  2. Loic Larrieu (TM) 48:01.61
  3. Daniel McCanney (TM) 48:01.98

Price to be honoured at Aussie F1 GP

In an unprecedented move and with global television coverage to boot, 2019 Dakar Rally Champion Toby Price is set to join the Formula One drivers’ parade for a lap of honour ahead of the season opening race of the FIA Formula One World Championship at 2.30pm on Sunday, March 17.

Dakar Rally Toby Price ImgMarcinKin
Toby Price – Image by Marcin Kin

Price will follow the convoy of Formula One drivers during the parade to salute fans while riding aboard the KTM machinery he rode to his second Dakar victory.

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Andrew Westacott, acknowledged that the scheduled lap of honour is a fitting way to allow the fans to celebrate the popular two wheel and four wheel racer’s ackomplishments.

Andrew Westacott – Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO

“Toby Price is the only Australian to have ever conquered the gruelling Dakar Rally, and to have now won it for a second-time in defying circumstances is an incredible achievement. What better way to celebrate Toby’s accomplishment than allowing him to join 20 of his peers that are the best racing drivers in the world in a lap of honour on the world stage. We are thrilled to honour Toby at the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2019 and see him receive the global recognition he deserves, when the world’s eyes are on Melbourne for the opening round of the FIA Formula One World Championship.”

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Dack ready for season 2019

It is hard to believe that it was 27 years ago that Craig Dack Racing (CDR Yamaha) was formed but what is not hard to believe that Craig himself, a multiple Australian Motocross and Supercross Champion still has the competitive juices flowing and is pumped for the new season.

Craig Dack

“I love this time of year. All the hard work over the off season from both the riders and the teams comes to the surface now and it’s time to go racing. This is why we do the work – to see how it plays out on the weekends. Having Appin as the opening round this year should make for a great start to the season as the track always turns on great racing and its well supported by the fans. Our team has a good history at the venue and we hope for that to continue this year. Both Luke (Clout) and Kirk (Gibbs) have had a great pre-season, and both are showing good form. Kirk has raced in New Zealand and showed plenty of speed and quickly adapted to the YZ450F while Luke has done a couple of local races and been successful at those, so I feel we are well placed heading into round one.”

mx nationals coolum round mx cdr dacka ImageScottYa
CDR Yamaha’s Craig Dack

“This is our second full season on the current generation YZ450F and it’s a sensational bike with a great chassis and powerful motor. Our time isn’t spent trying to develop the bike a great deal but rather personalise it for the individual rider as the production platform is so good. Brad, Aiden and Gary are able to get the most from it and the riders respect the fact we have such high quality technical staff at CDR. We value the long term partnerships we have with the best companies in the industry. It takes a lot of support to run a team like CDR and I’m proud of the relationships we have built over the years.”

Long term and loyal sponsors like Fox, Pro Circuit, Dunlop, NGK, DID as well as major partner Yamaha have been with CDR Yamaha since the early days and the continued building of relationships with companies like Monster Energy, Kincrome tools and Renthal keep the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team at the front of the pack.

Kirk Gibbs' 2019 CDR Monster Energy YZ450FLook for ‘Dacka’ as he is known, the big blue Yamaha rig and the rest of the team on March 17 at Appin Raceway, south west of Sydney.

The stars of the AORC hit Toowoomba this weekend

This coming weekend Toowoomba will host then opening two rounds of the AORC and all of the heavy hitters will be on hand to have a crack at drawing first blood on their competition – let’s see what is going down in the three main classes.

E1

Reigning 2018 E1 Champion Luke Styke (Active8 Yamaha Yamalube) has to go into the series as class favourite but the former motocross star will have to contend with four-time world champion Matthew Phillips (MX Store, KTM) in 2019.

Yamaha Active Yamalube Racing AORC Luke
Luke Styke

The trouble doesn’t end there for Styke, Fraser Higlett (Husqvarna Enduro Racing Team) will no doubt come into Rounds 1 and 2 with a point to prove as will Lyndon Snodgrass (KTM Enduro Racing Team) and Michael Driscoll (Active8 Yamaha Yamalube) make thids class the hottest in the series.

E2

2018 E3 Champion Daniel Milner (KTM Enduro Racing Team) will move across to the E2 class this season and the early money is on Jeremy Carpentier (Yamaha MX Store Ballards Off-Road Team), Joshua Green (Active8 Yamaha Yamalube) and Broc Grabham to be Milner’s biggest competition this season.

Daniel Milner

“The 500cc bike was awesome, no doubt, but for me as a rider I find I suit a smaller bike better. So switching to a 350cc E2 class bike has been a really enjoyable change. I’m finding I’m moving faster and achieving better results with the smaller bike.”

Daniel Milner will be heading to Toowoomba for the opening round of the AORC
Daniel Milner – AORC heads to Toowoomba for 2019 opener

 E3

After taking out the E2 crown in 2018, Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna Enduro Racing Team) has moved to the E3 class and by all accounts Andy Wilksch (Motul Pirelli Sherco Team), Beau Ralston and Western Australian Jesse Lawton will all look to keep Sanders on his toes throughout the series.

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Mentoring role brings Matthew Phillips to AORC

After a couple of tough years overseas and right in the midst of potentially retiring from the sport, four-time World Champion Matthew Phillips has committed to the 2019 AORC on KTM machinery and it is in the role of mentoring young Kyron Bacon who will be competing in the EJ class that will see Phillips riding for the ‘love for the sport’ once again.

Matthew Phillips

“My plan is to compete in all 11 rounds of the AORC 2019 season, beginning in Rounds 1 and 2 in the E1 class. As the season moves on I’ll change things up a bit by moving across the senior classes with different bikes. The main thinking is that I want to maintain the love for the sport and by changing things up each round will definitely help that! Kyron rode at my property already, and he explained his situation back in 2018. I then offered my support to help him grow and climb up the ranks. Since we became a team, Kyron has been putting in an enormous number of hours, working his bike hard to get faster and faster. I definitely see him as a title contender in the EJ class for 2019 and beyond!”

Matthew Phillips
Matthew Phillips

Look for the KTM/MX Store team this weekend at the opening round of the 2019 AORC at Toowoomba.

Cosford wins Coolum 2-Stroke Cup

Young Jayce Cosford has overcome the weight of his three-digit race number to better some of the fastest riders in Australia to win the premier class at the second round of the 2019 2-Stroke Nationals held at Coolum raceway last weekend.

Cosford won all three motos of the YMI All Powers Cup to take the overall ahead of local shot-shot Jai Walker and round one winner Joel Milesevic while Andrew Shacklock (Hallman Retro Cup). Alex Larwood (125 Junior Cup), Hunter Collins (Yamaha 85cc Cup) and Ky Woods (Raceline 65cc Cup) all took out the support class wins.

YMI All Powers Cup

  1. Jayce Cosford
  2. Jai Walker
  3. Joel Milesevic
  4. Jesse Bishop
  5. Ryan Kenney
  6. Nicholas Kefford
  7. Danny Ham
  8. Wilson Greiner-Daish
  9. Cale Harkin
  10. Kobe Barton
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2020 Aussie Speedway Solo Champs calendar announced

On the back of a highly successful 2019 championship, a completely revamped 2020 Australian Speedway Solo Championship calendar has been announced with five rounds running from 2-11 January, commencing first in Kurri Kurri, NSW and moving South through VIC and landing at the iconic Gillman Speedway in SA.

Reflecting on the new calendar, defending champion Max Fricke is wrapped with the new schedule.

Max Fricke

“The new tighter schedule is a really great change! It matches the European style and suits what we’re used to as we compete throughout the year. It’s also a great experience for riders and fans alike, with such a tight window to collect as many points as you can whilst maintaining your fitness and drive. Going up against such strong competition back in January, which seemed to include everyone bar Jason Doyle, and then taking out my first Australian Senior Solo Championship title was such a great feeling! As we prepare for the European season, I am finding myself increasingly comfortable competing against the likes of Tungate and Holder. It’s also great to come back home to Australia and compete against locals that you haven’t experienced before, who may have different tactics and styles. The growth in Australian Speedway talent that competes in the Senior Solo Championship is really impressive and continues to grow the sport” highlighted Fricke.

Max Fricke
Max Fricke

 2020 Australian Senior Solo Speedway Championship

  • 2nd Jan – Qualifying Meeting (If Required) – Kurri Kurri, NSW
  • 3rd Jan – Round One – Kurri Kurri, NSW
  • 6th Jan – Round Two – Albury, VIC
  • 7th Jan – Round Three – Undera, VIC
  • 9th Jan – Round Four – Mildura, VIC
  • 11th Jan – Round Five – Gillman, SA

Stay in the loop with all things Australian Speedway by checking out the Australian Speedway Championships website and Facebook!

2020 & 2021 Australian Junior and Senior Speedway Sidecar calendar

The 2020 and 2021 Australian Junior and Senior Speedway Sidecar Championship calendar has also been announced, and reflecting the ever-increasing Speedway Sidecar talent that resides within the Australia, the Championship will land in Mildura, Victoria for 2020 and then venture across the Nullarbor Plain to Pinjar, Western Australia (WA) in 2021!

The 2020 Championship will run from 27-28 April* (*TBA), following on from the festivities of the Easter long weekend. Across in WA for 2021, the Championship will run over the Easter long weekend from 20-21 April.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Moto Wrap | SX | NZ MX | Trials | Beaton fractures vertebrae

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Moto News Wrap
February 26, 2019 – By Darren Smart

Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
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Moto News Latest

  • Tomac and Forkner win Detroit Triple Header
  • Jed Beaton injured
  • Cooper, Webster and Harwood win at NZ MX Champs
  • Bou wins Granada X-Trial
  • Todd Waters wins Mountain Man
  • Febvre and Watson win French International MX
  • Beta Test Ride Days across Australia
  • MA calls for EOI to host Australian Championships
  • Enduro & MX Commissioner applications now open
  • FIM Board of Directors enters new era
  • The King of MX Prize Pool Grows to over $53,000

Tomac and Forkner Win Detroit Triple Header

Detroit has hosted the eighth round of the AMA Supercross Championship and it was Kawasaki riders Eli Tomac and Austin Forkner who won the 450SX and 250SX overalls respectively in the second of the season’s ‘Triple Header’ formats.

See the full report and rider quotes here:
Tomac wins Detroit triple header | Chad Reed on the podium (link)

AMA SX Rnd FordField Main Starts JK SX Detroit
2019 AMA SX – Round 8, Detroit – Image by Hoppenworld

Tomac struggled with his starts in all three motos but the Kawasaki rider was in a league of his own to come from outside the top 10 in the opening two races to earn the wins but in the final race Eli not only scored a poor start but he then dropped several spots after running off the track to be as far back as 14th before climbing to sixth at race end.

AMA SX Rnd FordField Tomac JK SX Detroit
2019 AMA SX – Round 8, Detroit – Image by Hoppenworld

After his poorest performance in the championship the previous weekend, Eli’s round win has reduced his deficit to 13 points back from championship leader Cooper Webb.

Eli Tomac

“Gosh, we were feeling it (after the two wins) and going into the final race we got a little too comfy and then totally blew the start before another spot where I hit a hay bale while on the pit board I could see Cooper is charging to the front but overall the weekend is so much better for us.”

AMA SX Rnd FordField Tomac Podium JK SX Detroit
2019 AMA SX – Round 8, Detroit – Image by Hoppenworld

Despite struggling throughout the event Cooper Webb was able to put his race-face on to end the night in second overall to retain the red plate with 6-2-1 moto finishes.

Chad Reed showed great form and speed to finish third in the opening moto then backed that up with a fifth and a seventh for third overall on the night which is his 132nd podium finish to now sit eighth in points, just eight points back from Dean Wilson who holds down the fifth position.

Chad Reed

“We had a really successful day of testing last week, which carried into the weekend. My single lap speed wasn’t great, but I felt race ready. I entered the night program feeling quite good, knowing that a good start was what I needed. I almost got a holeshot. Finishing third in the first main was a great step. I was super excited to get back on the podium, which was my 132nd top-three finish. I’ll take the small wins from the weekend. My top priority is to continue improving in those areas, so I can have a shot at winning one of these things!”

AMA SX Rnd FordField Chad Reed JK SX Detroit
2019 AMA SX – Round 8, Detroit – Image by Hoppenworld

As he has done throughout the season so far, Ken Roczen put together a consistent 5-6-5 moto results to end the night in fourth to sit just six points out of the championship lead and six points ahead of Marvin Musquin while Justin Brayton, Joey Savatgy, Blake Baggett and Justin Barcia all landed on the podium in one of the three main events.

450 Triple Crown Results and Round Points

  1. Eli Tomac 1-1- 6 = 26
  2. Cooper Webb 6-2-1 = 23
  3. Chad Reed 3-5-7 = 21
  4. Ken Roczen 5-6-5 = 19
  5. Blake Baggett 4-11-2 = 18
  6. Marvin Musquin 9-4-4 = 17
  7. Justin Barcia 10-7-3 = 16
  8. Joey Savatgy 8-3-11 = 15
  9. Justin Brayton 2-12-9 = 14
  10. Zach Osborne 11-8-10 = 13
  11. Dean Wilson 7-9-13 = 12

450SX Points Standings after Round 8 of 17

  1. Cooper Webb – 173
  2. Ken Roczen – 167
  3. Marvin Musquin – 161
  4. Eli Tomac – 160
  5. Dean Wilson – 122
  6. Justin Barcia – 120
  7. Blake Baggett – 119
  8. Chad Reed – 114
  9. Aaron Plessinger – 104
  10. Justin Brayton – 97
  11. Cole Seely – 94
  12. Joey Savatgy – 92

250SX East Report

Austin Forkner has continued his win streak in 2019 with three moto wins giving the Kawasaki rider three round wins and a 13 point lead over KTM’s Jordon Smith who fought through the night with a wrist injury to finish second overall with 2-2-4 finishes ahead of Chase Sexton’s 4-4-2 moto results.

AMA SX Rnd FordField Starts JK SX Detroit
250 SX – 2019 AMA SX – Round 8, Detroit – Image by Hoppenworld

The racing was red hot all night and it was Justin Cooper (3-5-3), Martin Davalos (5-7-5) and Alex Martin (10-3-6) who all put themselves at the pointy end at one stage or another over the three races.

Interestingly, next weekend’s 250 East/West Shootout in Atlanta will see the two Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki riders, Adam Cianciarulo and Austin Forkner battle for the points and the bragging rights.

AMA SX Rnd FordField Forkner Multiple JK SX Detroit
2019 AMA SX – Round 8, Detroit – Image by Hoppenworld

250 Triple Crown Results and Round Points

  1. Austin Forkner 1-1-1 = 26
  2. Jordon Smith 2-2-4 = 23
  3. Chase Sexton 4-4-2 = 21
  4. Justin Cooper 3-5-3 = 19
  5. Martin Davalos 5-7-5 = 18
  6. Alex Martin 10-3-6 = 17
  7. Mitchell Oldenburg 6-6-8 = 16
  8. Kyle Peters 11-8-7 = 15
  9. Kyle Cunningham 8-11-10 = 14
  10. Blake Wharton 9-10-16 = 13

250SX East Points after Round 3 of 9 Rounds

  1. Austin Forkner – 78
  2. Jordon Smith – 65
  3. Justin Cooper – 63
  4. Chase Sexton – 60
  5. Alex Martin     – 51
  6. Mitchell Oldenburg    – 50
  7. Kyle Peters – 44
  8. Martin Davalos – 43
  9. Kyle Cunningham – 43
  10. Brandon Hartranft – 41
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Jed Beaton Injured

Australian Jed Beaton crashed in practice at the Lacapelle Marival International Motocross in France and elected to sit out the remainder of the event, and while an early team statement confirmed the Tasmanian is healthy and would ride in Argentina, a further update has shown the injuries to be more serious than initially expected, with Beaton forced to sit out Argentina.

Jed Beaton

“So devastated to say I won’t be lining up in Argentina, a crash yesterday at Lacapelle left me with a few fractures in my vertebrae, I will do my best to be back at GPs as fast as possible! Thanks to the whole team for support and all hard work through this season. We will be back soon.”

MX Masters Int Lacapelle FR Jed Beaton
Jed Beaton

Cooper, Webster and Harwood Win at NZ MX Champs

The undulating Harrisville Motocross Track in Pukekohe hosted the third round of the New Zealand Motocross Championship last weekend and it was Cody Cooper who narrowly took out the MX1 class while Aussie Kyle Webster got the MX2 win on countback over championship leader Hamish Harwood before Harwood continued his winning streak in the MX125 class.

New Zealand MX Rnd Pukekohe Kirk Gibbs L Kayne Lamont R
Kirk Gibbs, Cody Cooper, Kayne Lamont

Cooper and defending champion Kirk Gibbs entered the third round tied on points and after the end of three motos at Harrisville the combatants will head to the final round at Taupo only separated by three points after Cooper went 1-1-2 over Gibbs’ 2-2-1 effort.

Behind the Cooper/Gibbs freight-train Kayne Lamont continued his spree of third place finishes to end the round ahead of Brad Groombridge and the flying 250cc 2-stroke of Blake Gillard who is have a championship to remember.

New Zealand MX Rnd Pukekohe Kirk Gibbs
Kirk Gibbs

MX1 – Total Points Round 3 – Top 5

  1. Cody Cooper – 72
  2. Kirk Gibbs – 69
  3. Kayne Lamont – 60
  4. Brad Groombridge – 52
  5. Blake Gillard – 45

MX1 Points after 3 of 4 Rounds

  1. Cody Cooper – 213
  2. Kirk Gibbs – 210
  3. Kayne Lamont – 180
  4. Brad Groombridge – 151
  5. Cohen Chase – 130
  6. Blake Gillard – 122

Wilson Todd got his weekend off to a solid start in the opening MX2 moto with a win over Harwood and Webster but that would be the last we saw of Todd who didn’t score another point on the day after a coming together with Harwood in moto 2 while Webster got better as the day went on to end up with 3-2-1 finishes to tie on 67 points with Harwood’s 2-1-3 finishes.

New Zealand MX Rnd Pukekohe Maximus Purvis
Maximus Purvis

Harwood goes to the final round in Taupo with a healthy 35 point lead over Max Purvis and who in turn has a 10 point lead over Todd.

MX2 – Total Points Round 3

  1. Kyle Webster – 67
  2. Hamish Harwood – 67
  3. Mason Semmens – 54
  4. Wyatt Chase – 54
  5. Maximus Purvis – 47
  6. Morgan Fogarty – 43

MX2 Points after 3 of 4 Rounds

  1. Hamish Harwood – 198
  2. Maximus Purvis – 163
  3. Wilson Todd – 153
  4. Wyatt Chase – 142
  5. Brad Groombridge – 138

Hamish Harwood earned another three moto wins in the MX125 class over Josh Bourke-Palmer and Tommy Watts so heading into the final round in Taupo Harwood is only a few points from wrapping up another title while the chase for second is far from over with 15 year old Ben Broad holding the position ahead of Bourke-Palmer and Tommy Watts who are just a few points in arears.

MX 125 – Total Points Round 3

  1. Hamish Harwood – 75
  2. Joshua Bourke-Palmer – 56
  3. Tommy Watts – 54
  4. Jack Dunlop – 52
  5. Scott Barr-Smith – 47
  6. Benjamin Broad – 42

MX 125 Points after 3 of 4 Rounds

  1. Hamish Harwood – 225
  2. Benjamin Broad – 168
  3. Joshua Bourke-Palmer – 165
  4. Tommy Watts – 159
  5. Scott Barr-Smith – 129

The apple didn’t fall far from the tree in the Townley household with Ben’s son Levi convincingly winning the YZ65 Cup event at Harrisville from Charlie Shaw and Teddy Shaw.

YZ 65cc Cup – Total Points

  1. Levi Townley – 50
  2. Charlie Schaw – 44
  3. Teddy Shaw – 40
  4. Jayden McKenzie – 36
  5. Harrison Reichenbach – 32
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Bou Wins Granada X-Trial

Toni Bou was again victorious in last weekend’s X-Trial in Granada and with his third victory of the season Bou has etched out a 13 point lead in the championship over Adam Raga with two rounds remaining.

XTrials Rnd Granada Bou ps
Ton Bou – X-Trials Round 4 – Granada

Bou, aboard the Montesa Cota 4RT, made short work of the first phase to comfortably qualify for the second round, after taking the best score on the first run through sections, collecting just two penalty marks. The second phase turned out to be a tighter, more closely fought group as Bou faced Adam Raga and Miquel Gelabert but the current champ prevailed, guaranteeing a place on the podium before winning the Super-final.

The fifth and penultimate event of the X-Trial World Championship will be held next Saturday, March 9th at the Palais des Sports in Marseille. Prior to this, however, Toni Bou will take part in the opening of the Spanish Trial Championship which will be held on Sunday March 3rd in the town of Arnedillo, La Rioja.

Toni Bou

“I’m super happy. Today was a very hard-fought victory. It was very important to go all out and finally I was able to get the victory after a very difficult semi-final where there was no margin for mistakes. Technically I was very good and I performed well in the final. I will go back home having recovered the good feelings and I want to continue fighting for this championship. We will try to give everything in the two events that we have left.”

XTrials Rnd Granada Bou ps
Ton Bou – X-Trials Round 4 – Granada

Results X-Trial Granada 2019

  1. BOU Toni
  2. BUSTO Jaime
  3. RAGA Adam
  4. BINCAZ Benoit
  5. FAJARDO Jeroni
XTrials Rnd Granada Bou ps
Ton Bou tops the podium from Jaime Busto and Adam Raga – X-Trials Round 4 – Granada

X-Trial 2019 Saturday, February 23rd 2019 – Rider Standings – Top 5

  1. BOU Toni – 75
  2. RAGA Adam – 62
  3. BUSTO Jaimie – 45
  4. BINCAZ Benoit – 33
  5. FAJARDO Jeroni – 31
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Todd Waters Wins Mountain Man

Husqvarna mounted Todd Waters has etched his name in moto history after winning the coveted Mountain Man of Motocross event which was held at the revamped Echo Valley circuit in the country Queensland town of Toowoomba.

Over the four Mountain Man motos Waters took out three wins and a second place to earn the overall ahead of Richie Evans who managed to win the third moto and Aaron Tanti who battle with Jay Wilson and Kaleb Barham all weekend to score the final podium position.

Todd Waters to HRC
Todd Waters won the 2019 Mountain Man

Chris Nichols (Vet 35-44), Chris Lobegeiger (Vets 45 Plus), David Mattock (Sidecar), Kaz Walsh (Pre1995), Connor Lister (Pre 1990), Chelsea Carts (WMX), Campbell O’Donnell (Mini Lites) and Levi Rogers (Junior Mountain Man) all scored wins in the various support classes.

Mountain Man Unlimited

  1. Todd Waters – 137
  2. Richard Evans – 127
  3. Aaron Tanti – 116
  4. Jay Wilson – 116
  5. Kaleb Barham – 108
  6. Mason Rowe – 95
  7. Joel Evans – 92
  8. Isaac Ferguson – 91
  9. Ricky Latimer – 83
  10. Riley Ward – 82

Veterans 35-44

  1. Chris Nichols
  2. Ashley Martin
  3. Bradley McFarlane

Veterans 45 and Over

  1. Chris Lobegeiger
  2. Todd Purdey
  3. Toa Cooper

Sidecars

  1. David Mattock
  2. Darren Ilka
  3. Adam Laman

Pre 95

  1. Kazmond Walsh
  2. Cooper Gierke
  3. Nicholas Leggatt

Pre 90

  1. Connor Lister
  2. Kristian Sprenger
  3. Jarrad Vanderhor

Women

  1. Chelsea Carter
  2. Tahlia Drew
  3. Charlotte Gamble

Mini Lites

  1. Campbell O’Donnell
  2. Kobe Drew
  3. Jake Cannon

Junior Mountain Man

  1. Levi Rogers
  2. Luke Zielinski
  3. Ryan Alexanderson
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Febvre and Watson Win French International MX

Romain Febvre and Ben Watson have won MXGP and MX2 classes respectively at the Lacapelle Marival International Motocross in France last weekend which is also the final race before the start of the MXGP season in Argentina next weekend.

MX Masters Int Lacapelle FR DE WOLF imgHaudiquertP
Lacapelle Marival International Motocross – Image by Haudiquert P.

Febvre went 2-1 to win the MXGP class over Gautier Paulin and Jeremy Seewer to give Yamaha a cean sweep of the podium Watson scored 1-1 results to earn the overall over Thomas Kjer Olsen and Aussie Mitch Evans.

MX Masters Int Lacapelle FR Thomas Kjer Olsen
Lacapelle Marival International Motocross – Image by Haudiquert P.

Febvre also won the Superfinal from Max Anstie, Paulin, Seewer and Watson while Evans pulled out after just a handful of laps.

Beta Announces Test Ride Days across Australia

Beta has announced a series of test ride days throughout Queensland, NSW, Victoria and Tasmania where punters can get a chance to test ride the two-stroke, four-stroke and Trials models but spaces are limited so reserve your spot early via the Beta Australia Facebook Events page.

Beta Trials Range CM
Beta’s 2019 Trials range arrives in Australia – Beta Demo Days available!

BETA MY 2019 DEMO Range

  • 2-STROKE – RR 200 / RR 250 / RR 300 / X-TRAINER 300
  • 4-STROKE – RR 350 / RR 390 / RR 430 / RR 480
  • TRIALS – EVO 300 4T

Inverell, NSW – Saturday 2nd March, 2019

  • Vince Strang Motorcycles hosts Beta Motorcycles Australia – MY 2019 Beta Day
  • 9am-4pm

Biddaddaba, QLD – Sunday 10th March, 2019

  • MX Imports hosts Beta Motorcycles Australia – MY 2019 Beta Day

Hobart, TAS – Sunday 17th March, 2019

  • Bike Barn hosts Beta Motorcycles Australia – MY 2019 Beta Day
  • 9am – 4pm

Ulverstone, TAS – Saturday 23rd March, 2019

  • Any Wheels hosts Beta Motorcycles Australia – MY 2019 Beta Day
  • 9am – 5pm

Mansfield, VIC – Saturday 30th March, 2019

  • Mansfield Marine and Motorcycles hosts Beta Motorcycles Australia – MY 2019 Beta Day
  • 9am – 4pm
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MA Calls for EOI to Host Australian Championships

Expressions of interest (EOI) is now being called for from suitably qualified States, Clubs and Promoters who wish to host an Australian Motorcycle Sport Championship for 2020 and 2021.

Australian Dirt Track Championship ImgShereeGriffin
Australian Dirt Track Championship – Image by Sheree Griffin

Australians continue, time and time again, to produce some of the world’s leading motorcycle athletes, and it is through the support of qualified States, Clubs and Promoters that we can continue to support our national talent in reaching their potential. Australia also grabs the attention from overseas competitors and racing teams, due to our high standard of competition and sportsmanship.

EOI’s are now available for the following Championships
Motocross (MX)

  • Australian Classic Motocross Championship
  • Australian Post Classic Motocross Championship
  • Australian ATV Motocross Championship
  • EOI Forms for the above MX Australian Championships are available here.

Please complete and return your EOI Form to Motorcycling Australia’s (MA) Event Manager for Off-Road, Matthew Falvo, via: [email protected].

Track

  • Australian Senior Track Championships
  • Australian Junior Track Championships
  • Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships
  • Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships
  • Australian Classic Dirt Track Championship
  • Australian Post Classic Dirt Track Championship

EOI Forms for the above Track and Dirt Track Australian Championships are available via this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11W5kgBlWK6LzRIGJYsQyeGmao9_zlUZp/view

Please complete and return your EOI Form to MA’s Event Manager for Track, Samantha Redfern via: [email protected].

All forms must be completed and returned to the above Events contacts by Monday 15th April 2019.

Upon the close of EOI’s for the above listed Championships, MA will contact the successful State, Club or Promoter with additional information on the specific Championship and the requirements moving forward.

Enduro & MX Commissioner Applications Now Open

Motorcycling Australia have announced that applications are now open for the Australian Motocross Commission (AMXC) and the Australian Enduro Commission with the closing date for applications set for Monday the 1st of April 2019.

Commissioners shall be appointed post the Joint Commissions Meeting in April 2019 and according to MA current Commissioners may apply for a position in the above commissions.

As four disciplines are being combined to establish the AMXC (Motocross, Supercross, Classic Motocross & Classic Dirt Track), applicants are not required to be a subject matter expert in all areas, but at least one.

Click on this link https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Oly8QohXSchWm4d94khwJBukW4T_mOG8/view

To download the Commission Application Pack for AMXC and Enduro – these can be completed electronically once downloaded and saved.

FIM Board of Directors Enters New Era

The second FIM Board of Directors, under the Chairmanship of the FIM President Mr Jorge Viegas, elected in December 2018, took place in Mies (Switzerland) on Thursday 14 and 15 February ahead of the FIM Conference of Commissions held at the weekend in Geneva.

From left - Giovanni COPIOLI (Board Member); Stephan CARAPIET (FIM Asia President); Glen WILLIAMS (FIM Oceania President); Jos DRIESSEN (Board Member); Jacques BOLLE (FIM Vice-President); Jorge Viegas (FIM President); Robert DINGMAN (FIM North America President & CONUs Representative); Marco COMANA (FIM Africa President ); Pedro VENTURO Jr (FIM Latin America President ); Martin DE GRAAFF (FIM Europe President Ad Interim); Jorgen BITSCH (Board Member ); Jan STOVICEK (Board Member). Image - Rebecca Bowring
From left – Giovanni COPIOLI (Board Member); Stephan CARAPIET (FIM Asia President); Glen WILLIAMS (FIM Oceania President); Jos DRIESSEN (Board Member); Jacques BOLLE (FIM Vice-President); Jorge Viegas (FIM President); Robert DINGMAN (FIM North America President & CONUs Representative); Marco COMANA (FIM Africa President ); Pedro VENTURO Jr (FIM Latin America President ); Martin DE GRAAFF (FIM Europe President Ad Interim); Jorgen BITSCH (Board Member ); Jan STOVICEK (Board Member). Image – Rebecca Bowring

The Board of Directors appointed Mr Tony Skillington as FIM Chief Executive Officer and Mr Antonio Alia Portela as new Motocross Director.

The Board Committees reported on ideas to improve the FIM’s Statutes and Sporting Code (Governance Committee, Chair Jacques Bolle), enhance the FIM’s standing and visibility and create a new sense of belonging among the FMNs and CONUs (Strategic Plan Committee, Chair Jorgen Bitsch and Affiliation Committee, Chair Stephan Carapiet).

The Finance Committee (Chair Robert Dingman) stressed the oversight role of the Committee which would keep the Board informed in the interests of greater transparency.

The President informed the Board about several Promoter contracts that have been negotiated since the beginning of the year. A new contract with Eurosport Events for the FIM Endurance World Championship is being finalised and will be signed at the 24 Heures Motos in Le Mans on 20 – 21 April. A contract with ABC Communication for the SuperEnduro World Championship was signed on the Saturday following the Board and Promoter contracts for SuperMoto (Xiem) and FreeStyle Motocross (SportPlus) are to be signed in the coming days. A new Promoter (Martin Beña) has been signed up for Sidecar Motocross from 2020.

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Following termination of the FIM’s contract with Sport7, the FIM Trial Commission will be promoting the FIM Trial World Championship in 2019.

For the first time in a decade, the Commission Directors (in the sports and non-sports sectors) were invited to report in person to the Board of Directors on their Commissions’ most important challenges and key ambitions for the future.

The Board Members and Commission Directors greatly welcomed this opportunity for exchange and the new atmosphere of openness ushered in by the FIM President.

The Enduro Commission (CEN) informed the Board that a FIM E-Bike Enduro World Cup will take place on 1 and 2 June 2019, during the Trophée de France E-VTT ENDURO in Privas with the support of the FFM. Another electric bike project was presented by the Motocross Commission (CMS), which also plans to organise a FIM E-Bike Cross World Cup. Further information will be communicated soon.

The Board approved a proposal by the Cross Country Rallies Commission (CRT) to go ahead with the drafting of regulations for SSVs with a view to creating a World Cup in the near future.

A proposal to change the current structure of the FIM’s judicial bodies that deal with Anti-Doping cases was put before the Board after consultation with the FIM International Medical Commission and the International Commission of Judges. The proposal will be put to the Governance Committee ahead of the next Board meeting in May.

Several changes were made to the composition of the FIM Commissions. The new lists of members will be announced shortly.

The CONU Presidents also presented their reports to the Board. Several of the CONUs have new leadership and all are working closely with the FIM Administration to set up or stabilise permanent headquarters to ensure that they can build on a solid foundation going forward.

The next meeting of the FIM Board will be in Warsaw (Poland) on 17 May 2019.

The King of MX Prize Pool Grows to Over $53,000

On the back of extra support from Unifilter Australia, R&D Husky and UNIT, Motorcycling NSW has confirmed the total prize pool for the 2019 King of MX has risen to well over $53,000 with the winners of both the King and Queen feature races each taking home $10,000, while the top three places of each championship class will receive cash and/or prizes thanks to naming rights sponsor Bikebiz.

Joel McDonald – UNIT General Manager

“UNIT is pleased to expand our support of motocross and supercross in Australia to grassroots racing with the King of MX NSW state titles. The championship is an ideal vehicle for UNIT to connect with racers and their families, of all ages, not only from NSW, but the entire east coast of Australia, further supporting our rapid growth in the dedicated motocross hardware and gear segment.”

NSW King of MX
King of MX 2019

Thanks to R&D Husky, one lucky 50cc racer is going to win an awesome new Husqvarna TC65, valued at $6,795, at the King of MX final.

The TC65 will be won by the highest finishing 50cc rider at the final who did not have a 65cc endorsement at the time of qualification and has not qualified in the 65cc class at a subsequent qualifier event.

For those looking to contribute and support the King of MX, why not purchase some of the event merchandise, with all profits going directly to the King of MX prize pool. Shirts, hoodies, FIST Gloves, drink coolers along with custom KoMX merchandise – all available at the qualifiers or online.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Moto Wrap | AMA SX | MX | X-Trial | King of MX

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Moto News Wrap for February 19, 2019 by Darren Smart

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Moto News Latest

  • Webb and Faulkner Win Arlington AMA SX
  • Gibbs and Todd Win at Rotorua
  • Anstie, Geerts and Monticelli Win Hawkstone
  • Bou Wins Bilbao X-Trial
  • Waters and Wilson Win Sunshine State Opener
  • Clout and Roberts Win King of MX Opener
  • Yamaha Motor Europe confirm 2019 MXGP team
  • Watson & Geerts remain with Monster Energy Kemea Yamaha MX2 in 2019
  • Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing launch 2019 effort
  • Yamaha Motor New Zealand & Josh Coppins Racing sign Ben & Levi Townley
  • KTM Junior MX Racing Team announced for 2019
  • Benhamiin Herrera joins 2019 Beta Factory Enduro Team

Webb & Faulkner win Arlington AMA SX

AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas hosted the seventh round of the AMA Supercross Championship and it was Cooper Webb who sensationally stole the 450SX main event win from Ken Roczen by just half a wheel while Austin Forkner put together a wire-to-wire win in the 250SX East final.

AMA SX Rnd Texas Webb JK SX Arlington
Cooper Webb – Image by Hoppenworld

For the full 450SX & 250SX East Report see –
Cooper Webb wins in Texas and moves into series lead (link)

Cooper Webb – P1

“Tonight was incredible! I just never gave up out there. It was incredible for it to come to the last lap – the last turn even – and to be able to win with such a close finish was absolutely insane. That’s probably the best race ever for me.”

AMA SX Rnd Texas Webb Musquin Multiple JK SX Arlington
Cooper Webb and Marvin Musquin – Image by Hoppenworld
Ken Roczen – P2

“The whoops was one of the spots where I struggled all through the an event which really effected my flow so this is something we learn from, I am using it as fuel for the next race  but it was fun, leading the whole race and losing it is not so much fun but we are healthy and still in the championship.”

AMA SX Rnd Texas Musquin Roczen Multiple JK SX Arlington
Ken Roczen – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Main Results

  1. Cooper Webb – 25 Laps
  2. Ken Roczen +00.028
  3. Marvin Musquin +10.784
  4. Blake Baggett +15.401
  5. Joey Savatgy +18.360
    …11. Chad Reed +45.767
AMA SX Rnd Texas Reed Seely Multiple JK SX Arlington
Chad Reed – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Points Standings after Round 7 of 17

  1. Cooper Webb – 150
  2. Ken Roczen – 148
  3. Marvin Musquin – 144
  4. Eli Tomac – 134
  5. Wilson – 110
    …9. Chad Reed – 93
AMA SX Rnd Texas Webb Roczen Musquin Podium JK SX Arlington
Arlington 450SX Podium – Roczen, Webb & Musquin

250SX East Main Event Results

  1. Austin Forkner – 19 Laps
  2. Justin Cooper +04.261
  3. Chase Sexton +09.964
  4. Jordon Smith +15.330
  5. Martin Davalos +16.091
AMA SX Rnd Texas Forkner Sexton Podium JK SX Arlington
Arlington 250SX East Main Event Results
Austin Forkner – 19 Laps
Justin Cooper +04.261
Chase Sexton +09.964

250SX East Points after Round 2

  1. Austin Forkner – 52
  2. Justin Cooper – 44
  3. Jordon Smith – 42
  4. Chase Sexton – 39
  5. Alex Martin – 34
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Gibbs & Todd win at Rotorua

The undulating circuit at Rotorua hosted the second round of the New Zealand Motocross Championships and it was Kirk Gibbs who came away with the MX1 class overall while fellow Aussie Wilson Todd  won the MX2 and Hamish Harwood the MX 125cc class.

MX1

Australian Gibbs and Cody Cooper battled it out at Rotorua last Sunday with Gold Coast-based Gibbs coming out on top this time around after winning two of the three championship motos while Cooper scored two seconds and a win so after six motos and two rounds the two combatants are tied on 141 points.

Kirk Gibbs

“The day was really good. I got a good start in the first moto then had a good gap and rode to the win, so I was really happy. I made it really tough for myself (in the second moto) I was probably back in about 10th or so, then had to make my way back. I got into second but just couldn’t bridge the gap to Coops [Cody Cooper] and finished there.”

Kirk Gibbs MX Nationals Round
Kirk Gibbs – 2019 MX Nationals Round 2

The third race went the same way as the first and Gibbs pulled away, maintaining the gap to win the race and take the overall round win. “I put a little peg back in for the championship. Coops beat me by three points at the first round and then I beat him by three points yesterday,” added Gibbs.

Kayne Lamont was once again consistent after qualifying third before finishing third three times in the championship motos, after a pre-season knee injury that kept him off the bike during the key preparation months.

Kayne Lamont

“I had two out of the three holeshots, so my starts were there. I managed to run with the boys for a little bit at the start but kind of ran out of puff and managed to circulate to get third. I had enough pace to hang with them but just not through the whole duration of the race. It was just the lack of pre-training and quality bike time. I will catch up with Josh and test some suspension to see if we can improve a little bit for the last two rounds.”

Kayne Lamont MX Nationals Round
Kayne Lamont – 2019 MX Nationals Round 2

MX1 Top 7

  1. Kirk Gibbs – 72
  2. Cody Cooper – 69
  3. Kayne Lamont – 60
  4. Brad Groombridge – 48
  5. Cohen Chase – 48
  6. Mason Wilkie – 38
  7. Blake Gillard – 36

MX1 Points after 2 of 4 Rounds

  1. Kirk Gibbs – 141
  2. Cody Cooper – 141
  3. Kayne Lamont – 120
  4. Brad Groombridge – 99
  5. Cohen Chase – 96
  6. Blake Gillard – 77

MX2

2018 Australian MX2 Champion Wilson Todd got his championship back on track with the overall win at Rotorua with 4-1-1 moto finishes ahead of fellow Aussie Kyle Webster’s 1-3-3 and defending champion Hamish Harwood’s 2-2-4 finishes so Hamish still leads the championship by three points over Todd while Purvis sits in third a further 12 points back.

Maximus Purvis MX Nationals Round
Maximus Purvis – 2019 MX Nationals Round 2

MX2 Top Five

  1. Wilson Todd – 68
  2. Kyle Webster – 65
  3. Hamish Harwood – 62
  4. Maximus Purvis – 56
  5. Morgan Fogarty – 47

MX2 Points after 2 of 4 Rounds

  1. Hamish Harwood – 131
  2. Wilson Todd – 128
  3. Maximus Purvis – 116
  4. Brad Groombridge – 97
  5. Morgan Fogarty – 90

MX 125cc

Harwood continues to dominate the MX125 class with three solid moto wins ahead of 15 year old Ben Broad and Tommy Watts – Harwood obviously leads the championship and with two rounds to go he still has to keep his current pace as Broad sits 28 points back.

MX 125 Top 5

  1. Hamish Harwood – 75
  2. Benjamin Broad – 62
  3. Tommy Watts – 58
  4. Joshua Bourke-Palmer – 57
  5. Clayton Roeske – 46

MX 125 Points after 2 of 5 Rounds

  1. Hamish Harwood – 150
  2. Benjamin Broad – 122
  3. Joshua Bourke-Palmer – 109
  4. Tommy Watts – 105
  5. Clayton Roeske – 87
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Anstie, Geerts & Monticelli win Hawkstone

The annual Hawkstone Park International Motocross is one of the key lead-up races to the MXGP season and this year it was veteran Max Anstie who got the overall win in the MXGP class while young Jago Geerts got the win the in the MX2 class before Ivo Monticelli spectacularly won the MX1 and MX2 combined Superfinal.

Max Anstie won the opening MXGP race ahead of Max Nagl and Shaun Simpson but in the second  MXGP moto Ivo Monticelli won from Shaun Simpson, Harri Kullas and Anstie so Max earns the overall for with 1-4 motos finishes ahead of Simpson (3-2) and Monticelli (5-1).

Thomas Kjer Olsen Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
Thomas Kjer-Olsen

Adam Sterry battled hard in the early laps of the opening MX2 moto to pull a wining lead ahead of Geerts, Henry Jacobi, Alvin Ostlund and Thomas-Kjer Olsen while Jed Beaton came home in tenth but in the second MX2 moto and it was New Zealander Dylan Walsh who pulled off a shock win ahead of Mikkel Haarup, Bas Vaessen, Geerts, Roan Van-De-Moosdijk and Adam Sterry with Beaton back 14th.

Geerts’ 2-4 moto results earned him the overall ahead of Sterry (1-6), and Haarop (7-2).

Ivo Monticelli won the Superfinal from Max Nagl and Arminas Jasikonis with MX2 riders Olsen in fourth, Geerts in sixth and Beaton in 15th.

Dylan Walsh

“It’s been a bit of an up and down day to be fair. In the first race I had a good moto going with some good lap times until they red-flagged it and on the restart someone clipped me in the first turn and I went down. In the second moto I got a good start and was pressuring for the lead for most of the race and was in a position to take the win when Adam Sterry went down. The Super Final was also looking good and I got myself into around sixth but I had a coming together with another rider and thought it would be best to call it a day.”

Alvin Östlund

“I feel good. It’s my first race so a lot of nerves are out of the way now. In the last race I had the best feeling because I was looser and didn’t get arm-pump. Overall it’s been a solid day, I’m feeling healthy and I got some good practice.”

Thomas Kjer-Olsen

“It’s been a long winter of training and it felt good to finally do some racing. My speed is good at the moment and this is very positive heading to the World Championship. I had two good motos here in the UK and managed to secure fifth overall in MX2. In the mixed MX2/MX1 Superfinal I pushed hard to secure fourth and also be the highest ranking MX2 class rider. I feel I am where I need to be and I will continue working hard in order to be 100% ready for Argentina.”

Jed Beaton

“This was my first race after eight months and it felt good to be back behind the gate, I had some good moments here in the UK, but overall I feel I need more time to show what I am capable of. I made some small mistakes and had a crash in the opening moto, but as the day went on I was able to control my pace. The season has just started and I have a good feeling on my bike. It’s onward and upwards from here and I’m looking ahead to the races to come.”

Jed Beaton Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
Jed Beaton

MXGP Moto One

  1. Max Anstie
  2. Max Nagl
  3. Shaun Simpson
  4. Harri Kullas
  5. Ivo Monticelli
  6. Evgeny Bobryshev
  7. Petar Petrov
  8. Mel Pocock
  9. Ryan Houghton
  10. Anton Gole
    …18. Arminas Jasikonis
    …38. Tommy Searle

MXGP Moto Two

  1. Ivo Monticelli
  2. Shaun Simpson
  3. Harri Kullas
  4. Max Anstie
  5. Max Nagl
  6. Petar Petrov
  7. Matiss Karro
  8. Arminas Jasikonis
  9. Tommy Searle
  10. Ryan Houghton
  11. Evgeny Bobryshev

MX2 Moto One

  1. Adam Sterry
  2. Jago Geerts
  3. Henry Jacobi
  4. Alvin Ostlund
  5. Thomas-Kjer Olsen
  6. Conrad Mewse
  7. Mikkel Haarup
  8. Davy Pootjes
  9. Bas Vaessen
  10. Jed Beaton

MX2 Moto Two

  1. Dylan Walsh
  2. Mikkel Haarup
  3. Bas Vaessen
  4. Jago Geerts
  5. Roan Van-De-Moosdijk
  6. Adam Sterry
  7. Thomas-Kjer Olsen
  8. Davy Pootjes
  9. Conrad Mewse
  10. Ben Watson
    …14. Jed Beaton

SuperFinal

  1. Ivo Monticelli
  2. Max Nagl
  3. Arminas Jasikonis
  4. Thomas-Kjer Olsen
  5. Max Anstie
  6. Jago Geerts
  7. Harri Kullas
  8. Evgeny Bobryshev
  9. Mikkel Haarup
  10. Roan Van-De-Moosdijk
  11. Henry Jacobi
  12. Lars Van-Berkel
  13. Bas Vaessen
  14. Alvin Ostlund
  15. Jed Beaton
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Bou wins Bilbao X-Trial

Repsol Montesa Honda rider Toni Bou has restored his 2019 X-Trial Championship lead leaving Bilbao with his 59th career victory over arch rival Adam Raga.

X Trial Rnd Toni Bou ps
Toni Bou – 2019 X-Trial Round 2

Barcelona winner Raga ensured another close-fought night, topping the standings in round one and matched Bou´s efforts in round two but his rival snatched the early lead in the final, making it through the challenging Section Two with a clean after Raga had recorded a five.

The margin was further extended in Section Four, putting Bou within touching distance of victory, although he then failed in his bid to secure the trophy with a section to spare with a Section Five failure. Still two marks clear, Bou was left to hold his nerve to claim the win and with it the Championship lead.

Toni Bou

“This victory is very important and has been hard-won, since Adam rode well throughout the night. As a result of my fall in Barcelona I haven´t been able to train how I might have liked, so that makes this win even more special. It also means I re-take the lead of the Championship, which is very important when things are so close.”

X Trial Rnd Toni Bou ps
Toni Bou – 2019 X-Trial Round 2

Despite not being able to make it two in a row Adam Raga was satisfied with second.

Adam Raga

“I’m happy with second place, but especially with my riding, because I beat Toni in Round One, was tied with him in Round Two and only lost in the Final by two marks. I am riding well, and today is more evidence of it. The spectators were exceptional for this first visit to Bilbao.”

Beta’s Benoit Bincaz put in one of the best rides of his career to date, finishing just two marks from a place in the Grand Final but securing a spot on the podium in the Consolation Final over local hero Jaime Busto.

Benoit Bincaz

“I felt strong right from the beginning and kept a high level. It’s my first podium of the season, and the aim is now to repeat it in the coming Rounds. The bike was perfect and I felt comfortable on it. I’m really happy with my performance here and the upward curve in performance I’m enjoying.”

Round Four of the X-Trial FIM World Championship is X-Trial Granada, scheduled for 23rd February.

X Trial Rnd Toni Bou ps
Toni Bou on the podium with Adam Raga and Benoit Bincaz – 2019 X-Trial Round 2

Results X-Trial Bilbao 2019

  1. BOU Toni SPA Repsol Honda Team
  2. RAGA Adam SPA TRRS Factory Team
  3. BINCAZ Benoit FRA Beta Factory Racing
  4. BUSTO Jaime SPA Gas Gas Factory Team
  5. GELABERT Miquel SPA Sherco Factory Team
  6. FAJARDO Jeroni SPA Gas Gas Factory Team
  7. MARCELLI Gabriel SPA RG Team
  8. PETRELLA Luca ITA Beta Factory Racing
  9. HAGA Sondre NOR TRRS Factory Team

X-Trial Standings after Bilbao 2019

  1. BOU Toni SPA 55
  2. RAGA Adam SPA 50
  3. BUSTO Jaime SPA 30

Waters & Wilson win Sunshine State opener

Coolum MX facility on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hosted the opening round of the Airoh Sunshine State Motocross Championship and it was Todd Waters and Jay Wilson who won the MX1 and MX2 classes respectively.

Waters got the win in the MX1 class over Mason Rowe, Kaleb Barham and Joel Rizzo while Wilson won the MX2 class ahead of Aaron Tanti, Ricky Latimer, Joel Evans. Rowe and Barham.

Clout & Roberts win King of MX opener

Appin hosted the opening round of the NSW King of MX series and it was Luke Clout and Jy Roberts who won the star studded MX1 and MX2 classes respectively.

Luke Clout YZF
Luke Clout joins CDR for 2019 alongside Kirk Gibbs

CDR Yamaha’s Clout won the MX1 class ahead of National stars Hayden Mellross, Riley Dukes. Joel Green and Joel Wightman while Roberts worked hard all day to win the MX2 class from Regan Duffy, Rhys Budd, Cooper Pozniak, John Bova and Riley Dukes.

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Yamaha Motor Europe confirm 2019 MXGP team

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP will lead the 2019 challenge with Romain Febvre and Jeremy Seewer at the helm of the advanced YZ450FM. Following a two month break at the end of 2018, Febvre has had an incredible off-season and is feeling fit, fast and strong as he enters his fourth consecutive year inside the premier class with the Michele Rinaldi led team.

Romain Febvre
Romain Febvre

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s newest recruit, Seewer, made a successful team debut back in October last year with a silver-medal finish at the final round of the All Japan Championship in Sugo. The talented Swiss rider looks forward to entering his second season on the 450cc bike with the support of the Factory team.

Jeremy Seewer
Jeremy Seewer

Strengthening Yamaha’s 2019 crusade, Monster Energy Wilvo Yamaha MXGP has retained Arnaud Tonus for a third season. In addition, the team has welcomed a familiar name back to the Yamaha Family in the form of Gautier Paulin.

Arnaud Tonus Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP
Arnaud Tonus

After a solid off-season where both riders have regularly trained together on the bike and off, the dynamic duo have reaped the benefits of working together and are likely to put their YZ450F motorcycles on the podium this season.

Both teams will travel to Argentina at the end of February where the first round of the nineteen round MXGP series will commence on March 2nd and 3rd.

Ben Watson & Jago Geerts remain with Monster Energy Kemea Yamaha MX2 in 2019

Spearheading the effort and set to take Yamaha’s YZ250F to the top of the MX2 Championship, Monster Energy Kemea Yamaha MX2 has retained Ben Watson and Jago Geerts for another season. Inspired by the ‘quality over quantity’ adage, the team has transitioned from a three-rider line-up to two where they will concentrate on the talent they were awakened to during 2018.

Kemea Yamaha Ben Watson Jago Geerts
Ben Watson and Jago Geerts

Last year, as new recruits to the team both Watson and Geerts exceeded all expectations on what was initially expected to be a ‘learning year’. 21-year-old Watson achieved a career milestone at the MX2 Grand Prix of Russia when he stood on podium for the first time. He also finished inside the top five at 12 Grands Prix and subsequently finished fourth in the final classification after a season-long battle for the MX2 bronze medal.

Kemea Yamaha Ben Watson
Ben Watson

Equally as impressive, Geerts had a superb rookie season complete with a podium appearance of his own at the MXGP of Latvia. The 18 year-old Belgian was awarded Youthstream’s ‘Jan de Groot award’ as the rookie of the year. He finished eighth overall in the 2018 MX2 World Championship despite missing three rounds due to injury.

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Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing launch 2019 effort

Leading national dirt bike racing outfit Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing is all set to fire into the 2019 season, with a two-rider line-up that will contest all major MX Nationals and Australian Supercross Championship events.

Headlining the Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing team is top gun MX2 championship contender Kyle Webster, who roars into his fourth season with the powerhouse CRF Honda Racing team, which is owned and operated by longtime Honda motocross race team principal Mark Luksich.

Joining Webster in the Penrite Oils and Pirelli tyres sponsored Honda team for 2019 is NSW young gun Rhys Budd, who continues his rise through the Honda ranks and will attack the MXD category this year. Meanwhile Sydney youngster Nick Luksich will enjoy support rider status with the team, as he maintains his push up the ranks of the hotly contested MX2 category.

Kyle Webster

“I’ll be racing selected major NZ events over the next couple of weeks, which will really help me to prepare and be as ready as possible for the start to the Australian season. 2019 is set to be a big year: it will be my fourth season with the Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing team, and having Craig onboard as my team mechanic will give me added support to chase race wins and championship victories. I want to be as consistent as possible and be there at every race, every weekend, chasing wins all season long.”

Kyle Webster Honda CRFR
Kyle Webster’s Honda CRF250R

New team rider Rhys Budd is one of Australia’s most decorated junior motocross competitors, with a swag of junior championship wins and podiums to his name since he began racing in 2009.

Rhys Budd

“It’s early days yet, but from the very outset the connection with the Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing team has been really positive and I’m looking forward to the season starting with the MX Nationals at Appin in March. 2019 will be my final year racing in the MXD class, so I want it to be a special one. My goal is always to win and be in the front pack and consistently make the podium, so that’s what I’m aiming for this year.”

Rhys Budd
Rhys Budd

Heading into his second year in the MX2 category, 19-year-old Nick Luksich is hopeful of putting the injury woes that dogged his 2018 campaign behind him.

Nick Luksich

“2018 was tough, I suffered a broken wrist at the start of the season and then had more injuries through the year and that really wrecks your confidence and you’re not as fit as you want to be when you finally get to line up. This year is shaping up a lot better and I’ve had a really good pre-season and have been doing a lot of riding and training with Kyle, which is so beneficial when you can ride with someone faster and who is so into training. I can’t wait for the season to start at Appin next month!”

The March 17 MX Nationals series opener will formally kick off the Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing team’s 2019 calendar, which will include all ten rounds of the MX Nationals, followed by the Australian Supercross Championship in the second half of the year, along with selected other major race appearances.

Yamaha Motor New Zealand & Josh Coppins Racing sign Ben & Levi Townley

Two former World MXGP rivals will now be firmly on one team, as Yamaha Motor New Zealand, in association with Josh Coppins Racing, are signing up Ben Townley (YZ450) and son Levi Townley (YZ65), who will both be joining bLU cRU effective immediately.

Josh Coppins

“Ben will be a Yamaha ambassador and we will support him across a bunch of racing activities with more to follow and Levi is about supporting the future of the sport. We have decided to re-establish the Yamaha brand in junior racing and off the back of the new YZ65, timing has never been better to look for our new champions.”

Yamaha Motor New Zealand Ben Townley Levi Townley
Ben Townley (YZ450) and son Levi Townley (YZ65)

He and MX2 World Champion Townley are two of New Zealand’s most successful motocross riders and used to live together for three years in Belgium racing in the World MXGP Championships. In 2005 they finished second and third respectively in the MX1 class to ten-time world champ legend Stefan Everts. At one point Ben and Josh won five
GPs in a row between them over Everts – not bad for a couple of Kiwis!

Despite being fiercely competitive on track, off it they were good mates. So, when it came time for Coppins to move away from investing in international racing, he decided to refocus on a junior programme.

Tauranga-based Townley, who retired professionally in 2016, will not only be coaching young riders he will also be riding in select races around New Zealand, including some enduro events.

Being able to share the workload is vital for Coppins, as he is busy running his own Altherm JCR Yamaha motocross race team – made up of senior riders Kirk Gibbs, Kayne Lamont (both MX1) and Maximus Purvis (MX2) at all the major national events.

Coppins will continue with the team and also take on a more managerial position within Yamaha New Zealand, which allows him to be more involved in fostering the country’s young riders.

Eight-year-old Levi’s first race will be the 2019 Ebbett Pukekohe Auckland Motocross Champs in Tuakau on Saturday 23rd February 2019. The following day he will race in the Yamaha Motor New Zealand YZ65 Cup at Harrisville, Pukekohe, which is part of the third round of the Fox New Zealand Motocross Championships.

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KTM Junior MX Racing Team announced for 2019

KTM Australia has confirmed its KTM Junior Motocross Racing Team for the 2019 season, the five-rider line-up to include Blake Fox, Ryan Alexanderson, Jett Burgess-Stevens, Jet Alsop and Kayden Minear this year.

Jet Alsop
Jet Alsop

Fox, Burgess-Stevens and Alsop return to the factory team, while Alexanderson and Minear are new to the roster after achieving remarkable results last season. Together, the KTM Junior Motocross Racing Team will be targeting another strong campaign nationwide.

New South Welshman Fox will pilot a KTM 250 SX-F and KTM 125 SX in what will be his last year of junior competition. Incoming KTM Junior Motocross Racing Team recruit Alexanderson, 14, won the Mini Lites BW 12-U14s title at the 2018 Australian Junior Motocross Championship, now stepping up to the KTM 250 SX-F and KTM 125 SX for the year ahead.

Blake Fox
Blake Fox

Tasmanian talent Burgess-Stevens will return for his second season with the KTM Junior Motocross Racing Team, the 13-year-old riding a KTM 125 SX in addition to the KTM 85 SX BW. Also back for another term, well-credentialed Queenslander Alsop, 12, will focus upon the KTM 85 SX SW this year.

Minear is a current national champion after capturing the 65cc 9-U11s championship last year, earning his place in the factory team to ride a KTM 85 SX SW and KTM 65 SX in 2019.

Benjamin Herrera joins 2019 Beta Factory Enduro Team

Beta has officially signed up Benjamin Herrera to complete the Beta Factory Enduro Team line-up. The 24-year-old Chilean –  pictured with Team Manager Fabrizio Dini, next to a Beta production-model – will indeed support EnduroGP World Champion Steve Holcombe.

Herrera will be busy throughout the whole World Enduro Championship and in some stages of the Assoluti d’Italia on the Beta RR 350 4T.

This is an important promotion that sees the young Chilean move from the Beta Importer Team in his country to being the official rider for the 2019 season.

Benjamin Herrera

“I am very pleased I signed this new contract, it’s a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to become an official rider and now it’s amazing. The aim is to achieve good results both in the World Enduro Championship and in the Assoluti d’Italia in the E2 class. I’m well aware of the value of the Beta brand, since last year I raced with this bike, even if not as an official rider, and I really like the RR.”

Benjamin Herrera Beta Factory Enduro Team
Benjamin Herrera

Riders will be on their bikes very soon – the Assoluti d’Italia will start on 2 March at Gioia dei Marsi, while the first stage of the Enduro World Championship is scheduled for 22 March at Dahlen in Germany.

2019 Assoluti D’Italia Calendar

  • 2-3 Mar – Gioia Dei Marsi Aq
  • 31 Mar – Arma Di Taggia Im 1
  • 4 Mar – Pontremoli Ms
  • 1-2 Jun – Sant’angelo In Vado Pu
  • 14 Jul – Crespano Del Grappa Tv
  • 5-6 Oct – Gaggio Montano Bo

2019 World Enduro Championship Calendar

  • 22-24 Mar – Dahlem Germany
  • 3-5 May – Valpacos Portugal
  • 10-12 May – Santiago De Comp. Spain
  • 14-16 Jun – Ajaccio Corsica
  • 21-23 Jun – Rovetta Italy
  • 13-15 Sep – Uhlirske Janovice Czech Republic
  • 27-29 Sep – Ambert France
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Source: MCNews.com.au

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Moto Wrap | Webb & Faulkner take Minneapolis AMA SX

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Moto News Wrap for February 11, 2019 by Darren Smart

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Smarty's Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
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Moto News Latest

  • Webb and Faulkner Take Minneapolis AMA SX
  • Taddy Wins SuperEnduro in Budapest
  • Cairoli and Prado Wrap Up Italian Motocross Championships
  • Dean Wilson to Rockstar Husqvarna
  • Hunter Lawrence Injured
  • Traralgon Hosts Successful 2 Stroke Nationals
  • FIM Speedway of Nations News
  • Applications Open for Australian WJMX Team

Webb and Faulkner take Minneapolis AMA SX

The sixth round of the 2019 AMA Supercross Championship was held in Minneapolis last weekend and the racing has once again held the fans of the sport on the edge of their seats as two of the brightest stars in the sport in Cooper Webb and Austin Forkner took out main event wins the 450SX and 250SX East classes respectively.

AMA SX Rnd Starts JK SX Minneapolis
AMA Supercross kicks off at Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Report

Kawasaki’s Joey Savatgy scored the holeshot in the main event and for the first half of the race Webb was looking for a way around Savatgy while holding off Ken Roczen, Blake Baggett and Marvin Musquin but when Webb got around Savatgy on lap 15 the flood gates opened allowing Roczen, Baggett and eventually Musquin get around Savatgy.

AMA SX Rnd Starts JK SX Minneapolis
AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

Webb reeled off the closing laps without any mistakes to score his third win of the year ahead of Roczen who also kept himself tidy for second place ahead of Musquin who was gifted yet another podium after Baggett went over the bars on a tricky seat-bounce double-triple combination.

AMA SX Rnd Musquin JK SX Minneapolis
Marvin Musquin – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

Eli Tomac was almost dead last after his poorest start of the season but the former championship leader whittled his way to sixth place, one spot ahead of Chad Reed who encountered his own problems during the main event to not only score seventh place but also move into eight in the championship, just 14 points out of the top five.

AMA SX Rnd Tomac JK SX Minneapolis
Eli Tomac – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

The 2019 season has set a new record with the top four in the Championship standings only separated by two points after six rounds with Roczen on 125, Webb on 124 while Eli Tomac and Marvin Musquin are both tied with 123 points – even more amazingly, Roczen and Musquin are yet to win a round!

AMA SX Rnd Multiple JK SX Minneapolis
AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Cooper Webb

“To get three wins this year is pretty spectacular, especially bouncing back from last week – having that bad race in the mud – but I never lost belief, never lost faith and knew I was still good. I felt good all day today and to be able to apply it in the heat race, win that, and then win the main was pretty special. It’s cool, I have to pinch myself because I’ve come such a long way in a short amount of time. It’s crazy what a year or half a year will do to you. The last two years this place ended my season, so it’s pretty cool to bounce back from that and never give up, never doubt myself, make a change and stick to it. I want to keep doing well and doing what I’m doing. I definitely feel like I have a lot to improve on and a lot to learn but we’ll see if we can keep going.”

AMA SX Rnd Webb JK SX Minneapolis
Cooper Webb – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Ken Roczen

“I felt really good, and early on when Joey was still leading, I had a couple of good spots, and I kind of came up on Cooper a little bit. But I couldn’t pass him. After Cooper passed for the lead, I noticed that Joey was getting tired or whatever, but he was still going enough where we couldn’t pass. I had to pick my battles a little bit. The way these turns are, and the intensity that we brought, I didn’t want to do a silly, aggressive move and bump up on the inside. I just wanted to do it in a smart way, but I waited too long, for sure.”

AMA SX Rnd Roczen JK SX Minneapolis
Ken Roczen – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Marvin Musquin

“It was definitely a tough night. I made it really hard on myself going down in the heat race while running in second – I made a little mistake that cost me big time and then again, I hit neutral and went down again. With a really bad gate pick, I knew it was going to be hard to choose either inside or outside on the gate but I chose to go very far inside and I didn’t get the start I wanted. I was tight inside and came out top-ten but on a track like that, it’s super tough to be in that position to make passes. It took me a long time to get into the top-five and I was pushing to get around [Blake] Baggett and unfortunately, he went down hard, hopefully he’s okay. Once I was in third, I tried to give a push for second but there was a gap and physically I gave a lot when I was trying to pass guys for most of the Main Event. Definitely tough, but to be third on the podium tonight is a good result considering where I came from with the heat race and the start, so I’ll definitely take it.”

AMA SX Rnd Musquin JK SX Minneapolis
Marvin Musquin – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Dean Wilson

“The night wasn’t great but not too bad, either, I’m not super pumped on it but I came out healthy. I think the past couple weeks of not getting into my normal schedule, due to the rain and resting the week after Oakland because of my knee, definitely had me feeling it and it was a tough Main Event the whole time. I think just trying to get back to my normal schedule will help a lot. It was awesome to be back with the team this weekend and we’re just going to get better from here.”

Justin Barcia

“Going into the main event I didn’t make any bike changes, or anything like that I was really comfortable. I was right on the main pack of guys in front of me, I just came into the corner pretty quick, pushed my front end and ended up going down pretty hard and rode home to ninth. For me it was a frustrating race to say the least because I felt like I was capable of being on the podium tonight and fighting for the win. It’s definitely frustrating, but I felt like I was back to myself again, comfort wise and stuff, I felt good on the bike. I was happy with my riding, just wish I could’ve done better in the main event. Moving on to next weekend I just want to have good starts and get back up front.”

AMA SX Rnd Barcia JK SX Minneapolis
Justin Barcia – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Aaron Plessinger

“It was a rough one for me. I definitely struggled on my starts. I got a break in the heat race. I got a bad jump, but shot the gap and made it. In the main event I didn’t have that gap and I got shut off; I definitely need to keep working on it. We’re going to go back to California this week, we’ll get some more testing in on the bike and try and dial it in a little more for me. I just need to keep working on it, getting used to it. I’m going to go back and do some more homework and come back ready for Dallas.”

AMA SX Rnd Plessinger JK SX Minneapolis
Aaron Plessinger – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Main Event Results

  1. Cooper Webb
  2. Ken Roczen
  3. Marvin Musquin
  4. Joey Savatgy
  5. Justin Brayton
  6. Eli Tomac
  7. Chad Reed
  8. Dean Wilson
  9. Justin Barcia
  10. Aaron Plessinger
  11. Cole Seely
  12. Vince Friese
  13. Justin Bogle
  14. Tyler Bowers
  15. Kyle Chisholm
  16. Alex Ray
  17. Ben Lamay
  18. Daniel Herrlein
  19. Cheyenne Harmon
  20. Casey Brennan
  21. Blake Baggett
  22. Aj Catanzaro
AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX Minneapolis
450 Podium 1) Cooper Webb, 2) Ken Roczen, 3) Marvin Musquin – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Points after 6 of 17

  1. Ken Roczen – 125
  2. Cooper Webb – 124
  3. Eli Tomac – 123
  4. Marvin Musquin – 123
  5. Dean Wilson – 95
  6. Justin Barcia – 88
  7. Blake Baggett – 82
  8. Chad Reed – 81
  9. Aaron Plessinger – 79
  10. Cole Seely – 77
  11. Justin Brayton – 70
  12. Vince Friese – 65
  13. Justin Bogle – 60
  14. Joey Savatgy – 59
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250SX East Report

Austin Forkner was fast all day and it wasn’t good news for his opposition when the Kawasaki pilot grabbed the holeshot and he never looked back to take the win but the action behind was a little more riveting with Jordon Smith surviving a flat tyre change on the start line and a small crash mid race to finish second ahead of Justin Cooper who looked smooth and untroubled on his way to third head of Chase Sexton and Alex Martin.

AMA SX Rnd Starts JK SX Minneapolis
AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Austin Forkner

“Basically, you don’t want to think about not making mistakes because that’s when you make them. I was just trying to click off laps. My starts were killer tonight in the heat and the main. I was just out there trying to maintain it, and I saw, whenever Jordon [Smith] got into to second, I might have to try to turn it up. He was maybe going a little bit faster, but then he went down. But when you get to that settle stage, sometimes that’s when mistakes happen, so I just tried to keep focused forward.”

AMA SX Rnd Forkner JK SX Minneapolis
Austin Forkner – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Jordon Smith

“We got a flat tire and Christian, my mechanic did an amazing job, they started the bikes before he had the nut off the rear wheel, I was afraid the gate was going to drop and we weren’t going to be ready.”

Justin Cooper

“The bike was awesome all day and the team made adjustments to fix anything I was uncomfortable with. I was able to predict exactly what the bike was going to do throughout the race, even with the track conditions getting worse. I had a terrible start, but felt great on the bike the whole main and just had to maintain the race as best I could with all the chaos around me. Everything about the day went smooth except a little first race jitters in the heat race. First podium at my second Supercross race ever… what more is there to say? It’s a great feeling!”

AMA SX Rnd Cooper JK SX Minneapolis
Justin Cooper – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Mitchell Oldenburg

“Today was decent. Practice went well for me, I felt really comfortable and the bike was working awesome. Tonight though, just wasn’t the best night for me. I didn’t feel that great. Not racing for a year was tough, and it showed tonight. I’m looking forward to building off of this and getting ready for the next few races and Dallas next weekend.”

AMA SX Rnd Oldenburg JK SX Minneapolis
Mitchell Oldenburg – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Jordan Bailey

“It was a good start to my first supercross, practice went well and the track was pretty good. I got fourth in the heat race, and in the main my start wasn’t very good but we got ninth. I’m happy with it to start with but we’ve got to keep getting better.”

AMA SX Rnd Bailey JK SX Minneapolis
Jordan Bailey – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld
Thomas Covington

“It was a solid first weekend for me, I was definitely a little bit nervous and tight throughout the whole day but each session got a little bit better and I squeaked into the Main Event in the heat. In the Main Event, I just went out and had as much fun as I could out there and it turned out pretty good. I was happy with how the bike was working and everything, just have to get back to work this week and hopefully progress next weekend.”

AMA SX Rnd Covington JK SX Minneapolis
Thomas Covington – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

Alex Martin held Justin Cooper at bay for nearly the whole main but he ended up getting bumped off the track by Cooper and missed the transponder line at the finish so his team had to go and request a manual rescoring of that lap for Alex to be credited with fourth place after initial results had him back in 13th.

250SX East Results

  1. Austin Forkner
  2. Jordon Smith
  3. Justin Cooper
  4. Alex Martin
  5. Chase Sexton
  6. Mitchell Oldenburg
  7. Kyle Cunningham
  8. Brandon Hartranft
  9. Jordan Bailey
  10. Kyle Peters
  11. Thomas Covington
  12. Blake Wharton
  13. Martin Davalos
  14. Christian Craig
AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX Minneapolis
250 Podium 1) Austin Fornker, 2) Jordon Smith, 3) Justin Cooper – AMA Supercross Round 6, Minneapolis – Image by Hoppenworld

250SX East after Round 1 of 9

  1. Austin Forkner – 26
  2. Jordon Smith – 23
  3. Justin Cooper – 21
  4. Alex Martin – 19
  5. Chase Sexton – 18
  6. Mitchell Oldenburg – 17
  7. Kyle Cunningham – 16
  8. Brandon Hartranft – 15
  9. Jordan Bailey – 14
  10. Kyle Peters – 13
  11. Thomas Covington – 12
  12. Blake Wharton – 8
  13. Martin Davalos – 7
  14. Christian Craig – 3
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Taddy Wins SuperEnduro in Budapest

Budapest hosted round four of the 2019 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship last weekend and it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Taddy Blazusiak who took the win ahead of teammate Cody Webb and Husqvarna’s Colton Haaker.

SuperEnduro Round Hungary Taddy Blazusiak
Taddy Blazusiak – SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

Superpole went to Webb, with Blazusiak finishing a close second before Webb took the lead in the first of the three finals and set about opening up a good margin over the chasing riders. Although pressured early on by his teammate, Cody went on to claim a flag-to-flag victory with Blazusiak fighting off the challenges from Colton Haaker to finish second.

SuperEnduro Round Hungary Colton Haaker
Colton Haaker – SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

In the reverse-grid race two, it was Blazusiak who got the best start of the championship contenders but Haaker took over the lead and quickly opened a gap that he would maintain to earn the win over Blazusiak and Webb.

SuperEnduro Round Hungary Colton Haaker
Colton Haaker – SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

In the final race, it was Blazusiak who took the holeshot over Haaker with Webb close behind in third and for the first half of the race the three leading riders pushed hard, maintaining a fast pace on the demanding course but Taddy managed to hold his nerve to ultimately take the race three win over Haaker and Webb and with it the overall victory.

Taddy Blazusiak

“To take the win tonight feels great. I’ve been mostly off the bike since I hurt my knee in Madrid, so to come here and claim the overall is amazing. I didn’t quite have the out-and-out speed this evening, so I knew I would have to be clever and use my race craft. I got two second places and then in the last race I got a good start and knew it would be difficult for the others to pass. I rode clean but defensively and it paid off. Budapest has been great – the track was not too technical, but it was physically demanding and tricky to make time on. I’m really looking forward to Bilbao now in April.”

SuperEnduro Round Hungary Taddy Blazusiak
Taddy Blazusiak – SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

Webb edged Haaker by one point in the overall standings in Budapest so going into the final round in Spain on April the 6th, Haaker holds a 12 points lead in the championship.

Cody Webb

“It’s been a good night for me overall – I’m happy with second. I got a really good start in the first race and was just able to run away with it. In the second race, I started off right on the inside from the second row but I got caught up early and had to fight my way through the whole pack back up to third. In the last race it was good fun battling with the guys up front but it was so tricky to make a good pass – we were all pushing so hard and the pace was relentless. I struggled with traffic later on and couldn’t quite close up to the two leaders. We have got a bit of a break now before the last round so I’ll keep training and work on my intensity before Bilbao and hopefully be in a good position to fight for the championship.”

SuperEnduro Round Hungary Cody Webb
Cody Webb – SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

Results — 2019 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship, Round 4
Prestige Race 1

  1. Cody Webb (USA), KTM, 6:44.923
  2. Taddy Blazusiak (POL), KTM, 6:50.858 +5.935
  3. Colton Haaker (USA), Husqvarna, 6:51.421 +6.498
  4. Alfredo Gomez (ESP), Husqvarna, 7:22.186 +37.263
  5. Pol Tarres (ESP), Husqvarna, 7:28.249 +43.326

Prestige Race 2

  1. Colton Haaker (USA), Husqvarna, 6:38.691
  2. Taddy Blazusiak (POL), KTM, 6:47.256 +8.565
  3. Cody Webb (USA), KTM, 7:00.298 +21.607
  4. Alfredo Gomez (ESP), Husqvarna, 7:10.778 +32.087
  5. Pol Tarres (ESP), Husqvarna, 6:52.969 +1 lap

Prestige Race 3

  1. Taddy Blazusiak (POL), KTM, 6:36.278
  2. Colton Haaker (USA), Husqvarna, 6:38.226 +1.948
  3. Cody Webb (USA), KTM, 6:50.587 +14.309
  4. Alfredo Gomez (ESP), Husqvarna, 7:13.035 +36.757
  5. Diogo Viera (POR), Yamaha, 6:43.492 +1 lap
SuperEnduro Round Hungary Alfredo Gomez
Alfredo Gomez proves consistent in fourth across the events races- SuperEnduro Round 4 – Hungary 2019

Prestige Class — Overall

  1. Taddy Blazusiak (POL), KTM, 56 points
  2. Cody Webb (USA), KTM, 53 pts
  3. Colton Haaker (USA), Husqvarna, 52 pts
  4. Alfredo Gomez (ESP), Husqvarna, 39 pts
  5. Pol Tarres (ESP), Husqvarna, 32 pts

Championship Standings (After round 4)

  1. Colton Haaker (USA), Husqvarna, 211 points
  2. Cody Webb (USA), KTM, 199 pts
  3. Taddy Blazusiak (POL), KTM, 184 pts
  4. Pol Tarres (ESP), Husqvarna, 122 pts
  5. Alfredo Gomez (ESP), Husqvarna, 119 pts
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Cairoli and Prado Wrap Up Italian Motocross Championships

Mantova hosted the final round of the three round Italian Motocross Championships last weekend and it was Tim Gajser who scored the MX1 win before Jorge Prado dominated the MX2 race then Antonio Cairoli managed to win a the Superfinal.

Italian MX Mantova Rnd Jorge Prado
Italian Motocross Championship 2019 – Round 3, Mantova

HRC Factory rider Tim Gajser won the MXGP race at Mantova ahead of 2015 World MXGP champion Romain Febvre, Antonio Cairoli, Gautier Paulin and Max Nagl with Cairoli being crowned MX1 champion of Italy for 2019.

Tim Gajser

“It is great to win again, it is just Italian championship, but a great race. I wanted to pass Tonus quickly and I tried to gap Romain, but he was really close. We had a good pace, and I liked the track. I look forward to the second race.”

Gajser hrc hondaproracing shotbybavo
Tim Gajser – Image by Bavo
Romain Febvre

“It went good, I had a good start, not very good but good start. I was quick to second and battled with Tim, really close to him and I made some mistakes. Sometimes I was faster, sometimes he was faster. I was happy, but I got some arm pump and that is why I slowed down.”

Red Bull KTM Factory rider Jorge Prado earned the Italian Championship with the MX2 race win in Mantova over early leader Moreau, Tom Vialle, Jago Geerst and Stephen Rubini while Aussie Mitch Evans ended the race in 11th of the 40 starters.

Italian MX Mantova Rnd Tom Vialle
Tom Vialle – Italian Motocross Championship 2019 – Round 3, Mantova

The Superfinal saw a massive first turn pile-up but out front Cairoli managed to etch out a lead before taking a comfortable win ahead of Nagl who had to fight off a fast finishing Prado who started well outside the top ten to narrowly miss out of second place while Mitch Evans ended the race in a credible ninth place.

Italian MX Mantova Rnd Tony Cairoli
Antonio Cairoli – Italian Motocross Championship 2019 – Round 3, Mantova

Cairoli and Prado ended up 1-2 in the Superfinal Championships.

Antonio Cairoli

“The Italian Championship is always a good series because we have a lot of champions on the line, this year especially, with four different world champions. We had a lot of things to test and the best way to do that was with racing. We had a perfect series, except for that first moto today: I was upset with my start. It was good in one way, and that’s to be able to make some passes and work through the pack and learn about that. This is also good training for the GPs. When we are on the line in the world championship it is a little bit different; everyone is extra motivated and doing their best to keep up with me and Jeffrey. I think since last year people have been working with us in mind. We will improve but they will improve also. We’ll see when the gate drops in MXGP but the championship there is very long and you have to be consistent and don’t make mistakes. This is the key.”

Italian MX Mantova Rnd Tony Cairoli
Antonio Cairoli – Italian Motocross Championship 2019 – Round 3, Mantova
Jorge Prado

“It’s been a really good championship and great pre-season training. Mantova was a different kind of track today: big ruts and with some special demands. I won my MX2 race and then had a good jump [from the gate] against the 450s. I was battling a long time with [Max] Nagl and I couldn’t make the pass, but anyway I’m happy. The bike was working great in these races. We have some weeks of training ahead but we are in the good way and will go to Argentina in the best shape possible.”

Italian MX Mantova Rnd Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado – Italian Motocross Championship 2019 – Round 3, Mantova

Final Championship Standings MX1

  1. Antonio Cairoli (KTM) 320pts
  2. Romain Febvre (Yamaha) 300
  3. Tim Gajser (Honda) 280

Final Championship Standings MX2

  1. Jorge Prado (KTM) 360pts
  2. Mikkel Haarup (Husqvarna) 195
  3. Michele Cervellin (Yamaha) 180

Final Championship Standings Supercampione

  1. Antonio Cairoli (KTM) 240pts
  2. Tim Gajser (Honda) 200
  3. Jorge Prado (KTM) 160

Dean Wilson to Rockstar Husqvarna

With Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team having no fit 450SX riders, Dean Wilson has been given a seat with the team for the remainder of the AMA Supercross season.

Jason Anderson and Zach Osborne are currently out with Anderson sustaining a season ending broken arm injury, while Osborne (Broken collar bone) is expected to return to the team in the coming weeks.

Wilson started with the team at Minneapolis last weekend where he finished a solid 8th place in the main event to maintain 5th in the championship standings.

Dean Wilson

“I am really excited to be back with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna team. They have been a great help with my privateer effort. I am looking forward to putting in good results and making everyone proud.”

Rockstar Husqvarna Dean Wilson
Dean Wilson
Bobby Hewitt

“Dean has been a part of our program for many years. I am very excited to have him back under the truck for the remainder of the 2019 AMA Supercross Championship Series.”

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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Hunter Lawrence Injured

On the eve of making his AMA Supercross debut Australia’s Hunter Lawrence has crashed and aggravated a collarbone injury which he sustained some eight to nine weeks ago.

MXGP Rnd Afyon Turkey MX Lawrence action
Hunter Lawrence

A timetable for Lawrence’s return has not been set but he could be back in time to compete in some supercross rounds or the Geico Honda pilot might be out until the Lucas Oil AMA Motocross Championship which begins in May.

MXGP Rnd Afyon Turkey Lawrence
Hunter Lawrence
Below is his Instagram post.

‘Absolutely heartbroken to say the least guys. I wont be lining up at round 1 this weekend. Some of you know a few months back I had a collarbone injury that I have now re-injured. And it isn’t in a condition where I am not able to plate it. A misfortunate crash and part of the sport. Will do everything i can like always to get back to 100%. I want to thank my amazing @fchonda team and supporting sponsors for all their great support. And a massive shoutout to all of the Aussie fans that were behind me and following along. Super bummed, but with the aussie grit and determination i’ll be back soon.’

Traralgon Hosts Successful 2 Stroke Nationals

Traralgon has hosted the opening round of the Yamaha bLU cRU 2 Stroke Nationals and it was Pro racer Joel Milesevic who won the premier YMI All Powers Cup ahead of Deakin Hellier and Ryan Kenney.

Meanwhile Blake Fox (125cc Junior Cup), James Hanson (Hallman Retro Cup), Hunter Collins (Yamaha 85cc Cup) and Ky Woods (Raceline 65cc Cup) earned the top spots in the support classes.

Coolum will host the second round of the series on March 3, before Canberra get the final round on April 27.

YMI All Powers Cup

  1. Joel Milesevic
  2. Deakin Hellier
  3. Ryan Kenney
  4. Taylor Potter
  5. Jai Walker

Yamaha 125cc Junior Cup

  1. Blake Fox
  2. Alex Larwood
  3. Blake Hollis
  4. Ricky Chalmers
  5. Ryan Alexanderson

Hallman Retro Cup

  1. James Hanson
  2. Steven Bowen
  3. Jake West
  4. Paul Grant
  5. Kade Dunscombe

Yamaha 85cc Cup

  1. Hunter Collins
  2. Cambell Williams
  3. Ryder Kingsford
  4. Jett Burgess-Stevens
  5. Seth Burchell

Raceline 65cc Cup

  1. Ky Woods
  2. Jett Williams
  3. Jack Deveson
  4. Koby Hantis
  5. Kayd Kingsford
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

FIM Speedway of Nations News

The start position draw for Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations Race Offs 1 and 2 in Landshut and Manchester in May has been confirmed.

Germany host Poland, Sweden, Slovenia, Ukraine, Czech Republic and Italy at Race Off 1, which takes place in Landshut on Saturday, May 4, before the Lions come up against Australia, Denmark, USA, France, Finland and Latvia at Race Off 2 in Manchester on Saturday, May 11.

Start positions for Speedway of Nations drawn

The start position draw sees GB line up in the white and yellow starting gates against fellow 2018 finalists Australia and Denmark, with the Danish clash coming in race six and the Aussie showdown taking place in heat 15.

With gates two and four producing 14 winners compared to the nine that triumphed from gates one and three at Race Off 2 in 2018, the Lions will be hopeful the draw works in their favour at the National Speedway Stadium.

The hosts come up against neighbours France in their opener in heat three, with Australia kicking the night off against Finland in race one and Latvia taking on Denmark in heat two. The USA get their night started against the Aussies in race four.

The Landshut round sees Germany face tough finish to their heats as they come up against Sweden in heat 13, Ukraine in race 17 and Poland in heat 20 to round off the night. They will be keen to pile up the points early on, starting in their opener against Italy in race two.

Their fellow 2018 finalists Poland and Sweden collide in their opening heat – race three – a clash that could have a massive bearing on who tops the podium in Bavaria, with the Poles starting from gates one and three.

The top two teams from both Race Offs are guaranteed a spot at the Monster Energy SON Finals in Togliatti alongside hosts Russia on July 20 and 21, with the teams placed third to fifth competing in two knock-out heats to decide the final qualifier from both meetings.

Applications Open for Australian WJMX Team

Applications are now open for Australian riders who want to compete in the 2019 FIM Junior Motocross World Championship which will take place at Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow, in July.

MX Juniors Australian team
Australia’s 2018 WJMX team

2018 was a massive year for Team Australia with the event held on home soil and Australia taking out the Team of Nations trophy, and competitors Bailey Malkiewicz and Braden Plath taking out the 125cc WJMX title and 65cc World Cup respectively!

Team Australia will be split out according to the 2019 WJMX classes:

  • FIM Junior 65cc Motocross World Cup: Age Restrictions-minimum 10 years of age and maximum 12 years of age.
  • FIM Junior 85cc Motocross World Championship: Age Restrictions-minimum 12 years of age and maximum 14 years of age.
  • FIM Junior 125cc Motocross World Championship: Age Restrictions- minimum 13 years of age and maximum 17 years of age.

The Australian squad will be supported by the 2019 Team Manager, Mark Willingham who will continue in this role for the third year running.

Applications close in less than a month so click on the link below for more information:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fIs4qLw9k3YLC4uXMIBuC2BBMp_DjRlW/view

Smarty's Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Moto News | Tomac & Cianciarulo win San Diego AMA SX

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Moto News Wrap for February 4, 2019 by Darren Smart

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Smarty's Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Moto News Latest

  • Great night for Kawasaki at San Diego AMA SX
  • French riders continue to dominate UK Arenacross
  • Cairoli and Prado continue top form at Ottobiano
  • Raga beats Bou at Barcelona X-Trial
  • Cooper and Harwood storm Taranaki
  • Nathan Watson claims French Beach Race title at Enduropale du Touquet
  • Suzuki Australia continues contingency program in 2019
  • Yamaha bLU cRU backs 2019 A4DE
  • Toowoomba to host opening round of AORC
  • Mountain Man just a few week’s away
  • King of MX receives manufacture’s backing
  • 2019 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing increases USA contingency program
  • Jeffrey Herlings injury update
  • Italy disqualified from 2018 MXoN

Great night for Kawasaki at San Diego AMA SX

Kawasaki riders Eli Tomac and Adam Cianciarulo have won the 450SX and 250SX main events respectively in sloppy conditions at round five of the AMA Supercross Championships which was held in San Diego last weekend.

AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX SanDiego
Kawasaki’s Eli Tomac and Adam Cianciarulo dominated the San Diego AMA SX round – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Report

San Diego was soaked with unseasonal rain all week as well as on race night so the main event was shortened to just 15 minutes and on a completely water logged circuit Tomac survived the treacherous conditions to not only score his first win of the season, he became the fourth Red Plate holder for the 2019 season.

AMA SX Rnd Starts JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

Marvin Musquin played it safe all race to steadily climb up to second place over Ken Roczen on the very last lap and now sits just tied with Roczen in second place, just four points back from Tomac.

Eli Tomac

“Today was kind of wild with the conditions, we weren’t on the normal dirt but overall it was the direction we wanted to go, qualifying good, getting better starts to put ourselves in the right position but when the rain stopped the mud got thicker so the bike got heavy and each section was sketchy, it had to stop to make sure a track marker didn’t get sucked into my rear wheel and then had to stop to clear my goggles on the last lap so it was the hardest by far.”

AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld
Marvin Musquin

“It was a tough day, in the heat race I don’t know what happened but I almost did a 180 off the start but managed to get back to third then in the main I just tried to get a decent start but I didn’t so I was pretty far back, my helmet was heavy, my goggles were full of mud so I almost pulled my goggles off on the first lap but I didn’t which is awesome because it saved me and the roll-off worked out so towards the end, I had no idea where I was (placing wise) so I just kept on passing but you couldn’t attack or you could make a mistake, I got by Bogle, then I saw Kenny and got around him then when we crossed the line I looked at the board and I was in second.”

AMA SX Rnd Musquin JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld
Ken Roczen

“I thought I was in third, then I got passed my Marvin with one turn to go which wasn’t that happy about, I made some changes this week and we made some improvements on the starts which really paid off because today the tarts were really important, I got a super-good holeshot (in the main) but sure enough, I threw it away and went back to fourth of fifth then ended up third, for the championship we are only four points behind and it’s super tight so for my mind the season doesn’t really start until around round 10 and to somewhere near the front is good and I am just picking my battles right now, I just want to get out of the West Coast because it has been a long time since I accomplished that.”

AMA SX Rnd Roczen JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

It was mayhem all race causing Justin Barcia’s Yamaha to fail while Justin Bogle was unlucky not to land on the podium but the fill-in KTM rider managed fourth place ahead of Chad Reed, Aaron Plessinger, Joey Savatgy, and Cooper Webb who went over the handlebars while taking evasive action when Musquin momentarily stalled between two muddy jumps.

AMA SX Rnd Reed JK SX SanDiego
Chad Reed – AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

Webb lost the red plate in San Diego but remains in contention for the championship to sit in 4th, just eight points behind Tomac.

As for Reed, the veteran finally cracked the top five and has moved into ninth in the championship, just 15 points behind fifth placed Blake Baggett.

AMA SX Rnd Bogle JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

450 Main Event Results

  1. Eli Tomac
  2. Marvin Musquin
  3. Ken Roczen
  4. Justin Bogle
  5. Chad Reed
  6. Aaron Plessinger
  7. Joey Savatgy
  8. Cooper Webb
  9. Blake Baggett
  10. Tyler Bowers
  11. Vince Friese
  12. Dean Wilson
  13. Cole Martinez
  14. Cole Seely
  15. Ben Lamay
  16. Carlen Gardner
  17. Kyle Chisholm
  18. Theodore Pauli
  19. Cade Autenrieth
  20. Alex Ray
  21. Justin Barcia
  22. Heath Harrison
AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX SanDiego
450 Main Event podium – AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

450SX Points after Round 5 of 17

  1. Eli Tomac – 106
  2. Marvin Musquin – 102
  3. Ken Roczen – 102
  4. Cooper Webb – 98
  5. Blake Baggett – 80
  6. Dean Wilson – 80
  7. Justin Barcia – 74
  8. Aaron Plessinger – 66
  9. Chad Reed – 65
  10. Cole Seely – 65
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

250SX Report

There was only one rider on the track in the 250SX main that looked remotely comfortable in the slippery conditions and it was Cianciarulo who led from go-to-woe to not only convincingly take the win but the Kawasaki rider has moved into the championship lead after his closest rivals faltered.

AMA SX Rnd Cianciarulo JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

Cianciarulo’s teammate Garrett Marchbanks rode well to finish second ahead of Jimmy Decotis while championship contenders Shane McElrath, Dylan Ferrandis and Colt Nichols finished 4th, 7th and 10th respectively.

Cianciarulo now holds an eight point lead in the championship over McElrath while Nichols is 10 points back and Ferrandis 12 as the 250SX West riders head into a three week break.

Adam Cianciarulo

“It is good going into the break with my mind at ease but when you have a stressful day like this with all of the unknowns and things that can happen out of your control it is tough but I felt better than usual so now happy to build on this.”

AMA SX Rnd Cianciarulo JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld
Garrett Marchbanks

“It’s been a big learning curve riding with these guys and I have been working on my starts and my speed so to end up here in second is beyond where I thought we would be when the day got started. My dad and I use to flood a little turn track at our place which made me a pretty good mud rider.”

AMA SX Rnd Marchbanks JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld
James Decotis

“I didn’t know I got third, I thought I got another fourth place, I am over fourth place, then I was told I got third, I was trying to stay up, my little legs I was dabbling and struggling so I just stood up, hit my marks to end up third so I am thankful for it.”

AMA SX Rnd Decotis JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

In his final race before heading home, Australian privateer Thomas Ravenhorst did not qualify for the night program after an electrical gremlin put an end to his night in San Diego but the good news for us Aussie’s is that Hunter Lawrence will be in action when the AMA Supercross Championship heads to Minneapolis this weekend.

AMA SX Rnd McElrath JK SX SanDiego
AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

250 Main Event Results

  1. Adam Cianciarulo
  2. Garrett Marchbanks
  3. James Decotis
  4. Shane McElrath
  5. Jess Pettis
  6. Martin Castelo
  7. Dylan Ferrandis
  8. Mathias Jorgensen
  9. Cameron McAdoo
  10. Colt Nichols
  11. Chris Blose
  12. Michael Mosiman
  13. Jacob Hayes
  14. Carson Brown
  15. RJ Hampshire
  16. Scott Champion
  17. RJ Wageman
  18. Devin Harriman
  19. Enzo Lopes
  20. Deegan Vonlossberg
  21. Ludovic Macler
  22. Mitchell Harrison
AMA SX Rnd Podium JK SX SanDiego
250 Main Event podium – AMA Supercross 2019 – Round 5 – San Diego – Image by Hoppenworld

250 Points after 5 of 10 Rounds

  1. Adam Cianciarulo – 114
  2. Shane McElrath – 106
  3. Colt Nichols – 104
  4. Dylan Ferrandis – 102
  5. RJ Hampshire – 75
  6. James Decotis – 73
  7. Cameron McAdoo – 72
  8. Garrett Marchbanks – 71
  9. Chris Blose – 70
  10. Jess Pettis – 66
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

French riders continue to dominate UK Arenacross

The Resorts World Arena, Birmingham hosted the fourth round of the six-round UK Arenacross Tour and it was the French pairing of Cedric Soubeyras and Greg Aranda who continued to dominate the series.

Soubeyras won the Superfinal over Aranda and Valentin Teillet and then the Pro-Lites final ahead of Teillet and Julien Lebeau before Aranda won the Pro 450 final over Charles Le Francois and Adam Chatfield.

UK Arenacross Super Final Podium
UK Arenacross 2019 – Birmingham – 1) Cedric Soubeyras, 2) Greg Aranda, 3) Valentin Teillet

Aranda now has a four point lead over Soubeyras in the Pro AX class, Soubeyras already has a healthy 48 point lead in the Pro Lites class and Aranda has a 49 point lead in the Pro 450 class while it is the Team FRO Systems Suzuki who is leading the team points chase.

Main Event Super Final

  1. #1 Cedric Soubeyras FRO Systems 15 Points
  2. #20 Greg Aranda Team Green Kawasaki 13
  3. #737 Valentin Teillet SR75 Suzuki 11
  4. #3 Charles Le Francois SR75 Suzuki 9
  5. #6 Adrien Escoffier Buildbase Honda 8
  6. #9 Adam Chatfield Buildbase Honda 7

Pro AX Championship

  1. #20 Greg Aranda 56 Points
  2. #1 Cedric Soubeyras 52
  3. #737 Valentin Teillet 31
  4. #4 Fabien Izoird 30
  5. #3 Charles Le Francois 25
  6. #6 Adrien Escoffier 24

Pro Lites
Main Event Overall

  1. #1 Cedric Soubeyras FRO Systems 28 points
  2. #737 Valentin Teillet SR75 Suzuki 28
  3. #259 Julien Lebeau Wooldridge Demolition 20
  4. #1x Joe Clayton Team Green Kawasaki 17
  5. #6 Adrien Escoffier Buildbase Honda 16
  6. #744 Diogo Graca Castrol Power1 Suzuki Motobase 15
  7. #13 Nolan Cordens KTM 13
  8. #337 Glenn McCormick Unique Fitout Husqvarna 11

Pro Lites Championship

  1. #1 Cedric Soubeyras 170 Points
  2. #737 Valentin Teillet 122
  3. #6 Adrien Escoffier 106
  4. #259 Julien Lebeau 102
  5. #1x Joe Clayton 72
  6. #744 Diogo Graca 60

Pro 450
Main Event Overall

  1. #20 Greg Aranda Team Green Kawasaki 30 Points
  2. #3 Charles Le Francois SR75 Suzuki 26
  3. #9 Adam Chatfield Buildbase Honda 19
  4. #64 Nique Thury Fro Systems Honda 17
  5. #33 Ashley Greedy FRO Systems Honda 17
  6. #8 Hugo Basaula Shocktech Kawasaki 14
  7. #200 James Dunn Castrol Power1 Suzuki Motobase 13
  8. #17 Matt Bayliss Wooldridge Demolition Honda 12

Pro 450 Championship

  1. #20 Greg Aranda 174 Points
  2. #3 Charles Le Francois 125
  3. #4 Fabien Izoird 93
  4. #64 Nique Thury 89
  5. #8 Hugo Basaula 73
  6. #33 Ashley Greedy 62

Team Championship

  1. Team FRO Systems Suzuki 259 Points
  2. SR75 Suzuki Suzuki 247
  3. Team Green Kawasaki 246
  4. Shocktech Kawasaki 166
  5. Wooldridge Demolition 161
  6. Buildbase Honda 151
  7. Castrol Suzuki MBC 84

The next stop of The Arenacross Tour is in two weeks’ time The FlyDSA Arena, Sheffield on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th of February 2019.

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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Cairoli and Prado continue top form at Ottobiano

The second round of the Italian Motocross Championship was held on a rain soaked Ottobiano circuit last Sunday and once again KTM riders Antonio Cairoli and Jorge Prado have not only won their MX1 and MX2 races respectively but they also finished 1-3 three in the MX1/MX2 combined Superfinal.

Italian Championship Ottobiano Tony Cairoli
Tony Cairoli – Image by S. Taglioni

Cairoli won the MX1 moto after a hard fought battle with Yamaha’s Romain Febvre but by moto end the Italian had etched out a three second gap to take with win over Febvre, Tim Gajser, Gautier Paulin and Tanel Leok while in the MX2 class Prado won the moto by over seven seconds from Calvin Vlaanderen, Max Renaux, Michelle Cervellin and Ben Watson.

Italian Championship Ottobiano Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado – Image by S. Taglioni

The Superfinal lived up to expectations with Cairoli and Gajser battling tooth and nail for much of the race but Cairoli got the nod by a narrow margin over Gajser, Prado, Febvre and Mikkel Haarup.

Italian Championship Ottobiano Tony Cairoli
Tony Cairoli – Image by S. Taglioni

Cairoli lead the MX1 championship by 40 points over Febvre and the Superfinal class by 40 points over Gajser while in the MX2 class Prado holds a 90 point lead with one round remaining at Mantova this weekend.

Italian Championship Ottobiano Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado – Image by S. Taglioni

Italian MX1 Standings

  1. Cairoli Antonio (Ita) 240
  2. Febvre Romain (Fra) 200
  3. Gajser Tim(Slo) 160
  4. Paulin Gautier (Fra) 130
  5. Leok Tanel (Est) 115

Italian MX2 Standings

  1. Prado Jorge (Spa) 240
  2. Haarup Mikkel (Den) 150
  3. Cervellin Michele (Ita) 125
  4. Watson Ben (Gbr) 125
  5. Renaux Maxime (Fra) 112

Raga beats Bou at Barcelona X-Trial

Adam Raga has taken a rare victory over Toni Bou at the second round of the FIM X-Trail World Championship held in Barcelona, Spain last weekend.

X Trial Barcelona Adam Raga scored a rare win over Toni Bou
Adam Raga – X-Trial Barcelona

It was an up and down night for all riders on a very technical circuit but when it was all said and done Raga got the win over Bou with Jaime Busto coming home in third place so after two rounds Raga and Bou are tied on 35 points with Busto tied for third place in the championship with Jeroni Fajardo on 21 points.

The third round of the seven round series will be held in Bilboa, Spain on February 16.

Cooper and Harwood storm Taranaki

The Taranaki Motorcycle Club hosted the opening round of the highly anticipated New Zealand Motocross Championship and in perfect racing weather is was Cody Cooper and Hamish Harwood who came away with first blood in the MX1, MX2 and 125cc classes respectively.

MX1 Report

On the slippery Taranaki layout Cooper dropped the opening MX1 moto to defending champion Kirk Gibbs but the veteran was in no mood to give the Aussie any more fanfare to go on and win the final two motos for the overall win and the points lead heading to the second round of the four round series.

After narrowly winning the opening moto, Gibbs led most of the second moto only to lose the lead to Cooper late in the race but in the third race Gibbs was forced to come through the pack and found speed he had missed earlier in the day to finish just behind Cooper at the line.

Kayne Lamont was right in the mix in all three motos but dropped off the pace as the motos wore on to finish with three third place finishes for third overall ahead of Brad Groombridge        (4-4-6), Cohen Chase (5-5-5), Hadleigh Knight and Blake Gillard (6-7-9) who was sizzling around Taranaki on a KTM250SX 2-stroke.

Cody Cooper

“Obviously this is not my favourite track but I am slowly getting to like it and riding it better, my bike is working way better too so we can only get better at the tracks that I like with more traction and speed.”

Kirk Gibbs

“I really enjoyed that last moto, obviously it was a shame having to come from behind but I feel like that is the best I rode all day, that first moto I rode just to protect (from Cooper) the best I could so I was lucky to get that win and obviously in that second race I didn’t flow that well which allowed Coops to get away but in the last moto I felt really good, I was hitting all my marks, I love and bike and it is onward and upwards from here.”

Kayne Lamont

“Today I just tried to get some decent seat time and do some long motos at a high intensity so that was good to get that under my belt but we have a two week break now to Rotorua and I get myself around there pretty good so I will go there pretty confident after today so we will see what we can do there.”

MX1 – Total Points Round 1

  1. Cody Cooper 2-1-1 – 72p
  2. Kirk Gibbs 1-2-2 – 69p
  3. Kayne Lamont 3-3-3 – 60p
  4. Brad Groombridge 4-4-6 – 51p
  5. Cohen Chase 5-5-5 – 48p
  6. Hadleigh Knight 12-6-4 – 41p
  7. Blake Gillard 6-7-9 – 41p
  8. Tyler Steiner 7-10-8 – 38p
  9. Mason Wilkie 10-10-7 – 34p
  10. Jacob Steel 11-8-9 – 33p
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

MX2 Report

The MX2 class saw three different moto winners with Max Purvis winning the opening moto from Harwood and Brad Groombridge after Aussie Wilson Todd crashed out of the lead but Todd bounced back to win the second moto over Harwood and Joel Meikle but in the final moto it was all Harwood who complete his sixth moto and his third back-to-back race to take the win over Todd and Purvis.

Harwood was forced to race a 4-stroke KTM this year after Motorcycling New Zealand banned the 250cc 2-srokes from the MX2 class but the three-time MX2 champion proved that it wasn’t the power of the 2-stroke that gave him the advantage in previous years.

Hamish Harwood

“The day panned exactly how I wanted it, real happy to win both classes, I am kind of lucky that even when I am tired I can hold a good pace but my main goal is to be healthy, this track can catch you out so now it is on to Rotorua.”

Wilson Todd

“The tracks here are a lot better than what we race on back home and there was plenty of good racing out there today with all of the lines and the way the track forms up but we will fly home tomorrow, do some training and get back for round two.”

MX2 – Total Points Round 1

  1. Hamish Harwood 2-2-1 – 69p
  2. Wilson Todd 8-1-2 – 60p
  3. Maximus Purvis 1-6-3 – 60p
  4. Brad Groombridge 3-6-5 – 51p
  5. Joel Meikle 9-3-7 – 46p
  6. Wyatt Chase 7-7-4 – 46p
  7. Morgan Fogarty 6-4-10 – 43p
  8. Micah McGoldrick 4-15-5 – 38p
  9. Broc Martens 10-9-11 – 30p
  10. Sam Cuthbertson 13-10-8 – 29p

125cc Report

Hamish Harwood works all week as a builder, completes his physical training after work and races on weekends with his father by his side so the three time NZ Champion decided to ride the 125cc class in 2019 and his three wins from three rides proved the decision to be sound.

Brodie Connolly came home with three second places and a name that we will be hearing from in the future is Ben Broad who at the tender age of 15 earned a podium finish in his first senior national outing.

Hamish Harwood

“Obviously the goal is to win but if I am feeling a little fatigued (because of the back-to-back races) I will settle for what I can get but if I am feeling good I am happy to take the win,

Brodie Connolly

“I am just trying to enjoy it (my racing), the track held up well today, the club did a great job, it was technical and hard which is what you want to get the technical riders on top, it was a good day overall.”

Ben Broad

“The track gets really rough compared to the junior days because they don’t groom it as much and there is more competition.”

125cc 2 STROKE – Total Points Round 1

  1. Hamish Harwood 1-1-1 – 75p
  2. Brodie Connolly 2-2-2 – 66p
  3. Benjamin Broad 3-3-3 – 60p
  4. Joshua Bourke-Palmer 4-4-5 – 52p
  5. Tommy Watts 6-7-4 – 47p
  6. Clayton Roeske 7-9-6 – 41p
  7. Jack Dunlop 11-5-8 – 38p
  8. Scott Barr-Smith 12-8-7 – 37p
  9. James Rountree 5-15-10 – 33p
  10. Charlie Richardson 10-11-12 – 33p

MX3 – Total Points Round 1

  1. Steve Craig 1-2-2 – 69p
  2. Lucas Gisler 4-1-1 – 68p
  3. Jonathan Ellison 3-4-3 – 58p
  4. Ivan Boehlen – 6-3-7 – 49p
  5. Patrick Straub 2-13-4 – 48p
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Nathan Watson claims French Beach Race title
at Enduropale du Touquet

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Nathan Watson has claimed victory at the Enduropale du Touquet beach race, crowning the British rider champion of the Championnat de France des Sables series. Victory at the 44th edition of the iconic beach race also secured KTM’s first French Beach Race Championship title.

Le Touquet Beach Race Nathan Watson PH
Nathan Watson – Image by Pascal Haudiquert

With the world-renowned Enduropale du Touquet playing host to the sixth and final round of the Championnat de France des Sables, Nathan Watson arrived at the legendary beach race third overall in the points standings. Knowing that a race win would offer him the greatest chance of championship success, the British rider set about doing exactly that.

A slow start to the race saw Watson lose considerable time on the leaders during the opening hour. Taking things too cautiously on the fast and smooth course, he began to find his rhythm as the event moved past the halfway point. With the track deteriorating, the KTM 450 SX-F mounted rider rapidly cut his way through the field, jumping from sixth to second in just two laps.

Le Touquet Beach Race Nathan Watson PH
Nathan Watson – Image by Pascal Haudiquert

Battling hard with race leader and championship rival Milko Potisek, the duo went head-to-head during the closing stages of the race. With the final pitstop complete, Watson attacked hard for the last two laps and managed to break clear. He eventually crossed the finish line as the 2019 French Beach Race champion with a comfortable five-minute margin of victory.

Nathan Watson

“It’s an absolutely amazing feeling to not only win Le Touquet for the first time but also take the championship. We’ve worked incredibly hard this season, so to get a result like this is beyond words. During the first hour of the race I actually thought that I might not be able to do it. A lot of people overtook me early on and I was riding far too cautiously because the course was so fast and smooth. When it grew rougher that’s when I began to come into my own and really find my speed. I was just able to push hard and feel confident in the big sand holes and the slower traffic around me. When I caught Milko we battled for a while and then for the final pitstop we pitted at different times, so I didn’t know where he was after that. All I could do was give it 100 per cent during the final two laps until the finish line. This is the biggest victory of my career – it’s been my dream since I was a child to win this race and now I’ve become the first British rider to do so. I’m also the first KTM rider in over 30 years to win Le Touquet, too. Now, winning the championship as a result is perfect end to a fantastic season. Finally, I just want to say a huge thanks to everyone at Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for the support they’ve put into me – it’s amazing to get the result we’ve all worked so hard for.”

Le Touquet Beach Race Nathan Watson PH
Nathan Watson – Image by Pascal Haudiquert

Results – Championnat de France des Sables, Round 6

  1. Nathan Watson (GBR) KTM, 15 laps 3:30:20.951
  2. Daymond Martens (BEL) Yamaha, 3:08:16.441
  3. Richard Fura (FRA) Honda, 3:10:14.311
  4. Adrien Van Beveren (FRA) Yamaha, 3:11:17.183
  5. Stephane Watel (FRA) Honda 3:14:05.210

Final Championship Standings

  1. Nathan Watson (GBR) KTM, 735 points
  2. Milko Potisek (FRA) Yamaha, 625
  3. Jeffrey Dewulf (FRA) KTM, 615
  4. Maxime Sot (FRA) Yamaha, 590
  5. Stephane Watel (FRA) Honda, 566
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Suzuki Australia continues contingency program in 2019

Suzuki Australia has announced the continuation of its Suzuki Support Rider (SSR) Contingency program for the 2019 MX Nationals, Australian Superbike Championship and recognised state motocross and road racing premier class championships.

Riders who compete on current generation Suzuki motorcycles are eligible to register as for the free SSR contingency program but the rider must register with Suzuki while only one rider can register per VIN.

Suzuki Australia Continues with Contingency Program in
Suzuki Australia continues contingency program in 2019

Suzuki will send each rider an acceptance letter, which includes a SSR Registration Number. One number will be issued per rider, even if the rider competes on more than one machine or in multiple capacity classes. This Registration Number will be used in all claims for contingency or other correspondence with Suzuki.

Only the nominated Motorcycling Australia sanctioned events will be eligible for contingency. Suzuki Support Riders registered for claiming contingency must use the Claim Form attached. Results will be verified by Suzuki against official M.A. results.

Contingency payments will only be made to riders who satisfy the following criteria:

  1. Compete on current generation RM-Z250, RM-Z450, GSX-R600 or GSX-R1000/R.
  2. Registered for SSR and have received acceptance including their Registration Number from Suzuki Australia.
  3. Lodge a claim form within 7 days of the event to Suzuki Australia including their race support number. Suzuki will verify through official race M.A results

For further information on the 2019 SSR Contingency Program, interested customers should visit http://www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au/suzuki-support-rider

Yamaha bLU cRU Backs 2019 A4DE

Motorcycling Australia has announced Yamaha bLU cRU as the official naming rights sponsor of the 2019 Australian Four Day Enduro (A4DE) which will once again showcase the current world class talent residing in Australia.

ADE bLU cRU

Ray Howard – Yamaha Motorsports Division Manager

“2018 was a spectacular year for Yamaha bLU cRU and the A4DE and we are pleased to continue our relationship with the historic event in 2019. Last year’s Championship saw impressive developmental growth and strategic initiatives that propelled the event to more prestigious level. We are seeing these strategies and developments continue into the 2019 season, strengthening the reputation of this highly respected and much anticipated event. Yamaha bLU cRU looks forward to continue working closely with MA and the A4DE promoters to further develop the Championship, which has proven time and time again to be a fertile platform on which to produce and launch Australian riders onto a world stage.”

The 41st edition of the A4DE will be held in Moruya, NSW on May 1-4. Entries are available until the 17th April, so be sure to secure your place in the historic event here!

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Toowoomba to host opening round of AORC

Motorcycling Australia (MA) has advised all competitors and teams entered into the 2019 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) racing season that the location of Round 1 and 2 at Gympie, Queensland (QLD) will be relocated to Toowoomba on the 9th and 10th of March.

Daniel Milner will be heading to Toowoomba for the opening round of the AORC
AORC heads to Toowoomba for 2019 opener

To ensure the least amount of disruption to riders and teams alike, the competition has been amended to continue successfully incorporating the state of QLD into the Championship whilst also making a conscious effort to minimise the necessary distance to travel.

Moving slightly South to Toowoomba, riders will be presented with picturesque backdrops contrasted by the challenges of the Great Dividing Range and its Western slopes. Both days will still feature continuous sprints where riders will race against the clock as they race to come out on top. Further information on the round and accommodation can be found on the competitor information page of the AORC website.

Mountain Man Just a Few Week’s Away

The Toowoomba Motocross Club is excited to serve up a brand new circuit when the KTM and Motorex backed Mountain Man Motocross hit the iconic Echo Valley facility on February 23-24.

This time round the club has settled on a new track designed to increase both the fun and technical quotient, while still facilitating the vintage racers and bikes with experienced track builder and former champion in his own right Sam Kendall designing the track.

Since the 40th anniversary epic in 2015, top MX1 contenders Kade Mosig, Kirk Gibbs and Dean Ferris have all joined the Mountain Man Honour Roll, and Toowoomba Motocross Club President Ojai Maguire is hopeful of a big turnout for this year’s event.

With a date just three weeks out from the start of the MX Nationals, another part of the attraction is the event’s status as a very useful hit-out for the riders, and a shakedown for the machines, on one of the country’s few world-class motocross tracks.

Toowoombas Mountin Man is only a few weeks away
2019 Mountain Man

The other lure is Australia’s biggest prize pool. While the winner will walk away with $1500, the prizemoney pool will pay all the way down to 40th place in the title class.

With the event’s 40+ years of history the club is mindful of its strong heritage appeal and will continue the popular vintage racing during the Saturday program, while other support classes include Women’s, Junior and Sidecar racing.

With the resurgence of interest in two-stroke machines, this year the traditional 125cc Gold Cup has been renamed the Premix class and expanded to include two-stroke powered machines right up to the 500cc monsters which ruled the slopes of Echo Valley in years gone by.

The club has also moved to increase spectator value of Mountain Man, by providing access to the infield for a closer look at the action, offering a $10 weekend pass to access both days racing, and welcoming kids under 13 for free.

Tickets are available at the gate, and for more details please check out the Mountain Man Motocross Facebook page, or contact club President Ojai Maquire on (0428) 159 989.

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King of MX receives manufacture’s backing

Kawasaki, KTM, Honda, Suzuki and Husqvarna have banded together to support what is arguably Australia’s richest motocross race series, the King of MX NSW State Titles.

With six individual qualifying events spread around NSW, the King of MX series gives an unprecedented number of racers the chance to test their skills, meet more like-minded racers and their families, and earn their chance to race for their own NSW State Title.

NSW King of MX

Dave Cooke

“The King of MX is designed to give riders of all ages and abilities the chance to compete and be rewarded when they excel. We’re excited to see most major manufacturers find common ground in supporting this initiative where we actively promote the sport and reward those racers who rise to the top of their class. I can’t thank our partnering manufacturers enough for seeing the vision we have at Motorcycling NSW to support and grow the sport and keep producing, not only champions of the future, but a healthy sport that we can enjoy at all skill levels.”

With 21 classes representing riders of all age groups and skill levels, the beauty of the King of MX is that you don’t have to sacrifice any other championship to be in with a chance. Just race a qualifier that doesn’t clash with your schedule and race your way to the final, just like the 2018 Queen of MX Meghan Rutledge did.

Event Calendar

  • Qualifier 1: February 16-17, Appin
  • Qualifier 2: March 2-3, Moree
  • Qualifier 3: March 23-24, Condobolin
  • Qualifier 4: April 6-7, Leeton
  • Qualifier 5: April 20-21, Canberra
  • Qualifier 6: May 18-19, Maitland
  • King of MX Final: June 8-10, Goulburn

Racers need to enter one of the six qualifier events where the top six or seven finishers in each class earn their Golden Ticket to the final. Once a rider has qualified, they can still ride the other qualifier events, but they can’t win another Golden Ticket, giving even more riders a chance to qualify. At the final, State Title Champions will be decided over three motos for each class.

2019 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing increases USA contingency program

Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A have increased its 2019 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program to nearly $5 million for Yamaha bLU cRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing.

In addition to coverage of the AMA Professional Supercross and Motocross, National and Regional Amateur MX and Off-Road events, Yamaha has expanded its support of the Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) series, with $467,350 available, almost five times as much as offered in 2018 for Yamaha bLU cRU GNCC racers. The Contingency Program also boasts increases in support to Yamaha bLU cRU riders in the American Flat Track (AFT) series, including those bLU cRU riders who will compete in the all-new AFT Production Twins class.

In addition to the professional championships, Yamaha continues to support the sport’s future stars at various national and regional amateur motocross races across the U.S., as well as the newly created “Supercross Futures” series.

Mike Guerra – Racing Department Manager for Yamaha

“Our bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program has proven to be hugely popular, and this year, we’ve increased the program by 15%, with total funds of nearly $5 million available to Yamaha riders who excel in competition. We have made huge increases in all classes of the GNCC series, the largest off-road series in the country, by boosting the contingency for Yamaha bLU cRU riders fivefold for 2019! We also have increased our support of the American Flat Track (AFT) series, including its all-new Production Twins class and have also stepped forward to support the new Supercross Futures” series that focuses on emerging supercross talent.”

Riders who compete in supercross, motocross, flat track, or off-road aboard any qualified Yamaha motorcycles are invited to register for the 2019 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program.

All bLU cRU Contingency money will be paid directly to riders’ reloadable bLU cRU Debit Cards. In addition, each bLU cRU rider will receive a $45 credit on http://www.bLUcRUswag.com, as well as discounts on Yamaha GYT-R parts and accessories.

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Youthsteam sold to Infront

Swiss sports marketing company Infront has announced the acquisition of Youthstream, the owner of the exclusive television, marketing and global promotional rights to the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship until the 2036 season.

Infront has purchased Youthstream the promoters of MXGP
Youthsteam sold to Infront –  Infront’s President & CEO Phillippe Blatter & Youthstream President Giuseppe Luongo

The agreement covers several other events including the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations, the FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship, the FIM Snowcross World Championship, the European Motocross Championship and the Motocross of European Nations while the management of the Monaco-based company will remain unchanged under the direction of President Giuseppe Luongo together with David Luongo as CEO and Daniele Rizzi as COO.

Phillippe Blatter – Infront’s President & CEO

“We are very glad to welcome the Youthstream team to the Infront Group. Under the proven management and expertise, the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship has become the premier event of off-road motorsport. Following the successful ownership and management of the FIM Superbike World Championship from 2007 to 2012, this acquisition provides us once again with a long-term property ownership in international motorsport further strengthening our comprehensive portfolio. We will collaborate very closely to further optimise fan experience, content offering and ultimately grow the global community in motocross.”

Giuseppe Luongo – Youthstream President

“We have been successfully building this company over more than three decades and are now very much looking forward to continue to further develop our ambitious vision for motocross together with Infront as one of the leading players in global sports business. This agreement comes at the right moment for the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship and allows Youthstream to accelerate its international development. I am sure that the synergies we will generate will be of great benefit for all properties we represent.”

Julien Ternisien – Infront Vice President Summer Sports

“The FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship is an exciting property with a clear potential to grow even further. We are looking forward to taking the sport to the next level of commercial success by activating our extensive media and sponsorship network as well as our full suite of innovative sports solutions. This goes hand in hand with improving media sales and accelerating digital marketing activities, including further improving the MXGP-TV OTT platform for fans all over the world.”

Jorge Viegas – FIM President

“The FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship series is one of motorsports’ fastest growing and most promising properties. We are confident that Infront’s strong market position, resources and marketing capabilities combined with the strong track-record and proven expertise of Youthstream will help raise the bar even higher in terms of growth and popularity for the series.”

About Infront

Infront is a leading sports marketing company managing a comprehensive portfolio of top properties. Infront covers all aspects of successful sporting events, including the distribution of media rights, sponsorship, media production, event operation and digital solutions. Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, Infront has a team of more than 1,000 staff working from 39 offices across more than 14 countries, delivering 4,100 event days of top class sport around the world every year.

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Jeffrey Herlings injury update

Jeffrey Herlings is obviously hoping for a swift and comprehensive rehabilitation period after surgery to repair a broken right foot but it looks like the defending MXGP World Champion will miss the opening round in Argentina on March 3.

MXoN Herlings MX JK MXON
Jeffrey Herlings – Image by Jeff Kardas
Jeffrey Herlings

“I landed strangely from a jump and was at an angle when I went too close to the track ‘wall’ of dirt at Albaida. I got my foot caught between the bike and the mud. I knew we were in trouble, and we had the operation as soon as possible when we saw the foot was starting to swell. This is obviously not the best way to start 2019 but we’d been riding and preparing well and we have to work now to get back to that level. The good news is that Dr Claes and his team were really happy with how the operation went and I don’t have any more pain or swelling. In six weeks time we’ll know more and it all depends how the bone heals. Thanks for all the messages from the fans. We’ll be back strong!”

MXoN Herlings MX JK MXON
Jeffrey Herlings – Image by Jeff Kardas
Dirk Gruebel – MX2 Team Manager & Technical Co-Ordinator, Red Bull KTM

“This is obviously a disappointing situation for Jeffrey and the team and also for fans of MXGP because we all want to see the guys fit, healthy and ready to go for a new season. It is a shame the way the crash happened and if it hadn’t been for that part of the track then maybe he would have escaped without a problem.  Jeffrey had some first class treatment by Dr Claes in Belgium to fix the breaks in what is a tricky part of the body for injury. Everything went well though and there is nothing wrong with his ankle or anything else that could have made the injury more serious. Now he’ll look to recover again and come back to MXGP close to the form we saw in 2018.”

Italy disqualified from 2018 MXoN

Four months after the running of the 2018 Motocross of Nations at RedBud in America, the second placed Italian of Antonio Cairoli, Alessandro Lupino and Michele Cervellin has been disqualified after Cervellin failed the fuel test.

During the event on the 6th and 7th of October, Fuel samples were taken to be tested in accordance with the 2018-1 FIM Technical Rules Motocross (Art.63.04 and 63.05) and it was the ‘fuel tests of No. 20 Michele Crevellin (Italy) attested non conformity with the FIM fuel specifications provided for in Art. 63.01.2 of the 2018-1 FIM Technical Rules Motocross, regarding the properties for unleaded fuel’.

Team Italy was disqualified from the Motocross of Nations after Michele Crevellins machine failed a fuel test. Photo by Youthstream
2018 MXoN – Team Italy

On this basis, the FIM Race Direction has decided to impose upon Mr Crevellin’s team (Team Italy) a disqualification from the entire event, in accordance with Art. 63.05.13 of the 2018-1 Technical Rules Motocross.

No appeal against the decision of the FIM Race Direction has been lodged before the International Disciplinary Court (CDI) within the set deadline so the final results of the 2018 Motocross of Nations have been updated accordingly and it now sees the Netherlands, Great Britain, Australia and USA rounding out the top five behind the winning French team.

2018 Motocross of Nations Top 10

  1. France – 32 (Dylan Ferrandis, Gautier Paulin, Jordi Tixier)
  2. The Netherlands – 39 (Glenn Coldenhoff Jeffrey Herlings, Calvin Vlaanderen)
  3. Great Britain – 41 (Ben Watson Max Anstie Tommy Searle)
  4. Australia – 43 (Hunter Lawrence Mitchell Evans Kirk Gibbs)
  5. USA – 43 (Justin Barcia Eli Tomac Aaron Plessinger)
  6. Belgium – 47
  7. Spain – 57
  8. Estonia – 63
  9. Germany – 70
  10. Canada – 90
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Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Moto News | SX | MX | SuperEnduro | EnduroGP | AORC

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Moto News Wrap for January 29, 2019 by Darren Smart

Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Smarty's Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Moto News Latest

  • Cooper and Cianciarulo Win in Oakland AMA SX
  • Cairoli and Prado Win in Italy
  • Haaker Wins SuperEnduro in Madrid
  • Gibbs Second at Woodville GP
  • Herlings Injured
  • Anderson Injured
  • Wil Ruprecht to EnduroGP
  • 2019 Australian FIM Speedway Grand Prix Abandoned
  • 2019 AORC Rounds 1 & 2 relocated to Toowoomba

Cooper and Cianciarulo Win in Oakland AMA SX

On a rut infested layout Cooper Webb and Adam Cianciarulo have won 450SX and 250SX classes respectively at the fourth round of the 2019 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship which was held in Oakland last weekend.

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Starts J K
AMA Supercross 2019
Round Four – Oakland Coliseum

450SX Report

KTM started the 450 main event 1-2-3 with Webb leading Marvin Musquin and Justin Bogle and after 20 minutes of action packed racing KTM ended the round with 1-2-3 finishes with Webb taking his second win over a fast finishing Musquin and the tireless Blake Baggett.

Cooper Webb

“Oakland was a great day for me. It was a perfect race – I was able to lead from start to finish. I had some pressure from Marvin at the end but I held on and was able to get a win, so I’m stoked. Two-in-a-row and the first time I’ve had the red plate in my career is pretty amazing, so hopefully we can keep it going. We’ve got a long season ahead but it’s been a great two weekends so we’ll get back to work on Monday. Thank you to the Red Bull KTM Team for believing in me and getting me back here. It was awesome to see KTM dominate tonight with 1-2-3 finishes and 1-2 for me and Marv the last two weekends.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Webb J K Cover
Cooper Webb

With Webb’s win and Roczen back in 5th, Webb jumped to the top of the points standings, with a slender two-point lead over Roczen who now sits on 81 points, followed by Tomac on 80 points and Musquin on 79.

Marvin Musquin

“It was super intense and physically it’s tough out there, I’m definitely getting better. This week I was able to ride all week so I’m getting better and better. That track was definitely difficult for everyone and especially those whoops but I figured it out in the Main and I was able to pass some guys. It’s frustrating, I rode really well, I’m really happy but it could have been mine tonight but it happens, no excuses. I went down but I was the fastest and I was able to pass those guys and be a little more consistent. I’m a little bit bummed, finishing right behind cooper is not fun but it’s good, I’m making progress. Second place is good, it’s a lot of points but I want to win for sure.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Musquin J K
Marvin Musquin

Blake Baggett didn’t get the best start but battled his way around a stack of riders including Roczen and Tomac to earn the final podium spot.

Blake Baggett

“I am wrapped to be on the podium because I was buried off the start, got a really bad start and didn’t think I was even going to get to fifth so I pulled through from that.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Blake Baggett J K
Blake Baggett

Eli Tomac charged into contention after a poor start but the Kawasaki rider struggled to get his rhythm going and had to settle for fourth.

Eli Tomac

“We’re in a good position, not only in the point standings but also for the season. I’m healthy and consistently finishing in the top five. I’ll get back to work with the entire Monster Energy Kawasaki crew and continue to improve each week. It’s all a process and I feel good about this season.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Tomac JK
Eli Tomac

Like Tomac, Roczen was in a prime position to land on the podium but as he admits below that he struggled when the whoops became rutted which forced the Honda start to drop back to 5th and lose the red plate.

Ken Roczen

“Oakland started off pretty good. I felt super good in practice and was super-happy with the bike. I was confident going into the night show and happy to have first gate pick. We had a decent heat race, finishing in second. We had to do some little bike adjustments, just as the track changed. I didn’t have a great start at all but fought my way up to second for a bit. I was struggling in the whoops and started feeling uncomfortable and unfortunately, I went back to fifth. That’s not ideal but we’re leaving healthy. We lost the points lead but only by a couple points; it’s a long season, so if we can take this as our worst race, that’s pretty good. It’s time to regroup and hopefully get back on the podium in San Diego.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Ken Roczen J K
Ken Roczen

Justin Barcia managed a bruised tail bone to bring his Yamaha home in credible seventh place to keep himself in the championship hunt to sit just 11 points behind Webb.

Justin Barcia

“Wow. What a day. I had to be really mentally tough. I rode through a lot of pain, but made the best of it. Coming in I knew it would be difficult, but I was pretty optimistic about what I could handle. It was a crazy race for me. It was a difficult track, pretty rough, and I just had to push through the pain. It could have been a lot worse. After last weekend’s crash, I thought I wasn’t going to be able to race but I salvaged some points tonight. I feel like I just need to keep moving forward. Hopefully this week I can work on my body and keep feeling better. We’ll be back at it next weekend in San Diego.”

AMASX Rnd Glendale Pits Justin Barcia JK SX Glendale
Justin Barcia

Aaron Plessinger crashed out of fifth place in the sand pit and Joey Savatgy’s KX450F simply stopped while the rookie was in a podium position and as for Australia’s Chad Reed his ninth place came on the back of the Aussie working his way through the field after yet another poor start and getting tangled in Plessinger’s downed Yamaha.

Chad Reed

“I really liked the Oakland track layout. There were nice whoops and ruts. Unfortunately, I again struggled with one-lap speed, but I felt like I would be okay for the heat race and main event. I had a decent start in the heat race and finished fourth. I was really enjoying the main event and began to find a rhythm. I was going to try and make some moves forward. Then I landed on Plessinger’s bike when he crashed in a blind spot. I fought back to ninth. I’m entering a new week with confidence. I have the pieces, but I need to start out the day better and carry that into the night show. We’re heading to one of my favourite races of the series this weekend. San Diego has always been a solid hunting ground for me.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Reed Roczen J K
Chad Reed & Ken Roczen
Aaron Plessinger

“Oakland Supercross was a pretty tough one. I was kind of struggling all day. I felt good in the last practice even though the times didn’t really show. In the main, I got a good start but then stalled it on the wall jump. I had to jump off, then someone landed on my bike and bent it all up. I had to pull in twice to straighten it out. I’m still happy with the way I rode and the progress we made on my starts, but stuff happens. We’ll move forward. Now that I know I can run with those guys, just need to keep the pace and keep working.”

Oakland 450 Main Events Results

  1. Cooper Webb
  2. Marvin Musquin
  3. Blake Baggett
  4. Eli Tomac
  5. Ken Roczen
  6. Dean Wilson
  7. Justin Barcia
  8. Justin Brayton
  9. Chad Reed
  10. Justin Bogle
  11. Cole Seely
AMA SX Rnd Oakland Podium KTM Webb Baggett Musquin J K
Oakland AMA SX 450 Podium – Webb, Baggett, Musquin

450SX Points after 4 of 17 Rounds

  1. Cooper Webb – 83
  2. Ken Roczen – 81
  3. Eli Tomac – 80
  4. Marvin Musquin – 79
  5. Justin Barcia – 72
  6. Dean Wilson – 69
  7. Blake Baggett – 66
  8. Cole Seely – 56
  9. Justin Brayton -52
  10. Aaron Plessinger – 49
  11. Chad Reed – 47
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

250SX Report

In the 250 West Class Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo became the first repeat winner of the year after he claimed a start to finish win despite getting plenty of attention championship leader Colt Nichols early in the race and Dylan Ferrandis late in the race.

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Start Heat J K
Oakland AMA SX 250 Start
Adam Cianciarulo

“We got it done tonight and it feels so good. I wasn’t feeling the best throughout the day, but I was able to turn it around for the main and make it a solid night. I’m so grateful and proud of the entire Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team and we’re all looking forward to keeping this momentum going.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Cianciarulo JK SX Oakland
Adam Cianciarulo

Ferrandis has proved to be one of the fastest riders on the track but the Frenchman can’t get a decent start in the finals to content for the win BUT he is only five points back from his Yamaha teammate Nichols in the championship.

Dylan Ferrandis

“The YZ250F was awesome as always this season. It was also another demanding track this weekend, but I was feeling really good, really comfortable. My speed was great, but for sure with better starts it will be easier to win. I want more than second place, and that has had me frustrated, but I had some issues this week and didn’t train a lot. So, I’m happy to be on the box here in Oakland.”

Nichols keeps the championship points lead for another week albeit a narrow one with only five points separating the top four riders.

Colt Nichols

“The track was just really rutty and really demanding. The heart rate was really high, so that’s what made it tough to do consistent laps. A solid podium though, can’t ever complain about that, but of course always want more. Once you’ve won that’s all you want to do, but I’ll take a third for tonight, that’s all I had and move on to the next weekend.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Colt Nichols J K
Colt Nichols

Cameron McAdoo continues to impress with the Honda pilot battle throughout the final to end up in fifth position.

Cameron McAdoo

“Last night was a great step in the right direction for me, leading the heat race until the last lap, and starting and running up front in the main is exactly what I need. The track was so tough, you had to be on your toes at all times. I tightened up about lap six of the main, but with some more time up front running that pace I’m confident I can stay there!”

AMASX Rnd Glendale Pits Cameron McAdoo CRFR JK SX Glendale COVER
Cameron McAdoo

Australia’s Tomas Ravenhorst finished 10th in his heat race, missing a direct transfer by just one position then in the LCQ the Victorian was once again in contention to qualify through to the main until rear brake problems ended his night.

Oakland 250SX Main Event Results

  1. Adam Cianciarulo
  2. Dylan Ferrandis
  3. Colt Nichols
  4. Shane McElrath
  5. Jacob Hayes
  6. Cameron Mcadoo
  7. Michael Mosiman
  8. Garrett Marchbanks
  9. Chris Blose
  10. Sean Cantrell
AMA SX Rnd Oakland Podium Cianciarulo Ferrandis Nichols J K
250SX Main Event Results
Adam Cianciarulo – Kawasaki 17 Laps
Dylan Ferrandis – Yamaha +02.570
Colt Nichols – Yamaha +04.609

250SX Points after Round 4

  1. Colt Nichols – 91
  2. Adam Cianciarulo – 88
  3. Shane Mcelrath – 87
  4. Dylan Ferrandis – 86
  5. RJ Hampshire – 67
  6. Cameron Mcadoo – 58
  7. Chris Blose – 58
  8. Jacob Hayes – 55
  9. Michael Mosiman – 55
  10. James Decotis – 52
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Cairoli and Prado Win in Italy

Antonio Cairoli and Jorge Prado have kicked off their 2019 season with moto wins in the MX1 and MX2 motos respectively before finishing first and third in the Superfinal at the opening round of the Italian Motocross Championship held in Sardina last weekend.

MXGP Rnd Riola Sardo Romain Febvre Antonio Cairoli
Tony Cairoli – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo

Cairoli won the MX1 moto from Tim Gajser, Romain Febvre, Gautier Paulin and Arminas Jasikonis while Prado earned the MX2 moto win ahead of Mikkel Haarup and Mattia Guadagnin with the Aussie duo of Mitch Evans and Caleb Grothues coming home sixth and seventh.

MXGP Rnd Riola Sardo Prado Gajser action
Tim Gajser & Jorge Prado – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo

The Superfinal started with Jasikonis going down in the first corner but Cairoli snuck through taking the lead from Prado, Gajser, Paulin, Ivo Monticelli, Alessandro Lupino and Evans.

Italian MX Rnd Riola Sardo Arminas Jasikonis
Arminas Jasikonis – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo

Cairoli edged away from the field while Gajser finally caught and passed Prado for second place in the final laps of the moto so it was victory for Cairoli well ahead of Gasjer and Prado who finished third and top 250 rider ahead of Paulin, Febvre, Monticelli and Evans who was the second MX2 rider on track. Gothues ended the moto in 36th.

MXGP Rnd Riola Sardo Febvre action
Romain Febvre – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo
Tony Cairoli

“It is always good to race in Riola. We spend a lot of time testing around here. I’m really happy with how the bike is working at the moment and my feeling with it. This is just the first race of the year and we have another two to prepare ourselves before we are ready. It also means we have three races in the sand so we cannot test too much on hard-pack but overall I think we have a good bike.”

Italian MX Rnd Riola Sardo Tony Cairoli ST
Tony Cairoli – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo
Jorge Prado

“A very good first race and I felt great from the timed practice. We made a great bike this winter and it worked really well for me all-day; better than we expected. In the first moto I had a decent start and took seven laps to get to the front as a struggled a bit with my rhythm. Coming into the Superfinal I knew the start was super-important. I didn’t have the best jump but I made a good pass into the first corners and was second behind Tony. He was pushing a lot and I tried to keep his rhythm. With three laps to go I made a mistake through the lappers and Tim came past me. I finished third and I’m very happy. This is all good preparation for the world championship.”

MXGP Rnd Riola Sardo Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo
Arminas Jasikonis

“It feels good to be behind the starting gate again. This weekend in Sardinia I had a good feeling on the bike and I’m happy I showed the speed is there. In the MX1 moto I didn’t manage to get a good start but kept my head down to finish fifth. I struggled a bit with arm pump in the closing part of the race but I tried not to let that slow me down. Going into the Supercampione final I felt ready to show my speed again. Unfortunately, I went down in the first corner and that made it all harder for me. I got up and did a few more laps but I felt some pain in my right leg and had to pull out of the race. I’ll give my body some time to heal and prepare for round two of the series next weekend in Ottobiano.”

Arminas Jasikonis Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
Arminas Jasikonis – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo

Interestingly, in the deep sand of Riola Sardo in Sardinia, Cairoli, Febvre, Gajser and Prado were all using Pirelli Scorpion MX3 Mid Soft front and the Scorpion MX Soft rear tyres and the second round of the championships at Ottobiano next weekend will have very similar conditions.

MX1 Points after Round 1 of 3

  1. CAIROLI Antonio (ITA) p.120
  2. FEBVRE Romain (FRA) p.100
  3. GAJSER Tim (SLO) p.80
  4. PAULIN Gautier (FRA) p.65
  5. JASIKONIS Arminas (LTU) p.60

MX2 Points after Round 1 of 3

  1. PRADO Jorge (SPA) p.120
  2. HAARUP Mikkel (DEN) p.100
  3. GUADAGNINI Mattia (ITA) p.80
  4. WATSON Ben (GBR) p.65
  5. CERVELLIN Michele (ITA) p.60
  6. Evans Mitch (AUS) p. 55
  7. Grothues Caleb (AUS) p. 50
MXGP Rnd Riola Sardo Cairoli podium Supercampione
Supercampione Podium – Italian MX Championship – Round 1, Riola Sardo

Supercampione Points after Round 1 of 3

  1. CAIROLI Antonio (ITA) p.120
  2. GAJSER Tim (SLO) p.100
  3. PRADO Jorge (SPA) p.80
  4. PAULIN Gautier (FRA) p.65
  5. FEBVRE Romain (FRA) p.60
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Haaker Wins SuperEnduro in Madrid

Colton Haaker has earned the overall victory ahead of Cody Webb and Alfredo Gomez to not only win round three of the FIM SuperEnduro World Championship in Madrid, Spain but he also moved to the top of the series standings.

SuperEnduro Rnd Madrid Colton Haaker
Colton Haaker – Image by Future7Media

Haaker dominated the first of three finals to take the win over Taddy Blazusiak and Webb but the reverse order start for the second race caused chaos after Haaker became entangled in a multi-bike collision on the opening lap leaving him in near last place.

Haaker blitzed the technical layout and moved up to second place behind Webb but he becoming stuck on the final rocky corner which resulted in a three-way fight to the finish line where Haaker and Blazusiak tangled as they approached the finish line jump ending with both riders losing control of their machines.

FIM SuperEnduro World Championship Alfredo Gomez
Alfredo Gomez

Haaker was lucky to walk away unscathed in third behind Webb and Pol Tarres while Blazusiak was deemed a non-finisher.

Despite being bruised a battered Haaker refocused for race three and delivered arguably his best performance of the night with a win by 26-seconds over Gomez and David Leonov while a broken chain on lap four forced Webb to stop and make trackside repairs to resolve the issue and despite his best efforts to re-join the race, he wasn’t classified as a finisher but still ended his night as the overall runner-up.

Colton Haaker

“It’s feels great to come away tonight with the overall win and also become the new point’s leader in the championship. I really wanted to push for the victory tonight and race my way back into title contention and I definitely feel like I did that out there, despite what was a very eventful night on the track. We’ve Budapest in two weeks’ time and I’m looking forward to going there with the leader’s red plate.”

SuperEnduro Rnd Madrid Colton Haaker FM
Colton Haaker – Image by Future7Media

For Webb he saw his championship lead vanish on the night but still has not given up by any means and remains in second, only thirteen points off the lead.

Cody Webb

“It was a tough night for me tonight, but I’m happy to take second overall. The first race went well, I struggled to get into a good rhythm but I was pleased with third and knew what I had to do to improve for race two. I got away well in the second race and was able to control the pace from the front and take a clean win. I was probably riding my best of the whole evening in race three. Colton was in front but I was confident I could match his speed and fight for the win. Unfortunately, after a reasonably hard landing, I damaged the bike. I tried my best to fix it in time but it wasn’t quite enough. It’s upsetting but this is SuperEnduro and anything can happen. I’m looking forward to the next race and will try to win back the overall lead.”

AMA SX Rnd Oakland Webb J K Cover
Cooper Webb

Deciding to return to racing following an elbow injury last time out in Germany, Gomez hoped for a top-five result but thanks to feeling better than expected, the Spaniard raced his way into podium contention as the evening progressed.

Alfredo Gomez

“I can’t honestly believe that I’ve managed to finish third overall tonight, two days ago I wasn’t sure if I would ride because I’m still recovering from an elbow injury that I sustained last time out in Germany. I did some training laps and decided I should try to race. I was aiming for top five at best. But this is my home race and I guess that just makes you want to deliver the best result you can. I rode safe in race one for ninth and then did better in race two for fifth. I got into a good position in race three and with other riders having problems, suddenly I was in second. After that I tried to remain calm and focused and control the position to the finish. Third overall is an amazing result and I have to thank everyone who’s helped me during these last few weeks to get to this position – behind the scenes it’s been a real team effort.”

SuperEnduro Rnd Madrid Alfredo Gomez
Alfredo Gomez – Image by Future7Media

For Taddy Blazusiak, the third stop of the SuperEnduro series was challenging due to a series of crashes that ended with an injury to his knee.

Taddy Blazusiak

“I collided with Colton Haaker and went down hard, I was banged and bruised pretty good, but lucky to walk away from it relatively unscathed and able to focus on the final moto. In race three I got a great start but then stalled in the rocks and accidentally put my left foot down into a hole. As I fell over, with the bike on top of me, my foot became trapped in the hole and twisted my knee. As yet I don’t know how serious things are until I see my doctor to get it checked out but I will do my best to be ready for round four in Budapest.”

SuperEnduro Rnd Madrid Taddy Blazusiak FM
Taddy Blazusiak – Image by Future7Media

The 2019 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship continues with round four in Budapest, Hungary on February 9.

Results: Madris – Round 3
Heat 1

  1. Colton HAAKER
  2. Taddy BLAZUSIAK
  3. Cody WEBB
  4. Diogo VIEIRA
  5. Blake GUTZEIT
  6. Xavi LEON SOLE
  7. Pol TARRES
  8. Kevin GALLAS
  9. Alfredo GOMEZ
  10. Cristobal GUERRERO

Heat 2

  1. Cody WEBB
  2. Pol TARRES
  3. Colton HAAKER
  4. Diogo VIEIRA
  5. Alfredo GOMEZ
  6. Blake GUTZEIT
  7. Xavi LEON SOLE
  8. Cristobal GUERRERO
  9. Kevin GALLAS
  10. Jose Maria JUAN BERNABEU
SuperEnduro Rnd Madrid Colton Haaker FM
Colton Haaker celebrates – Image by Future7Media

Heat 3

  1. Colton HAAKER
  2. Alfredo GOMEZ
  3. David LEONOV
  4. Blake GUTZEIT
  5. Xavi LEON SOLE
  6. Pol TARRES
  7. Cristobal GUERRERO
  8. Diogo VIEIRA
  9. Jose Maria JUAN BERNABEU
  10. Kevin GALLAS

Prestige Class — Overall

  1. Colton Haaker (USA) Husqvarna – 58
  2. Cody Webb (USA) KTM – 37
  3. Alfredo Gomez (ESP) Husqvarna – 34
  4. Pol Tarres (ESP) Husqvarna – 34
  5. Blake Gutzeit (RSA) Husqvarna – 33

Provisional Standings

  1. Colton HAAKER 159pts
  2. Cody WEBB 146pts
  3. Taddy BLAZUSIAK 128pts
  4. Pol TARRES 90pts
  5. Alfredo GOMEZ 80pts
  6. Diogo VIEIRA 76pts
  7. Kevin GALLAS 76pts
  8. Blake GUTZEIT 74pts
  9. Xavi LEON SOLE 59pts
  10. Cristobal GUERRERO 55pts
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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Gibbs Second at Woodville GP

The Manawatu-Orion Motorcycle Club Inc. (MOMCC) hosted the 58th annual Woodville GP which was once again recognised as an FIM Oceania event and saw 600 riders converge on the popular North Island venue.

Kirk Gibbs Woodville
Kirk Gibbs – Woodville GP 2019

The 2015 Australian MX1 motocross champion Kirk Gibbs, who joins the Altherm JCR Yamaha team for this prestigious race weekend and also to defend his title in the four-round 2019 New Zealand Motocross Championship, described it as “a very crazy day weather-wise and the worst wind I have ever ridden in.”

Kayne Lamont - Woodville GP 2019`
Kayne Lamont – Woodville GP 2019

Despite the conditions Gibbs managed to score two second place finishes behind Kiwi veteran and multi Woodville winner Cody Cooper. Gibbs says he got a great start in the first race, “which put me second around the first turn and right behind Cody Cooper. I kept him honest most of the race and got a little arm pump just from the lack of racing for me lately.”

He describes the second moto as a full mud race and although he got a great start, the conditions forced him to take it easy.

Maximus Purvis Woodville
Maximus Purvis – Woodville GP 2019
Kirk Gibbs

“I leaned back off down the straight because it was slippery and I wheeled and got sideways, so I had to back it down. I got into second behind Cody Cooper early and it was just trail riding because the track was really deep, one-lined and skatey. Sometimes in those conditions it’s better to play it smart. The aim is to win. Cody Cooper is such a great rider and knows how to win but I think I am in a good spot to do battle with him. It will be a battle every round because I know he wants that number 1 plate back over here and I don’t want to let it go. Also I know Kayne Lamont will be keen to get in the mix.”

The New Zealand Motocross Championship kicks off in Taranaki this weekend and Gibbs believes he is ready to take on Cooper and defend his 2018 crown.

2019 MNZ MX National Championship

  • Round 1 – Sunday 3rd February – Taranaki
  • Round 2 – Sunday 17th February – Rotorua
  • Round 3 – Sunday 24th February – Pukekohe
  • Round 4 – Sunday 10th March – Taupo

Herlings Injured

Red Bull KTM Factory rider Jeffrey Herlings has broken his foot while testing in Spain and according to the team he immediately underwent surgery in an effort to get the injury in shape for the opening round of the 2019 World Motocross Championship in Argentina in 5 weeks’ time.

MXoN Herlings MX JK MXON
Jeffrey Herlings – Image by Jeff Kardas

Below is KTM’s brief official announcement

“Waiting time now for the #mxgp champion. Jeffrey Herlings suffered a crash yesterday (Friday) while training and underwent an operation on his right foot the same evening. Apparently there is no major damage to his ankle but more details and the expected recovery time for the injury will be known in the next 1-2 days. Get well soon #84.”

Anderson Injured

During a routine practice day leading up to the fourth round of the AMA Monster Energy Supercross Championship at Oakland, Jason Anderson has broken his arm in two places, as well as a fractured rib after crashing his Husqvarna.

The injury required surgery and has an expected recovery time of at least eight weeks and at the time of writing his return to racing is yet to be determined.

AMASX Rnd Anaheim Anderson JK SX Anaheim
Jason Anderson
Jason Anderson

“I am really bummed to have to say that I am out for an injury, I was struggling to find my groove but had high hopes of pushing forward to the podium in all of the upcoming rounds. I will be back stronger. Thank you for the support.”

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Wil Ruprecht to EnduroGP

Australian Wil Ruprecht will join reigning World E2 Champion Eero Remes in the new look Johansson MPE Yamaha Enduro Team that will contest the 2019 World Enduro Championship (EnduroGP).

With Yamaha Racing officially abandoning their Outsiders Yamaha Team, which had represented the company in World Enduro, the Johansson MPE Yamaha Enduro Team will be Yamaha’s unofficial representative for the 2019 season.

Wil Ruprecht has signed with the Johansson MPE Yamaha Enduro Team for the World Enduro Championship
Wil Ruprecht

The multi-national team will be headlined by Finlands Eero Remes along with Aussie Ruprecht, Brit Alex Walton and Estonian Priit Biene in the Junior category while Swede Marcus Adielsson and Finn Hugo Svärd will make up the Youth team and Swede Patrik Andersson will be the teams World Cup Senior rider.

Joakim Johansson

“We are very happy and incredibly proud to be able to present Finnish triple and reigning world champion Eero Remes as a rider in the GP-class. We have not decided class yet, the tests of the various Yamaha models are on right now. By his side he will have Australian junior rider Wil Ruprecht who is a strong candidate in the junior-class. Wil was with us already at the last race in Germany in 2018, where he took a victory on his first day.”

The 2019 Enduro World Championship begins on 22-24 March in Germany.

2019 Australian FIM Speedway Grand Prix Abandoned

BSI Speedway has announced that the Australian FIM Speedway Grand Prix (SGP) will not be taking place in 2019 after ‘unforeseen circumstances’ forced PSE (Paul Sergeant Events) to pull out of staging the event.

The date and venue for the Australian event, which had been provisionally scheduled as the final round of the 2019 FIM Speedway Grand Prix series, was yet to be confirmed so the 2019 season will now culminate at the Torun FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland on October 5.

BSI Speedway remains committed to bringing the event back to Australia, and is actively seeking a new local promoter to help stage the event in future years.

Torben Olsen – BSI Speedway Managing Director

“While we were eager to run an Australian SGP in 2019, we decided that we should only do so when we are confident we can deliver the quality experience expected by our SGP riders, fans and community. We were in dialogue with multiple venues for the 2019 event, and look to continue further discussions with Ipswich in particular with a view to hopefully bringing a fantastic SGP event back to Australia as soon as possible.”

2019 AORC Rounds 1 & 2 relocated to Toowoomba

Motorcycling Australia (MA) has advised all competitors and teams entered into the 2019 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) racing season that the location of Round 1 and 2 at Gympie, Queensland (QLD) will be relocated.

Due to unforeseen circumstances the opening rounds of the 2019 Championship have been relocated to Toowoomba, QLD and will be held March 9-10. To ensure the least amount of disruption to riders and teams alike, the competition has been amended to continue successfully incorporating the state of QLD into the Championship whilst also making a conscious effort to minimise the necessary distance to travel.

AORC Dungog Juniors start
AORC Dungog

Moving slightly South to Toowoomba, riders will be presented with picturesque backdrops contrasted by the challenges of the Great Dividing Range and its Western slopes. Both days will still feature continuous sprints where riders will race against the clock as they race to come out on top. Further information on the round and accommodation can be found on the competitor information page of the AORC website.

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Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax

Source: MCNews.com.au