AMA Racer, Issue 1 by American Motorcyclist Association

RACER The Dirt Track Issue Page 4 racing News Page 8 featured event Page 13 bulletin

We know, you wish an Arai cost less. It can’t.

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NEW Corsair -5 Arai’s advanced state-of-the-art helmet, with a host of rider-relevant features and innovations.

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Director’s Letter AMA Racing STAFF Joe Bromley, Director Kevin Crowther, Deputy Director Bill Cumbow, Deputy Director Kip Bigelow, Motocross/Arenacross Manager Karen Myron, Supercross Manager Ken Saillant, Track Racing Manager Chuck Weir, Off-Road Manager Connie Fleming, Senior Coordinator Jane Caston, Supercross/Motocross Coordinator Tamra Jones, Off-Road/Track Racing Coordinator AMA Racing (614) 856-1900, AMARacing.com AMARacing@ama-cycle.org 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147

AMA Racer James Holter, Editor Mark Lapid, Creative Director Nora McDonald, Production Coordinator Ray Monroe Advertising Manager (815) 885-4445; rmonroe@ama-cycle.org Misty Walker Advertising Assistant (614) 856-1900 x1267; mwalker@ama-cycle.org AMA Racer (614) 856-1900, AmericanMotorcyclist.com submissions@ama-cycle.org 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147 AMA Racer is published periodically by the American Motorcyclist Association. Copyright (c) 2009 by the American Motorcyclist Association. Printed in USA. No responsibility is assumed for loss or damage to unsolicited materials. Send story ideas and photos to submissions@ama-cycle.org with “AMA Racer” in the subject line. All submitted material becomes property of the American Motorcyclist Association. Return of special items may be arranged, but please call before submitting. Please include your full name, AMA number and phone number with all submissions.

AMA Racing Moves Front And Center

Communicating With Our Competition Members Takes On New Importance By Joe Bromley Complete and honest communication is an integral part of successful competition. While we plan more improvement in this area for our members who race, the publication you’re holding in your hands—or reading on your computer screen—represents a step in that direction. AMA Racer is a new publication produced by the American Motorcyclist Association to deliver racing-related news, views and advice about the competitive events we sanction. In these pages, you’ll find information about class structures, class rules, race reports, racer profiles, events and more. Each issue will not only cover the entire spectrum of AMA Racing, but will devote extra space to highlight an upcoming event. In this issue, we focus on the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships. Held in Du Quoin, Ill., this is the country’s premier amateur dirt-track event, offering a full week of racing in TT, short track, half-mile and on Du Quoin’s world-famous Magic Mile. It features the fastest amateur racers, from young hotshots poised to break into the pro ranks to vet riders just out for bragging rights and a good time. Whether you want to see tomorrow’s stars in action or actually throw down with them on the track, Du Quoin is the place to be this June 27-July 4. This magazine also is another example of the AMA’s growing commitment to amateur racing. In 2008, the AMA sold most of its professional racing properties to the Daytona Motorsports Group. One significant benefit of that sale is that we’re now able to allocate more resources on our amateur racing programs.

Amateur racing is a cornerstone of the AMA. Now that we are no longer consumed with pro racing, we can devote more time and effort to making our amateur racing series and championships even better. Better communication is only one part of the package, however. We are dedicated to improving every aspect of amateur racing, from rules clarity and enforcement to scheduling to points and results compilation. Want proof of that commitment? This February, the AMA Board of Directors established a $1 million endowment for amateur racing. The interest earned on this endowment will help fund amateur racing initiatives for years to come. Now, I’m excited about the opportunity to start demonstrating results. The AMA Racing Department is dedicated to serving you, the AMA racer, and we hope to evolve to best meet your needs. If you have any ideas about how we can do that better, please send them to amaracing@ama-cycle.org. We look forward to hearing from you. Joe Bromley is the AMA director of racing.

Open Image Studio

ON THE COVER: 2009 AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Honoree Nichole Cheza gets sideways during Daytona’s short-track doubleheader in March.

Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world’s largest motorcycling organization with nearly 300,000 members, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists’ interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rentals, transport, hotel stays and more. The AMA is everything motorcycling.

the dirt track issue

AMA RACER NEWS Jim Grant

THE VOTE IS IN!

CPSC Decides To Stay Enforcement Of Law Banning Youth-Model Motorcycles And All-Terrain Vehicles

Fast On The Ice

Smith’s Big Twin, Bigelow’s Single Chill The Competition At Ice Race Grand Championships A field of fast riders, including a now-retired nine-time AMA Grand National Champion, converged this year on the Soaring Eagle Casino in Mount Pleasant, Mich., where the 2009 AMA Ice Race Grand Championships crowned the first AMA national champions of the season. Bryan Smith, who unleashed a studded-up XR 750 in the Kold Kutter Open class, put on one of the best shows of the event. Smith’s cushion experience running the high line and the power of the XR proved unstoppable against a field of mostly 500cc two-strokes and 450cc four-stroke converted motocross bikes. Even AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Scott Parker, who was there mostly for the show and to watch his buddies, couldn’t resist borrowing a Nichole Cheza back-up bike after seeing the facility and perfect track conditions. By lap three of the Kold Kutter Open class main, Smith moved into the lead for good ahead

Find What You Need In Cyberspace

AMARacing.com Includes Rules, Schedules, Results There’s a quick and easy way online to find race dates and locations, race results, and even all the rules that govern AMA Racing competition: AMARacing.com. Check it out.

AMARACING.com

of fast starters Jared Mees and Bryan Bigelow. Bigelow was all over Mees, but couldn’t find the opening he needed as the white flag neared. “I knew it was a risk running the Harley out there, but it was working good today, and I have to give a shout out to the gang from (promoter) Baja MX. They did a great job with the facility, and the track today was a blast,” Smith said. In the Kold Kutter 450 class, Mees and Bigelow got out front first and put on a classic battle, with Mees hanging on to the low line, brushing the inside bales on both ends of the track, while Bigelow went up high, feet on the pegs, stretching the throttle cables. At the halfway point, the motor on Mees’ CRF went south, ending the battle up front. Stephen Vanderkuur, who inherited second place, held off Nick Cummings at the line. Full race results can be found at www. freezexfest.com and AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

The link “Want to Race” tells you everything you need to know to take part in AMA Racing.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has voted to stay enforcement of a lead law that banned the sale of youth-model motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The stay lasts through May 1, 2011. The law in question is the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). Designed to protect children from lead in toys that might easily end up in children’s mouths, the language of the legislation had ensnared a number of products that have little exposure risk, including youth-model motorcycles and ATVs. “While we applaud the CPSC commissioners’ vote to stay enforcement of the law, this doesn’t solve the real issue, which is the law itself,” said Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations. “Youth-model motorcycles and ATVs should be exempt from the law, and Congress needs to act to make that happen. Hopefully, this stay will give Congress the time it needs to fix this law, and we will continue to work with federal legislators and our partners in the industry to make certain that it does.” Moreland added that nearly 80,000 AMA and All-Terrain Vehicle Association members contacted their lawmakers and the CPSC to let them know how they feel. “I’m convinced this helped shape the decision to support a moratorium on enforcing the lead law,” he said. Despite the stay, it is unclear whether state attorneys general will also decline to enforce the CPSIA. The sale of youth-model motorcycles and ATVs is still technically illegal. Even though a stay means that dealers would not be subject to fines or penalties imposed by the CPSC, state attorneys general would still be able to prosecute violators if they chose to do so. “Motorcyclists and ATV riders need to let the Congress know that we are concerned about the law, and that we want kids’ OHVs excluded from the law,” said Moreland. “We need to continue to let our decision-makers know how we feel.” If you’re interested in circulating a petition to change the CPSIA, contact Jessica Irving, AMA grassroots coordinator, at jirving@ama-cycle.org.

“Find a Race” lets you look up the place, date and time for any AMA Racing event in the United States. “Sponsorship Guide” gives valuable tips for getting support for your racing effort. The “Archived Results and Rules” link will take you to the most current AMA Racing rules, as

well as let you check out race results and advancement points. Another section, labeled “Helpful Links,” provides information about the Riders Accident Medical Program, and contact information for AMA District representatives, as well as AMA Congress delegates. Plus, there’s a special section just for kids.

AMA RACER NEWS

Save Money And Hassle With Free AMA Roadside Assistance New Benefit Covers All Vehicles, Including Trucks, Trailers And RVs

You’ve got enough on your mind when you’re on the road to races. The last thing you want to worry about is a breakdown. Now, with free AMA Roadside Assistance, you can rest easy. Just go online at AmericanMotorcyclist. com, and sign up for automatic renewal of your membership with the new AMA Competition Plus card, and you’ll get AMA Roadside Assistance absolutely free. You can travel knowing that help

is only a tollfree call away if something goes wrong. Best of all, AMA Roadside Assistance covers all your vehicles, from your motorcycles to your car, truck, trailer—and even your RV. And it doesn’t cost a penny more than your old AMA membership, and includes the entire slate of more than two dozen AMA member benefits. “AMA Roadside Assistance isn’t just for motorcyclists who ride on the road,” notes AMA Membership Marketing Specialist Drew Parrott.

“In fact, AMA racers, who spend a lot of time traveling to and from races in a variety of vehicles, have plenty to gain by signing up for free AMA Roadside Assistance.” AMA membership also brings you a host of benefits that can help you save money when traveling, from discounts at Choice Hotel locations, on Garmin navigation products, at BikeBandit.com and even an automatic 3 percent rebate on all purchases made at motorcycle dealerships on the AMA Bank of America credit card. What are you waiting for? Upgrade to an AMA Competition Plus membership today at AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships

Jim Grant

More Opportunities For National Recognition

Dirt Track Winter Series Report Competition In Florida Offers Preview To Du Quoin

Some of the country’s fastest amateur dirt trackers faced off at three venues at the AMA Racing Winter Dirt Track Series during Daytona Bike Week. The event included two short-track races at Daytona Municipal Stadium, which also hosted the first two rounds of the AMA Pro Racing Flat Track Championship. Other rounds included a TT at Thunderbowl Speedway in Ocala, Fla., and a half-mile and a short-track at Volusia Speedway in Barberville, Fla. Highlights included Tristan Avery, who won the 85cc Modified (7-11) class; Jamison Minor, who won the 85cc Modified (12-15) class; Daniel Bromley, who won the 125cc Modified class and the 250cc DTX class; Jeremy Hamilton, who won the 250cc Modified 4-stk class and the 251cc450cc Modified class; Joseph Bromley, who won the 250cc Modified 2-stk class; and Adam Cobb, who won the 251cc-500cc DTX class and the 451cc-Open Singles class. One of the tightest battles of the week was for the 250cc DTX crown, which saw Daniel Bromley take the series 96 points to Joseph Bromley’s 93. Robert Treinen was just one more point back in third. In Pro Singles action, Austin Greenland edged out JD Beach and Brad Baker for overall honors. Full results of the five-round series can be found at AMARacing.com.

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, set for July 24-26 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, has always showcased the season’s best vintage racing, and now the event is about to get the prestige it deserves. For 2009, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will feature the inaugural AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships, which will honor the top riders in a variety of disciplines with championship titles. In addition, the AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships will crown an AMA Vintage Grand National Champion for both track racing and off-road. The AMA Track Racing Vintage Grand National Champion will be the rider with the highest cumulative point total in select road-racing and dirt-track classes. The AMA Off-Road Vintage Grand National Champion will be the rider with the highest cumulative point total in select motocross, hare scrambles and trials classes. “AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the country’s top event for vintage bike enthusiasts, and the world’s largest celebration of motorcycling’s heritage,” says AMA President and CEO Rob

Dingman. “It’s only appropriate to recognize the top competitors at the event with AMA Racing National Championships. In addition, naming AMA Vintage Grand National Champions echoes an honor that has been very important in the shared history of motorcyclists, and allows us to recognize two outstanding individuals who excel across multiple disciplines.” Class champions from the event, as well as the AMA Vintage Grand National Champions, will be honored at the end-of-year AMA Racing annual awards banquet, along with other AMA Racing champions from around the country. In addition, riders winning titles in the A classes at this year’s AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships, and the No. 1 plates that go with those titles, will earn the right to run and defend their plates at the 2010 AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships. Even more benefits include $20 worth of BikeBandit.com gift cards to all racers who pre-register, and classes are just $40 for the first class and $25 for the second in most disciplines. Details and registration: AMARacing.com.

the dirt track issue

AMA RACER NEWS

AMA Racing National Champion Recognition Policy Here’s How To Win A No. 1 Plate

Get A Holeshot On The Competition Series Offers Bonus Points Toward National Dirt-Track Titles

AMA members who will be competing for national No. 1 plates at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships now have a way to get a head start on the competition. The AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Holeshot Series awards bonus points for the national titles up for grabs at Du Quoin. Riders who compete in all races in their class at an AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Holeshot Series event earn 5 bonus points toward that class’ national title. To count toward a racer’s Grand Championships point total, the bonus points must be earned in the same class contested

at the Grand Championships, where a rider can compete in up to three classes. A racer who competes in all of the races for his or her class at a Holeshot Series event will earn 5 bonus points toward that class championship. Full details of the Holeshot series bonus point program are available in the supplemental regulations for the series, which can be found at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/rulebooks. So, don’t wait to start your championship run at Du Quoin. Hit an event in the Holeshot Series and get some points now. For more detailed event schedule information, please contact the promoters.

AMA Racing Dirt-Track Grand Championships Holeshot Series May 9: Fayette County Fairgrounds, Brownstown, Ill., TT, Short Track May 10: Bond County Fairgrounds, Greenville, Ill., Half-mile Steve Nace Racing, (270) 442-7532 snace@apex.net, www.stevenaceracing.com May 22: Half-mile May 23: TT May 24: Short Track Eddieville Motorsports Park, Goldendale, Wash. Mark Anderson, (509) 990-4854 mark@diamondamotorsports.com www.diamondamotorsports.com May 22: Short Track May 23: Half-mile May 24: TT Lenawee County Fairgrounds, Adrian, Mich. Boulis Racing, Ethel Boulis (810) 686-7083 May 24: Shippensburg Speedway, Shippensburg, Pa., TT, Short Track May 25: York Fairgrounds, York, Pa., Half-mile Shippensburg MC Darryl Baer, (717) 796-0294 candybaer@comcast.net

AMARACING.com

May 29: Short Track May 30: TT Salinas Sports Complex, Salinas, Calif. California Motorsport Promotions Jim Beck, (831) 970-3055 jimbeck72@yahoo.com www.californiamotorsportpromotions.com May 30: Short Track May 31: TT Jackpine Gypsies Short Track, Sturgis, S.D. Jackpine Gypsies MC, Pat Schieffer (605) 347-6374 or (605) 490-3222 racerboy62y@hotmail.com www.jackpinegypsies.com June 6: Half-mile June 7: Half-mile Pickaway County Fairgrounds, Circleville, Ohio Keene Racing LLC Thomas Keene, (937) 432-9515 pquik@aol.com, keeneracing.blogspot.com

Beginning with the 2009 season, AMA Racing will offer unique recognition to its A class National Champions. This honor will recognize riders who have excelled at the pinnacle of amateur competition and encourage all riders to strive to realize their dream of an AMA Racing National Championship No. 1 plate. AMA Racing will award AMA Racing National Championship No. 1 plates only to riders competing in A classes in AMA Racing National Championship Series and at AMA Racing Grand Championship events. These plates will be personalized to include the series/ championship title, class and rider name. These personalized National Championship No. 1 plates will be presented at AMA Racing’s annual awards banquet to be held at the conclusion of the current racing season. In addition to this special recognition for AMA Racing A class National Champions, all class champions will receive an award acknowledging their AMA Racing National Championship at the annual awards banquet. All classes run at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships are A classes and are eligible for AMA Racing National Championship No. 1 plates. Riders at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships will win AMA Racing National Championship No. 1 plates based on total points accumulated in a single class across all disciplines. Only the overall event champion from each class will win an AMA Racing National Championship No. 1 plate. Riders are encouraged to review the Supplemental Regulations for each championship series that they are competing in for additional requirements. Supplemental Regulations can be found at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/rulebooks.

AMA RACER NEWS

you want this! Arai’s XD3

Arai’s XD3 (“crossover design”) had earned a reputation as one of the most versatile helmets available. With three styles in one helmet, there’s a mode for whatever type of racing lights you up. Run the peak and faceshield to combine roost/ sun protection with maximum peripheral vision, or ditch the faceshield and slip on some goggles for full-on dirt applications. High-speed track days on your calendar? Keep the faceshield and lose the peak for minimal buffeting. The latest features include a redesigned faceshield that allows a lower-mounted peak; improved ventilation, with five intake and seven exhaust vents; and a new release system

that allows the cheekpads to slide out using integrated pull-tabs so the helmet can be removed with minimal stress. Other features include a multi-density onepiece liner, improved moisture and heat transfer, and Arai’s proprietary aerospace fiberglass shell technology that combines strength with flexibility. The helmet also comes with a five-year warranty. Available in a number of solid colors or pattern designs, you should have no problem finding one that matches your bike. Suggested MSRP: $569.95 to $699.95, depending on color or graphic. More info: www.araiamericas.com

new national series for atv woods racers AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series

ATV racers have a new championship series in 2009. The AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series is crowning the country’s top ATV off-road racers with national titles. The series offers classes for all skill levels, including age-based classes, a women’s class and a utility open class. “The AMA is breaking new ground with the AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series in 2009,” said AMA Off-Road Director Chuck Weir. “For the first time, we will offer ATV riders their own national hare scrambles series and recognize these phenomenal athletes with AMA National No. 1 plates.” The season kicked off on March 28 in Sparta, Ga., and moved on to Haysville, N.C. in late April. Additional rounds will be held in Rhinelander, Wisc.; South Windham, Conn.; Elkland, Pa.; Newark Valley, N.Y.; and Berwick, Pa. The rest of the season schedule is to the right, and a regularly updated version can be found in the National Championship section of AMARacing.com.

2009 AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series Round 3: May 23, Rhinelander, Wis. Scott Schwalbe, Sugar Camp Racing (715) 272-1101, sugarcampracing@frontiernet.net www.sugarcampent.com Round 4: May 30, South Windham, Conn. Steve Poplasky, New England Cross Country (860) 617-8371, steve@neccracing.net www.neccracing.net Round 5: June 13, Elkland, Pa. Jeremy Richardson, Miles Mountain (570) 723-8516, boot46@ptd.net www.milesmountainmx.com Round 6: July 18, Newark Valley, N.Y. Dan Leonard, Beaten Trails (607) 657-8433, leonard13736@yahoo.com www.wyona.net Round 7: Sept. 5, Berwick, Pa. Duane Fisher, Evansville MX Park (570) 759-2841, info@evansvillemxpark.com www.evansvillemxpark.com

support the isde Buy This Shirt

This year’s International Six Days Enduro will challenge one of the most experienced and best-prepared U.S. Trophy Teams in history. Team USA will feature Destry Abbott, Kurt Caselli, Ricky Dietrich, Jimmy Jarrett, Nathan Kanney and Nathan Woods in 2009. Even this solid group of riders can’t do it alone, though. Throw your support behind Team USA as they go for the gold in Portugal this year, and look cool while doing it, by buying this commemorative T-shirt. All proceeds from shirt sales support the team. The shirt costs $20 plus shipping. It’s a small price to pay to be a part of Team USA. Buy it now in the Gear section of AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

the dirt track issue

FEATURED EVENT Welcome to Du Quoin Eight Days. 24 National Titles. Sign Me Up! By Ken Saillant, Track Racing Manager AMA Racing is proud to present the 34th annual AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships. For the fourth consecutive year, the event returns to the nationally recognized Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Ill., where the fastest amateur dirttrackers from around the country will compete for national titles. Du Quoin has become one of our most popular venues ever. Racers experience some of the best short-track racing anywhere, an enhanced TT course, a wide and smooth cushion half-mile, and the thrill of a lifetime on the world-famous Magic Mile. The sprawling park-like grounds of the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, a great environment for the entire family, surround it all. This year’s AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships will go down Saturday, June 27, through Saturday, July 4. Beginning June 27, racers will have the choice of participating in an optional practice session on the big track following the Vintage Dirt Track Racing Association (VDTRA) Mile program. On June 28, the racing really heats up with Group 2 competitors racing for bragging rights and valuable championship points on the Magic Mile. From then on, it’s non-stop handlebar-to-handlebar action in 24 classes, featuring riders on everything from 50cc oil-injected two-strokes to fire-breathing purpose-built dirt-trackers, all of them thrilled with the opportunity to race on amateur dirt track’s grandest stage for the opportunity to bring home a coveted AMA Racing National Championship No. 1 plate. We’re also working with Daytona Motorsports Group to bring pro-licensed riders to the program. Not only will the pros battle it out for purse money, but they’ll earn advancement points in both the Pro Singles and Pro Twins classes. On these pages, you’ll find the daily schedule, a full list of classes, travel and location information, and important rules and regulations. Personally, I can’t wait for my favorite week of the year to get started. This year’s AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships will no doubt be one for the record books. To sign up for the event, and save big over post-entry fees, please visit the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championship page under National Championships at AMARacing.com. You also can use this direct link to go straight to the form: https://home.ama-cycle.org/forms/amateur/09dt/. I’ll see you at the starting line!

Event Classes GROUP 1: No. 1 - 51cc Stock (7-8) No. 2 - 51cc PW Shaft No. 3 - 51cc PW Single (4-8) No. 4 - 51cc-65cc DTX (7-11) No. 5 - 51cc-65cc Modified (7-11) No. 6 - 85cc DTX (9-13) No. 7 - 85cc Modified (7-11) No. 8 - 85cc Modified (12-15) No. 9 - ATV 450cc 4-Stroke No. 10 - ATV Open No. 11 - Vintage Pre-1982 Twins No. 12 - Vintage Pre-1982 Singles Pro classes: Pro Singles, Pro Twins

AMARACING.com

GROUP 2: No. 13 - 250cc Modified 2-stroke No. 14 - 250cc DTX No. 15 - 250cc Modified 4-stroke No. 16 - 251cc-500cc DTX No. 17 - 450cc Modified No. 18 - 451cc-Open Singles No. 19 - Open Twins No. 20 - Veteran (30+) No. 21 - Senior (40+) No. 22 - Super Senior (50+) No. 23 - 125cc Modified No. 24 - 86cc-150cc 4-Stroke Modified (12+)

Save Big: Pre-Enter Now

The best way to sign up for the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships is to go online. Just visit the event page under National Championships at AMARacing.com. You also can use this direct link to go straight to the form: https://home.ama-cycle. org/forms/amateur/09dt/. If you need a hardcopy pre-entry form, please call (800) AMAJOIN, ext. 1235.

Event Schedule Saturday, June 27: Group 2 (Optional Mile Practice) Pre-registration required Optional Practice: 2-5 p.m. Registration at Fairgrounds: 2-7 p.m. There also will be practice on Sunday Sunday, June 28: Group 2, Vintage, Pro Singles and Pro Twins (Mile) Registration at Track: 7-9 a.m. Pits Open: 7 a.m. Practice: 9 a.m. Victory Circle: 45 min. after last main Monday, June 29: Group 1 and Pro Singles (Short Track) Registration at Track: 7-9 a.m. Pits Open: 7 a.m. Practice: 9 a.m. Victory Circle: 45 min. after last main Tuesday, June 30: Group 2 and Pro Singles (TT) Registration at Track: 7-9 a.m. Pits Open: 7 a.m. Practice: 9 a.m. Victory Circle: 45 min. after last main Wednesday, July 1: Group 1, Pro Singles and Pro Twins (Half-Mile) Registration at Track: 7-9 a.m. Pits Open: 7 a.m. Practice: 9 a.m. Victory Circle: 45 min. after last main

Thursday, July 2: Groups 1 and 2 and Pro Singles; No Vintage (Short Track) Registration at Track: 6-8 a.m.; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Pits Open (Group 2): 6 a.m. Practice (Group 2): 8 a.m. Practice (Group 1): Immediately after last Group 2 main event Victory Circle (Group 2): Between Group 1 practice sessions Victory Circle (Group 1): 45 min. after last main Friday, July 3: Group 1 (TT) Registration at Track: 7-9 a.m. Pits Open: 7 a.m. Practice: 9 a.m. Victory Circle: 45 min. after last main Saturday, July 4: Group 2 (Half-Mile) Registration at Track: 7-9 a.m. Pits Open: 7 a.m. Practice: 9 a.m. Victory Circle: 45 min. after last main Sunday, July 5: Optional Rain Date Subject to track and weather conditions. Pits open at 7 a.m. Racing to start immediately following practice.

Special Awards Up For Grabs You put in hours of practice, days of bike prep and race your heart out against the country’s best. If you finish on top, you deserve to be noticed.

Here are the special awards that will be distributed at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships at the completion of the program.

AMA Racing Dirt Track Horizon Award This is the highest honor bestowed at the event and recognizes the amateur racer poised to make an immediate impact on the pro ranks. Riders are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent with AMA Racing. Contact Tamra Jones at AMA Racing for a form: tjones@ama-cycle.org; (800) 262-5646, ext. 1235. Fast Brain Award This award recognizes both speed and smarts. To be eligible for the 2009 Fast Brain Award, you must apply in writing no later than June 19 and include the following information: • Your name; • Your full mail and e-mail addresses and phone number; • Classes you will ride at Du Quoin; • Your grade-point average, verified with an official report card or transcript; • Mail the above to: AMA Racing/Fast Brain Award/13515 Yarmouth Dr./ Pickerington, OH 43147. Youth Rider of the Year This award is given to a standout youth-class rider every year. Vet Rider of the Year This award is given to a top rider from the vet ranks.

AMA Racing reserves the right to alter the event schedule, track configuration and venues as needed.

the dirt track issue

AMA RACER FEATURED EVENT

Dave Hoenig, www.flattrakfotos.com

Women compete on the same racetrack as men, and Nichole is one who definitely has earned her spot on the grid. — Joe Bromley

Nichole Cheza

2009 AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Honoree Many racers at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships, set for June 27-July 4 in Du Quoin, Ill., have the same goal: break into the pro ranks. And every summer, a rider who has successfully made the transition is invited back to show them it can be done. The 2009 AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Honoree is an up-and-coming rider who has already made a significant impact on the sport, even though her career is still young: Nichole Cheza. Cheza, from Clio, Mich., joins riders such as Chris Carr, Kenny Coolbeth and JR Schnabel in holding the special honor. Director of AMA Racing Joe Bromley says that selecting Cheza was easy. “Nichole is one of the bright rising stars of American dirt track, and we’re proud to have her come out and support the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships,” Bromley says. “I’ve known Nichole for many years and raced against her father. Her dirt-track roots run deep, and she’ll be a great example for both the youth riders and the vet racers as they battle for national titles in Du Quoin.” Cheza, whose sponsors include Global Products, Lancaster Harley-Davidson, National

AMARACING.com

Cycle, KK Motorcycle Supply, Honda East Toledo and Bill’s Machining Service, says that the appeal of working with kids attracted her to the role. “I really like kids, and I think that it’s great that more kids are getting involved in the sport of dirt track,” Cheza says. “I see a lot more young girls getting involved these days, and I think it’s really cool that they have someone to look up to.” Cheza has a long history with the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships. “I started when I was about 6, and I rode the event all the way until I was 16,” she says. “It was always a great week of fun. You get to be there with all your buddies, not only from your state, but you meet so many new people from all over the country. There’s so much to do. We’d go swimming and hang out in the pits and by the campfires at night. Of course, there’s a lot of great competition there, too. There are so many great racers who you only get to race once all year, and it really proves who’s No. 1.” Cheza joined the pro ranks in 2004, becoming one of a few female racers to reach the top level of the sport. “I didn’t really know I would move on to the next level until I was 14 or so,” Cheza says. “I just

raced because I loved racing and because I had that drive to compete. After 2003, winning some amateur championships and the (AMA Racing) Female Athlete of the Year award gave me a new goal to work toward. I thought that maybe I can do this. Maybe I can go all the way. I kept with it and made my first main event in Joliet in 2007—on ‘7-7-07’—and it was then that I knew it was possible and that I could do it.” Bromley says that it’s refreshing to have an AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Honoree who represents the gender neutrality of dirt-track racing. “Motorcycle racing, particularly track racing, is a unique sport in that the top level welcomes all comers,” Bromley says. “While it’s undeniable that more men than women currently participate at that level, there is no artificial distinction. Women compete on the same racetrack as men, and Nichole is one who definitely has earned her spot on the grid.” Cheza will be on hand to meet, greet and answer racers’ questions all week during the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships, but she does offer this early piece of advice: “Keep going. Anything’s possible. Always follow your dreams. If what you want to be is a professional racer, you can make it happen. Ride as much as you can. Train as much as you can. And have fun. You should not be racing if you’re not having fun.”

brad baker

Dewanna Comer

2008 AMA Racing Dirt Track Horizon Award Winner Going Strong The AMA Racing Dirt Track Horizon Award recognizes the standout rider from the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships who demonstrates—both on and off the track—that he or she is poised for success in the pro ranks. Past winners of the coveted award have been Roger Lee Hayden, Jared Mees, Bryan Smith and 2006 MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden. So far in ’09, it looks like the 2008 Horizon Award winner will keep with the award’s tradition of success. Brad Baker won the 2008 AMA Racing Dirt Track Horizon Award, and at press time, Baker—an honor student in his sophomore year at PeEll High School in PeEll, Wash.—was leading the points race in the AMA Pro Singles Championship. We caught up with the Brothers Powersports/Make Velasco/Mike Racing Services/Fusion Graphics rider to see what he has to say about his switch to the pro ranks.

Dave Hoenig, www.flattrakfotos.com

AMA Racing (AR): So, Brad, what have you been up to in your pro career? Brad: Well, at the beginning of the year, I went down to Daytona. I won the first AMA Pro Singles race the first night and got second the second night. That was pretty cool. This last weekend, I went down to Lodi, Calif., and rode with Jethro Halbert. I did well down there with a win. Other than that, I’ve just been hitting it hard around the tracks up here, just practicing as much as I can. My buddy who lives a couple miles from my house has a motocross track, and I’ve been riding on that as much as possible. I’ve been out riding on it the last six days straight, so that’s been good. I also have a 10-acre field of dirt here at our

house that I can turn into a quarter-mile, a shorttrack, a TT, whatever you want out there. AR: Are you a good MX rider? Brad: I like to think I am. I’m pretty good in the corners from my dirt-track experience, and I’m starting to get the jumps down. AR: What are your goals for 2009? Brad: The Springfield TT is coming up, and I really want to win that. Then the Mile is after that. I just want to finish consistently and see where it goes from there. In the series, I know James (Rispoli) is going to be really good, especially on the big tracks, so it’s pretty good to have a boost going in from Daytona. (Rispoli won the second night of the Daytona short-track doubleheader.) AR: What will you remember about the 10 years you competed at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships? Brad: It was always a fun time. It wasn’t all just about hard racing, though. You go back there, and it’s a week of hanging out with your friends, always a week to remember. Not only are you having fun, but you know that you’re racing against the best amateur dirt-trackers in the world. If you can take on them, then you know that you’re ready for the bigger races. That confidence helped me get up to speed for what’s coming in my future. In ’03 and ’04, I won the 85cc Modified class. I’ll always remember that. I think I won both the short-track mains by a full straightaway. Of course, winning the Horizon Award will be something I’ll always remember. There is always some crazy stuff, too. My good buddy, Mikey Avila, saw this big pincher bug on the side of a tree last year and bet this other kid to eat it. Well, this kid was definitely a character, and he went for it. He actually ate the bug! I think Mikey could win the Horizon this year. When I go down to California and ride, he’s always giving me a run for my money. Watch out for him in Du Quoin because he has a really good chance at winning it this year.

Taylor Christian Jones

AMA RACER FEATURED EVENT

curt comer races everything

Family Support Helps Amateur National Champ Live His Dream In 2008, Curt Comer celebrated his 50th birthday the best way he could imagine. He took his wife, Dewanna, and 12-year-old daughter, Hannah, on a yearlong quest for three AMA National Championships in three different competitive disciplines. With support from Gas-Gas USA, which imports off-road and trials bikes, Comer met the challenge. After locking up the Plus-40 class at the 2008 AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships, Comer went on to win the Super Senior class in the AMA National Enduro Championship Series and the Plus-50 class in the AMA/NATC Observed Trials Championship Series Comer says he couldn’t have done it without some serious family support. “Dewanna and I were talking about what I wanted to do that was really special because I had just turned 50,” Comer says. “And I said, ‘Well, race motorcycles!’” Although Comer has competed in AMA Racing events for decades, it had been several years since he had contested an entire National Championship Series. He says he found inspiration in his relative youthfulness. “I decided that being 50, I’m the youngest person in my class for a change, and could have a good chance at the class championship in enduros and trials,” he says. “And we’ve been racing dirt track for years, but I’ve never ridden the whole series at the Grand Championships. I just felt like I had a chance.” As he expected, Comer says the trials title was probably the easiest. Comer competed as a pro years ago and won the national title in 1981. “Both enduro and dirt-track were difficult,” he says. “In both series I played catch-up. It was particularly tough in enduro because it’s spread out over the whole year, and I dug myself in a pretty deep hole early in the year. Like I said, Dewanna just really encouraged me to keep pushing, keep going to do my best.” Although Comer hasn’t decided if he’ll go for the triple again in 2009, he’s already inspired a lot of racers to chase their dreams. For more on the opportunities to win an AMA Racing National Championship of your own, see the National Championship Series and Amateur Championships sections of AMARacing.com.

the dirt track issue

AMA RACING FEATURED EVENT

AMA RACING DIRT TRACK GRAND championships

Race By The Rules AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships Supplemental Rules Supplemental rules are often issued for special events on the AMA Racing competition calendar. The AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships are, without a doubt, a special event. Here are the special rules that will apply to this summer’s event: A. Riders who have held an AMA Pro Racing Pro Sport license in 2007 and 2008 are eligible for all AMA Racing amateur national meets and recognized series throughout the country. B. AMA Pro Racing-licensed riders may not ride any class in the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships. C. All riders will be eligible to enter a maximum of three classes. D. Knobby tires will NOT be permitted. E. Sound continues to be a concern for AMA Racing and our motorcycling community. There is a concerted effort to reduce and enforce sound limits in both AMA Racing and AMA Pro Racing disciplines. For example, the AMA Pro Racing Supercross and Motocross disciplines are currently enforcing a sound limit of 94 dB/A, measured using a strict and consistent measuring process.The 2009 AMA Sports Rulebook states that sound testing is both mandatory and a promoter’s responsibility. It also states that the promoter may impose penalties for non-compliance. AMA Racing recognizes that compliance with this rule is not a simple process for the dirt track community. For example, in many cases, stock frames are not used, and exhaust systems require fabrication. The AMA will be enforcing sound limits at the 2009 AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships and

will be strongly encouraging promoters to use the same process. The 2009 AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships will use the following criteria for enforcement: • 99 dB/A: Requirement per the 2009 AMA Racing Rulebook. • Up to 100.5 dB/A: Verbal warning (based on the variance per the J1287 test procedure). • 100.6 to 103 dB/A: Written warning and up to a $100 fine per violation. • More than 103 dB/A: Required to modify and retest. Machines that test more than 103 dB/A will not be permitted to compete, and post-event noncompliance will result in a disqualification from the event. If you have any questions concerning this information, please contact the AMA Racing Technical Department at (614) 856-1900.

Supplemental Rules: Vintage Classes A. General Class Descriptions. 1) Vintage Twins (Pre 1982)* 2) Vintage Singles (Pre 1982)* B. Frames: Twin shock. C. Forks: 38mm maximum; no upsidedown forks. D. Rims: No restrictions. E. Tires: Class C type; no knobby tires; no size restrictions. F. Motors: Mfg. as of 1982; air-cooled XR750s are required to run 31mm round port head restrictors. G. Carburetion: No fuel injection; flat slides OK. H. Triple trees: Non-adjustable only. I. Exhaust mufflers required: 100-dB/A limit. J. Full leathers on half-mile and Mile. *Classes compete for individual and overall awards.

Be On Your Best Behavior

Du Quoin State Fairgrounds And Campground Rules The crowd at the AMA Racing Dirt Track Grand Championships is typically well-behaved, but as a friendly reminder, let’s remember that we’re guests at this event, and we need to respect our hosts. Both AMA Racing and the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds ask that everybody honor the following rules. Failure to do so may result in a quick end to your week. • No fireworks of any kind. Period! • Campground quiet time is 11 p.m. No pitbikes, golf carts, four-wheelers or starting of race

bikes after 11 p.m. • Fairgrounds are closed to all pitbikes, etc., at the end of the last event of the day. • All pit vehicles must register with the AMA. • Area behind the Mile is totally off limits. • Race bikes are not to be ridden anywhere on the fairgrounds property. This includes the campgrounds. The only exclusion is on racetracks during the event of the day. • Violation of any of these rules could result in a severe penalty by the AMA.

Save Big: Pre-Enter Now

Chamber of Commerce Numbers Du Quoin www.duquoin.com (618) 542-9570 Benton www.bentonwestcity.com (618) 438-2121 Carbondale www.carbondalechamber.com (618) 549-2146 Pinckneyville www.pinckneyville.com (618) 357-3243

Refund Policy

Refund requests must be received by close of business on Friday, June 19. Requests must be in writing and sent to AMA Racing, 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147, faxes or e-mails accepted at (614) 856-1924 or tjones@amacycle.org. After June 19, refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. If you practiced, you will not be eligible for a refund from that day. Requests will not be considered if they are turned in later than July 31. All refunds will be subject to a $20 processing fee and will be processed four to six weeks after the championships conclude. No refunds will be given during the event. Final determination on eligibility for refunds is at the discretion of AMA Racing.

Got Numbers? Race numbers are decided on a first-come basis. You may need to add a letter or change your number. Please come prepared. Want the best chance to keep your number? Register early. Not only will you be further up in line for your desired race number, but you’ll get your name on the official event T-shirt.

AMARACING.com

AMA RACER UPCOMING EVENTS

Racers Write

MX To Dirt Track Conversion You Ask: I’m building my first dirt-tracker. I’m starting with a motocross bike, but I’m not sure where to go from there or what options are available. Any advice? Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant Responds: Converted motocross bikes work great for dirt track. Non-modified motocross bikes are even found in many local “knobby” classes, which are a great way to get a feel for the sport. That said, when you’re ready to get serious, start with the tires. Dunlop and Maxxis are popular brands. The standard diameter for dirttrack tires is 19 inches. Your stock motocross 19-inch rear will work, but you’ll have to swap out the front rim. Other inexpensive modifications include sliding the forks up in the triple clamps and reducing the preload on the rear shock. Both will allow the bike to sit slightly lower and help in stability and cornering. Another cheap mod that makes a big difference is dirt-track handlebars, which position your body for easier cornering. Also remember that you can run a front brake only in TT events. For other events, take it off. The next level should see some professional suspension work. A number of qualified shops can lower and rebuild both your fork and shock for dirt track, and it makes a huge difference. Stay away from motor work at this point, however, unless you plan to race the Modified class. Stock motors are required otherwise. A steering stabilizer, which helps combat headshake, is another good mod at this point. Finally, you can consider additional suspension modifications, and Modified classes allow purpose-built swingarms and triple clamps that will enhance frame geometry for dirt-track racing. Modified classes also allow a number of motor mods, such as racing cams and head work. Another nice modification for the top level is what’s called a “knock-off” wheel, which allows quick wheel and gearing changes. Got a racing-related question? Drop us a line at submissions@ ama-cycle.org.

AMA Racing National Championship Events (May 1 through June 30)

The following events are on the AMA Racing National Championship calendar for May 1 through June 30. Nearly all events include classes for riders ranked novice to expert. Contact the promoters for more information. AMA Racing Rekluse National Enduro Championship Series, presented by Moose Racing Round 6: June 21 Upton, Wy. Paul Douglas Inyan Kara Riders (307) 468-2840 pauld@rtconnect.net www.nationalenduro.com

Round 3: June 27 Trials Training Center, Sequatchie, Tenn. Dan Brown Southeastern Trials Riders Assoc (STRA) (423) 942-8688 contactus@trialstrainingcenter.com www.trialstrainingcenter.com

Round 7: June 28 Bull Run Guest Ranch Russ Ehnes MTVRA (406) 781-0967 russehness@bresnan.net www.mtvra.com

Round 4: June 28 Trials Training Center, Sequatchie, Tenn. Dan Brown Southeastern Trials Riders Assoc (STRA) (423) 942-8688 contactus@trialstrainingcenter.com www.trialstrainingcenter.com

AMA Racing National Hare & Hound Championship Series

AMA Racing East Hare Scrambles Championship Series

Round 5: May 16 Jericho, Utah Rob Davies Sugarloafers (435) 743-4818 rdavies02@frontiernet.net www.sugarloafersmc.com

Round 1: May 3 Westmoreland, Tenn. Rita Coombs Racer Productions (304) 284-0084 info@gnccracing.com www.gnccracing.com

AMA Racing/NATC Observed Trials National Championship Series

Round 2: May 10 Port Elizabeth, N.J. E. Polhamus Tri-County Sportsmen (856) 785-2754 hammerhead@teamhammer.org www.teamhammer.org

Round 1: May 30 Nehawka, Neb. Jeremy Cox Midwest Trials Association (MWTA) (402) 450-0778 trialsbikes4sale@yahoo.com www.mwta-trials.com Round 2: May 31 Nehawka, Neb. Jeremy Cox Midwest Trials Association (MWTA) (402) 450-0778 trialsbikes4sale@yahoo.com www.mwta-trials.com

Round 3: May 24 Rhinelander, Wisc. Scott Schwalbe Sugar Camp Racing (715) 272-1101 sugarcampracing@frontiernet.net www.sugarcampent.com Round 4: June 21 Lynnville, Ind. Eric Linenschmidt IN, IL, KY Enduro Riders (812) 204-1113 elindenschmidt@insightbb.com www.blackcoal.org AMA Racing West Hare Scrambles Championship Series Round 3: June 12-14 Riverdale Raceway, Toutle, Wash. Sean Reddish Off Road Sports, LLC (435) 635-1597 info@westernharescrambles.com www.westernharescrambles.com

AMA Racing ATV Hare Scrambles National Championship Series Round 3: May 23 Rhinelander, Wis. Scott Schwalbe Sugar Camp Racing (715) 272-1101 sugarcampracing@frontiernet.net www.sugarcampent.com Round 4: May 30 South Windham, Conn. Steve Poplasky New England Cross Country (860) 617-8371 steve@neccracing.net www.neccracing.net Round 5: June 13 Elkland, Pa. Jeremy Richardson Miles Mountain (570) 723-8516 boot46@ptd.net www.milesmountainmx.com AMA Racing ATV Extreme Dirt Track National Championship Series Round 1: May 30 Ava, Mo. Ozark Mountain ATV Raceway (417) 683-1667 rrgetmuddy@aol.com www.ozarksatvraceway.com Round 2: June 20 Franklin, Pa. Tri-City Raceway (814) 676-0477 hetrickracing@hotmail.com www.hetrickracing.com Grand National Cross Country Championship (GNCC) Series www.gnccracing.com World Off-Road Championship Series (WORCS) www.worcsracing.com AMA Dragbike Championship Series www.amadragbike.com ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA ATV Motocross Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited www.atvmotocross.com AMA Racing/USA Speedway National Championship Series www.usaspeedway.org

the dirt track issue

CLOSING SHOT Following two wins by his teammate and chief rival Mike Lafferty, Muscle Milk/Shock Doctor KTM rider Russell Bobbitt stormed back to win round five of the AMA/Rekluse National Enduro Series presented by Moose Racing in Westpoint, Tenn. Photo: Shan Moore

AMARACING.com

the dirt track issue

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