Victorian Max Fricke last night scored a major win at round 4 of the Australian Senior Solo Speedway Championships at Olympic Park Speedway, Mildura, gaining a stronger grip on the championship.
In front of a strong crowd under warm conditions, fans were treated to some amazing riding by some of the world’s best riders.
With close racing all night with very little passing opportunities, it was Mansfield’s Max Fricke who pulled off the move of the night in the final, sweeping around the outside of former World Champion Chris Holder on lap two to take the lead.
Holder fought back but was unable to match the speed of Fricke, while his brother Jack Holder and Brady Kurtz battled it out for third and fourth.
Max Fricke
“I was kind of struggling all night fighting it and we made a couple of changes for the last couple of heats and that made a big difference. The gap opened up on the outside in the final in the final and coming from gate four I just went for it and it worked in my favour. Fair play to Chris, he gave me enough room, he’s a really food rider and very fair.”
Chris Holder said he was unable to get up on the inside of Fricke in the final but was happy with second for the night and actually took the most points on the night. Holder also praised track promoters Mildura Speedway and work crews for their track preparation and set-up.
Max Fricke now moves to 55 points, 11 points ahead of Chris Holder (44), Jaimon Lidsey and Rohan Tungate are tied on 43, while Jack Holder sits on 42.
The final round will be staged at Gillman Speedway this Saturday night, January 11.
Australian Senior Solo Speedway Championships Round Four – Olympic Park Speedway, Mildura
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
What happened this week
Justin Barcia claims opening 450SX win at Anaheim 1
Justin Cooper tops 250SX – Jett Lawrence ninth
Riders talk Dakar Rally Stage 2
Woffinden swinging in WA – Speedway with Graeme Sidden
2020 Championship Calendars
2020 AMA Motocross
2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross
2020 MXGP
2020 American Flat Track
2020 Australian Speedway Senior Solo Speedway
2020 FIM Speedway GP Championship
2020 Australian Dirt Track Championship
2020 Australian Track Championship
2020 Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC)
2020 FIM SuperEnduro Championship
2020 AMA Extreme Off-Road East/West
2020 FIM Flat Track World Championship
2020 King of MX
2020 Australian Motocross National Championship Calendar
Justin Barcia claims opening 450SX win at Anaheim 1
Justin Barcia proved unstoppable at Ahaneim 1, taking a clear win from Adam Cianciarulo, with a 5.646s lead, while Cooper Webb laid claim to the final podium position seven-seconds in arrears. Aussie Chad Reed came home in 18th.
Vince Friese scored the holeshot from Justin Barcia and Justin Brayton while Adam Cianciarulo was in fourth. Barcia took the lead from Friese halfway through that opening lap. Justin Hill was fifth at the end of lap one, ahead of Cooper Webb and Ken Roczen.
Justin Barcia & Adam Cianciarulo – Image by Hoppenworld
Barcia was getting away while Brayton was hanging on to second place while being chased by Cianciarulo, while Friese, Roczen and Webb tripped each other up in their desperate quests to work their way forward in what was a busy pack. Barcia though had clear air up front and a 2.7-second advantage with 16-minutes remaining. Jason Anderson was eighth and Tomac was in ninth place.
Cianciarulo then got the better of Brayton to move up to second place and immediately pulled away from the Honda man. Cooper Webb was in fourth and despite battling the flu was clear of Ken Roczen and Blake Baggett.
Barcia looked safe up front but then a mistake with 12-minutes remaining saw the Yamaha man throw it all away! A 2.5-second lead turned into a 1.5-second deficit to Cianciarulo after Barcia’s clash with the tough blocks lost him his advantage.
Cooper Webb – Image by Hoppenworld
Cooper Webb started to pile the pressure on third placed Brayton and with eight-minutes remaining the defending champ made his move to take that third spot. Brayton then had his hands full fending off the advances of Roczen and Baggett.
Barcia then got the better of Cianciarulo after the Kawasaki man made a big mistake that could have ended very badly but he managed to recover and rejoin the track 1.4-seconds behind Barcia.
Brayton then went from fourth to seventh in one corner after he was gazumped by Roczen and Baggett before then being used as a berm by Jason Anderson which put Brayton momentarily on the floor. Tomac then relegated Brayton further down to eighth place just ahead of Malcolm Stewart and Vince Friese.
Justin Brayton & Eli Tomac – Image by Hoppenworld
Jason Anderson got the better of Roczen with two-minutes left to run to move up to fifth place. Up front Barica had a handy buffer over Cianciarulo who in turn had an even larger buffer over Cooper Webb. And that was how they finished, Barcia the winner of the A1 season opener, 450 debutante Cianciaurlo in second, while defending champ Cooper Webb rounded out the podium.
250SX Main Event Podium – Cianciarulo – Barcia – Webb – Image by Hoppenworld
Blake Baggett clinched fourth place with a handy buffer over Jason Anderson while Ken Roczen claimed 17-points for sixth. Eli Tomac took seventh ahead of Justin Brayton and Malcolm Stewart, while Vince Friese rounded out the top ten.
In his record breaking 250th main event start Chad Reed finished in 18th place.
Justin Barcia – P1
“It doesn’t get much better, honestly. We had a really nice day. I qualified alright. The Heat race was great, I got a great start and won. And the main event, wow, just unbelievable. I got another great start, led a lot of laps, but I made a mistake and got passed. I regrouped and got into the lead again and took the win. I’m feeling over the top right now. It’s phenomenal! It’s going to be a long season though. I just want to keep having a lot of fun and keep putting that bike on the podium.”
Justin Barcia – Image by Hoppenworld
Adam Cianciarulo – P2
“I fell in love with Supercross watching Anaheim 1back in 1999. Ever since then I’ve been dreaming about what I got to experience tonight. Everything from opening ceremonies to getting my first 450 podium. I was bummed we couldn’t capture the win, but regardless I am stoked on this result. It is a long season, I still have a lot to learn and build on from here, but I am already fired up to go racing next weekend in St. Louis.”
Adam Cianciarulo – Image by Hoppenworld
Cooper Webb – P4
“It’s been a struggle today with the sickness but that’s what makes this sport so gnarly, you have to be able to go out on Saturday and perform despite how you’re feeling. I’m just pumped to be on the podium, I feel like I dug deep and pushed through it tonight and it’s a good start to the season for myself and the team.”
Cooper Webb – Image by Hoppenworld
Jason Anderson – P5
“My weekend went pretty decent, in the Main Event, I started in the back and I had to make some passes to get into fifth-place. Once I got behind [Blake] Baggett and Cooper [Webb], that’s all she wrote.”
Jason Anderson – Image by Hoppenworld
Ken Roczen – P6
“Anaheim 1 started pretty good but the main event was definitely not the greatest. We were a little off on our bike setup, with it being way too stiff. That really showed in the main because of the way the track deteriorated so much. I didn’t feel like I was able to keep a good flow or attack the track the way I needed to. For sure this is not the position we wanted for the night, but it’s good to get the first race out of the way and leave healthy. We know what we need to work on for the upcoming race and have a plan in mind moving forward to implement those changes. Overall we’re not going to let this first race get us down, and I’m looking forward to St. Louis.”
Ken Roczen & Blake Baggett – Image by Hoppenworld
Eli Tomac – P7
“Man, the first race of the season is always an interesting one. The whole day is just chaotic. I started feeling a bit of a flow by the end of the last qualifying session today, but in both the heat race and main event tonight I got decent starts but got shuffled back in the first turn and the way the track broke down tonight it became very one-lined and difficult to make passes. The competition this year is deeper than ever, so we will regroup this week and come out swinging in St. Louis next weekend.”
Eli Tomac – Image by Hoppenworld
450SX Main Event – 2020 Anaheim 1
Pos
Rider
Bike
Time/Gap
1
Justin Barcia
Yamaha YZ450F
22 Laps
2
Adam Cianciarulo
Kawasaki KX450
+05.646
3
Cooper Webb
KTM 450SX-F Factory Edi
+12.693
4
Blake Baggett
KTM 450SX-F FE
+14.216
5
Jason Anderson
Husqvarna FC450 Factory
+18.187
6
Ken Roczen
Honda CRF450R Works E
+22.127
7
Eli Tomac
Kawasaki KX450
+23.789
8
Justin Brayton
Honda CRF450R
+26.191
9
Malcolm Stewart
Honda CRF450R
+27.043
10
Vince Friese
Honda CRF450R
+32.922
450SX Standings – After Round 1
Pos
Rider
R1
Total
1
Justin Barcia
26
26
2
Adam Cianciarulo
23
23
3
Cooper Webb
21
21
4
Blake Baggett
19
19
5
Jason Anderson
18
18
6
Ken Roczen
17
17
7
Eli Tomac
16
16
8
Justin Brayton
15
15
9
Malcolm Stewart
14
14
10
Vince Friese
13
13
11
Justin Hill
12
12
12
Aaron Plessinger
11
11
13
Dean Wilson
10
10
14
Zach Osborne
9
9
15
Martin Davalos
8
8
16
Justin Bogle
7
7
17
Tyler Bowers
6
6
18
Chad Reed
5
5
19
Kyle Chisholm
4
4
20
Chris Blose
3
3
21
Fredrik Noren
2
2
22
James Decotis
1
1
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Justin Cooper tops 250SX – Jett Lawrence ninth
Justin Cooper led a Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing 1-2 in the 250SX Main Event, with team mate Dylan Ferrandis runner up, and Christian Craig bringing his Honda home into the final podium position. For Aussie Jet Lawrence, Anaheim 1 also proved a strong debut, riding to ninth, 45.924-seconds off leading pace.
When the 250SX Main Event kicked off, Austin Forkner got a great run off the line but it was Justin Cooper out front ahead of Forkner, Christian Craig and Mitchell Oldenburg in the 250SX final. Luke Clout was in eighth place at the end of the opening lap while young countryman Jett Lawrence was running 11th in his first ever senior main event on American soil.
Austin Forkner & Justin Cooper – Image by Hoppenworld
Michael Mosiman and Dylan Ferrandis pushed OIdenburg back to sixth place. Jett Lawrence got up to ninth place behind Clout but then dropped five positions after making a mistake that relegated him all the way back to 14th with ten-minutes remaining.
Forkner worked his way through to the lead after pushing Cooper back to second place, while with five-minutes remaining Dylan Ferrandis was in third place ahead of Christian Craig and Michael Mosiman. Luke Clout was now out of the race but Jett Lawrence had recovered from his stumble and was back up to ninth place.
Dylan Ferrandis & Christian Craig – Image by Hoppenworld
Forkner then made a mistake while under pressure from Cooper and ran into the tough blocks and then cut the track when he remounted. Ferrandis pushed Forkner further back to third place but it was also expected that Forkner would also be given some sort of penalty for cutting the track which would push him even further down the order…
Justin Cooper went on to take a clear victory over Dylan Ferrandis while Austin Forker finished in third place at the flag ahead of Christian Craig and Michael Mosiman. Ultimately though Forkner was relegated to fifth place for cutting the track after his crash, which promoted Christian Craig on to the podium and Mosiman to fourth.
Jett Lawrence finished his maiden AMA Supercross event with a ninth place finish, crossing the line 46-seconds behind the race winner. Countryman Jay Wilson finished 17th while Luke Clout went out early in the race.
Justin Cooper – P1
“It’s indescribable. Everyone says that about their first win, but it honestly it is. I felt like I needed to pinch myself after I went over the finish line. Looking up into the crowd and all the lights and realizing what I had just accomplished – my first win at Anaheim — it’s unreal! I can’t wait to go home and sleep on it and see how I feel tomorrow. I really don’t want this feeling to end.”
Justin Cooper – Image by Hoppenworld
Dylan Ferrandis – P2
“The day was good as a whole, I just got a bad start in the Main. I came back pretty strong, but I’m a little bit disappointed because I think I should have finished a little bit closer than I did. I was riding a little bit tight today. It’s the first one of the year, a lot of pressure, a lot going on. Everyone wants to win the first one. But it’s good. Last year, I finished second and went on to win the championship. So no problem, we’ll move on to next weekend.”
Dylan Ferrandis – Image by Hoppenworld
Michael Mosiman – P4
“It was good to come out of here with a top-five result but I’m not super stoked on how I rode. It’s comforting, though, because I know I’ve got a whole lot more in the tank.”
Michael Mosiman – Image by Hoppenworld
Austin Forkner – P5
“It was a split-second decision to be as safe as possible,” said Forkner. “That’s what they always tell us to rejoin safely and with me pointed backward and slightly left, I thought that after the next rider went by I would be fine. I didn’t gain any position by doing what I did. It’s a bummer they (the officials) didn’t feel the same way. After knowing I was able to put a good pace out front, I’m more fired up than ever to get back out there next weekend.”
Austin Forkner & Justin Cooper – Image by Hoppenworld
Cameron McAdoo – P6
“After so much preparation, it’s nice to finally get on the track and get a finish under my belt,” said McAdoo. “We took away a lot of good from this round that I’m hoping we can work on this week to go after an even better result. I would love to be challenging for the podium and proving to these guys that I am able to run up front.”
Jett Lawrence – P9
“My first A1 is in the books.I did some good things out there and learnt a lot. Look forward to St Louis where I’ll be 100% healthy so no excuses next weekend.”
Jett Lawrence – Image by Hoppenworld
Mitchell Oldenburg – P16
“It was a tough night for me so I am looking forward to being better for the next round, I know what I need to work on before St Louis. The team are great and the bike feels good so we are on track for stronger results. After the Heat I felt sore because I had a couple of crashes but mentally I’m in a really good spot so as much as I am disappointed in tonight’s result, I need to keep in mind that its only race 1 of 10, I have a bit of time for redemption.” Oldenburg added.
Mitchell Oldenburg – Image by Hoppenworld
Jay Wilson – P17
“I dreamt about being in heat one at A1 for as long as I can remember. Last night I got to make that dream a reality and sit on the start gates for the opening ceremony before going racing at the biggest race of my career so far. I’d be lying if I say the nerves didn’t get the better of me. Seventh in the heat and 17th in the main. I rode tight, I was learning and processing the whole night, and just a week earlier we weren’t sure if we would be there after practice crash, but we’ve got the first one out of the way, and now I’m excited to see what we can do.”
Jay Wilson – Image by Hoppenworld
Luke Clout – P21
“My riding was good for most of the day but I am just so bummed, I was sitting in 8th and pushing hard but I made a mistake and it cost me really big. I’m a bit banged up but there are a lot of positives to take away from the night, its been good to see where I’m at over here against some of these guys and I know I will only get better from here. I havant had too much time on the 250 and the whoops were a challenge for me tonight but I will keep grinding, I’ve only been back on the 250 for 3-4 weeks and its been about 4 years since I’ve been on one so its an adjustment. Only upwards from here.”
Luke Clout – Image by Hoppenworld
250SX Main Event – 2020 Anaheim 1
Pos
Rider
Bike
Time/Gap
1
Justin Cooper
Yamaha YZ250F
17 Laps
2
Dylan Ferrandis
Yamaha YZ250F
+02.450
3
Christian Craig
Honda CRF250R
+13.581
4
Michael Mosiman
Husqvarna FC250
+15.251
5
Austin Forkner
Kawasaki KX250
+15.251
6
Cameron Mcadoo
Kawasaki KX250
+21.244
7
Brandon Hartranft
KTM 250SX-F Factory Edi
+35.905
8
Derek Drake
KTM 250SX-F Factory Edi
+36.589
9
Jett Lawrence
Honda CRF250R
+45.924
10
Alex Martin
Suzuki RMZ250
+55.420
250SX Standings – After Round 1
Pos
Rider
R1
Total
1
Justin Cooper
26
26
2
Dylan Ferrandis
23
23
3
Christian Craig
21
21
4
Michael Mosiman
19
19
5
Austin Forkner
18
18
6
Cameron Mcadoo
17
17
7
Brandon Hartranft
16
16
8
Derek Drake
15
15
9
Jett Lawrence
14
14
10
Alex Martin
14
13
11
Jacob Hayes
12
12
12
Michael Leib
11
11
13
Robbie Wageman
10
10
14
Killian Auberson
9
9
15
Carson Brown
8
8
16
Mitchell Oldenburg
7
7
17
Jay Wilson
6
6
18
Logan Karnow
5
5
19
Derek Kelley
4
4
20
Chris Howell
3
3
21
Luke Clout
2
2
22
Mitchell Falk
1
1
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Riders talk Dakar Rally Stage 2
Stage two at the 2020 Dakar Rally presented riders with several new challenges with the introduction of pre-coloured road books and limited time to work on bikes, following an opening Stage which led competitors from Jeddah up the coast to Al Wajh with a 319 km timed special seeing Toby Price taking an initial lead.
Stage 2 saw Sam Sunderland take control of the overall Dakar lead with a 367-kilometre special, but it was Botswana’s Ross Branch who took the stage win.
As the fifth rider to enter the day’s 367-kilometre special, Sam Sunderland was able to maximise his advantage and push right from the start. The 2019 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Champion was able to improve his position throughout that stage to ultimately post the second-fastest time. Sam now enjoys a lead of just over one minute in the provisional overall standings.
Sam Sunderland
“It was a really tough day today and it felt very long. There was a huge mix of terrain with high speed tracks and then slower technical sections. In and out of the canyons there were a lot of lines visible and that made navigation more of a challenge. I made a couple of mistakes, but I think everyone did out there today. All-in-all though I had a good run, just trying to stick to a steady rhythm and build up my pace as the race goes on.”
Sam Sunderland
Quintanilla also excelled on the extremely challenging stage two of the 2020 Dakar Rally to finish in third place. In doing so, the Chilean rider moved himself up to second in the provisional overall standings.
Pablo Quintanilla
“I’m really pleased with my day today. Navigation was challenging all through the special but I didn’t make too many mistakes. I enjoyed the mix of terrain today, a lot of it was very similar to back home in Chile and so I felt comfortable on the bike. Toward the end of the stage I decided to play a little strategy and try to improve my position for tomorrow. I think it will work well and I’m looking forward to the stage.”
Pablo Quintanilla
Luciano Benavides in only his third Dakar, placed fifth on the day’s special to elevate himself to seventh in the overall standings. With a strong start position for stage three, Benavides is confident of another good result.
Luciano Benavides
“It’s been a good day for me – I finished inside the top five and I’m really happy with my rhythm here in Saudi. I enjoyed the stage today but came very close to crashing at one point. Luckily, I was able to stay on and from there I decided to bring the bike home safely and make sure it is good for tomorrow.”
Luciano Benavides
Kevin Benavides stood out in Stage 2’s special and replicated his fourth final place to move up into third overall position in the rally, some ninety seconds behind the leader.
Kevin Benavides
“Today was a very good stage for me, even better than yesterday’s. I started in fourth position and at kilometre 140 I reached the other riders in front and I went out in front and opened the track. For me there were good feelings, I navigated fairly easily for quite some time. Ricky finally overtook me but I think I did a very good job finishing in fourth position. Above all today we were able to take care of the motorcycle that was something important and it is in perfect shape for tomorrow’s stage.”
Kevin Benavides – Image by Rally Zone
Another fast-paced rider was Joan Barreda, who might have even won the stage had it not been for a minor fall when he was looking at the roadbook notes. The Spaniard finished sixth on the day and eighth overall in the rally.
Joan Barreda
“Today it went well during the first part of the stage; I had a good pace and was close to Quintanilla. Around kilometre 200 I fell while looking at the roadbook. I hit a rock and fell, not very hard, but enough to distract me a little. Right after, in the canyon area, I took a mistaken track and got a bit lost, but I was quickly been able to recover from it. In the end I was able to manage the stage quite well as today is the Super Marathon stage and I did not want to push too hard. Luckily the bike is perfect so we’ll see how it goes tomorrow.”
Joan Barreda – Image by Rally Zone
Matthias Walkner was able to navigate the technically demanding route, making the minimum of errors to complete the stage in a solid eighth place. Now lying an excellent fourth overall, the Austrian rider will enjoy an advantageous start position for the second half of the Super Marathon stage.
Matthias Walkner
“I had quite a good day today – the navigation was tough but I was able to push on from the start and at about 45 kilometres I was able to catch Toby. From there I opened the piste to the halfway point. We then rode in a group of four until the finish, which can be tricky as the dust from any riders in front makes it difficult to see stones and rocks hidden in the soft sand. Thankfully I was able to look after the bike and it’s all ready to go for tomorrow.”
Matthias Walkner
Xavier de Soultrait initially improved from his 13th place starting position, working his way up to ninth by the first waypoint he then struggled with dust and sensibly opted not to take any unnecessary risks, maintaining that position.
Xavier De Soultrait
I had a lot of dust during the first 150-160 kilometres, so it was a balance between riding safely and also trying to overtake. Finally, when I managed to get ahead I could increase my speed and things went well. My goal is to be around the top 10 for the first four days or so, so things are ok for me. It looks like tomorrow the navigation will be a little easier, we will see. Everything is good with my bike, so I just hope I can have a clear day tomorrow with not too much dust.”
American Ricky Brabec, also managed the situation skilfully and, in spite of having to start the day from second position, was able to post eleventh final place which leaves the rider in fifth position overall some four minutes shy of the overall leader.
Ricky Brabec
“The day was good. We knew coming into it that we were going to lose a bit of time. We started up front. It wasn’t too tricky. Up front you have a lot more focus. I lost the way a bit about kilometre 50. We all grouped up and tried to be smart and manage our motorcycles. We have the Super Marathon tonight. It’s not key to wreck your motorcycle as you have no mechanics and no assistance. I’m looking forward to day three. The team’s good and all the bikes are in one piece. We’ll keep pushing. The bikes are really good. Motorcycles don’t really carry any tools or parts, so the only thing we can do is either adjust the lever or zip-tie some things together. Other than that even if you wreck the motorcycles, you have to deal with it. We are very fortunate that all the riders have nice motorcycles for day three. So that’s a plus for Honda.”
Ricky Brabec – Image by Rally Zone
Winner of the first day, Toby Price had the unenviable task of opening stage two. That, combined with the limited time to acquaint himself with the road book, made navigating the stage extremely tricky from the front of the pack. Despite the disadvantages, the reigning champion put in a good ride to 15th place and now lies ninth in the provisional overall standings.
Toby Price
“Today was always going to be tough, leading out from the start without having had much time to read the road book. The stage went ok, I lost some time to the others but the most important thing is I looked after my bike and the tyres so should be in good shape to close down on the leaders again tomorrow. There’s still a long, long way to go, but the bike is working great, things are looking good and I’m happy.”
Toby Price
Fellow Australian Rodney Faggotter proved consistent, following up his Stage 1 19th placing, with a strong 16th in Stage 2, claiming 17th overall.
Rodney Faggotter
“17th quickest today. Saw a couple crashed riders today and some other riders that had started in front of me were with them – so I will possibly slip down from 17th position depending on what time they are given nack for stopping – but all good! Solid day. Had dust for about 200klms then led out in front of my group which means a lot of navigation but no dust! The riding here is so diverse and so far.. fun!”
Other Australians included Ben Young finishing 92nd in Stage 2, Trevor Collin Wilson 111th, and Matthew Tisdall 131st.
2020 Dakar Rally – Stage 2 Provisional Results
Pos
Rider
Team
Time/Gap
1
Ross Branch
BAS DAKAR KTM RACING TEAM
03H 39′ 10
2
Sam Sunderland
RED BULL KTM FACTORY TEAM
+ 00H 01′ 24
3
Pablo Quintanilla
ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING
+ 00H 02′ 21
4
Kevin Benavides
MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM 2020
+ 00H 03′ 40
5
Luciano Benavides
RED BULL KTM FACTORY TEAM
+ 00H 03′ 44
6
Joan Barreda Bort
MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM 2020
+ 00H 04′ 57
7
Jose Ignacio C F
MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM 2020
+ 00H 04′ 58
8
Matthias Walkner
RED BULL KTM FACTORY TEAM
+ 00H 05′ 59
9
Xavier De Soultrait
MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA RALLY TEAM
+ 00H 06′ 08
10
Andrew Short
ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING
+ 00H 07′ 00
11
Ricky Brabec
MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM 2020
+ 00H 08′ 45
12
Paulo Gonçalves
HERO MOTOSPORTS TEAM RALLY
+ 00H 09′ 32
13
Adrien Van Beveren
MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA RALLY TEAM
+ 00H 09′ 48
14
Franco Caimi
MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA RALLY TEAM
+ 00H 09′ 50
15
Toby Price
RED BULL KTM FACTORY TEAM
+ 00H 12′ 13
16
Rodney Faggotter
YAMAHA MOTOR AUSTRALIA
+ 00H 17′ 17
17
Lorenzo Santolino
SHERCO TVS RALLY FACTORY
+ 00H 18′ 25
18
Adrien Metge
SHERCO TVS RALLY FACTORY
+ 00H 18′ 32
19
Antonio Maio
YAMAHA FINO MOTOR RACING
+ 00H 19′ 30
20
Juan Pedrero Garcia
LS2 AVENTURA TOUAREG
+ 00H 19′ 49
Dakar Overall Standings – After Stage 2
Pos.
Rider
Time/Gap
1
Sam Sunderland
07h 05′ 22”
2
Pablo Quintanilla
+ 00h 01′ 18”
3
Kevin Benavides
+ 00h 01′ 32”
4
Matthias Walkner
+ 00h 02′ 00”
5
Ricky Brabec
+ 00h 04′ 11”
6
Ross Branch
+ 00h 04′ 19”
7
Luciano Benavides
+ 00h 06′ 01”
8
Joan Barreda Bort
+ 00h 06′ 09”
9
Toby Price
+ 00h 07′ 34”
10
Andrew Short
+ 00h 09′ 24”
11
Jose Ignacio Cornejo Florimo
+ 00h 09′ 34”
12
Xavier De Soultrait
+ 00h 10′ 11”
13
Adrien Van Beveren
+ 00h 13′ 01”
14
Paulo Gonçalves
+ 00h 13′ 10”
15
Franco Caimi
+ 00h 19′ 14”
16
Skyler Howes
+ 00h 20′ 52”
17
Adrien Metge
+ 00h 24′ 55”
18
Stefan Svitko
+ 00h 26′ 43”
19
Rodney Faggotter
+ 00h 36′ 32”
20
Johnny Aubert
+ 00h 37′ 17”
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Woffinden swinging in WA
With Graeme Sidden
A big shout out went to Popular WA sidecar passenger, Jamie Thomson who received some unfortunate injuries when he fell from Chad Harvey’s sidecar during the preliminary heats of the Jeff Gittus Memorial Sidecar event on Saturday evening at Perth’s Pinjar Park Motorcycle Speedway. Jamie suffered a broken wrist and is waiting to undergo shoulder surgery after his untimely fall.
Cam Heeps being interviewed by Grant Woodhams
Another sidecar passenger in young Jesse Thomas also took a ride on the wild side with defending Champion Reece Liptrott when they backed their outfit into turn three and flipped it during a desperate attempt to go underneath the ultimate victors Darren Nash and Ash Brown. I have no official report on Jesse Thomas injuries and outcome, only to say he was very ginger walking from the venue after the meeting.
The very experienced and talented Trent Headland with Tai Woffinden on the back did a stirling job to avoid the stricken outfit and prostate riders on the track. They were rewarded for their efforts finishing up in second spot for the night.
Sidecar podium for the EUROCARS sponsored Jeff Gittus Memorial Sidecar Classic – Winners Nash & Brown, Headland & Woffinden second, and Mitchell & Cornwall third
Three times world solo Champion, Tai Woffinden looked right at home on the back of the Headland outfit and was all smiles as usual on the podium during the trophy presentations.
Racing was fast and furious all evening long in both sidecars and solos where the Darren Nash/Ash Brown combination came out on top in the prestigious Gittus event and WA’s International solo sensation Cam Heeps, fresh home from a very successful English season recorded a fine win in the solo final from another WA Champion, Dan Winchester, UK’s Leon Flint and under 19 British Champion Drew Kemp rounding out fourth place after doing it the hard way winning the B final to make the final four.
Nash and Brown with happy sidecar builder and former sidecar star Tony ShieldWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2020 Championship Calendars
2020 AMA Motocross race schedule
May 17 – Hangtown Motocross Classic – Rancho Cordova, CA
May 24 – Fox Raceway National – Pala, CA
May 31 – Thunder Valley National – Lakewood, CO
June 7 – Florida National – Jacksonville, FL
June 21 – High Point National – Mt. Morris, PA
June 28 – Southwick National – Southwick, MA
July 5 – RedBud National – Buchanan, MI
July 19 – Spring Creek National – Millville, MN
July 26 – Washougal National – Washougal, WA
August 16 – Unadilla National – New Berlin, NY
August 23 – Budds Creek National – Mechanicsville, MD
August 30 – Ironman National – Crawfordsville, IN
2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Calendar
Jan. 4 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
Jan. 11 – The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, Mo.
Jan. 18 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
Jan. 25 – State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Ariz.
Feb. 1 – Ringcentral Coliseum, Oakland, Calif.
Feb. 8 – Petco Park, San Diego, Calif.
Feb. 15 – Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.
Feb. 22 – AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Feb. 29 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
March 7 – Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.
March 14 – Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianpolis, Ind.
March 21 – Ford Field, Detroit, Mich.
March 28 – Centurylink Field, Seattle, Wash.
April 4 – Broncos Stadium at Mile High, Denver, Co.
April 18 – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Mass.
April 25 – Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nev.
May 2 – Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, Utah
2020 MXGP Calendar
March 1 – Great Britain, Matterley Basin (EMX125, WMX)
March 8 – The Netherlands, Valkenswaard – (EMX250, WMX)
March 22 – Patagonia, Argentina, Neuquen
April 5 – Trentino I, Pietramurata – (EMX250, EMX 2t)
April 19 – Spain, (TBA) – (EMX125, WMX)
April 26 – Portugal, Agueda – (EMX125, EMX250)
May 10 – France, Saint Jean d’Angely – (EMX125, EMX Open)
May 17 – Italy, Maggiora – (EMX Open, WMX)
May 24 – Germany, Teutschenthal – (EMX250, EMX Open)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
What happened this week
Jett Lawrence set for his professional SX debut
Toni Bou claims French X-Trial Round 2 victory
Jack Holder crowned 2019 Oceania Speedway Champion at Gillman
Wade Young wins 2019 Uncle Hard Enduro in South Borneo
Harley announce massive 2020 AFT contingency program
2020 Championship Calendars
2020 AMA Motocross
2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross
2020 MXGP
2020 American Flat Track
2020 Australian Speedway Senior Solo Speedway
2020 FIM Speedway GP
2020 Australian Dirt Track
2020 Australian Track
Jett Lawrence set for his professional SX debut
Australian sensation Jett Lawrence will make his professional supercross debut with Honda Racing Australia at the Monster Energy AUS-X Open event this coming weekend at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.
Jett Lawrence – Monster Energy Cup 2019 – Image by Hoppenworld
The Queensland native currently lives in the USA, but is heading back to Melbourne to race his first-ever professional career and international Supercross race onboard a Honda CRF250R.
Since landing in the United States in early 2018, Lawrence has been unstoppable, racking up a multitude of prestigious amateur championships, which have subsequently made him the hottest property on the market. The 16-year-old recently signed a long-term contract to ride under the powerhouse Geico Honda squad in the 2020 World 250cc SX2 Supercross (West Coast AMA) Championship.
Jett Lawrence
“I’m really excited to be making my pro debut in Melbourne. I’ve had my eye on these events for a while now and they’ve progressively grown into something that’s world-class. Being a proud Australian makes it pretty cool that I’ll debut there, in front of friends, family and a lot of riders I grew up with too. Winning Monster Cup was a real confidence booster for me, especially on a Supercross track. I definitely think more gate drops and just being in that race environment will help me heaps as I get ready for 2020.”
Jett Lawrence – Image by Hoppenworld
Lawrence will ride under the awning of the ‘Ride Red’ Honda Racing program, backed by Honda Genuine. General Manager of Honda Motorcycles, Tony Hinton is looking forward to seeing Lawrence in action sharing, “We are really pleased to have Jett under our wing for this final round. He has certainly made a name for himself overseas, so it will be fantastic for local fans to see him race on home soil. We hope for strong results and know he will do the CRF250R proud!”
The addition of Lawrence will add to an already stacked international SX2 division, with existing riders involved in a ferocious title fight that’ll come down to the wire at the Australian Supercross Championship finale.
Jett Lawerence – Image by Hoppenworld
During New Zealand’s press conference, two-time World Champion Chad Reed indicated that this could very likely be his final race as a professional athlete in Australia, which makes Melbourne a landmark event for Australian Supercross fans, with one legend potentially retiring and a future star being born.
Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium will also feature the Monster Energy Best-Trick Freestyle Motocross contest set to feature some of the world’s most insane stunts, with the legendary Josh Sheehan as the headliner. Best Whip will be back again, along with the Yamaha Celebrity challenge as some of Australia’s highest profiled stars do battle on track, including Jack Riewoldt, Jordan De Goey, Scott McLaughlin and many more celebrities.
Aus-X Open
Tickets can be secured from www.ticketmaster.com.au (link) with new tickets released from just $39.95! The Monster Energy AUS-X Open doubles as the fifth and final round of the Australian Supercross Championship, and Grand Final of the FIM Oceania Supercross Championship.
SX1 Standings
Pos
Name
R1
R3
R3
R4
PTS
1
Luke CLOUT
20
22
25
22
89
2
Justin BRAYTON
25
25
20
18
88
3
Daniel REARDON
22
20
22
16
80
4
Brett METCALFE
18
18
16
20
72
5
Dylan LONG
16
11
15
13
55
6
Richie EVANS
13
16
10
8
47
7
Todd WATERS
15
13
12
7
47
8
Joel WIGHTMAN
10
15
9
9
43
9
Lawson BOPPING
14
13
11
38
10
Jayden RYKERS
12
10
8
5
35
11
Josh HILL
18
15
33
12
Cody DYCE
5
5
14
4
28
13
Jesse DOBSON
7
14
7
28
14
Jackson RICHARDSON
12
1
14
27
15
Jason ANDERSON
25
25
16
Henry MILLER
11
12
23
17
Dylan WOOD
8
6
6
3
23
18
Gradie FEATHERSTONE
11
7
2
20
19
Caleb WARD
9
8
17
20
Justin CARAFA
9
4
13
21
Joey SAVATGY
10
10
22
Lochie LATIMER
6
4
10
23
Cody COOPER
6
6
24
Jesse MADDEN
5
5
25
Blake COBBIN
4
4
26
Jamie HARVEY
3
3
27
Joel CIGLIANO
3
3
28
Chad REED
2
2
SX2 Standings
Pos
Name
R1
R2
R3
R4
PTS
1
Joshua OSBY
18
22
22
25
87
2
Chris BLOSE
20
16
25
22
83
3
Aaron TANTI
22
20
18
20
80
4
Mitchell OLDENBURG
13
25
20
16
74
5
Jay WILSON
16
18
15
18
67
6
Dylan WILLS
12
10
16
12
50
7
Bradley TAFT
15
12
13
5
45
8
Connor TIERNEY
14
14
15
43
9
Regan DUFFY
15
12
14
41
10
Ricky LATIMER
8
8
9
10
35
11
Geran STAPLETON
9
7
11
27
12
Rhys BUDD
11
8
8
27
13
Jayce COSFORD
10
6
4
6
26
14
Kyle WEBSTER
11
11
3
25
15
Jacob HAYES
25
25
16
Tomas RAVENHORST
13
10
23
17
Morgan FOGARTY
9
3
9
21
18
Kaleb BARHAM
7
7
5
19
19
Wilson TODD
14
14
20
Darian SANAYEI
13
13
21
Hugh McKAY
6
7
13
22
Jack KUKAS
5
4
9
23
Jaxson HADLOW
6
6
24
Chandler BURNS
5
5
25
Madison LATTA
4
4
26
McKenzie O’BREE
2
2
27
Caleb GOULLET
1
1
Toni Bou claims French X-Trial Round 2 victory
The second round of the X-Trial World Championship got underway at the brand new Glaz Arena in Rennes, France, with Repsol Honda Team ace Toni Bou dominating throughout to claim a second 2020 indoor season victory.
Toni Bou – 2020 X-Trial, Round 2, France
Toni Bou did not disappoint the French crowd, turning out a fine display of riding prowess in front of the Rennes spectators in Brittany. The Repsol Honda Team rider made it through the first five sections of the heats as the superior rider, picking up just four marks.
In the second round, with the top rider from each group qualifying directly for the final, Bou has once again gave a masterful showing, collecting 7 marks in the process.
Toni Bou – 2020 X-Trial, Round 2, France
The grand finale saw Toni Bou overcome the six sections with a total of 15 points ahead of the 27 accrued by arch-rival Adam Raga, to seal a second season victory.
Toni Bou – 2020 X-Trial, Round 2, France
Repsol Honda Team will now enjoy a almost two-month break ahead of the third X-Trial World Championship season date which will not be held until January 19, 2020 in Budapest. Bou will arrive as clear leader in the contest on 40 points, 10 more than the nearest second-place rival.
Toni Bou – 2020 X-Trial, Round 2, France
Toni Bou
“Today I did not start the first round very well; the points were fine, but I didn’t feel right with the riding sensations. I didn’t feel comfortable and it took me a while to get into the sections. We will have to work so that in the coming trials we won’t experience these feelings, since it is very easy to get knocked out in the eliminations. In the end, I was able to enjoy myself more in the second round and the final to take the victory. I want to congratulate the organizer of the event, who set up a very tough trial, where I think the spectators really enjoyed it. Now there will be a break before the third trial in Budapest so it is very important to take the leadership here.”
Toni Bou – 2020 X-Trial, Round 2, France
X-Trial Rennes Round 2 Results
Pos.
Rider
Nat.
Team
Con.
P.
1
BOU Toni
SPA
Repsol Honda Team
Montesa
20
2
RAGA Adam
SPA
TRRS Factory Team
TRRS
15
3
FAJARDO Jeroni
SPA
Sherco Factory Team
Sherco
12
4
GELABERT Miquel
SPA
Vertigo Factory Team
Vertigo
9
5
BUSTO Jaime
SPA
Vertigo Factory Team
Vertigo
6
6
BINCAZ Benoit
FRA
Beta Factory Racing
Beta
4
7
MARCELLI Gabriel
SPA
RG Team
Montesa
2
8
MARTIN Toby
GBR
Beta Factory Racing
Beta
1
2020 X-Trial Rider Standings
Pos.
Rider
Nat.
Points
1
BOU Toni
SPA
40
2
RAGA Adam
SPA
30
3
GELABERT Miquel
SPA
18
4
BUSTO Jaime
SPA
18
5
FAJARDO Jeroni
SPA
12
6
CASALES Jorge
SPA
6
7
BINCAZ Benoit
FRA
6
8
MARCELLI Gabriel
SPA
6
9
MARTIN Toby
GBR
1
10
TOULY Kieran
FRA
1
Holder crowned 2019 Oceania Speedway Champion at Gillman
New South Welshman Jack Holder has taken out the inaugural FIM Oceania Speedway Championship at Gillman in South Australia, dominating the seven-race event, only dropping one point finishing ahead of under-21 champion Jaimon Lidsey, British rider Dan Bewley and Australian junior international Jordan Stewart.
Holder scored 14 points, and recorded the fastest time of the night, in the heats, passed his biggest challenger, Jaimon Lidsey, to win his semi-final, and then won the final relatively comfortably in a dominating performance.
Holder’s only loss on the night was to Lidsey in their fourth heat, but by that time Holder had already qualified for the semi-finals, and therefore did not need to take any risks to try to pass Lidsey, highlighting one of the obvious flaws with the FIM format used for the meeting, where there is no reward, apart from choice of gate positions, for finishing on, or near, the top of the scorecard.
Second and third, in both the heat points and the final were Lidsey and English rider Dan Bewley, with the other finalist, Jordan Stewart, a non-finisher after he fell on the first lap.
Holder was ecstatic finishing on the top step and believes the new event formula has the support of riders. Holder said he believed European riders currently going through their winter break could see the FIM Oceania Speedway Championship as an opportunity to race.
Jack Holder
“The format and event was great, and similar to events in Europe. Hopefully it (FIM Oceania Speedway Championship) will help us push to gain GP qualifiers. It’s cold over there at the moment with no racing so they may want to come and enjoy the Australian summer and sunshine but to also remain competitive before returning to the European season.”
a
FIM Oceania Vice President, Peter Doyle, said the FIM Oceania Speedway Championship showcased the international talent that Australia produces each year.
Peter Doyle – FIM Oceania Vice President
“We have a wealth of speedway talent and this inaugural FIM Oceania Speedway Championship will hopefully open up other avenues for upcoming Australian speedway stars to make their mark on the international stage. With the establishment of this championship we are continuing to support the growth of speedway here in Australia and promoting our international riders.”
Final – Holder (R), Lidsey (W), Bewley (B), Stewart (Y-fell), 56.254 (1st and 2nd from the two semi-finals)
Wade Young wins 2019 Uncle Hard Enduro in South Borneo
The 2019 Uncle Hard Enduro held in South Borneo, Indonesia has presented an incredibly tough challenge that ultimately saw just two riders complete the race over the weekend, with Sherco’s Wade Young on blistering form to take the win in front of Graham Jarvis.
Wade Young
“It was a tough day out at the Uncle Hard Enduro. There was only two finishers as there was a big downpour of rain just before the start which made things interesting.”
Wade Young – 2019 Uncle Hard Enduro
Young’s victory at the Uncle Hard Enduro follows his dominant performance at Wildwood Rock Extreme in Australia just a few weeks ago. Young will now head home to South Africa where he will finalise his preparations for the 2019 Roof of Africa.
Young is the defending Roof of Africa champion and is gunning for his fifth Roof of Africa win. Held in the Kingdom of Lesotho, the Roof as it is commonly called, is an event steeped in history dating back to 1967 with legendary winners such as Graham Jarvis, Alfie Cox, Chris Birch and of, course, Wade Young. Labelled, the Mother of Hard Enduro, the 2019 Motul Roof of Africa begins on December 4, 2019.
2019 Uncle Hard Enduro results
Wade Young – ZAF – 1:58.04
Graham Jarvis – GBR – 2:13:25
Harley announce massive 2020 AFT contingency program
Harley-Davidson have announced a major increase in their support of American Flat Track’s AFT Production Twins class. For the first time ever, authorised Harley-Davidson dealerships will now have the race-proven XG750R available for purchase, ensuring that more competitors will field these race-winning machines during the 2020 American Flat Track season.
Dalton Gauthier – 2019 AFT Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
To support the racing efforts of Harley-Davidson-mounted riders in the class, the Milwaukee-based marque has also posted a $250,000 contingency package.
Jon Bekefy – GM of Brand Marketing for Harley-Davidson
“As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Harley-Davidson XR750 next season, this expanded pledge of support shows our lasting commitment to the sport of flat track. Harley-Davidson dealerships fielding the XG750R will provide an opportunity for our community to rally behind this great American sport.”
Harley-Davidson has been synonymous with flat track racing since the inception of the sport. Throughout the golden era of pro flat track, powerhouse Harley-Davidson dealerships from around the country scored hundreds of wins aboard the legendary XR750.
James Rispoli – Lima Half Mile 2019 – Image by Scott Hunter
Moments of brilliance during the 2019 AFT Production Twins season hearkened back to that golden era, as Dalton Gauthier and James Rispoli made consistent podium appearances and scored two wins aboard a privateer XG750R backed by Black Hills Harley-Davidson.
With $7,500 awarded to XG750R riders for each AFT Production Twins race win plus a $25,000 championship bonus on the line, the contingency package offered by Harley-Davidson is sure to heat up the on-track action next season.
A total of $15,000 will be up for grabs to XG750R riders at each AFT Production Twins round in 2020, broken down as follows, by place:
James Rispoli & Ryan Varnes – 2019 AFT – Meadowlands Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
The XG750R is available for purchase for $35,999 and deliveries will begin immediately. Supply is limited and priority will be given to dealerships, with the availability of the XG750R and Harley-Davidson’s contingency setting the stage for a renaissance movement of dealer-backed privateers contesting for AFT championships in 2020.
American Flat Track will kick off its highly-anticipated 2020 season with the first-ever Saturday of Speed featuring the DAYTONA 200 and DAYTONA TT Doubleheader at Daytona International Speedway. It all kicks off at the peak of Daytona Bike Week on Saturday, March 14, 2020. You can check out the full calendar below:
2020 Championship Calendars
2020 AMA Motocross race schedule
May 17 – Hangtown Motocross Classic – Rancho Cordova, CA
May 24 – Fox Raceway National – Pala, CA
May 31 – Thunder Valley National – Lakewood, CO
June 7 – Florida National – Jacksonville, FL
June 21 – High Point National – Mt. Morris, PA
June 28 – Southwick National – Southwick, MA
July 5 – RedBud National – Buchanan, MI
July 19 – Spring Creek National – Millville, MN
July 26 – Washougal National – Washougal, WA
August 16 – Unadilla National – New Berlin, NY
August 23 – Budds Creek National – Mechanicsville, MD
August 30 – Ironman National – Crawfordsville, IN
2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Calendar
Jan. 4 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
Jan. 11 – The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, Mo.
Jan. 18 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
Jan. 25 – State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Ariz.
Feb. 1 – Ringcentral Coliseum, Oakland, Calif.
Feb. 8 – Petco Park, San Diego, Calif.
Feb. 15 – Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.
Feb. 22 – AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Feb. 29 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
March 7 – Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.
March 14 – Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianpolis, Ind.
March 21 – Ford Field, Detroit, Mich.
March 28 – Centurylink Field, Seattle, Wash.
April 4 – Broncos Stadium at Mile High, Denver, Co.
April 18 – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Mass.
April 25 – Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nev.
May 2 – Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, Utah
2020 MXGP Calendar
March 1 – Great Britain, Matterley Basin (EMX125, WMX)
March 8 – The Netherlands, Valkenswaard – (EMX250, WMX)
March 22 – Patagonia, Argentina, Neuquen
April 5 – Trentino I, Pietramurata – (EMX250, EMX 2t)
April 19 – Spain, (TBA) – (EMX125, WMX)
April 26 – Portugal, Agueda – (EMX125, EMX250)
May 10 – France, Saint Jean d’Angely – (EMX125, EMX Open)
May 17 – Italy, Maggiora – (EMX Open, WMX)
May 24 – Germany, Teutschenthal – (EMX250, EMX Open)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Aussies lead as 2019 ISDE kicks off in Portugal
The RecoveR8 Australian World Trophy, Junior Trophy and Women’s Trophy teams have arrived in Portugal, for the 94th running of the FIM International Six Day Enduro (ISDE), with the World Trophy and Junior Trophy teams already making their mark after Day 1, leading both classes.
Daniel Sanders – 2019 ISDE – Image by Dario Agrati
Overnight rain dampened conditions for competitors during the opening lap of two, but from the off racing was hot and heavy as the five hundred plus competitors from 26 nations jostled for position.
Determined to put RecoveR8 Team Australia out front, Daniel Sanders was quick off the mark, setting the fastest time on the opening special test. But with United States’ Ryan Sipes and Spain’s Josep Garcia in close contention and the top-ten separated by just fifteen seconds, it was all to play for.
2019 ISDE – Image by Dario Agrati
The FIM ISDE continues on day two with a repeat of day one’s three-hundred kilometre Menhir Route. Full report to follow.
2019 Australian ISDE Team
RecoveR8 World Trophy Team
Joshua Green
Matthew Phillips
Daniel Sanders
Luke Styke
RecoveR8 Women’s Trophy Team
Jessica Gardiner
Tayla Jones
Mackenzie Tricker
RecoveR8 Junior Trophy Team
Michael Driscoll
Fraser Higlett
Lyndon Snodgrass
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Zach Osborne extends Husqvarna contract
Husqvarna Motorcycles have announced that Zach Osborne has signed with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team for an additional year, extending his current contract into the 2021 season.
Zach Osborne
Osborne has enjoyed a hugely successful professional racing career to date, over a wide variety of disciplines and championships. His impressive list of achievements include two consecutive Eastern Regional 250SX Championships (2017 and ’18), an AMA Pro Motocross 250 Championship (‘17), an FIM World Motocross Championship win, 14 career FIM World Motocross Championship MX2 podiums, a British MX2 Championship, and representing the United States in both the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) and at the prestigious Motocross of Nations (MXoN).
Zach Osborne
The Virginia native most recently put forth an impressive debut in the premier 450MX class over the summer, claiming six podium finishes, 14 top-fives and one moto win in his rookie 450 season with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team.
Zach Osborne
“I’m very grateful to continue my relationship with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing! We’ve had some very successful years and I’m looking forward to more. I’ve truly enjoyed being a part of this program since the revitalisation of the brand started back in 2015 and it feels like just yesterday that I joined the team. We have a great group of people and I enjoy going racing with them every weekend.”
Zach OsborneWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Cody Webb joins the FactoryONE Shero Team
American hard enduro star Cody Webb has left KTM and joined the Sherco family. The three-time AMA EnduroCross champion and 2018 FIM SuperEnduro champion will race a 300 SE Factory edition for the FactoryONE Sherco Team.
Sherco is already well established in hard enduro with Wade Young and Mario Roman racing all major international extreme off-road events with Young claiming the 2019 American Hard Enduro Series. Webb will add a third and very strong component in this sector.
Cody Webb
“So excited to share this with everyone finally! Can’t wait to promote Sherco USA and win some races again. Big shout out to the FactoryONE Sherco team for putting this all together and making my dreams become a reality.”
Cody Webb will race a FactoryONE Sherco 300 SE Factory editionWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Suzuki announce 2020 JGRMX Yoshimura Team
JGRMX/ Yoshimura/ Suzuki Factory Racing has announced its Motocross riders for 2020, and new to the JGR Suzuki squad in the 450 class is 450SX Rookie of the Year Joey Savatgy, as Alex Martin returns to represent the 250 class on his RM-Z250.
Suzuki announce 2020 JGRMX Yoshimura Team
Savatgy, who is no stranger to winning on the Suzuki brand, having racked up multiple Championships coming up through the ranks in Suzuki’s Amateur Racing Program, will be a great asset to the team as he brings proven talent, speed, and versatility to the track.
During the 2019 Supercross season, Savatgy earned the 450SX Rookie of the Year award and ended the series with five top-five finishes. With 12 professional career wins to his name, he has proven he has what it takes to be up-front on the RM-Z450.
Joey Savatgy – Suzuki 2020 JGRMX Yoshimura Team
Millville, Minnesota native Martin returns to JGRMX/ Yoshimura/ Suzuki on his RM-Z250. With three podiums and 11 top-five overall finishes in his Supercross career, Martin was proud to add a career-best fifth place finish in the overall points standings on his RM-Z250 last season. A-Mart is eager to build upon those strong results and continue his successful career on Suzuki.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2019 FIM Oceania Speedway draw for Gillman Speedway announced
FIM Oceania have announced the draw for the 2019 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship to be held on November 23 at Gillman Speedway, South Australia.
2019 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship
Gillman Speedway in metropolitan Adelaide, is one of Australia’s best speedway tracks and has previously held the FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championships, however this time solo speedway riders will be the stars under the FIM Oceania banner.
The sensational field of riders selected includes Australian’s solo stars, Rohan Tungate, Justin Sedgmen, Jack Holder and Jaimon Lidsey who will be lined up against Internationals Charles Wright (UK), Tom Brennan (UK), Dan Bewley (UK), Emil Grandal (Denmark) and Szmon Szlauderbach (Poland).
The FIM Oceania Speedway Championship will see some of the Oceania region’s best Speedway riders battling it out at Gillman with no brakes, gears or fear, Saturday 23rd January is anticipated to be an absolute scorcher!
2019 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship
Dan Bewley
Tom Brennan
Ben Cook
Matthew Gillmore
Emil Grandal
Jack Holder
Zane Keleher
Jaimon Lidsey
Jedd List
Brayden McGuiness
Robert Medson
Justin Sedgmen
Jordan Stewart
Szmon Szlauderbach
Rohan Tungate
Charles Wright
R1 – Kyle Bickley
R2 – Ben Ernst
R3 – Fraser Bowes
When & Where
FIM Oceania Speedway Championship : Date: 23rd November 2019
Venue: Gillman Speedway, South Australia
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2020 Australian Speedway nominations open
Motorcycling Australia have announced that nominations are now open and Supplementary Regulations are now available for the 2020 Australian Speedway U21’s, 125cc & 250cc Championships which will head to Victoria and Western Australia.
Nominations are open and close 4.30pm AEDST Wednesday 18th December 2019. Late nominations will not be accepted. Please note that only nominations completed and received online via Ridernet will be accepted.
Nominations and Dates are as follows:
2020 Australian Speedway U21’s Championship
2020 Australian Speedway U16’s 250cc Championship
2020 Australian Speedway U16’s 125cc Solo / Teams Championships
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2020 AORC calendar announced
The Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) has announced the 2020 calendar revealing dates and states for the highly anticipated National Championships.
Luke Styke – Round 7, Broken Hill – 2019 AORC – Image by John Pearson Media
Next year’s Championship will continue to use a double-header format, which will see six weekends make up 12 rounds of the AORC for 2020.
Kicking off the season will be Queensland (QLD) for Rounds 1 & 2, taking place over the February 22-23 weekend in 2020.
Will Price – 2019 AORC, Dungog
The Championship will then move to New South Wales (NSW) for the following four rounds hosting Rounds 3 & 4 as well as Rounds 5 & 6 on March 14-15 and April 18-19, respectively.
AORC Rounds 1 & 2, Toowoomba – Image by John Pearson
We will then head down to South Australia (SA) who will host Rounds 7 & 8 on August 1-2.
Victoria (VIC) will host Rounds 9 & 10 on September 19-20.
2019 AORC – Pro Race Start – Hedley, Victoria
The championship finale will conclude at a yet to be confirmed venue on October 17-18.
Over the coming weeks AORC will reveal all of the locations for the 12-round 2020 championship, and will also reveal what will be in store for the 2020 classes as they continue to evolve and grow alongside the championship.
2020 Australian Off-Road Championship Calendar
Round 1 & 2: QLD – 22–23 February 2020
Round 3 & 4: NSW – 14–15 March 2020
Round 5 & 6: NSW – 18–19 April 2020
Round 7 & 8: SA – 1–2 August 2020
Round 9 & 10: VIC – 19–20 September 2020
Round 11 & 12: TBC – 17–18 October 2020
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2020 Championship Calendars
2020 AMA Motocross race schedule
May 17 – Hangtown Motocross Classic – Rancho Cordova, CA
May 24 – Fox Raceway National – Pala, CA
May 31 – Thunder Valley National – Lakewood, CO
June 7 – Florida National – Jacksonville, FL
June 21 – High Point National – Mt. Morris, PA
June 28 – Southwick National – Southwick, MA
July 5 – RedBud National – Buchanan, MI
July 19 – Spring Creek National – Millville, MN
July 26 – Washougal National – Washougal, WA
August 16 – Unadilla National – New Berlin, NY
August 23 – Budds Creek National – Mechanicsville, MD
August 30 – Ironman National – Crawfordsville, IN
2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Calendar
Jan. 4 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
Jan. 11 – The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, Mo.
Jan. 18 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
Jan. 25 – State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Ariz.
Feb. 1 – Ringcentral Coliseum, Oakland, Calif.
Feb. 8 – Petco Park, San Diego, Calif.
Feb. 15 – Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.
Feb. 22 – AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Feb. 29 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
March 7 – Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.
March 14 – Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianpolis, Ind.
March 21 – Ford Field, Detroit, Mich.
March 28 – Centurylink Field, Seattle, Wash.
April 4 – Broncos Stadium at Mile High, Denver, Co.
April 18 – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Mass.
April 25 – Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nev.
May 2 – Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, Utah
2020 MXGP Calendar
March 1 – Great Britain, Matterley Basin (EMX125, WMX)
March 8 – The Netherlands, Valkenswaard – (EMX250, WMX)
March 22 – Patagonia, Argentina, Neuquen
April 5 – Trentino I, Pietramurata – (EMX250, EMX 2t)
April 19 – Spain, (TBA) – (EMX125, WMX)
April 26 – Portugal, Agueda – (EMX125, EMX250)
May 10 – France, Saint Jean d’Angely – (EMX125, EMX Open)
May 17 – Italy, Maggiora – (EMX Open, WMX)
May 24 – Germany, Teutschenthal – (EMX250, EMX Open)
Gow-Smith wins 2019 Holden On Tight Sportsman Spirit Award
Jason Doyle claims 2019 Golden Helmet title in Pardubice
2020 SpeedwayGP permanent wild cards announced
Smolinski leads 2020 SGP substitute rider line-up
2019 Australian SX Championship shaping up to be a belter
Justin Rodbell out for Australian Supercross
Team HRC & Gajser lead the way at MXGP Awards Ceremony
Meghan Rutledge to become Kawasaki ambassador in 2020
bLU cRU Masterclass riders announced
Romain Febvre joins Monster Energy KRT for 2020
Monster and KRT renew MXGP partnership
Mikkel Haarup joins F&H Kawasaki for 2020
Garcia leads KTM BR2 Enduro Solsona 1-2-3
Following Friday night’s action-packed Super Test in Solsona, Saturday saw the 350-strong entry set out on what would prove to be a long and physical day of racing to kick off the 2019 BR2 Enduro Solsona, in the first of two full days of racing.
Josep Garcia took an early lead at Round 7 of the World Enduro Super Series with victory on Day 1 of the BR2 Enduro Solsona in Spain. Delivering a masterclass in Classic Enduro racing, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider ended the opening day of competition with a healthy 40-second advantage over teammates Nathan Watson and Jonny Walker. In what proved to be a top-five clean sweep for KTM, Manuel Lettenbichler and Taddy Blazusiak placed fourth and fifth respectively.
Garcia followed up on Sunday, delivering a home win for Round 7 of the World Enduro Super Series. The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider proved uncatchable as he led home Britain’s Nathan Watson and Jonny Walker in second and third respectively.
Friday’s Super Test – 2019 WESS Round 7, BR2 Enduro Solsona – Image by Future7Media
Championship leader Manuel Lettenbichler kept his advantage in the standings with fourth, moving a step closer to becoming the 2019 Ultimate Enduro World Champion. Yamaha’s Cristobal Guerrero also rode an incredible final lap to snatch fifth from Taddy Blazusiak and deny KTM a clean sweep of the top-five.
Day 1 – BR2 Enduro Solsona
A lengthy liaison on Day 1 took competitors from Solsona to nearby Bassella, where they faced the Cross Test, Extreme Test and Enduro Test at the Bassella Experience centre. They then returned to Solsona to complete the loop. A second lap of the course – ending with an additional Super Test – ensured many tired and weary bodies on Saturday evening.
The Start saw 350 riders lining up – 2019 WESS Round 7, BR2 Enduro Solsona – Image by Future7Media
Determined to maximise his Classic Enduro skills, Garcia quickly got down to business on Saturday after a mixed-outing in Friday’s Super Test. Quickest on the opening Enduro Test and then again on the Cross Test, he ended lap one leading. Building on his advantage during the final lap, he returned to Solsona as the provisional overnight leader.
Behind him, Watson gave chase. Pushing hard, but not quite able to consistently match the Spaniard’s pace in the Enduro or Cross Test, he had to be content with ending Day 1 in second position.
Winning Friday’s Super Test, Walker showed he’s up to speed in the Classic Enduro discipline. Boosted by some of the fastest times in the technical Extreme Test, he sat in third after Saturday.
For championship leader Lettenbichler the opening day of racing went better than expected. Enjoying an exciting battle with Blazusiak and Walker, while setting some impressive test times, the German will look to hold off Blazusiak in the battle for fourth and maintain the pressure on Walker.
2019 WESS Round 7, BR2 Enduro Solsona
Ending just four seconds behind Blazusiak, Honda’s Kirian Mirabet was just outside the top five, in sixth, after showing more speed on the Cross Test.
Yamaha’s Cristobal Guerrero had a difficult start to his day when a crash cost him valuable time on lap one. Regrouping, he worked his way back up the leader board to place seventh, but is less than 10 seconds behind Blazusiak.
Round 7 – Enduro Solsona, Day 1 Results
Josep Garcia (KTM – ESP) 45:49.650
Nathan Watson (KTM – GB) 46:29.920
Jonny Walker (KTM – GB) 46:45.240
Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) 47:02.870
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 47:45.830
Kirian Mirabet (Honda – ESP) 47:49.840
Cristobal Guerrero (Yamaha – ESP) 47:54.760
Jaume Betriu (KTM – ESP) 48:01.460
Bernat Cortes (KTM – ESP) 48:15.280
Tosha Schareina (Husqvarna – ESP) 48:24.220…
Day 2 – BR2 Enduro Solsona
Building on his winning momentum from Saturday, local Garcia locked his sights on victory at Round 7. Starting out with a 45-second advantage over teammate Watson, he pushed hard from the off. Maximising his time on the Cross Test and Enduro Test, while limiting the damage on the technical Extreme Test, he controlled his lead to secure the top step of the podium.
With a sizeable deficit to Garcia, Watson always knew overhauling his teammate in Spain was going to be a tall ask. Keeping the Spaniard honest throughout, he cemented himself as the runner-up to ensure his second podium result in as many races.
Clearly demonstrating his Classic Enduro speed matches his Hard Enduro talents, Walker looked both fast and comfortable in the dry and dusty Solsona conditions as he battled for third. With time in hand over Lettenbichler in fourth, he maintained his third position.
Entering BR2 Enduro Solsona, championship leader Lettenbichler initially hoped for a top-10 result among the many Spanish Classic Enduro specialists. But also proving that he’s adept in the special tests, the German held on to a strong fourth position.
The battle for fifth was a close affair between Guerrero and Blazusiak. The Polish rider held fifth overnight and was determined to sign out with a top-five result. A crash on lap one of Saturday saw Guerrero fight his way back into contention.
Starting Sunday in sixth, he gained time on Blazusiak in the Enduro and Cross test, but lost time on the Extreme test. Putting everything into the final Super Test he managed to overthrow the KTM rider, beating him by eight seconds.
Honda’s Kirian Mirabet edged out Jaume Betriu by just one second to take seventh, while Marzal Schareina and Ramon Quer rounded out the top-10.
“It felt really good to take the win here at home in front of all my friends and family. I couldn’t have asked for more really. Yesterday I had a couple of crashes but today went perfectly. I had to take a lot of care in the final Supertest, I knew I had some seconds to spare, but Nathan has been so close all weekend and also the extreme guys have been really quick here too. I felt a little extra pressure coming here for my home event, but that only motivated me even more to win. Overall it’s been the perfect weekend.”
“I’m happy with second – Josep was on fire here in Spain and really pushed hard, especially on that first lap yesterday. It’s been a really hectic few weeks for me and I didn’t really come into this race at 100 percent, so to pick up second and more WESS points is a good weekend. With all the travel and non-stop races, things have been tough. The Motocross of Nations was really tiring both mentally and physically, I also hurt my shoulder there a little. Overall, it’s been an amazing couple of weeks, and I couldn’t have hoped for better results to be honest. I definitely need a week’s rest now, that’s for certain.”
“It’s been a good race here in Spain, I’m really happy to get on the podium again. I had quite a steady start to the year, partly from coming back after my fall and not being quite at 100 percent. I’m starting to feel like I am getting back into a groove again but I’m still nowhere near where I want to be. The race started well with a win in the Supertest and then I’m really pleased with how I rode on both Saturday and Sunday – I was on top of the extreme test and not too far away on the others considering the opposition. The plan now is to get a good result at GetzenRodeo and hopefully come away with second in the championship.”
“I feel so pleased right now. I came here with no expectations at all, even though I was feeling quite confident after Hawkstone. I thought top-10 would be a good result, so to finish fourth feels amazing.”
Manuel Lettenbichler – 2019 WESS Round 7, BR2 Enduro Solsona – Image by Future7Media
Cristobal Guerrero – P5
“Today I found my rhythm and was able to get fifth position. Luckily, I had a good final Super Test – I got a good start and was able to get in behind Josep. Thankfully that was enough to overtake Taddy for fifth place overall. I think having WESS here in Spain has been good for both the Spanish championship and WESS. It’s good to see a lot of different riders racing and it’s a very different race for the WESS championship too with a lot of variety between all the test. It’s been a great weekend and I’ve really enjoyed it.”
“It’s been a tough weekend, and a shame not to get fifth, but considering the preparation I’ve been able to do for this race I should be happy. You can’t prepare for everything, there just isn’t enough time and here I was getting faster each lap as I settled into the type of riding, which shouldn’t be the case. The good thing is, things started to click towards the end, but it was just too little, too late to challenge for the podium. I’m feeling good which is the main thing, so it’s off to America for the next two Endurocross rounds soon, then back to Europe for GetzenRodeo.”
“Overall I’m really happy with how the weekend has gone. Yesterday wasn’t so good but I was able to find a good rhythm to finish 10th today and secure 12th overall for the event, which I’m really pleased about. I made a mistake yesterday and had a small crash and then today I missed my line in a test which cost me some more time. Coming from a Hard Enduro background I found myself losing out to some of the other riders on the faster tests, so I need to work on that. However, I was very strong on the extreme test. I’m looking forward to GetzenRodeo now. I had a really good battle there last year, so I want to finish the season with a win.”
The 2019 World Enduro Super Series concludes with the eighth and final round at Germany’s GetzenRodeo on Saturday November 2.
Round 7 – Enduro Solsona, Day 2 Results
Josep Garcia (KTM – ESP) 1:26:16.000
Nathan Watson (KTM – GB) 1:27:06.700
Jonny Walker (KTM – GB) 1:28:42.870
Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) 1:29:11.100
Cristobal Guerrero (Yamaha – ESP) 1:30:08.760
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 1:30:17.120
Kirian Mirabet (Honda – ESP) 1:30:51.560
Jaume Betriu (KTM – ESP) 1:30:52.040
Marzal Schareina (Husqvarna – ESP) 1:31:05.790
Ramon Quer (Husqvarna – ESP) 1:31:35.700…
WESS Championship Standings (after Round 7 of 8)
Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) 5110 points
Jonny Walker (KTM – GB) 4240
Josep Garcia (KTM – ESP) 4165
Alfredo Gomez (Husqvarna – ESP) 4034
Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna – GB) 3920
Nathan Watson (KTM – GB) 3881
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 3850
Mario Roman (Sherco – ESP) 3070
Billy Bolt (Husqvarna – GB) 2725
Pol Tarres (Husqvarna – ESP) 2520
2019 World Enduro Super Series Calendar
Round 1: Toyota Porto Extreme XL Lagares (Portugal) May 10-12
Round 2: Trèfle Lozérien AMV (France) May 17-19
Round 3: Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble (Austria) May 30-June 2
Round 4: Hixpania Hard Enduro (Spain) June 21-23
Round 5: Red Bull Romaniacs (Romania) July 30-August 3
Round 6: Hawkstone Park Cross Country (United Kingdom) September 21-22
Round 7: BR2 Enduro Solsona (Spain) October 4-6
Round 8: GetzenRodeo (Germany) November 2
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Roczen wins 2019 Straight Rhythm on McGrath’s 2006 CR250R
The sixth running of the Red Bull Straight Rhythm saw a commemoration of two-stroke racers, with participants donning vintage-inspired gear to truly get into the spirit on an ‘un-wound’ track across three classes.
Enzo Lopes & Josh Hansen – Image by Christian Pondella/RedBullContentPool
Split into 250cc, 125cc and a special 500cc exhibition race, the main two classes saw a best-of-three format with a single elimination bracket.
Michael Leib & Joey Crown – Image by Chris Tedesco/RedBullContentPool
In his first appearance at the event since 2015, Team Honda HRC’s Ken Roczen had an exciting day at the 2019 Red Bull Straight Rhythm in Pomona, California, taking home the 250cc title after winning every matchup and going undefeated on the day. The unique two-stroke only-format saw Roczen pay homage to Jeremy McGrath, as he rode “The King’s” factory 2006 CR250R while wearing a retro kit inspired by McGrath’s 1996 gear.
Ken Roczen
After qualifying second-fastest in practice, Roczen’s first matchup of the evening was against Tevin Tapia, which he won with ease. Advancing in the bracket, he then went head-to-head with Ryan Sipes, who once again was no match for the German. Roczen finally faced his first real challenge in Josh Hanson, in the semifinals, and despite an incredibly close race, Roczen continued his undefeated run, moving into the finals. In the final matchup, Roczen took on Brandon Hartranft, who fought hard but ultimately couldn’t overtake the Honda rider.
Ken Roczen
Ken Roczen
“I’m so stoked! I had such a blast and am so excited to come away with the win tonight. I’ve never raced a two-stroke before so to be able to ride Jeremy McGrath’s actual bike from 2006 and get the win is awesome. Nothing but good vibes and hopefully this translates into many more for the season to come. I have to give it up to the entire team, who put so much work into this whole event. It was always supposed to be super-fun but I know it was also a lot of work, so I have to thank the guys.”
Ken Roczen topped the 250 class from Brandon Hartranft and Josh Hansen – Image by Garth Milan/RedBullContentPool
Jeremy McGrath (Instagram)
“Congrats Ken Roczen on the win at Straight Rhythm. I think I recognize that sick gear you were wearing tonight. Thanks for the tribute! I am guessing my old bike ran pretty good to huh?”
In the 125cc class, Joey Crown lived up to his name, racing his way to the top step of the podium. In the most anticipated and exciting match of the night, Tyler Bowers edged out Travis Pastrana in the Maxxis 500cc Showdown.
Ryan Sipes & Ryan Morais – Image by Chris Tedesco/RedBullContentPool
500cc Showdown
Tyler Bowers
Travis Pastrana
250 Class Results
Ken Roczen
Brandon Hartranft
Josh Hansen
125 Class Results
Joey Crown
Michael Leib
AJ Catanzaro
Travis Pastrana & Tyler Bowers – Image by Christian Pondella/RedBullContentPoolWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Toby Price leads Rally du Maroc at half-way point
Marking the second half of the rally’s marathon stage, Day 3 of the Rally du Maroc was set to be the longest of the event. However, organisers cancelled the third part of the timed special for safety reasons, taking the day’s results from the end of the second special.
Toby Price – 2019 Rally du Maroc
With riders only receiving their road books 15 minutes prior to entering the stage – a first for the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship – ultimate navigation skills would prove critical to success on the demanding desert stage.
Following his tough Day 2, where issues with the road book ended up costing him valuable minutes, Toby Price knew he had to attack stage three to stay competitive in the overall standings. As the ninth rider to take to the special, the reigning Dakar Champion immediately set about chasing down the riders ahead. Unfortunately, with the stage cut short, the Australian was unable to maximise his advantage, but was still able to win the stage and move himself up to the top of the provisional overall standings.
Toby Price
“The stage went well for me today. There were a couple of sections that were quite tricky and I didn’t quite catch them at the right point to make up time on the guys in front. Even so, we were able to close the gap a little and I felt good all day. The roles will be reversed again for tomorrow so the other guys will be chasing us down again but that’s just rallying. It’s a shame they cancelled the last part of the stage because I think we could have made up even more time but that’s the way it is sometimes. A disadvantage for you might be an advantage for someone else. But we completed the marathon stage safely, so let’s see what tomorrow brings.”
Toby Price – 2019 Rally du Maroc
Also losing time on the previous stage, Matthias Walkner also put in a superb performance on Day 3 to claim runner-up for the stage and elevate himself to second in the rally standings. Happy with how he rode on the sandy, two-part timed special, Matthias managed his tyres perfectly, bringing his KTM 450 RALLY home just one minute and 55 seconds behind his teammate.
Matthias Walker
“I think today was the first day that I really enjoyed the riding. It was tough because the tyres had already ridden a lot of kilometres yesterday and toward the very end of the stage today, I could really feel that they were worn. I know I made some mistakes with my navigation and I thought it would have cost me a lot of time, so I was quite surprised to find out I had finished second. Hopefully I can continue like this and finish the year with a good result here in Morocco.”
Matthias Walkner – 2019 Rally du Maroc
Stage 3 Rally du Maroc 2019
Toby Price (AUS), KTM, 3:00:33
Matthias Walkner (AUT), KTM, 3:02:28 +1:55
Franco Caimi (FRA), Yamaha, 3:02:54 +2:21
Johnny Aubert (FRA), Sherco, 3:04:34 +4:01
Ignacio Cornejo (CHI), Honda, 3:04:49 +4:16
Rally du Maroc 2019 after 3 of 5 stages
Toby Price (AUS), KTM, 11:57:39
Matthias Walkner (AUT), KTM, 12:01:45 +4:06
Franco Caimi (ARG), Yamaha, 12:04:19 +6:40
Pablo Quintanilla (CHI), Husqvarna, 12:04:20 +6:41
Luciano Benavides (ARG), KTM, 12:05:31 +7:52
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Jarred Brook stamped his dominance on the Barleigh Ranch round of the 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championship over the weekend, winning the MX Open, Pro 450 and Pro Open classes, winning ten of his 12 heats in the running.
Jarred Brook
“Amazing weekend down at Barleigh Ranch Raceway for the 2019 Australian Dirt Track Championships. Absolutely stoked to come away with winning the Pro Open, Mx Open and Pro 450. I am also extremely honoured to win the Duke of Edinburgh award and to be presented with the Rod Allen and The Begley Family memorial Trophy’s. I cannot thank my little team enough for all of their help and a support over the weekend. Dad and Tom Laycock worked their butts off all weekend. Thank you to the Reay family for all of their support and help through out the weekend as well.”
In the 250 Pro class it was James Chapman who took top honours, while Briony Henrickson topped the Women’s class. Harrison Ryan was the top Under 19s performer, while the Support classes were won by Jason Griffin, Lachlan Russell, Cameron Dunker and Max Berry.
Pro 450
Jarred Brook
Kayden Downing
Daniel Wicks
Pro 250
James Chapman
Angus Hutchinson
Harrison Ryan
MX Open
Jarred Brook
Damien Koppe
Kayden Downing
Pro Open
Jarred Brook
Kayden Downing
Daniel Wicks
Under 19s
Harrison Ryan
Angus Hutchinson
Jake Farnsworth
Womens
Briony Hendrickson
Brooke Goulding
Tayla Street
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2019 KTM AJMX Champions crowned
The Championship decider of the KTM Australian Junior Motocross Championship (AJMX) was held at the Motocross Riders Association in South Australia and saw plenty of thrills, battles and celebrations as 12 national titles were decided in an incredible day of racing.
2019 KTM AJMX – Image by Aaryn Minerds
The Motocross Riders Association club in Gillman was blessed with exceptional weather conditions all week and the track produced top notch racing, while the Motocross Riders Association, officials and volunteers were commended on the professionalism and efficiency in which the week-long event was conducted, and the daily track preparation and maintenance ensured the safety of all competitors.
128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st – 13-U15
The first 2019 AJMX Champion of the day crowned was Queenslander, Brad West who sealed the title when he took the chequered flag in the first race of the day and the sixth final of the 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st – 13-U15 class.
With what was once again the Banana Bender Show, West charged to victory beating rival and fellow Queenslanders Deegan Mancinelle coming through with a close second and Jackson Camilleri rounding off the top three for the last final for this class.
128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st – 13-U15 Top 3
Brad West – 185
Jackson Camilleri – 169
Ryan Alexansderson – 166
65cc 7-U10
The third and final race for the 65cc 7-U10 class was won by Queensland’s “Mr Consistency” Cooper Downing with an impressive fast lap time of 2:14.508. Fellow Queenslander Peter Wolfe came second and local rider Cooper Ford (TAS) crossed the line with a strong third, to seal the championship win.
65cc 7-U10 Top 3
Cooper Ford – 97
Cooper Downing – 91
Lachlan Allen – 82
100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st– 13-U16 Girls
Queenslander, Charli Cannon has dominated this class and the final moto to take the Junior Lites – 13-U16 Girls Championship in fine style. The massive 210-points Cannon clocked up was more than enough to seal the deal and she won the final race by over five-seconds. Cannon was followed by Victorian Madison Healey for second and Taylah McCutcheson rounded up the top three for their final race.
100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st– 13-U16 Girls Top 3
Charli Cannon – 210
Taylor Thompson – 184
Madison Healey – 180
85cc 2st/150cc 4st – 9-U12
The third final and probably the most hotly contested class of the KTM AJMX saw New South Welshman Hixson McInnes prove to be the surprise package in the third final of the 85cc 2st/1500 4st 9-U12 class.
Not only did Hixon have the fastest lap time of 1:56.285 but he also took the win over Queenslander Jet Alsop in second and West Australian Kayden Minear who took third place for the final and the overall win of the championship.
85cc 2st/150cc 4st – 9-U12 Top 3
Kayden Minear – 95
Liam Owens – 95
Jet Alsop – 88
85cc 2st– 150cc 4st 12-U16 Girls
Charli Cannon from Queensland made it a clean sweep once again in the Mini Lites BW 12-U16 Girls final to grasp the title, completing the week with a dominant 18-second victory. Taylor Thomson from New South Wales pulled through for another consistent runner-up placing ahead of Queenslander Taylah McCutcheon.
85cc 2st– 150cc 4st 12-U16 Girls Top 3
Charli Cannon – 210
Taylor Thomson – 186
Taylah McCrutcheon – 186
100-125cc – 2st 15yo
New South Welshman Blake Fox has sealed the 125cc – 15yo championship, despite coming third in the final moto and winning one final. It was Queenslander Levi Rogers who took victory in the sixth final, followed by local champion Alex Larwood who had the fastest lap time of 1:45.589 and Blake Fox (NSW) followed him eight-seconds later to take third.
100-125cc – 2st 15yo Top 3
Blake Fox – 191
Levi Rogers – 187
Alex Larwood – 177
2019 KTM AJMX – Image by Aaryn Minerds
85cc 2st/150cc 4st– 12-U14
The championship battle for the Mini Lites BW – 12-U14 could not have been any closer, with the only 3 points between the top three! Ryder Kingsford was awarded the championship on countback, after finishing fourth in the final race.
It was New South Welshman Byron Dennis stormed home to take the chequered flag in the final race for this class, with a fastest lap time of 1:53.500, Queenslander Branden Plath crossed the line under 2 seconds later to take second and Cody Kilpatrick from New South Wales rounded up the top three.
85cc 2st/150cc 4st– 12-U14 Top 3
Ryder Kingsford – 90
Connor Towill – 90
Byron Dennis – 87
85cc 2st/150cc 4st – 14-U16
New South Welshman, Benny Novak has once again sealed the Mini Lites BW – 14-U16 championship with his first-place finish in the final moto securing 201 points overall to retain the title for 2019.
Fellow state counterpart Hunter Collins secured runner up in the championship by coming second in the final moto with the fastest lap time of 1:51.684 and Queenslander Jake Kowal crossed the line in third.
85cc 2st/150cc 4st – 14-U16 Top 3
Ben Novak – 201
Hunter Collins – 199
Zachary Watson – 176
2019 KTM AJMX – Image by Aaryn Minerds
65cc – 10-U12
West Australian Kayden Minear made it two championship wins at Gillman with victory in the 65cc – 10-U12 category. His first place and fastest lap time of 2:02.221 in the final moto was enough to guarantee the title.
New South Welshman Jack Deveson crossed the line closely behind for second and fellow state counterpart Ky Woods rounded up the top three in their final race of the day, placing him second on the championship podium.
65cc – 10-U12 Top 3
Kayden Minear – 202
Ky Woods – 189
Jake Cannon – 168
100-125cc 2st – 13-U15
West Australian Liam Atkinson sealed the title with a solid second-place finish in the final moto. Queenslander Ryan Alexanderson took a three-second margin win over Atkinson and New South Welshman Hunter Collins came in third with the fastest lap time of 1:51.977 in their last race of the championship.
100-125cc 2st – 13-U15 Top 3
Liam Atkinson – 92
Brock Flynn – 84
Jack Mather – 83
50cc Division 2 – 7-U9
It was all the sandgroper’s way as Mason Brown (WA) took a sensational victory in the final moto of the 50cc class to earn himself a championship win, while Deegan Fort (WA) crossed the line three-seconds later second making him runner up for the championship in his first national event.
West Australian Brian Gyles had the fastest lap time of 2:24.483 which saw him third over the line for their last race of a very long week for this group of little Aussie troopers!
50cc Division 2 – 7-U9 Top 3
Mason Brown – 210
Deegan Fort – 176
Kyle Harvey – 171
128-150cc 2st/200-250 4st 15yo
Taking his second podium of the day, local hero Alex Larwood took the championship in style with the final chequered flag and the fastest lap time of 1:46.880 in the last moto of both the day and the 2019 KTM AJMX Championships.
New South Welshman, Blake Fox pulled through for second in the race making him runner up for the championship ahead of fellow state counterpart Cameron Torpy rounding of the top three for the final race of the 2019 KTM Australian Junior Motocross Championships!
128-150cc 2st/200-250 4st 15yo Top 3
Alex Larwood – 210
Blake Fox – 190
Cameron Torpy – 157
2019 KTM 2019 Interstate Challenge Cup
Earlier this week each state chose a team of eight riders from four different classes to compete for the Interstate Challenge Cup and each of those competitors was scored within their own class.
At the end of the event, the state with the highest point scoring six team members had their final placings re-scored for an overall score. The state with the highest overall team score is the winner.
Queensland were the winners this year on 199 points, the runner up state for 2019 is New South Wales on 196 points, third place was Western Australia on 193 points, followed by Tasmania 189 points, Victoria 182, South Australia 174 and Northern Territory on 132 points.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Gow-Smith wins 2019 Holden On Tight Sportsman Spirit Award
On Saturday the 5th of October the Motocross Riders Association Club proudly hosted the presentation night of the 2019 KTM Australian Junior Motocross Championships at the Port Adelaide Football Club.
During the proceedings the prestigious Holden On Tight Sportsman Spirit Award winner was announced and presented in front of a packed house of over 300 guests by Holden On Tight Organisations founder, Rosco Holden.
Taj Gow-Smith wins 2019 Holden On Tight Sportsman Spirit Award
In 2017 the Holden On Tight Organisation created the “Holden On Tight Spirit Award” as part of the KTM Australian Junior Motocross Championships. The “Spirit Award” is exactly that, it can be a selfless act to help a fellow competitor, one of true grit or continuing to compete through adversity of injury or so much more that can make someone a contender.
Rosco, who attended the week-long event, opened his speech congratulating the South Australian Motocross Riders Association President Anthony Slade and his tireless hardworking team of officials, medical staff, corner stewards and volunteers.
Rosco Holden
“I’m proud to say my Holden On Tight Organisation is in its 4th year unofficially, and 3rd year officially, for contributing prize money sponsorship for every class for the KTM AJMX championships. The thing that impresses me each year is the commitment that all have shown in preparing all year and attend this event. The top three place getters will get their rewards, but the winners are all of you that have taken on this annual September School Holiday Dirt Challenge. But it’s not all about winning far from it, hence why in 2017 I created the Holden On Tight Spirit Award. This year’s remarkable standouts were #6 Patrick Butler in the 65cc 10-12 class who stopped and helped get #213 Cohen Guatt get his leg out from his wheel and the start line dummy grid dynamic duo of Josh and Billy who did an awesome, yet thankless job all week. There was also the fearless young Jack Ellingham who rides for Josh Coppins in New Zealand, Jack who rode in the 65cc 7-9 yr. class, got 3rd degree tyre burns to the side of his wrist and bravely continued on and still racing all week…”
2019 KTM AJMX Trophies
There were many contenders, including Tasmania’s #77 Jordan Hingston who also helped Northern Territory rider #174 Clayton Bogucki get out from under his bike during a race.
During the very first practice session for the 2019 KTM AJMX, newly crowned champion, Brad West was badly trapped under his bike at the first corner with no-one around to help.
Taj Gow-Smith was about to leave the start line for his practice when he saw Brad. Taj instantly raced down to turn one and threw his bike down on the ground and helped him. Brad fortunately wasn’t hurt and by Taj lifting his bike off him he was able to get back on his way and finish his all-important practice session. Gow-Smith earnt the 2019 Holden On Tight Sportsman Spirit Award for his selfless act.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Jason Doyle claims 2019 Golden Helmet title in Pardubice
Aussie ace Jason Doyle celebrated retaining his FIM Speedway Grand Prix status by winning the iconic Golden Helmet in Pardubice for the second straight season on Sunday.
Doyle triumphed over former European champion Andzejs Lebedevs, Patryk Dudek, Max Fricke, Antonio Lindback and Jack Holder in the final on the giant Czech track, which features six-rider races.
Jason Doyle
“What a way to celebrate my birthday weekend!! Qualified for 2020 SGP series with seventh in the world and then on my birthday won the Golden Helmet! The biggest individual meeting of the season! So happy! Thank you for all the nice messages over the weekend! Bring on 2020!”
Only SGP wild card Antonio Lindback defeated Doyle at the quarter final stages, before he stormed through his semi group and triumphed in the decider.
It capped a strong weekend for the Newcastle-born racer who secured seventh spot in the World Championship on Saturday night to retain his record of qualifying for the SGP series without the aid of a wild card every year since his debut in 2015.
Slovak star Martin Vaculik won the consolation final ahead of Matej Zagar, Chris Holder, Viktor Kulakov, Vaclav Milik and Tero Aarnio.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2020 SpeedwayGP permanent wild cards announced
Former FIM Speedway Grand Prix world champions Greg Hancock and Tai Woffinden are back for 2020 after the SGP Commission confirmed next year’s four permanent wild cards.
Two men with seven world titles between them are joined by Russian racer Artem Laguta and Swedish star Antonio Lindback in receiving invites to compete in the SGP World Championship.
2020 Speedway Grand Prix wildcards have been announced!
Hancock is set for an historic return to speedway in a year, which will see him become the first 50-year-old to compete in the SGP series, when he celebrates his half-century on June 3, 2020.
The four-time world champion is taking a break from the sport this year to support wife Jennie as she undergoes breast cancer treatment, but he has made no secret of his desire to continue battling it out with the world’s best.
Great Britain hero Woffinden, who became the nation’s first triple world champion last year, is back after a tough season, which saw him sidelined for two months with a broken TH4 vertebra sustained in a PGE Ekstraliga crash in Lublin on June 7.
Woffinden was 13th in this season’s standings – the first time he has finished outside the world’s top four since he rejoined the series in 2013.
2020 Speedway Grand Prix wildcards
Laguta claimed 11th place in the SGP series, but still ended 2019 a world champion after racing to Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations glory with Emil Sayfutdinov at Russian track Togliatti in July.
And Lindback returns to the SGP stage after finishing 12th this season. The Swedish international is a two-time FIM Speedway World Cup winner and has three SGP victories and two Swedish Championships to his name.
The top eight riders in this year’s SGP World Championship – Bartosz Zmarzlik, Leon Madsen, Emil Sayfutdinov, Fredrik Lindgren, Martin Vaculik, Maciej Janowski, Jason Doyle and Patryk Dudek – qualify automatically for SGP 2020.
The line-up is completed by the top three riders from the GP Challenge in Gorican, Croatia on August 24 – winner Matej Zagar, runner-up Niels-Kristian Iversen and third-placed Max Fricke. The substitute riders for the 2020 FIM Speedway Grand Prix series will be confirmed soon.
2020 FIM Speedway Grand Prix Ride Line-Up (in FIM ranking order with rider numbers to be confirmed in due course)
Bartosz Zmarzlik (Poland)
Leon Madsen (Denmark)
Emil Sayfutdinov (Russia)
Fredrik Lindgren (Sweden)
Martin Vaculik (Slovakia)
Maciej Janowski (Poland)
Jason Doyle (Australia)
Patryk Dudek (Poland)
Matej Zagar (Slovenia)
Niels-Kristian Iversen (Denmark)
Artem Laguta (Russia)
Antonio Lindback (Sweden)
Tai Woffinden (Great Britain)
Max Fricke (Australia)
Greg Hancock (USA)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Smolinski leads 2020 SGP substitute rider line-up
German ace Martin Smolinski will serve as the 2020 FIM Speedway Grand Prix first substitute rider as the full SGP 2020 line-up is confirmed.
The 2018 FIM World Longtrack champion heads the list of substitute stars and will be called into SGP 2020 events if any of the 15 permanent riders are forced out of action for any reason such as injury or illness.
Smolinski famously won the 2014 New Zealand SGP on his full World Championship debut at Auckland’s Western Springs Stadium.
Smolinski will lead the 2020 SGP substitute rider line-up
The charismatic Munich-born man has also played a pivotal role in helping Germany reach two straight Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations Finals – the country’s first world team finals of the 21st century.
He’s joined on the substitutes list by second stand-in Mikkel Michelsen of Denmark – the new European champion having won a run-off with Russia’s Grigory Laguta at the final round in Chorzow last month.
Last year’s FIM Speedway Under-21 World Championship winner Bartosz Smektala of Poland is the third reserve, with Denmark’s Anders Thomsen – who finished fifth in his first-ever GP Challenge in August – the fourth substitute.
Swedish racer Pontus Aspgren suffered cruel luck in his quest for SGP qualification at the GP Challenge with an engine failure in his final ride. He will be the fifth reserve for SGP 2020.
The list is completed by French star Dimitri Berge – the new FIM World Longtrack champion and a Speedway of Nations star for his country in 2018 and 2019.
2020 SGP Substitute Riders
Martin Smolinski (Germany)
Mikkel Michelsen (Denmark)
Bartosz Smektala (Poland)
Anders Thomsen (Denmark)
Pontus Aspgren (Sweden)
Dimitri Berge (France)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2019 Australian SX Championship shaping up to be a belter
The 2019 Australian Supercross Championship is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in history, with a host of decorated international talent preparing to face off against the best Australia has to offer, and take the coveted SX1 and SX2 Championships to foreign lands.
Australian Supercross 2018 – Image by TBG
Leading the charge and looking to secure his fourth consecutive Australian championship will be Penrite Honda’s Justin Brayton, who has recently signed a deal with the HRC corporation for his World Championship campaign in 2020, and will come with additional parts for his Honda machine which is an ominous sign for the competition. The American is known as one of the world’s best supercross riders, having made his debut in 2004 and progressively making his way into the top echelon of the sport, and has his sights locked on another title.
Justin Brayton
“The aim is to defend (my championship), and add a fourth to the belt. I’m under no illusion that it’ll be an easy defence though, with a lot of good guys putting that target on my back and wanting the SX1 Championship. I’m expecting a few guys to step up and make it difficult, however, I’m confident in my preparation and believe that I can get the job done.”
Justin Brayton – Image by Hoppenworld
Team USA will have a presence in the SX2 ranks too, with Mitchell Oldenburg and Chris Blose as the sister Penrite Honda’s of Brayton, albeit both in the small-bore division. Bradley Taft (Empire Motorsports Kawasaki), Jacob Hayes (Serco Yamaha) and Josh Osby (Raceline KTM Thor) will all return for their second season in Australia and will no doubt be after the championship.
Mitchell Oldenburg
“I’ve watched the Australian Supercross Championship expand over the last couple seasons, and was pretty eager to be involved. I’m super thankful for the opportunity to come and race with Penrite Honda – it’s going to be awesome to spend the summer in Australia and go after an international championship.”
Mitch Oldenburg – Image by Hoppenworld
The Australian Supercross Championship will span five rounds in 2019, with Brisbane Entertainment Centre playing host for the opener on October 12. The series then heads to South Australia the next weekend, followed by Wollongong on the 9th of November. The series will then cross the pond to New Zealand on the 16th, before concluding in Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on November 30.
Tickets for Round 1 (Brisbane Entertainment Centre) are available from just $45 at www.ticketek.com.au.
2019 Australian Supercross Calendar
Round 1 – Queesland, October 12, 2019
Round 2 – South Australia, October 19, 2019
Round 3 – Wollongong, NSW, November 9, 2019
Round 4 – Auckland, NZ, November 16, 2019
Round 5 – Melbourne, VIC, November 30, 2019
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Justin Rodbell out for Australian Supercross
Justin Rodbell has apologised to the Raceline KTM Thor Team, after being unable to compete in the up-coming Australian Supercross Championship due to being in Australia on a vacation visa, which does not allow him to work as a professional racer. Here’s what he had to say:
Justin Rodbell
“I would like to apologise to the whole Raceline KTM Thor Team for not being able to compete in the Australian Supercross championship. This is completely my fault, I take full responsibility for not being over there on the correct visa. Sucks my trip to Australia has ended this way, I met so many rad people during my stay in AUS. I’d also like to thank @dvlanwood @markwood25 @ksf_racing for taking me in and giving me a place to live. As for what’s next for me I honestly couldn’t tell you. Sorry @cwktm250 for causing you all this stress, thanks for the opportunity. Basically what happened was I got paid on a vacation visa and I needed to be on a professional sporting visa.”
Justin Rodbell – Image by iKapture
Team HRC & Gajser lead the way at MXGP Awards Ceremony
Taking place on Saturday night at the 2019 Motocross of Nations, Team HRC, Honda and Tim Gajser wrapped up four different awards as they were recognised for what was an excellent MXGP campaign.
Tim Gajser cleaned up at the MXGP awards – Image by Bavo
Winning nine overalls during the course of the season in Trentino, Portugal, France, Russia, Latvia, Germany, Indonesia (twice) and Belgium, Gajser proved that it didn’t matter what the conditions were as he took victories in a whole host of terrain and surfaces. This not only helped him win the MXGP title by 202-points but it also meant that Honda took the manufacturers classification by 22-points.
In addition to race wins and overalls, Gajser also posted the most fastest laps during the season, to further prove just how dominant he was in the competitive MXGP class. While this ceremony celebrated the 2019 season as a whole, the Slovenian rider wasn’t done collecting awards as he took a moto victory and MXGP class overall at the Motocross of Nations, the first for his country.
Tim Gajser – Image by Bavo
He also collected two holeshot awards from his two races, showing the power of the Honda CRF450RW once again in the wet, sandy conditions of Assen. Team HRC MX2 rider Calvin Vlaanderen also put in a fine performance on Sunday as he helped the Netherlands win their first ever Chamberlain Trophy, in front of an ecstatic home crowd.
Tim Gajser will now prepare himself for a completely new challenge as he goes to Las Vegas in order to compete in the Monster Energy Cup on October 19th.
2019 MXGP Awards
MXGP Manufacturer World Champion: Honda
MXGP Winning Team: Team HRC
Tag Heuer Best Lap Challenge MXGP: Tim Gajser
MXGP World Champion: Tim Gajser
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Meghan Rutledge to become Kawasaki ambassador in 2020
Kawasaki Motors Australia has announced Meghan Rutledge will continue working with them heading into 2020 as an Ambassador and in a coaching role. Rutledge has been supported by Kawasaki for over 10 years and in 2020 has announced she will be stepping away from motocross racing to focus on career and personal growth.
Meghan Rutledge
“After an incredible 2019 season, that included taking out back-to-back National Women’s Motocross and Queen of MX Titles, 2020 holds new opportunities to grow outside of motocross competition. I will be stepping away from competitive racing and focusing on my career with coaching and personal training. Motocross is in my blood, I will continue to ride for fun, be a coach and mentor the next generation. I am excited for what 2020 has in store for me and thrilled to still be working closely with all my current sponsors as an ambassador. I would like to take the opportunity to thank my sponsors for the support over many years. Sponsorship support has enabled me to win eight Championship Titles in the past two years.”
Meghan Rutledge – Image courtesy of Kawasaki
Meg Rutledge has won a trophy room full of Championships in her racing career and Kawasaki will continue to support Meg in an Ambassador and Coaching role.
“I’m eager to focus on my future with my amazing supportive partner Aaron. My job as a personal trainer will work in with motocross coaching and we will take some time to enjoy life. I have put my life into racing and training nearly every weekend for the past 10 years and I never really had any down time, as much as I love racing it’s time to expand my focus. I really appreciate the support from all my fans and sponsors and I look forward what lays ahead.”
Following an enthralling weekend of racing in the YZ bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup SuperFinale at the Monster Energy Motocross of Nations in Assen, the line-up of young Yamaha riders picked to take part in the bLU cRU Masterclass in November has been announced.
Featuring the top three finishers in the YZ65, YZ85 and YZ125 SuperFinale classes respectively, the Masterclass will also include two carefully selected wildcard riders from each class, chosen on the basis of their talent, attitude and potential demonstrated at the SuperFinale.
2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale
The YZ65 Masterclass category for the youngest riders consists of podium finishers #724 Jëkabs Kubulins from Latvia, #292 Freddie Bartlett from Sweden, and #80 Frederik Stampe from Denmark in first, second and third respectively. The three will be joined by wildcards #484 Dex Kooiker from the Netherlands, and #517 Niccolo Mannini from Italy.
The YZ85 top three of #910 Olle Mårtensson from Sweden, #567 Levi Schrik of the Netherlands and #78 Adrian Bølviken from Norway will be joined by #15 Sven Borger of the Netherlands and #11 Zoltan Ordog from Romania.
Featuring the oldest YZ bLU cRU riders, the YZ125 Masterclass line-up includes top three #601 Mairis Pumpurs from Latvia, #252 Raul Sanchez of Spain and #579 Bobby Bruce from Great Britain, who will be joined by #96 Victor Alonso Rodilla from Spain and #397 Simon Depoers from France.
Representing ten European nations, the YZ bLU cRU riders will meet again in Spain on 18-20 November where, together with their road-racing bLU cRU counterparts, they will receive expert motocross tutelage from bLU cRU ambassadors and Yamaha MXGP riders Jeremy Seewer and Gautier Paulin. From the Masterclass, one lucky YZ rider will receive the top prize of direct Yamaha support in their 2020 European Championship.
The Masterclass also serves as the deciding round of the 2019 YZ bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup, with one overall winner from each class chosen. The top YZ125 bLU cRU rider will win a place on the MJC Yamaha EMX125 team, while the top YZ65 and YZ85 riders will receive support from Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. for the 2020 season.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Romain Febvre joins Monster Energy KRT for 2020
The Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team has announce that Romain Febvre has joined the squad on a multiple year deal for the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship. Next season KRT will line up two of the most successful and experienced riders in the series as the Frenchman joins Clément Desalle to compete on the KX450 Kawasaki.
Romain Febvre joins Monster Energy KRT for 2020
Crowned world champion in 2015 during his rookie season Febvre, who will turn 28 in December, has raced to podium results every year since he joined the MXGP category; despite missing a third of the 2018 season due to injuries he claimed five GP podiums with a double-victory in the Czech Republic, won four motos, took four pole-positions, led ninety laps of racing and posted the fastest lap five times.
With his long racing experience he will form a perfect twin-spearhead alongside Desalle; the Belgian will enter his fifth season with the team and has formed a perfect relationship with both the bike and the team staff who are more excited than ever to start working with both riders.
Clement has now recovered from his injury and will start testing soon, while Romain still needs to wait a few more weeks to recover from the broken leg he sustained during the Swedish round of the World Championship when he was racing for another podium result.
Romain Febvre
“We turn to a new page but the book is still open and there is a new adventure on the horizon! I’m very happy with this choice; it’s never easy to change after five years on the same team but I’m sure this is the best moment to do it. My injury late this season will delay my first days with the team, but I will be even more motivated later this winter when I can get back on a bike again! Everyone in the team is highly motivated and I’m impatient to be with them and on the bike. As far as my injury is concerned it’s taking a long time of course but everything is going as planned by the medical staff; I will soon have the first examination six weeks after surgery; we’ll see how it is with the femur and we’ll be able to make our plans for the rehabilitation. I will take a longer winter break than usual but patience is the only option and I don’t want to endanger any stage so I will be able to start testing in good conditions and to open this new chapter of my career on a good basis. The team is 100% behind me; they have a strong experience of racing and I’m sure we’ll achieve great things together.”
Romain Febvre
Thierry Chizat Suzzoni – KRT Team Owner
“We are very happy to welcome Romain to the team alongside Clément; both have a lot of experience and I’m convinced that they will join forces to cooperate and get the best from our Kawasaki; it’s a great bike which both of them will want to put on the podium. We know that Romain always gives 100% and we confidently expect that both he and Clément will put the bike in the leading pack. It gives us great satisfaction to see one of this season’s GP winners so enthusiastic to join us. We are confident that the new KX450, which we have developed so meticulously since the end of last year, has a huge potential. It’s a winning bike and we now have two GP winners on the team to show that to the world.”
Monster and KRT renew MXGP partnership
Long time partners in the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship, Monster Energy and the Kawasaki Racing Team have renewed their partnership and will continue their successful association.
Joining the Kawasaki Racing Team in 2014 as title sponsor of the factory squad, Monster Energy has always been the main partner of the team and even as the 2019 season was not the best due to rider injuries the American company renewed the contract for the future. Both Romain Febvre and Clément Desalle are long time Monster athletes, and they achieved great results during the past seasons with fifteen Grand Prix wins and thirty heat wins. They will be team mates for the first time in their career next season, joining their experience and efforts to offer the best results to the team in the premier class.
Mitch Covington – Monster Energy Vice President of Sport Marketing
“We’re excited to go again with our long-term partner KRT. It’s been a difficult year with injuries, but it happens. Unfortunately it’s part of the sport when you have riders who are passionate about the sport and really do what it takes to win so sometimes you’re going to have injuries and accidents; we’ve been in the sport a long time and we understand that. We hope for an injury-free season next year. We’re really excited for Romain to stay in the Monster family; moving over from one Monster team to another should be a really smooth transition. Romain has been a champion for our brand for a long time now and we’re wishing him the best in his new team. It’s a very strong team with Romain and Clement. We have two of the most-experienced riders in the series; they are both very fast and we have high expectations from both.”
Monster and KRT renew MXGP partnership for 2020
Thierry Chizat Suzzoni – KRT team Owner
“Since 2014 we’re working in collaboration with Monster Energy and we are very pleased to continue with such a renowned partner who has a very strong image in motorsports. It’s a very long time partner who follow us with great loyalty even in difficult period such as like we had this season. We are currently working to prepare next season with both Clément and Romain who are Monster athletes since many years; every day we work to be ready for 2020, and we expect a great season.”
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Mikkel Haarup joins F&H Kawasaki for 2020
Team F&H Kawasaki will line up an ambitious young trio next year in the FIM MX2 Motocross World Championship as Mikkel Haarup joins Roan van de Moosdijk and Mathys Boisrame in the Dutch team.
Mikkel Haarup joins Team F&H Kawasaki in 2020
Mikkel, just eighteen years old, will contest the MX2 World Championship alongside nineteen-year-old Roan van de Moosdijk from the Netherlands and twenty-one-year-old Mathys Boisrame from France.
The multi-national squad will be one of the youngest team line-ups in the World Championship; the F&H Kawasaki team will focus exclusively on the MX2 class next season after their successful 2019 campaign.
All three riders will be trained by Marc de Reuver and they will also contest the Dutch Masters in which they will defend the MX2 title which the F&H team secured this year with Henry Jacobi.
Mikkel Haarup
“I believe joining F&H is going to be a really good move for me; it’s a step forward after four years with my previous team. I feel Kawasaki is very supportive and they will do a good job to help me develop in the future. The team has already done really well the past few years and they work really hard to be even better. Their goal is just like mine … to win the championship; it’s nice to have a team whose main focus is the same. It will be very good for both of us, developing our relationship and achieving results together. Of course it’s a step higher to race the MX2 GPs and the intensity is even higher, but I think everyone can see by the results Roan put in at the end of the season that the speed in the European is also really quick. I already rode a few GPs this year so I think I’m well-prepared to be ready for next year. It’s going to be interested to work with Marc de Reuver; he’s clearly a good trainer and I’m looking forward to working with him. It’s going to be interesting for sure and you see that every rider he has worked with has progressed.”
Mikkel HaarupWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Leon Madsen claims the Torun win – Zmarzlik the title
Zmarzlik has made history at the Torun SGP of Poland final, claiming 14-points to follow 1973 World Final winner Jerzy Szczakiel and 2010 SGP champion Tomasz Gollob into Polish speedway’s most exclusive club – as a world champion.
The 24-year-old held his nerve under immense pressure after Leon Madsen won the Revline Torun SGP with a 21-point maximum to push Zmarzlik all the way, with the Dane claiming the silver medal and Russia’s Emil Sayfutdinov bagging bronze.
It’s nine years since Gollob lifted the sport’s biggest prize in 2010 and Zmarzlik spent that season racing with the great man at Polish club Gorzow. Now it’s Zmarzlik who leads Gorzow’s challenge in the PGE Ekstraliga and he admits Polish speedway’s all-time great backed him to follow his compatriot to the top of the sport one day.
Bartosz Zmarzlik
“Tomasz Gollob was my leader and I remember being with Tomasz in 2010. He said to me ‘young man, you are the same make as me, but in a smaller size.’ This is unbelievable – I am the third Polish world champion. It is very nice and I don’t know what to say now. It has been a hard month for me. I have had all these people coming up to me, saying ‘you can win’ or ‘you’ve won’. It was a hard time. I am much happier now. I want to say a big thanks to the Polish fans, and all the fans. They created a good atmosphere in the stadium.”
Bartosz Zmarzlik – Torun SGP of Poland
Zmarzlik went into the second semi-final requiring a win or second place to seal the title, and he delivered one of the starts of his life to claim an unforgettable victory before celebrating wildly with his crew and the fans.
With so much at stake, Zmarzlik was ultra-focused at the start line, and hailed Madsen for racing to the first and only 21-point maximum of 2019 to push him all the way in the battle for gold.
“The semi-finals were very important. I didn’t think anything in my head – I was only looking for the tapes. It was very important – that very first moment at the start line. At the end of the first corner, I felt I could win the heat. Then everything happened in slow motion in that race. It was unbelievable. It was the best race of my career. All season, no other rider has scored 21 points. But Leon did it. I am even happier because everything worked well and I got 14. It was not so easy, but I got the World Championship.”
Bartosz Zmarzlik – Torun SGP of Poland
Madsen was elated with his third SGP win of 2019, adding to his Warsaw and Cardiff victories, as he became only the second rider to win World Championship silver in their debut season, following Patryk Dudek in 2017.
Leon Madsen
“It was incredible. I am stoked about my own performance tonight. I am very happy about being vice-world champion in my first year in the GP. Considering the injuries I have had this year, it hasn’t been easy, racing with pain in the ankle and back. It just makes me prouder about what I have achieved this year.”
Sayfutdinov reached the rostrum for the first time since winning SGP bronze in his debut season 10 years ago. While he was disappointed not to become Russia’s first individual senior world champion, he saluted new champion Zmarzlik.
Emil Sayfutdinov
“I tried my best and I would have loved to have won this meeting. I would love to have been the first Russian world champion, but Bartosz Zmarzlik didn’t give me the chance. He was so good. I tried my hardest. I raced 100 percent all night and I knew what was at stake. Bartek is the well-deserved world champion.”
Zmarzlik, Madsen and Sayfutdinov are joined in qualifying for SGP 2020, by fourth-placed Fredrik Lindgren, Martin Vaculik in fifth, Maciej Janowski in sixth, Jason Doyle in seventh and eighth-placed Patryk Dudek. Doyle took fifth at the Torun SGP.
Ninth-placed Matej Zagar and Niels-Kristian Iversen in 10th spot join them after finishing first and second respectively at the GP Challenge in Gorican on August 24, with Australia’s Max Fricke – third in that meeting – joining them.
The SGP 2020 line-up will be completed by four wild cards, which will be named by the SGP Commission soon.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
What happened this week
Mees tops Springfield Mile I shootout
Mees does the double with Springfield Mile II victory
Gauthier dominates Springfield Short Track in AFT Singles
Gauthier tops Production Twins at Springfield Mile I
Luke Styke leads Yamaha AORC efforts at Coonalpyn
Janowski claims Teterow SGP win in Germany
Australian MXoN Team announced for Assen
Sultans Of Slide NSW Flat Track Cup classes announced
Australian Supercross Vic & Qld coaching days
KTM Junior Supercross joins S-X Open events
Mitchell Harrison to Bud Racing Kawasaki in 2020
Josh Hill to join CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team
Hutten Metaal Yamaha to run official EMX250 team until 2023
Empire Kawasaki announce 2019 Australian SX line-up
Jared Mees tops Springfield Mile I shootout
Defending AFT Twins Champion Jared Mees made it three for three in Mile competition in the 2019 American Flat Track competition with a last-corner victory in Saturday’s Springfield Mile I. Mees and 2018 Springfield Mile I winner Jeffrey Carver Jr. transformed the race into a two-rider duel for the win from the start.
Jared Mees – 2019 AFT Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
Carver seemed content to plant himself on the rear wheel of Mees over the opening half of the AFT Twins Main Event. However, the home-state hero brought the fans lining the grandstands to their feet by driving underneath the defending champ on lap 13.
Mees regrouped and re-assumed his position at the front in short order. Carver made two more attempts to wrestle away the lead, and it appeared he finally succeeded for good when he powered by with three laps remaining. However, Mees ducked under Carver entering Turn 3 on the final lap, only to see Carver slide back up the inside as they worked through Turn 4.
Jeffrey Carver Jr – 2019 AFT Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
Mees was ready for the move, and perfectly positioned himself for the decisive sprint to the flag; he stole the advantage back on exit and held it to the flag by 0.239 seconds.
Championship leader Briar Bauman was forced to use a provisional start to advance into the Main Event after suffering a mechanical issue in his Semi. Despite starting from dead last, Bauman somehow carved his way into seventh by the conclusion of lap 1 and established himself as one of five riders embroiled in a race-long battle for the final spot on the podium. Bauman ultimately won that battle, finishing in third 0.122 seconds ahead of brother/teammate Bronson Bauman. Bauman now holds a 30-point advantage over Mees (260-230) with four races remaining.
AFT Twins 2019 Springfield Mile I – Top 10
Jared Mees Indian – FTR750 0:35.746
Jeffrey Carver – Jr. Indian FTR750 +0.239
Briar Bauman – Indian FTR750 +1.878
Bronson Bauman – Indian FTR750 +2.000
Bryan Smith – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +2.016
Stephen Vanderkuur – Indian FTR750 +2.109
Brandon Robinson – Indian FTR750 +2.293
Davis Fisher – Indian FTR750 +2.455
Brandon Price – Indian FTR750 +2.709
Jarod Vanderkooi – HD XG750R Rev X +3.068
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Mees does the double with Springfield Mile II victory
Monday’s Springfield Mile II at the Illinois State Fairgrounds proved worth the wait, delivering the most jaw-dropping AFT Twins Main Event of the 2019 American Flat Track season. Following an epic 25 miles that saw ten riders in contention for the victory even as they dove into the race’s final corner, multi-time defending AFT Twins Champion Jared Mees worked his magic yet again to win out in the last-lap dash to the checkered flag. Making the achievement all the more impressive, Mees did so after starting in last position from Row 4.
Jared Mees – 2019 AFT Twins – Springfield Mile II – Image by Scott Hunter
The champ turned in his one provisional start card of the season to advance to the Main after encountering bike issues in his Semi. However, he managed to slipstream his way forward over the race’s opening third, joining the mammoth front group by lap 10. He was dueling for the lead a lap later – a duel that wouldn’t end until the final stripe. In the end, Mees outlasted title rival Briar Bauman by a scant 0.083 seconds.
Bronson Bauman – 2019 AFT Twins – Springfield Mile II – Image by Scott Hunter
The triumph was the 14th Mile win of Mees’ illustrious career, tying him with the legendary Jay Springsteen for sixth all-time on the big tracks. It also brought him within a single race of Bauman in the evolving 2019 AFT Twins championship race, as he’s now just 25 points back (280-255) heading into the season’s final three races.
Jared Mees
“It was good to come off the back row and put my name on the list with the guys who have done that. It’s more emotional doing it this way on the back-up bike and working my way up. The Indian Motorcycle ran so phenomenal for me. My whole crew worked so hard; when that bike broke we were switching wheels, and shocks, and offsets to try to duplicate what we were running on the main bike. We got it done, and it feels amazing.”
Jared Mees – 2019 AFT Twins – Springfield Mile II – Image by Scott Hunter
Bronson Bauman came through in third to lock out the podium for the Indian Wrecking Crew for the first time in 2019. While the day ultimately belonged to Mees and Indian, a huge number of riders played starring roles with the entire top ten finishing within 0.653 seconds of the win.
Rookie Brandon Price made a late-bid for the victory, and was one of five riders who slid into Turn 3 on lap 25, side-by-side, vying for the lead. He ended up an impressive fourth, fractionally ahead of Brandon Robinson.
AFT Twins Podium – 2019 AFT Twins – Springfield Mile II – Image by Scott Hunter
AFT Twins 2019 Springfield Mile II – Top 10
Jared Mees – Indian FTR750 0:35.263
Briar Bauman – Indian FTR750 +0.083
Bronson Bauman – Indian FTR750 +0.149
Brandon Price – Indian FTR750 +0.169
Brandon Robinson – Indian FTR750 +0.254
Sammy Halbert – HD XG750R Rev X +0.275
Henry Wiles – Indian FTR750 +0.398
Jarod Vanderkooi – HD XG750R Rev X +0.443
Davis Fisher – Indian FTR750 +0.516
Jeffrey Carver Jr. – Indian FTR750 +0.653
AFT Twins Standings
Briar Bauman 280
Jared Mees 255
Bronson Bauman 215
Jeffrey Carver Jr. 184
Brandon Robinson 170
Jarod Vanderkooi 166
Henry Wiles 145
Robert Pearson 135
Sammy Halbert 133
Jake Johnson 128
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Gauthier dominates Springfield Short Track in AFT Singles
Championship hopeful Dalton Gauthier scored a critical victory in Friday night’s Springfield Short Track to claim sole possession of the AFT Singles points lead. The action at the Illinois State Fairgrounds was every bit as tense and frenetic as one would expect an Roof Systems AFT Singles Short Track showdown to be.
2019 AFT Singles, Springfield Single Track – Image by Scott Hunter
In the midst of a tight title fight with just three additional races remaining on the 2019 American Flat Track calendar, and serving as a microcosm of the season to date, while a handful of riders enjoyed their moments in the spotlight. Ultimately it all came down to Gauthier and reigning class champion Dan Bromley.
Former AFT Twins standout Chad Cose stormed to the holeshot and threatened to break free of the chaos before anyone else had an opportunity to react. However, Gauthier rolled forward on the momentum he had built up all day long when he ran quickest in both qualifying sessions and ripped to heat and semi victories.
Dalton Gauthier – 2019 AFT Singles, Springfield Single Track – Image by Scott Hunter
Gauthier first slashed ahead of Spanish dirt track hero Ferran Cardús to move into third and then ran up the inside of Bromley to take over second on lap 7. By lap 10, he was hounding Cose inside and outside, applying heavy pressure wherever possible in hopes of prompting a mistake.
That mistake came on lap 13. Gauthier squared up Cose and the two very nearly came together on the short straight as Gauthier slid ahead into first. Once clear, the new leader was able to call on his superior pace to pull open just enough of a gap to negate the possibility of a potential last-lap Hail Mary.
Dallas Daniels – 2019 AFT Singles, Springfield Single Track – Image by Scott Hunter
Title rival Bromley was going in the opposite direction, dropping down to fourth after he was also overhauled by Peoria TT winner Dallas Daniels. 16-year-old prodigy Daniels had earned the pole but was shuffled back to seventh early. Undeterred, he clawed his way through the fray, not only edging ahead of Bromley but lining up Cose for the runner-up position.
Desperate to minimize the championship damage done by another Gauthier victory, Bromley turned in a clutch sequence of his own. With time running out, the defending champ dove up the inside of Daniels and Cose in two consecutive corners to leap up from fourth to second in one short lap. From there he held on to the checkered flag to remain within five points of Gauthier for the Singles championship lead (241-236).
Dalton Gauthier
“It’s huge. Coming into these last few races, it’s anyone’s game. I’m trying to get in front of Dan as much as I can, but he’s running strong. We’re having fun. Chad rode a really great race. It took me a few laps to catch him, but he was riding defensively. I just waited. I knew I had a few laps to go so I just waited for the mistake. He made one, and we got pretty close, but it was clean racing.”
Dalton Gauthier – 2019 AFT Singles, Springfield Single Track – Image by Scott Hunter
Dan Bromley
“I just used my size to my advantage. It was a heck of a race. Chad got out front, and whether he’s behind you or you’re behind him, you never know what he’s going to do. He ran a good race. He, Dalton, and Dallas were out front for most of the race. It’s a little bittersweet to be in second, but I’m happy to be back up here on the podium.”
Daniels secured his second consecutive podium, in third, in what was just his sixth-career AFT outing, while Cose ended up one spot off the box after leading the majority of the laps. Meanwhile, Mikey Rush kept his championship aspirations alive in fifth. While the bulk of the focus is understandably on Gauthier and Bromley, Rush remains very much in contention. He’s within striking distance – just 25 points back of the lead (216) – with a Half-Mile and two Miles left to decide the 2019 crown.
AFT Singles Podium – 2019 AFT Singles, Springfield Single Track – Image by Scott Hunter
AFT Singles 2019 Springfield ST Top 10
Dalton Gauthier – Husqvarna FC450 0:13.447
Dan Bromley – KTM 450 SX-F +0.857
Dallas Daniels – Yamaha YZ450F +1.475
Chad Cose – Suzuki RMZ 450 +2.304
Mikey Rush – Honda CRF450R +3.395
Brandon Kitchen – Honda CRF450R +4.009
Ryan Wells – Yamaha YZ450F +5.744
Oliver Brindley – Yamaha YZ450F +5.833
Ferran Cardus – Honda CRF450R +6.219
Jacob Lehmann – Honda CRF450R +7.548
2019 AFT Singles Standings
Dalton Gauthier 241
Dan Bromley 236
Mikey Rush 216
Jesse Janisch 180
Chad Cose 166
Shayna Texter 155
Ryan Wells 155
Morgen Mischler 125
Max Whale 107
Kevin Stollings 93
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Gauthier tops Production Twins at Springfield Mile I
Fresh off his clutch victory in Friday night’s Springfield Short Track, Dalton Gauthier steamrolled the competition in Saturday’s AFT Production Twins Main Event at the Springfield Mile I. Gauthier’s arcing high lines may have allowed his rivals to keep him relatively contained during the opening stages of the 15-lap Main Event, but once he finally stretched open enough of an advantage to prevent his opponents from blocking his preferred path, those same lines made him simply unstoppable.
Carlile & Rispoli – 2019 AFT Production Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
The triumph was not just his second of the weekend, it was also his second in succession in the AFT Production Twins class; he delivered the XG750R a second win in the first possible opportunity after scoring its historic maiden win last time out in the Sacramento Mile.
Dalton Gauthier
“I have to thank Jarod Vanderkooi for telling me to go there (to the high line) after the Semi, so shout out to him. After the second or third lap I went up there and I was like, ‘Yeah, it’s hooking up. So I stayed up there and tried to ride consistent laps and break away and that’s what happened. I have to thank everybody at Harley-Davidson, Black Hills Harley-Davidson, Vance & Hines and everyone else who has gotten this bike working this great. It’s been awesome, and I’m having a lot of fun.”
Dalton Gauthier – 2019 AFT Production Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
Kolby Carlile, who scored tonight’s holeshot, and Lima HM winner Chad Cose emerged from a multi-rider pack to battle for second place. The two actually managed to cut into Gauthier’s lead while waging their duel, which came down to the race’s final corner.
Carlile sailed past Cose to open the last lap, but Cose switched-up his opponent driving through Turns 3 and 4. However, the Estenson pilot managed a counter of his own while they streaked down the start/finish straight, nipping Cose by 0.101 seconds at the flag to finish as the race’s runner-up.
Second-ranked Ryan Varnes continued his consistent AFT Production Twins title campaign with his fifth top-five result of the year by taking fourth. Kevin Stollings was just 0.002 seconds back of Varnes to round out the top five.
Championship leader Cory Texter took the checkered flag in ninth. As a result, he now leads Varnes by just 22 points (133-111) with Carlile (100) and Gauthier (96) looking increasingly threatening in third and fourth, respectively.
AFT Production Twins 2019 Springfield Mile I – Top 10
Dalton Gauthier – HD XG750R 0:36.491
Kolby Carlile – Yamaha MT-07 +0.866
Chad Cose – Kawasaki Ninja 650 0.968
Ryan Varnes – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +2.584
Kevin Stollings – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +2.587
J.R. Addison – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +2.644
James Rispoli – HD XG750R Rev X +2.671
Cody Johncox – Yamaha MT-07 +6.769
Cory Texter – Yamaha MT-07 +8.399
Ryan Wells – Yamaha MT-07 +8.468
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Carlile claims Production Twins Springfield Mile II win
Kolby Carlile materialised from the pack late to claim his first-career AFT Production Twins Main Event victory in dramatic fashion. All eyes had been on Dalton Gauthier, who was chasing a unique dual-class triple win on the weekend.
2019 AFT Production Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
Like Mees in the premier class, Gauthier had to start on the back row, being forced to use a provisional start when his bike expired in his Semi. However, his form and momentum still made him feel all but unstoppable, as he powered from dead last to first place by the time the pack dove into Turn 1 for the second time.
He didn’t slow from there, opening up a 1.5-second advantage by the time the race was red flagged while working lap 10 of 15. On the restart, Gauthier went right back to work, steadily building another advantage on the pack. The only difference this time around was that teammate James Rispoli managed to hang onto the slipstream and use it to escape along with Gauthier.
James Rispoli – 2019 AFT Production Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
With a 1-2 Black Hills Harley-Davidson seeming nearly assured, Gauthier raised his hand in disappointment with 3 laps to go, signaling another mechanical issue that spoiled his bid for the triple Springfield victory. Without the benefit of Gauthier’s draft, Rispoli found himself reeled back to the pack. Carlile caught him just in time to thunder by as they drove down the back straight for the final time.
Carlile tucked his head down and outpaced any potential counter moves, beating Rispoli to the line by 0.111 seconds.
Kolby Carlile
“I was confident the whole race; there was just so much traffic and I got sucked into it a little bit. I was letting those guys shake it out, but I knew I had the bike to win this thing. Dalton and James took off after the restart and I fell back again, but I knew my bike was strong enough to catch them. And that’s what we did. I just can’t thank my Estenson Racing crew enough… I broke my leg early in the year and I lost a round. I’m at a huge points deficit, but we’re trying to make it back. I’m finally feeling like myself again.”
Kolby Carlile – 2019 AFT Production Twins, Springfield Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
Cody Johncox was next in line in a pack of riders that saw five men take the checkered flag within 0.554 seconds of the win. He finished 0.082 seconds back of Rispoli to complete the podium. Cory Texter did well to limit the damage done by Carlile’s victory by finishing a strong fourth. Still, Texter’s advantage has now been reduced to 23 points (148-125) over Carlile with three races remaining.
Production Twins podium – 2019 AFT Twins, Springfield Mile II – Image by Scott Hunter
AFT Production Twins 2019 Springfield Mile II – Top 10
Kolby Carlile – Yamaha MT-07 0:35.993
James Rispoli – Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X +0.111
Cody Johncox – Yamaha MT-07 +0.194
Cory Texter – Yamaha MT-07 +0.332
Morgen Mischler – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +0.554
Ryan Varnes – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +1.205
Jordan Harris – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +1.818
Ben Lowe – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +5.587
Oliver Brindley – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +16.401
Chad Cose – Kawasaki Ninja 650 +1 Lap
2019 AFT Production Twins Standings
Cory Texter 148
Kolby Carlile 125
Ryan Varnes 124
Dalton Gauthier 102
J.R. Addison 96
James Rispoli 95
Chad Cose 94
Ben Lowe 81
Cody Johncox 80
Kevin Stollings 72
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Luke Styke leads Yamaha AORC efforts at Coonalpyn
Perfect conditions greeted rider for Rounds 8 & 9 of the AORC Championship in Coonalpyn, while the layout provided challenges on both days. Saturday saw a sandy based loop that had competitors excited about the terrain while Sunday saw some rock beds and hard pack thrown into the mix to keep everyone on their toes.
Luke Styke increased his lead in the E1 (250cc) class after dominating the weekend in South Australia. Styke, who enjoys racing the softer terrain, won 10 out of the 13 special tests conducted over both days and was able to stretch his lead out to 16 points with two rounds remaining.
Luke Styke – Round 7, Broken Hill – 2019 AORC – Image by John Pearson
Styke and rival Lyndon Snodgrass traded wins on Saturday, but Styke came out all guns blazing on Sunday to win six of the seven tests and cement his place at the top of the E1 table. His raw speed captured him fourth outright on Saturday and one position better on Sunday in third.
Luke Styke
“After a couple of ordinary rounds for me, it was good to get back on top of things and ride the way I should. I struggled a bit at Kyogle and Broken Hill, but I felt good all weekend and I love riding in these kinds of conditions. The bike was strong all weekend and I had a clean run with no major issues, so I leave here healthy, fit and confident to keep the momentum going into the final two rounds. Thanks to the team for all the hard work and we will keep it going all the way to the end as anything can happen in this sport.”
Luke Styke
Josh Green maintains second place in the E2 (450cc) class after another consistent performance on the weekend in South Australia. Green finished second on both days behind class leader, Daniel Milner, and sits comfortably in second place in the series.
Josh Green – Round 7, Broken Hill – 2019 AORC – Image by John Pearson
Green raced well on Saturday and was third outright but a few crashes on Sunday cost him valuable time on Sunday and while it dropped him a couple of positions in outright honours, it had no effect on the E2 class results.
Josh Green
“Nothing real exciting to report from me on the weekend. I felt I was riding pretty well all weekend, but not quite at the pace that Sanders and Milner were setting. I made a couple of mistakes on Sunday and fell off in two tests but fortunately both myself and the bike were unscathed. But I really liked the course layout and it was good to ride in dirt that offered plenty of traction and a good variety of high and low speed challenges. The team was on point again and we can now look forward to the final rounds in a couple of weekends.”
Josh Green
It was a case of the good and the almost good for Michael Driscoll. Driscoll charged to an impressive third in class (E1) and sixth outright on Saturday as he kept his 250F on song through the day on the sandy course. He wasn’t quite able to recapture the same form on Sunday, dropping one spot to fourth in E1 and ninth in outright honours.
Michael Driscoll
“Saturday was good, and it was like riding the conditions I have around home with soft dirt and plenty of traction. I pushed hard all day and wanted to mix it with Luke and Lyndon as best I could in as many tests as I could. Sunday I was a bit off and didn’t flow as well. I made a few errors out there and cost me some time and just didn’t ride as well as what I did yesterday. I still sit fourth in class and just five points away from a series podium, so I will need a big finish at the final two rounds to get onto the championship podium.”
Michael Driscoll
Yamaha also had success in other classes with Kirk Hutton winning the Masters’ class on both days and also the series win as he now holds a 58 point lead going into the final two rounds. With only 50 points available, the former AORC champ can add another title to his belt after a successful year.
Kirk Hutton
Jess Gardiner continues to lead the Women’s division after an up and down weekend in South Australia. Gardiner won on Saturday but was forced to settle for third place on Sunday in a rare off day. Gardiner still holds a comfortable 20 point lead going into the final weekend of the championship.
Jess Gardiner
The last two rounds of the AORC are set down for September 14 and 15 in Penshurst in Victoria. With class honours and podium positions still up for grabs, Yamaha riders will keep the pressure right until the final test has concluded.
AORC Round 8 – Outright
#
Rider
Time – Total
1
Daniel SANDERS
58:40.514
2
Daniel MILNER
59:30.788
3
Joshua GREEN
1:00:50.038
4
Luke STYKE
1:00:52.231
5
Lyndon SNODGRASS
1:01:00.940
6
Michael DRISCOLL
1:02:17.640
7
Riley GRAHAM
1:02:33.987
8
Fraser HIGLETT
1:02:55.789
9
Andrew WILKSCH
1:02:56.028
10
Jeremy CARPENTIER
1:03:40.107
AORC Round 9 – Outright
#
Rider
Time – Total
1
Daniel SANDERS
1:09:31.089
2
Daniel MILNER
1:10:59.206
3
Luke STYKE
1:12:31.488
4
Lyndon SNODGRASS
1:12:56.788
5
Joshua GREEN
1:13:21.455
6
Fraser HIGLETT
1:13:44.746
7
Jeremy CARPENTIER
1:14:50.294
8
Matthew PHILLIPS
1:14:51.763
9
Michael DRISCOLL
1:15:14.966
10
Andrew WILKSCH
1:15:33.329
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
E3 Standings – Top 5
#
Rider
Points
1
Daniel SANDERS
225
2
Andrew WILKSCH
168
3
Jesse LAWTON
162
4
Beau RALSTON
148
5
Matt MURRY
145
E2 Standings – Top 5
#
Rider
Points
1
Daniel MILNER
225
2
Joshua GREEN
198
3
Jeremy CARPENTIER
167
4
Brad HARDAKER
119
5
Harrison TEED
91
E1 Standings – Top 5
#
Rider
Points
1
Luke STYKE
212
2
Lyndon SNODGRASS
196
3
Fraser HIGLETT
181
4
Michael DRISCOLL
176
5
Lachlan ALLAN
137
EJ Standings – Top 5
#
Rider
Points
1
Kyron BACON
215
2
Joshua BRIERLEY
198
3
Korey MCMAHON
181
4
Cooper SHEIDOW
158
5
Nathan HOWE
147
Veterans Standings – Top 10
#
Rider
Total
1
Lee STEPHENS
215
2
Christopher THOMAS
172
3
Jason PEARCE
148
4
Luke ABLITT
127
5
Paul CHADWICK
114
Masters Standings – Top 10
#
Rider
Total
1
Kirk HUTTON
222
2
Peter RUDD
164
3
Craig TREASURE
144
4
Timothy MARTIN
128
5
Ian MCGILLIVRAY
110
Womens Standings – Top 10
#
Rider
Total
1
Jessica GARDINER
217
2
Emma MILESEVIC
192
3
Emelie KARLSSON
186
4
Danielle FOOT
154
5
Ebony NIELSEN
112
Janowski claims Teterow SGP win in Germany
Maciej Janowski launched his bid for a FIM World Speedway Championship medal on Saturday night winning the German FIM Speedway Grand Prix in Teterow.
Janowski, who was without a Grand Prix win in 13 months prior to round seven of the 2019 World Championship, made a jet-propelled start from gate two in the grand final to defeat Polish compatriot Bartosz Zmarzlik, Slovenian favourite Matej Zagar and in-form Dane Niels-Kristian Iversen.
Despite missing the opening round of this year’s series through injury, Janowski is only 11-points short of third placed Emil Sayfutdinov – and stands every chance of picking up his first World Championship medal in Torun, Poland, on October 5.
The 28-year-old Wroclaw star said hard work in the pits from his top team of mechanics inspired his lightning-fast start in the grand final, which ultimately saw him step to the top of the podium.
Maciej Janowski
“This is amazing, it’s always an amazing feeling when you win a Grand Prix. The whole meeting was very tough, we worked very hard during the meeting and I knew the final would be very hard with Bartosz Zmarzlik, Matej Zagar and Niels-Kristian Iversen involved. I felt very good from the start in the final, I made a perfect start and that helped me to win.”
Maciej Janowski – 2019 German FIM Speedway Grand Prix, Teterow
World Championship contender Bartosz Zmarzlik was again in blistering form, registering 16-points on the night to join Leon Madsen at the top of the standings on 85-points with three rounds remaining.
After dropping only three points throughout his five qualifying rides, the Gorzow star finished second to Janowski in semi-final one before repeating that effort in the grand final.
Like Janowski, Zmarzlik paid tribute to his mechanics following round seven, and vowed to maintain his high levels of performance at next weekend’s ECCO Danish FIM Speedway Grand Prix in Vojens.
For Matej Zagar, a podium finish came as a welcome relief following a logistically challenging start to his weekend. A delayed flight forced the GP Challenge winner to start his journey to Teterow on a different plane, before arriving on the stroke of the start of free practice.
He topped the qualifying time sheet, before registering 15 points from his seven rides – placing him five points short of the top eight frame.
Following tonight’s result, Dane Leon Madsen surrendered his position as clear leader at the top of the World Championship standings. The Danish favourite finished behind Janowski and Zmarzlik in semi-final one, and dropped six points to his championship rival.
Elsewhere in the table, title hopefuls Emil Sayfutdinov and Fredrik Lindgren returned with a mixed bag of results from their qualifying rides – scoring 10 and nine points respectively.
But Martin Vaculik endured the most frustrating evening, registering just four points from five qualifying rides as the Slovak star dropped to fifth in the standings and is now 13 points short of the top pair. The series now moves to Vojens, Denmark, for Round 8 on Saturday, September 7.
SGP World Championship Standings
Bartosz Zmarzlik 85
Leon Madsen 85
Emil Sayfutdinov 78
Fredrik Lindgren 72
Martin Vaculik 72
Patryk Dudek 69
Maciej Janowski 67
Artem Laguta 58
Niels-Kristian Iversen 54
Matej Zagar 52
Janusz Kolodziej 50
Jason Doyle 48
Aztorin German SGP Scores
Maciej Janowski 16
Bartosz Zmarzlik 16
Matej Zagar 15
Niels-Kristian Iversen 13
Emil Sayfutdinov 10
Leon Madsen 10
Fredrik Lindgren 9
Patryk Dudek 8
Antonio Lindback 8
Artem Laguta 8
Tai Woffinden 8
Jason Doyle 6
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Australian MXoN Team announced for Assen
Motorcycling Australia have announced the 2019 FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) team selected to represent Australia at Assen, in the Netherlands on 28-29 of September. Known as the ‘Olympics of Motocross’, the prestigious event will host 31 teams from around the world.
MXoN 2018
After a tough selection process, the MXoN Australian Team will be proudly represented by Mitch Evans (Honda), Dean Ferris (KTM) and Kyle Webster (Honda), with the trio earning the right to don the green and gold against the best motocross riders on the planet, with the MXstore coming on board as a naming-rights sponsor.
Amid a strong campaign on the elite MXGP circuit, Evans, a Cairns native, is confident the team will be hard to beat.
Mitch Evans
“I’m excited to get out there, represent my country and race the best in the world. I’m looking forward to everyone getting behind us and hopefully we can get a spot on the box because we’ve got a really strong team this year.”
Mitch Evans – MXGP of Germany 2019
Ferris, who is a three-time Australian Motocross champion and recently competed in the U.S, said representing his country was a highlight of his highly successful career.
Dean Ferris
“I’m super excited to be representing Australia at the Motocross of Nations this year in Assen. I’m really looking forward to racing alongside Mitch Evans and Kyle Webster, so it will be great to catch up with the boys.”
Dean Ferris – 2019 AMA Pro Motocross – Round Six – Southwick
Webster, who was the runner up in the 2019 MX Nationals Motul MX2 class, was shocked when told he’ll be heading to the Netherlands.
Kyle Webster
“Honestly, I’m stoked. I didn’t really expect to be picked for the team, but I’m wrapped to be able to head over to Assen. It’s my first time heading over to the MXoN, so I’m not sure what to really expect. Being the biggest motocross event in the world, I just can’t wait to be a part of it. Without a doubt, it’s the biggest thing in my career for sure, so I’m really excited. It’s awesome to have both Dean [Ferris] and Mitch [Evans] as my teammates.”
Kyle Webster leads Wilson Todd at Coolum
Sultans Of Slide NSW Flat Track Cup classes announced
The question everyone has been asking is, “what classes are running at Sultans Of Slide?” And the answer is, there’s only eight. Four junior classes and four senior classes, and for the most part riders will choose one class, and they will bring one bike.
So you get the advantage of only having one bike to look after for the whole day. And as a bonus, you will get 56 laps of racing. You don’t normally get that even if you bring four bikes and ride multiple classes!
Sultans Of Slide – NSW Flat Track Cup
At each Sultans Of Slide event each class will get seven races, ranging in length from 4 to 15 laps, on two different track layouts, running a point score across the day to determine winners. No finals, no semis. Lots of ride time.
Juniors will choose between 50, 65, 85 and a Junior Lites class. Seniors will choose between an MX250 (2- and 4-strokes together), MX450, and up to 450 clubman class.
Seniors will also be able to cross-enter into the new “Open Multi” class if they have a bike to suit it, or they can ride the Open Multi class by itself if they prefer. They just need a multi-cylinder bike of any capacity, running on suitable wheels and tyres.
There’s only 18 entries per class, so when things up and the Supp regs are released, you will have to get in quick. Riders will also be starting on a grid with three rows. And sometimes there’ll be reverse grid races, just to mess with you.
With the classes now confirmed, stay tuned for details on when entries will open, exciting new partnerships and in excess of $10,000 plus a host of prizes.
2019 Sultans of Slide Classes JUNIORS (riders to choose one class only)
50cc Div 2 (7 to under 9)
65cc (8 to under 11)
85cc 2t & 150cc 4t (10 to under 14)
JUNIOR LITES up to 150cc 2t & 250cc 4t (13 to under 16)
SENIORS (riders to choose one class only, unless riding in Open Multi, which may be entered in addition to any other class)
Clubman (MX Frame Up to 450cc 4T)
MX 250 (2 or 4 stroke up to 250cc)
MX 450 (4T 450cc or 2T 350cc)
Open Multi (Multi cylinder any capacity)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Australian Supercross Qld & Vic Coaching Days
Amateur and professional Supercross riders will have the chance to take part in several Supercross coaching and training days starting next week in both Victoria and Queensland.
Krusics Ride Park – Victoria
Kicking off next weekend (September 7-8) at Krusics Ride Park in Victoria, the venue will open the gates to their private Supercross tracks allowing riders of all skill levels the opportunity to attempt Supercross for the first time, or hone their skills in preparation for the upcoming Australian Supercross Championship season.
Krusics Ride Park – Victoria
Krusics has two tracks on offer, one for intermediate riders with tamed down jumps and tabletops and another full-blown pro-level track, both professionally prepared for the weekend. Saturday will be dedicated to training on the intermediate track with Sunday’s riding focussed on the pro track.
Ex-professional Supercross athlete Cameron Taylor (Y-AIM) will be offering tutelage to all skill levels over the weekend and on both tracks, to ensure there’s the opportunity to learn regardless of current skill level. Taylor says the opportunity for riders to access an intermediate track, learn Supercross skills and build confidence before progressing to the full-scale track all in one weekend, is the perfect way to make the transition from Motocross to Supercross.
Cameron Taylor
“This is the first time in Australian Supercross history that I’m aware of, that riders have been given the opportunity to learn Supercross in a safe and controlled environment, by starting on a scaled-down track, positioned right next to a full-scale professional one. This will really give us the chance to ensure riders are feeling comfortable before transitioning to Supercross. There’s no better feeling than racing on a Supercross track in front of thousands of people. I really look forward to sharing my experiences with riders, to help them build their confidence and hopefully lead them to a career in Supercross racing in the future, or simply help them prepare for this year’s Australian Supercross Championship.”
Cameron Taylor
Practice Day costs are $100 p/day and riders are required to have an AMA licence. Click here to join secure.motocross.asn.au/join-motocross (link). For coaching enquiries and bookings, contact Cam Taylor on 0417 332 457 or email [email protected].
For riders in the South East Queensland region, Nathan Crawford (00 Standards Elite Rider Training) is holding a coaching and endorsement clinic also on Saturday September 7, on a private Supercross track near Toowoomba. For more details call or message Nathan on 0401 812 125.
00 Standars Elite Rider Training Facility – Toowoomba – Queensland
Practice day costs are $220 p/day and riders will need SX suspension and previous riding experience.
Increasing access to practice tracks and professional Supercross coaching has been a major focus for the revamped Australian Supercross Championship and series organisers say this is a crucial step towards the overall goal of increased participation and the development of young riders in the future.
Adam Bailey
“Access to safe practice facilities and professional coaching has been the number one limiting factor for Australian Supercross riders and their development, for as long as I can remember. In the past, riders that do not have their own private track and property or access to one, have often either tried to compete underprepared or just decided not to take the risk to do Supercross competition. We’re committed to making that transition to competing in the Australian Supercross Championship, more accessible and safer, for all Aussie riders now and into the future.”
Both coaches will be able available for Motorcycling Australia Supercross Endorsements over the weekend. More information on other locations including more tracks in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales will be announced in the near future.
00 Standards Elite Rider Training Facility open for coaching and endorsement September 7.
Where: Toowoomba (Kaleb Barham personal track) *Further details via upon request.
When: 7th September 9am – 4pm
Cost: $220 p/day
Book now: 0401 812 125
*Riders will need SX suspension and previous riding experience.
*All other Ride Park Rules & Regulations apply.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
KTM Junior Supercross joins S-X Open events
The KTM Junior Supercross initiative will once again take centre-stage at the high-profile 2019 S-X Open International FIM Oceania Supercross Championship, set to be contested in Auckland, New Zealand and Melbourne, Australia this November.
KTM Junior Supercross joins S-X Open in 2019
KTM Junior Supercross provides the opportunity of a lifetime for an incredibly fortunate group of youthful racers and their families. There will be 10 positions available for the S-X Open event to be held at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland on 16 November, while 20 places will be available for the AUS-X Open Melbourne event on 30 November for the first time ever.
Successful applicants will be treated to a full factory VIP experience, including a KTM 50 SX built by factory technicians to ride during the event. A KTM gift pack provided to each young rider will feature a full set of riding gear to keep, plus trophies will be awarded to podium finishers.
Aside from extensive off-track activities and enjoyment that will include mentorship from KTM’s professional racers and a special rider signing where kids can meet their heroes, the KTM Junior Supercross entrants will take a dedicated track walk, two practice sessions and a fun-filled exhibition event during the S-X Open program.
Entry criteria will apply, with both events open to KTM customers only with 12 months of racing results being taken into consideration. Every applicant’s latest school report card, weight and height requirements must also be met. Registrations for the 2019 KTM Junior Supercross events are open now, exclusively at www.ridektm.com.au (link).
KTM Junior Supercross joins S-X Open in 2019
Jeff Leisk – General Manager KTM Australia
“To be involved in the sport at this level, young aspiring riders and their parents, will certainly enjoy the KTM Junior Supercross experience. We aim to make them virtually feel like factory riders for the event, to give them that experience on a real supercross track in front of huge crowds. It’s an incredible opportunity and inspires riders to go onto bigger things in the sport, much like Ryan Dungey and others who at one stage took part in the challenge. It’s a really inspirational experience and these events are genuinely world-class, so it’s a pleasure to continue our relationship with the event organisers, AME Management, because we really love what they are doing for supercross in the region. The fact that they even consider the KTM Junior Supercross to be one of the highlights of their events just goes to show that they have the right vision that’s inclusive of tomorrow’s superstars and, from my own perspective, I know what it was like to be a young kid and an aspiring racer. So, while I never got to do anything like this, I know how impressionable you are at that age and that’s why it’s really special to be involved and to be providing families with this type of opportunity.”
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Mitchell Harrison to Bud Racing Kawasaki in 2020
Team Bud Racing Kawasaki have confirmed Mitchell Harrison for the 2020 MX2 FIM Motocross World Championship, after joining the team in April and starting to score regularly with top ten results since Germany.
Mitchell Harrison to remain with Bud Racing Kawasaki in 2020
Dedicated to his sport, the 21 years old American rider is currently seventeenth in the series and with a few more months of European experience will be a strong contender when the 2020 World Championship kicks off in of February 2020. He will also race the French Elite series.
Mitchell Harrison
“It’s been an amazing experience racing here, I came over here in April not knowing what to expect and the Bud Racing Team treated me like a family member and it’s cool to have another year with them and a chance to fill in on the podium with them, so very exited! Next year I will know most of the tracks and I will be more adapted to the bike, we already work on that between the races but now we’ll have a full winter to do that. The racing is amazing here, the tracks are unique, different than in the US but I like that.”
Mitchell Harrison
For team owner Stephane Dassé, giving another chance to Mitchell was one of his goal as everyone in the team enjoy working with him.
Stephane Dassé – Team Owner
“We’re happy to work with him next season, he came late in Europe and had to discover everything. He improves a lot through the season, has a good mentality and we think that after a good preparation during winter and some more European experience he will be able to get strong results. We’re happy to enter again the MX2 World Championship with him, and he will have two top level young team mates to compete and fight in front of the European EMX 250 & EMX 125 series and French championship; who will be announced very soon.”
Josh Hill to join CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team
Former AMA Supercross race winner, factory rider and freeride pioneer Josh Hill, will travel down under to contest the final three rounds of the Australian Supercross Championship for the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team, commencing November 9.
Hill will join Dan Reardon and Luke Clout on the team with his first engagement being round three of the of the Australian Supercross Championship in Wollongong.
Josh Hill, Alta electric motorcycle
Hill will be working double time at Wollongong as he not only chases success in the SX1 final alongside competing the ‘Speed and Style’ event where he can combine his world class speed with his aerial acrobatics against names like Cam Sinclair and a host of others in a spectacular night of action.
Then its onto rounds four and five of the championship where Hill will really be put to the test at the S-X Open in Auckland and in the final round, the Aus-X Open at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.
Josh Hill
“I cant wait to get down to Australia and line up at the final three rounds of the Australian Supercross Championship. I have always wanted to return to Australia after racing there a few years ago and when the opportunity came about through CDR Yamaha, Monster Energy and Fox Racing, I had to make it happen. And this isn’t a holiday for me as I know the level of racing in Australia is high and it’s my goal to come down there and bring home plenty of prizemoney with me. I have been working hard to get myself in shape and ready to go come November 9 at Wollongong. I’m still competitive and would like nothing more than to kick a little ass down there and beat not only the Aussies but also the other international riders competing.”
Josh Hill
The CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team will be bursting at the seems at the final three rounds with a star studded line up of the two best domestic supercross racers in Dan Reardon and Luke Clout and now with Josh Hill confirmed for the final three rounds, making for a huge month for team owner Craig Dack.
Craig Dack – CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team Owner
“Having Josh Hill join us for the final three rounds is a real coupe for the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team as he is not only one of the most popular riders in the world but still fast and talented enough to make the championship exciting. His alignment with Yamaha in the US, Monster Energy and Fox Racing makes it a simple transition into the team and I’m sure he will be on the pace when the gates drop at round three. He has been super easy to deal with and his enthusiasm to come to Australia and race with us is over flowing down the phone with every conversation. Having Dan and Luke as the main stays of our team and the X factor in Josh Hill gives us a very strong team for this years Supercross Championship. All three riders will be mounted on the new 2020 YZ450F and our preparations have already begun. We look forward to a great championship and working with three talented and skilled riders.”
CDR Yamaha’s Craig Dack
The five round Australian Supercross Championship starts on October 12 at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
2019 ASX Calendar
Round 1 – October 12 – Brisbane Entertainment Centre (QLD)
Round 2 – October 19 – Gillman Speedway (SA)
Round 3 – November 9 – Wollongong (NSW)
Round 4 – November 16- Mt Smart Stadium Auckland (NZ / S-X Open Auckland)
Round 5 – November 30- Marvel Stadium Melbourne (VIC / AUS-X Open Melbourne)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Hutten Metaal Yamaha to run official EMX250 team until 2023
Yamaha Motor Europehave announced that Hutten Metaal Yamaha will operate as the official Yamaha EMX250 team for the next three years through 2023. The team based in Beerzerveld, The Netherlands, have already established themselves inside the MXGP and EMX250 paddocks as a Yamaha supported team this year.
Hutten Metaal Yamaha to run official EMX250 team until 2023
Heading into 2020, Hutten Metaal Yamaha will focus solely on the European EMX250 Championship as the official EMX250 team with riders Thibault Benistant, Raivo Dankers and Gianluca Facchetti, equipped with Yamaha’s GYTR kitted YZ250F machines.
Between the three riders that will make up the Hutten Metaal Yamaha EMX250 team in 2020, there are two Junior Motocross World Champions and an EMX125 Champion. Raivo Dankers was the Junior 85cc World Champion back in 2015, Gianluca Facchetti was the Junior 125cc World Champion in 2017, while Thibault Benistant was the first Official Yamaha rider to claim the coveted EMX125 crown onboard a GYTR kitted YZ125 back in 2018.
Yamaha Motor Europe also thanked the SDM Corse Yamaha team for their efforts over the past few years. The SDM Corse Yamaha team will remain inside the Yamaha family for the 2020 season, receiving support for an EMX250 rider and Ruben Fernandez who will contest the 2020 MX2 World Championship.
Empire Kawasaki announce 2019 Australian SX line-up
Empire Kawasaki are fuelled-up and ready to launch into the 2019 Australia Supercross Championship season, and have announced they will run a team of three riders across the two classes, with two SX1 riders on 2020 Kawasaki KX450 and one SX2 Rider on the 2020 Kawasaki KX250.
Dylan Long will ride the new 2020 Kawasaki KX450
Dylan Long and Lawson Bopping will be piloting the SX1 machinery, while in SX2 American Supercross specialist Bradley Taft joins the team.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
The FIM and Motorcycling Australia (MA) have released details of the forthcoming FIM Speedway Training Camp Down Under that will take place on 10, 11 and 12 December 2019 at Gillman Speedway – Adelaide – Australia. The FIM is pleased to be supporting this MA and FIM Oceania training programme, with this event being organised by the Australian Federation.
The three-day training camp is open to 250cc riders – aged from 13 to under 16 years old and 500cc riders – aged from 15 to 19 years old. The youthful participants will benefit from expert coaching that will be delivered by FIM Track Racing Director – Armando Castagna, Speedway Grand Prix and Speedway of Nations FIM Race Director – Phil Morris, plus multiple FIM and Australian Champion – Leigh Adams.
M.A. CEO Peter Doyle
“Motorcycling Australia is proud to be working with the FIM on yet another fantastic junior development initiative, this time focusing on Speedway. The inaugural FIM Speedway Training Camp – Down Under, set to take place at Gillman Speedway on 10, 11 and 12 December this year will focus on the development of the next generation of junior riders in a discipline that Australian riders shine, both domestically and internationally.”
The riders will enjoy a packed schedule that will include a wide range of topics both on and off-track covering but not limited to: Riding techniques, bike setups, nutrition and body, social media and conduct, media interviews, fitness lessons plus starting techniques.
Armando Castagna, FIM Track Racing Director
“This FIM Training Camp in Oceania is a project supported by the FIM to improve Track Racing in all the CONU’s, but in principle, it is also support given to FIM Oceania and Motorcycling Australia for their splendid work both in Track Racing and in trying to improve their Youth programme. Leading this Training Camp will be Leigh Adams, one of the best Speedway Riders in history and now the leader of many Youth Programs in Australia and Phil Morris, former International rider and SGP Race Director. Both of these instructors will improve the skills of every participant on the track with racing techniques, start procedures, but also off the track with seminars of technical, social media and conduct, nutrition and body, plus fitness lessons. They will be three days full of action and seminars and I’m sure that every participant will benefit a lot and they will become much better athletes in their future.”
Australia has a very long history in Speedway, with the discipline being invited Down Under over 90 years ago. Motorcycling Australia and FIM Oceania are highly focussed on youth development and creating the next group of FIM World Champions coming for the Oceania region in all disciplines.
With only a limited number of places available, riders should express their interest as soon as possible and before Friday 20 September 2019 by completing and returning the attached form which is available here EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR THE 2019 FIM SPEEDWAY TRAINING CAMP. Expressions of Interests close: Friday 20th September 2019.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
What happened this week
Webb & Cianciarulo top Spring Creek MX National
Sanders & Milner dominate 2019 Kyogle AORC
Australia third at 2019 Speedway of Nations
Tony Bou wins 2019 TrialGP Championship – Title Win #13
Dobson & Rowe top Queensland MX Championships at Echo Valley
Junior Motocross wraps up in Victoria and Queensland
Sam Sunderland wraps up 2019 Silk Way Rally
Penrite Honda sign Chris Blose for AUS-X Open
Hayes to Serco Yamaha for Australian Supercross 2019
Dalton Gauthier joins AFT Production Twins for remainder of season
AFT announces Springfield Mile double-header in August
Harley-Davidson announce 2019 AFT Production Twins Contingency Program
Webb & Cianciarulo top Spring Creek MX National
The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship stormed into Spring Creek for Round 8 of the championship and was greated by storms and lightning, forcing delays as rainfall ensured challenging conditions for all riders.
Spring Creek National – AMA MX 2019 – Round 8 – Image by Hoppenworld
Cooper Webb dominated the 450 class with a 1-1 result, winning both motos and closing in on the championship lead, with Zach Osborne (4-3) and Eli Tomac (2-5) completing the round overall top three with 38-points apiece.
Cooper Webb – Spring Creek National – AMA MX 2019 – Round 8 – Image by Hoppenworld
Marvin Musquin took a 3-7 result in fourth overall, while Ken Roczen was fifth overall on the back of a 14-2 result, with a rocky first moto.
The 450 standings now see Eli Tomac in the lead on 342-points, from Marvin Musquin (304) and Ken Roczen (293). Webb’s result has moved him to within five-points of Roczen, now holding 288 points, with Jason Anderson completing the top five on 272.
It was a weekend of records for Webb too, earning his first-career 450MX moto win in race one, only to double down in race two to claim his first overall podium, as well as first overall win, of his career in the premier 450MX class.
Cooper Webb
“I felt really good today. It’s incredible to go 1-1, I don’t know what happened to everyone else but I got two good starts, stayed out of trouble and it felt really awesome. It’s amazing what a moto-win can do for your confidence!”
Cooper Webb – Spring Creek National – AMA MX 2019 – Round 8 – Image by Hoppenworld
For second in the standings Musquin, the day didn’t quite go as planned but the French rider salvaged as much as he could with the cards he was dealt.
Marvin Musquin
“I’m definitely not happy because the riding today was pretty good but the result is not what I wanted. I was looking forward to a good battle for the lead and to make up some points but that didn’t happen. Next week is Washougal and we’ll spend the week in California working with the team, so it will be good.”
Marvin Musquin – Spring Creek National – AMA MX 2019 – Round 8 – Image by Hoppenworld
450 Round Results
Pos
Rider
M1
M2
Pts
1
Cooper Webb
1
1
50
2
Zachary Osborne
4
3
38
3
Eli Tomac
2
5
38
4
Marvin Musquin
3
7
34
5
Ken Roczen
14
2
29
450 Standings
Pos
Rider
Total
1
Eli Tomac
342
2
Marvin Musquin
304
3
Ken Roczen
293
4
Cooper Webb
288
5
Jason Anderson
272
250
In the 250 class it was Adam Cianciarulo who took the round win, but it was Hunter Lawrence who claimed the opening race win, with a sixth place result in the second moto regulating Lawrence to third overall.
Hunter Lawrence – Spring Creek National – AMA MX 2019 – Round 8 – Image by Hoppenworld
Cianciarulo proved consistent with a 3-1 result, as did Alex Martin with a 2-3 – claiming second overall, with just five-points separating the three for the round.
2019 AMA Pro Motocross – Round Eight – Spring Creek – 250 Podium – Image by Hoppenworld
In the standings Cianciarulo continues to lead with a 36-point advantage over Dylan Ferrandis who had to settle for fourth overall on the back of a 5-4 result. Justin Cooper sits third in the standings, with Hunter Lawrence fourth on equal points to Colt Nichols.
Hunter Lawrence
“Gnarly weekend at Millville! 1-6 for third overall we’ll take it, massive thanks to the whole team for their efforts in these crazy conditions!”
Hunter Lawrence – Spring Creek National – AMA MX 2019 – Round 8 – Image by Hoppenworld
250 Round Results
Pos
Rider
M1
M2
Pts
1
Adam Cianciarulo
3
1
45
2
Alex Martin
2
3
42
3
Hunter Lawrence
1
6
40
4
Dylan Ferrandis
5
4
34
5
Shane McElrath
4
5
34
250 Standings
Pos
NAME
Total
1
Adam Cianciarulo
352
2
Dylan Ferrandis
316
3
Justin Cooper
306
4
Hunter Lawrence
233
5
Colt Nichols
233
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Sanders & Milner dominate 2019 Kyogle AORC
The Australian Off Road Championship (AORC) returned over the weekend for Rounds 5 & 6 at Kyogle, with a much longer test route than normal being of note, as sunny conditions prevailed for some great racing by all involved.
Saturday’s Round 5 saw Daniel Sanders take the overall win, with Daniel Milner next fastest on combined times, followed by Fraser Higlett. Sunday’s Round 6 saw a similar result, with Daniel Sanders again taking the overall win from Milner, and this time Luke Styke in third.
Daniel Milner – Image by John Pearson
Leaving Kyogle the AORC Championship standings see Daniel Sanders (150 points) leading the E3 class from Beau Ralston (130) and Jesse Lawton (108), while in E2 it’s Daniel Milner (150) leading Joshua Green (132) and Jeremy Carpenter (109).
Luke Styke – Image by John Pearson
Luke Styke (140) holds the E1 lead by 13-points from Lyndon Snodgrass (127), with Fraser Higlett only four-points behind on 123, while Kyron Bacon (150) holds a 22-point lead to Joshua Brierley (128) in the EJ class, with Korey McMahon (115) completing the top three.
E1 Standings – Top 5
Pos
Name
Total
1
Luke STYKE
140
2
Lyndon SNODGRASS
127
3
Fraser HIGLETT
123
4
Michael DRISCOLL
120
5
Lachlan ALLAN
89
E2 Standings – Top 5
Pos
Name
Total
1
Daniel MILNER
150
2
Joshua GREEN
132
3
Jeremy CARPENTIER
109
4
Brad HARDAKER
95
5
Harrison TEED
91
E3 Standings – Top 5
Pos
Name
Total
1
Daniel SANDERS
150
2
Beau RALSTON
130
3
Jesse LAWTON
108
4
Andrew WILKSCH
102
5
Matt MURRY
100
EJ Standings – Top 5
Pos
Name
Total
1
Kyron BACON
150
2
Joshua BRIERLEY
128
3
Korey MCMAHON
115
4
Cooper SHEIDOW
106
5
Nathan HOWE
100
For the full results see the full report link above.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Australia third at 2019 Speedway of Nations
Team Australia claimed a solid third place finish at the 2019 FIM Speedway of Nations (SoN), held at the Anatoly Stepanov Stadium in Togliatti, Russia, marking the first medal in the SoN since finishing third in 2014 in Poland.
At the end of the first night on Saturday, the ‘Roo’s were sitting pretty on top of the order with 23-points, one point ahead of the host nation, Russia, while Poland was third on 21-points. The final night saw the Australian Speedway team scoring eighteen points, which handed them a total of 41, which was good enough for third place overall. Russia claimed the 2019 Speedway of Nations win from Poland.
The Aussie team consisted of Jason Doyle, Max Fricke and Jaimon Lidsey, with Doyle leading the team to the Day 1 lead with 23-points, laying claim to 16-points himself, while Day 2 saw the trio bring home 18-points, with Doyle once again leading the team with 14, in a strong performance.
Team Australia at the 2019 Speedway of Nations – Image courtesy of FIM World Speedway Championship
Max Fricke
“We haven’t had a medal for a couple of years now, I think everyone is really happy. We couldn’t ask for much more. Jason was absolutely on fire this weekend and he scored an absolute bagful of points for us, and it was lucky we had a really good under-21 reserve (Jaimon Lidsey) to help us out!”
Team leading rider, Doyle explained in a post-race interview that the team had done Australia proud.
Jason Doyle
“We would like to thank all of our team members, mechanic and Mark Lemon for doing all of the organizing and not forgetting all of our sponsors back home in Australia and our personal sponsors. Hats off to the Russians. Its an amazing atmosphere out there when their team won. In saying that, they have not only supported their own, but they have supported every other rider and country. Fair play, thank you very much for everything, we have really enjoyed our time in Russia.”
Team Australia at the 2019 Speedway of Nations – Image courtesy of FIM World Speedway Championship
2019 Speedway of Nations Final Standings
Russia 45
Poland
Australia 41
Denmark 37
Sweden 35
Germany 30
Great Britain 16
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Tony Bou wins 2019 TrialGP Championship – Title Win #13
Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou has been crowned 2019 TrialGP World Champion, triumphing in the French Trial to take his tally of consecutive title wins to 13 in TrialGP, in addition to the 13 indoor trophies.
Toni Bou claims the 2019 TrialGP championship title in France
The latest trial victory, the seventh of the season, meaning that Toni Bou mathematically seals the TrialGP World Champion title for the thirteenth time in a row.
Toni Bou was clearly feeling at ease as evidenced by the mere nine marks accrued throughout. The trial or the title never looked in question. The triumph is the 111th victory for Toni Bou in Trial World Championships as well as the thirteenth consecutive trial win since Andorra last season. The Repsol Honda Team star has made a clean streak so far in the 2019 Trial World Championship, with one event still to contest.
Toni Bou – TrialGP 2019 of France
The next trial for the Repsol Honda Team will be the final round of the TrialGP World Championship set to take place on 21st and 22nd September in La Nucia, Spain.
Toni Bou
“Today was a day where I had to work hard to make any difference, especially during the opening sections. But that is what we did and we made it to section eight on zero. I think I rode an intelligent trial. I felt very comfortable on the bike. As always, there is no better way to win a new title than with a victory and with good feelings. It was a short but intense world championship. I think that this season we have matured a lot. Last year we had so many injuries, this year we have been very comfortable on the bike, which we’ve seen reflected in the wins and the riding, so now it’s time to savour the moment and enjoy the holidays.”
Toni Bou celebrates the TrialGP title win with his Repsol Honda Team
TrialGP of France 2019 Result
BOU, Toni SPA – Repsol Honda Team 9
BUSTO, Jaime SPA – Vertigo Factory Team 23
RAGA, Adam SPA – TRRS Factory Team 25
FAJARDO, Jeroni SPA – Gas Gas 30
FUJINAMI, Takahisa JPN – Repsol Honda Team 36
CASALES, Jorge SPA – Vertigo Factory Team 42
GELABERT, Miquel SPA – Sherco Factory Team 45
DABILL, James GBR – Beta Factory Racing 54
BINCAZ, Benoit FRA – Beta Factory Racing 57
KADLEC, Franz GER – TRRS Factory Team 71
Toni Bou topped the French TrialGP 2019 podium from Jaime Busto and Adam Raga
TrialGP Rider Standings 2019
BOU, Toni 140
RAGA, Adam 113
FAJARDO, Jeroni 95
FUJINAMI, Takahisa 88
BUSTO, Jaime 77
DABILL, James 68
CASALES, Jorge 65
BINCAZ, Benoit 53
KADLEC, Franz 53
GELABERT, Miquel 50
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Dobson & Rowe top Queensland MX at Echo Valley
Jesse Dobson and Mason Rowe have claimed 2019 maroon plates for at the final round of the Queensland Motocross Championships at Echo Valley. Toowoomba was bathed in sunshine and the the Toowoomba Club did a great job with track preparation, and all that was left was for the riders to enjoy the famous Skyline and the Matterhorn features.
In the premier class Jesse Dobson took the win with a dominant final round performance, with Mason Rowe second in each moto on his way to the runner-up position in MX1. Jesse Madden grabbed the final step on the podium for the day, while Robbie Marshall and ‘King of the North’ Luke Weaver completing the top five.
Luke Weaver’s 5,4,5 result was enough to net third in the 2019 state championships for the man who currently leads both the Central Queensland and Tropical North Queensland series championships in both MX1 and MX2.
A battle for MX2 honours saw five riders share the podium finishes, with Aaron Tanti claiming 1-3-1 results, which gave first on the day and 12th from the one appearance. Mason Rowe’s second on the day (2- 4-2) was plenty enough to earn him the title of MX2 Champion.
Noah and Isaac Ferguson entered the final moto tied on points, and changed position three times before Noah decided the issue in his own favour by a single point, taking the Vice Champion position on the podium.
MX1
Jesse DOBSON 193
Mason ROWE 182
Luke WEAVER 158
Robbie MARSHALL 157
Sam LARSEN 139
Joel PHILLIPS 130
Kye ORCHARD 129
Cody HALL 115
Darcy CAVANAGH 114
Joshua MOHAMMED 112
MX2
Mason ROWE 197
Noah FERGUSON 171
Isaac FERGUSON 170
Joel EVANS 162
Jayce COSFORD 156
Luke REARDON 145
Jake WILLIAMS 139
Navrin GROTHUES 128
Cody HALL 125
Cody SCHAT 121
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Junior Motocross wraps up in Victoria and Queensland
Over the weekend the Victorian and Queensland state motocross championships wrapped up, with South Australia having a single round to go, however plenty of Junior champions were crowned, with GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing putting in a particularly strong showing.
Victorian MX
The final round of the Victorian Junior Motocross Championship was ran, after earlier being postponed a couple of weeks ago due to weather. Some of the classes had already been decided with Alex Larwood having locked up the 125 A-Grade division on his YZ125. Ty Kean was runner up in the A-Grade 125cc class, while Kipp Adams completed the top three.
The weekend did however see the remaining classes finish their championships and it was Kipp Adams who came through for a championship win. Adams finished with 1-3-3 results at the final round to take second on the day but more importantly, wrap up the championship on his YZ250F in the 250cc A-Grade class. Ty Kean was runner up 19-points behind in the championship, with Ben Novak third.
Young Tasmanian Jay Jennings had been making the trek backwards and forwards across the Tasman for the Victorian championship in the 65cc A-Grade class and was rewarded with a second place in the series, despite taking the final round win with 2-1-1 results. It wasn’t enough to close the gap to the championship leader Cooper Rowe, who held a 44-point advantage, with Wil Carpenter completing the overall top three.
125cc A Grade
Alex Larwood – 343 (Yamaha YZ125)
Ty Kean – 300
Kipp Adams – 282 (Yamaha YZ125)
250cc A Grade
Kipp Adams – 355 (Yamaha YZ250F)
Ty Kean – 336
Ben Novak – 323
65cc A Grade
Cooper Rowe – 393
Jay Jennings – 359 (Yamaha YZ65)
Wil Carpenter – 274 (Yamaha YZ65)
South Australian MX
Alex Larwood continued his domination of South Australian racing, taking a clean sweep at the third round of the South Australian Motocross Championships, in Ceduna. Larwood took the perfect six from six on the weekend and comfortably won both the 13-15 years 125cc and 250cc classes. With one round remaining, Larwood is on the box seat to claim another two championships in his final year of Junior racing.
Alex Larwood – 2019 South Australian Motocross Championship
In the 125cc class Larwood leads Jack Mclean and Brodie Petschauser, both of which sit on 260 points, 55-points behind. In the 250cc class Larwood holds a similar lead over Jack Colbert on 260-points, with Jack Mclean on 256.
Jobe Dunne charged through to take the win in the 7-9 years 65cc class on his YZ65. Dunne needed a big finish to the series to claim the title as points were tight at the top, but the youngster pulled it out when it mattered most finishing with 2-3-1 race finishes to claim the round win. Dunne leads Jai Hay and Kye Little into the season final.
Jobe Dunne – 2019 South Australian Motocross Championship
Wil Carpenter wanted in on the podium action and managed to finish second on the day in the 10-12 years 65cc class. Carpenter rode well to finish with 1-2-2 results, but it wasn’t enough to peg back the series leader Ollie Gear who finished just six points ahead of him so the championship is on a knife’s edge for the final round. Nine-points seperate Gear and Carpenter, with Hudson Crothers a distant third 33-points behind.
Wil Carpenter – 2019 South Australian Motocross Championship
13-U16 years 125cc
Alex Larwood – 315 (Yamaha YZ125)
Jack Mclean – 260
Brodie Petschauser– 260
13-U16 years 250cc
Alex Larwood – 315 (Yamaha YZ250F)
Jack Colbert – 260
Jack Mclean – 256
7-9 years 65cc
Jobe Dunne – 290 (Yamaha YZ65)
Jai Hay – 263
Kye Little – 252
10-12 years 65cc
Ollie Gear- 301
Wil Carpenter – 292 (Yamaha YZ65)
Hudson Crothers – 259
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Queensland MX
The final round of the Queensland Motocross Championships took place in the picturesque Echo Valley circuit in Toowoomba on the weekend, with Levi Rogers forging ahead to claim the 125cc and 250cc wins in the 15 years classes.
Rogers won five out of the six motos contested over the weekend across the 15 years 125 and 15 years 250cc classes and only a spectacular fall in Moto 2 on his YZ125 prevented a clean sweep of the round and the series.
Levi Rogers – 2019 Queensland Motocross Championship – 15 years 125cc & 15 years 250cc champion
Rogers won the 15 years 125cc class from Jake Kowal and Harrison Purdy, while taking the 15 years 250cc title from Jake kowal and Harrison Nolan. Rogers, as the highest junior point scorer in the championship, retains the number 1 plate for the second year in a row and keeps it in the possession of YJR riders for the fifth year running.
Jackson Camilleri also pulled down two class wins in the 13-14 years 125 and 250cc classes as well as a third place in the 14-15 years 85cc division in an ironman effort.
Camilleri took the 13-14 years 125cc title six-points ahead of Deegan Mancinelli, with Zac Watson completing the top three. Camilleri also took the 13-14 years 250cc win ahead of Jesse Holding with a 20-point lead, with Kobe Drew third overall.
Deegan Mancinelli laid claim to the 14-15 years 85cc title, ahead of Zac Watson and Jackson Camilleri, while in the 12-U14 years 85cc class Braden Plath took the title from Kobe Drew and Charli Cannon.
15 years 125cc
Levi Rogers – 207 (Yamaha YZ125)
Jake Kowal – 179
Harrison Purdy – 160
15 years 250cc
Levi Rogers – 210 (Yamaha YZ250F)
Jake Kowal – 188
Harrison Nolan – 163
13-14 years 125cc
Jackson Camilleri – 191 (Yamaha YZ125)
Deegan Mancinelli – 185
Zac Watson – 181 (Yamaha YZ125)
13-14 years 250cc
Jackson Camilleri – 210 (Yamaha YZ250F)
Jesse Holding – 190 (Yamaha YZ250F)
Kobe Drew – 182
14-15 years 85cc
Deegan Mancinelli – 201
Zac Watson – 174 (Yamaha YZ85)
Jackson Camilleri – 167 (Yamaha YZ85)
12-U14 years 85cc
Braden Plath – 202
Kobe Drew – 198
Charli Cannon – 173 (Yamaha YZ85)
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Sam Sunderland wraps up 2019 Silk Way Rally
KTM’s Sam Sunderland has won the 2019 Silk Way Rally on the back of a sixth place finish in the final round across the Gobi Desert. Having built up an advantage over the earlier stages Sunderland was able to wrap up the Rally with a 20-minute advantage over Andrew Short, with Adrien Van Beveren third overall.
Sam Sunderland wins the Silk Way Rally ahead of Andrew Short and Adrien Van Beveren
Sunderland now leads the FIM Cross-Country Rally World Championship following the first two rounds on 83-points, with Andrew Short second in the standings on 56-points and Luciano Benavides third on 51.
The next rally will be the Atacama Rally, round three of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, held in Chile from September 1 – 7.
Sam Sunderland
“For me I’m so happy to get the win, it makes it two-out-of-two this championship and it’s a really important one because of the points earned this round. I felt really good at the beginning of the event and was able to create a good gap. I felt a bit sick during the middle stages but was able to manage the race and stay on a good pace right to the end. I’m really pleased for Andrew, who has ridden a great race, and also Luciano and Laia. Now I’m looking forward to a bit of rest.”
Sam Sunderland – Silk Way Rally 2019
2019 Silk Way Rally Results
SUNDERLAND Sam (GBR) Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team 26:12’47
SHORT Andrew (USA) Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing +20’22
VAN BEVEREN Adrien (FRA) Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team +21’01
BENAVIDES Kevin (ARG) Monster Energy Honda Team +21’37
BENAVIDES Luciano (ARG) KTM Factory Racing Team +36’50
MENA Oriol (SPA) Hero Motorsports Team Rally +51’50
SANZ Laia (SPA) Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +1:56’26
TOMICZEK Adam (POL) KTM Orlen Rally Team +2:08’04
BARREDA Joan (SPA) Monster Energy Honda Team +2:54’25
GIEMZA Maciej (POL) KTM Orlen Rally Team +3:10’31
Provisional FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship Standings
Sam Sunderland (GBR), KTM, 83 points
Andrew Short (USA), Husqvarna, 56 pts
Luciano Benavides (ARG), KTM, 51 pts
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Penrite Honda sign Chris Blose for AUS-X Open
Penrite Honda has started Supercross preparation, signing 2017 AUS-X-Open winner Chris Blose to race the up and coming Australian Supercross Championship, with Blose coming off a successful AMA Supercross campaign where he finished ninth overall, with his best round finish a fifth place. Blose is no stranger to Australia having competed here several times and is looking forward to chasing a championship win down under.
Chris Blose
“The Honda Australia Factory program is a professional and successful team and I am sure we will be competitive. I have raced the current CRF250R and am confident we have a strong package, there are going to be several contenders and I can’t wait for the championship to start.”
Chris Blose joins Penrite Honda for the upcoming Australian Supercross season
Penrite Honda also remain focused on the completion of the Motocross season, where Brett Metcalfe is aiming for the overall win, with Yarrive Konsky sharing:
Yarrive Konsky
“American Honda has been fantastic with Brayton and the like and we couldn’t do this without their ongoing support. Whilst we are preparing for Supercross we can’t take our focus off Motocross. We believe Brett is capable of winning and we are in the pursuit of an overall win. We have regrouped following Maitland and devised a plan to be better prepared for the final three rounds.”
Brett Metcalfe continues to spearhead the Penrite Honda MX effortWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Hayes to Serco Yamaha for Australian Supercross 2019
US based, Jacob Hayes will return to Australia and join the Serco Yamaha Team to contest the 2019 Australian SX2 Supercross Championship, starting in Brisbane on October 12. Hayes, who came to Australian for the first time in 2018, finished the season in third place in the SX2 category on his Serco Yamaha YZ250F, shared he is pleased to return and looking forward to racing the Australian Championship again.
Jacob Hayes
“I had an amazing time in Australia last year and the Serco Yamaha team really looked after me so it was good to be able to hook up with Gavin and his team again and build on our relationship. This year I feel I will be a little more prepared on several levels as I have raced the 2019 season in the US on a YZ250F as well as I now know how the Australian series works as well as a better understanding of the level of racing there. There are some quality riders in SX2 in Australia and I loved racing them last year. I’m planning on them being even better again in 2019 so my preparations will need to be good. Last year I was third after a bit of a slow start to the season, so this year the goal is to improve and try and win the championship for myself and the Serco Yamaha team.”
Jacob Hayes joins Serco Yamaha Team
The Australian Supercross Championship kicks off on October 12 in Brisbane before moving to Adelaide, Wollongong, Auckland in NZ and the finale at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on November 30.
2019 Australian Supercross Championship Calendar
Rd1: Brisbane Entertainment Centre – October 12
Rd2: Adelaide – Gillman Speedway – Oct 19
Rd3: Wollongong – Win Stadium – Nov 9
Rd4: Auckland NZ- Mt Smart Stadium – Nov 16
Rd5: Melbourne – Marvel Stadium – Nov 30
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Gauthier joins AFT Production Twins for remainder of season
Black Hills Harley-Davidson which currently runs a Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R in the AFT Production Twins class piloted by James Rispoli, has announced signing current AFT Singles points-leader Dalton Gauthier to ride a second XG in the AFT Production Twins class for the remainder of the AFT season.
Gauthier, who will continue to contest the AFT Singles championship aboard a Rob McLendon-tuned Husqvarna FC450, will join Rispoli on the Black Hills AFT Production Twins squad when the two-man team debuts at the upcoming Black Hills Half-Mile on August 6 at Black Hills Speedway in Rapid City, SD during the annual Sturgis Rally.
Dalton Gauthier
“I’m extremely excited to get this opportunity with Harley-Davidson and the Black Hills team. I’ve seen what the bike can do and I feel I can win races on the thing. My goal is to ride the AFT Twins series next year, and I want to show everyone that I can ride a twin as well as a Single. Just have to stay consistent and put in some good rides. I’ve raced the Production Twins class twice this year and did pretty well, so I know what to expect and am quite confident.”
Dalton Gauthier – Image by Scott Hunter
Seven races remain in the 2019 AFT Production Twins season, Half-Miles at Black Hills and Williams Grove, and Miles at Sacramento, Springfield (2), Minnesota and the Meadowlands. Cory Texter leads the series, with Rispoli and Gauthier currently 9th and 11th, respectively.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
AFT announces Springfield Mile double-header in August
AFT will take over the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, beginning with the AFT Singles class sparring on the Springfield Short Track on Friday, August 30, followed by a highly-anticipated AFT Twins Springfield Mile Double-Header on Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1.
Springfield Mile II – AFT Twins 2018 – Image by Scott Hunter
One of the tightest, wildest short tracks of the season, the Springfield Short Track will feature the AFT Singles going handlebar-to-handlebar as the championship race heats up. Friday night event hosts many races in multiple classes, culminating in the AFT Singles Main Event.
Known as the world’s fastest Mile, the Springfield Mile, typically run twice a season in May and August, will now run back-to-back so that fans may experience twice the excitement in a single weekend. Fans holding tickets from May’s postponed event may use their tickets for Saturday’s Mile race.
Harley-Davidson announce 2019 AFT Production Twins Contingency Program
Harley-Davidson has announced a 2019 American Flat Track Contingency Program for the AFT Production Twins class to begin with the 2019 Black Hills Half-Mile running Tuesday, August 6 in Rapid City, S.D.
The momentum behind the XG750R as an AFT Production Twins machine has been growing as James Rispoli took his first class podium aboard the Black Hills Harley-Davidson ProBEAM XG750R at the Lima Half-Mile.
James Rispoli – Lima Half Mile 2019 – Scott Hunter
Eric Jensen – Global Brand Marketing Lead for Harley-Davidson
“We are very excited to see the growth and emerging talent within the AFT Production Twins class. Harley-Davidson motorcycles go back to the very foundation of professional flat track and we see the AFT Production Twins class as an opportunity to expand the legacy of Harley-Davidson within the sport.”
The per-race contingency payouts are available to non-factory riders in the AFT Production Twins class and is broken down as follows by finishing position:
$2,500
$1,500
$1,000
Per-Race Subtotal $5,000
Races 7 races
Per-Race 2019 Total $30,000
To be eligible for contingency payouts, riders must run an eligible XG750R in the AFT Production Twins class. To remain eligible, all machines must maintain stock bodywork and riders must wear a Harley-Davidson logo on the upper-chest portion of their leathers.
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Russian hero Emil Sayfutdinov is revelling in the “amazing feeling” of leading his country to a second straight Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations title on home shale in Togliatti on Sunday.
Sayfutdinov joined forces with Artem Laguta and under-21 star Gleb Chugunov to retain the trophy they won in Wroclaw last summer, this time beating Poland with a 5-1 in the Grand Final to spark euphoric scenes at the Anatoly Stepanov Stadium.
Their 2018 gold medal was the nation’s first senior world title of any kind and their second came in the first speedway world final ever staged in Russia. It was a moment few in Togliatti will ever forget.
An elated Sayfutdinov said: “It’s great. It’s an amazing feeling because it was such a tough meeting. But we did it.
“We made the final and we just focused and concentrated on the final. We won the start and just went forward. I am so happy.
“We worked hard. Saturday was a hard meeting and Sunday was harder. The track at the beginning was different to Saturday.
“We needed to find some good speed, but we did a great job and I want to say thank you very much to my team and everyone who helped me. I feel so great.
“There were a lot of people there. It was our people in Russia and everyone was standing up for us. That’s an amazing feeling.”
Russia win FIM Speedway of Nations
FIM Speedway Grand Prix World Championship leader Sayfutdinov scorched to 17 points on Saturday and 14 on Sunday. It was not enough to deny Poland top spot on the overall scorechart as they qualified automatically for the Grand Final on 47.
Russia on 45 were forced to face third-placed Australia, who scored 41, in the Final Qualifier. Despite Jason Doyle winning the race, second and third for Laguta and Sayfutdinov was enough to send them through due to their superior points tally in the heats. They then out-trapped and defeated Poland in the Grand Final.
Last year it was Laguta who scored 31 of Russia’s 45 points. But after returning the compliment with 31 of his own this season, Sayfutdinov says he wasn’t concerned who delivered the points for the team.
“It doesn’t matter,” he said. “The whole team was pushing, me and Artem. It doesn’t matter who scores the most points. We did a great job.”
2019 FIM Speedway of Nations
Poland were forced to settle for silver, despite topping the scores over two days and Bartosz Zmarzlik dropping just one point over 12 heats.
Skipper Maciej Janowski sat out Day 2 after being left battered and bruised following a crash in heat 21 of Final 1, with Patryk Dudek stepping in. He paid tribute to his compatriots’ efforts in his absence.
He said: “They did a really good job. They were so close, and a final after a two-day meeting is always a little bit of a lottery.
“I am very proud of the boys. They gave 100 percent and did a really good job. I think we can be very proud.”
Aussie star Max Fricke saluted his side as they claimed bronze – the nation’s first medal in a world team event since they finished third in the 2014 Monster Energy FIM Speedway World Cup Final at Bydgoszcz.
He said: “It’s awesome for Australia to be up there and get a medal. We haven’t had a medal for a couple of years now.
“I think everyone is really happy. We couldn’t ask for much more. Doyley was absolutely on fire this weekend and he scored an absolute bagful for us. That was great.
“Jaimon (Lidsey) was awesome as the under-21 as well. It’s lucky we had a really good under-21 reserve to help us out.”
The action now switches back to the FIM Speedway Grand Prix series, which resumes in Wroclaw on August 3.
