SCEC/Rogershill Raceway Wednesday Evening series

There are just a couple of weeks now to go before the first of this years SCEC/Rogershill Raceway summer evening Hare Scrambles series. Now in it’s third year, these events have just got better and better and this year's promise to be the best yet!

Over the spring months the Rogershill Raceway motocross circuits have been substantially revised and improved and 100s of tons of sand have been incorporated into the track surface. At the same time track owner and expert enduro runner Danny Hall has continued to develop his enduro training circuit. With the new improved circuits and the classic Rogershill cross-country stages, this year’s events will benefit from some of the best tracks of their type in the country.

The first round is 21st May, round two will be on the 2nd July and the final round will be on the 3rd September. There can be few better ways to spend a Summer's evening - entries are limited and can be made by post or on-line (including credit card payment) at www.enjoytheride.org.uk

Enjoy the ride!

TEENAGER ROOKIE MEL POCOCK ABOUT HIS GRAND PRIX DEBUT
(Story Update: May 09, 2008)

Martin Barr’s injury at Bellpuig, Spain gave his young British team-mate Mel Pocock a chance to make his World Championship debut in Agueda, Portugal and he enjoyed every minute of it.

We sat down under the UTAG Yamaha awning with 15-year-old Mel who had flown in on the Thursday before the Portuguese GP. Arriving at the Agueda track, what did he think?

“It was an experience. When I saw the place it’s so impressive but I can handle it. The track is massive, it’s wide. Well everything is big in Grand Prix motocross.”

Things go fast for Mel Pocock as he came from schoolboy racing and wasn’t expected to race World Championship so early but the team is suffering from injured riders. Kenneth Gundersen was the supposed number one rider for the team in MX1 but the Norwegian damaged his knee in Valkenswaard before the series had really kicked off.

That made team manager Steve Dixon decide to move up Carlos Campano into the MX1 class. With Martin Barr then getting hurt at the second World Championship round he needed to fill the MX2 gap and so Dixon brought Pocock to the GP earlier then planned.

“I never expected to be in the World Championship this year,” said Mel. “So far the season went pretty good in the British Championship racing for the first time with the adults. I had won the schoolboy Elite Youth championship in 2007, also winning another championship but I crashed and hurt my shoulder to miss the final round. This is only my second year on a 250 4-stroke, last year I rode a Honda for the PAR Honda team.”

“Then Steve phoned me up and said I had to come to Portugal to replace Martin Barr and I was amazed, it’s good though isn’t it? I am just amazed being here to ride a Grand Prix. So far I had only seen one Grand Prix in my life, that was the British Grand Prix last year.”

“First time out on the track with guys I had never seen before and not knowing who they were, the pace was fast and a bit scary. If you see Cairoli in front you think woow, this guy is fast.”

“I finished 17th in my qualifying heat and that was better then I had foreseen. I thought I would be the one at the back of the pack possibly in last position. By the time we got to the Last Chance most of the energy had been used, you have to ride fast all day and that last bit was missing to secure a top 6 finish.”

“A bit disappointing I didn’t make it but it wasn’t so bad, this was my first Grand Prix and it takes a lot of people a long time to qualify. I have to practise hard and ride a lot.”

England has a potential World Champion in Tommy Searle. It took him only 2 years to reach the top in the MX2 class and won him a 3 year deal with KTM.

Searle is an example for Pocock, “Tommy is my hero, and I know him very well as he lives next to me in East Sussex.”

Now Martin Barr is back in action and he rode last Sunday’s British Championship round at Lyng. Nevertheless team boss Steve Dixon decided to bring also Mel Pocock to the next rounds in Bulgaria and Italy.

“Like Martin I rode well at Lyng and it’s great that Steve gives me the opportunity to build experience and let me to do the next 2 GP’s. Now I’ve got the taste of Grand Prix action. This is what I wanted, go to the top in motocross and become a winner but I have to qualify first.”

“You know Carmichael and Villopoto are fast and both of them have ginger hair”, says team manager Steve Dixon about his newly signed Mel Pocock who is ginger like these two American motocross stars.

Team Maverik Racing
Maverik Make-over for Hot new Team
(Story Update: May 07, 2008)

Bouncing back onto the track looking better than ever, Bournemouth-based youth Motocross Team Maverik Racing have upped their game this year with a very polished and corporate new look for this year’s riders.

After a highly successful season last year with the Maverik crew, producing a B.S.M.A. Senior Champion in Lewis Trickett, Team boss Nicki Carpenter was quick to recruit current B.S.M.A. 65cc Champion Liam Knight who teams up this season with Trickett, Jake Shipton, Ryan Butler Josh Brine, Jamie Carpenter and Buddy Shipton.

Taking on a newly designed kit for the ‘08 season the riders will be plying their trade in the Elite youth Cup series, B.Y.M.X. and the B.S.M.A. Best of British National series as well as several major European meetings later in the year.

The professional attitude and hard work is clearly making an impact within the industry with some high-profile sponsors including Race F.X. Sinisalo, Rip n Roll, Maxima Racing Oils, Fro Systems, Six-Six One and D.E.P. Pipes, DD Construction Pro-Build and Heat Tech all backing the team for this year.

Back row left to right - Ryan Butler, Lewis Trickett, Josh Brine, Jake Shipton
Front row left to right - Jamie Carpenter, Buddy Shipton, Liam Knight

Hopes of a podium spot dashed for fast charging Dan Lillington
(Story Update: April 29, 2008)

With the first round of the D.E.P. British Two Stroke Championship eventually being brought to a halt by the heavy snow everything was looking good in the Maico camp for the second round being held at the popular West Country Landrake circuit.

Hoping for a top three spot, fast charging Dan Lillington was dealt a cruel hand only days earlier at his local practice track.

Whilst testing different gearing settings on his 320 Maico, the Poole based rider set some blistering lap-times and was clearly feeling more confident with the changes made to the bike. As the end of the session approached Lillington found himself high-sided off of one of the jumps and landed heavily with the bike coming down on his leg. After a swift response and prompt care from the first aid staff at the circuit he was taken to Poole Hospital with a suspected broken foot.

Initial X-rays proved inconclusive as to the possible injuries sustained and Lillington was scheduled for a C.T. scan the following day. Laying in a hospital bed waiting for the diagnosis was a slow and monotonous task which finally brought about a little good news. Arriving at around 3.30pm on the Friday afternoon the consultant explained that there were no bones broken and no need for any operation. However, Dan had managed to fracture six different bones in his left foot which would require a surgical boot to be fitted for at least one month.

We will be monitoring Dans progress and would like to wish him a speedy recovery, and look forward to seeing him back on his bike.

FIM Anti-doping controls
(Story Update: April 23, 2008)

Anti-doping controls were carried out at different FIM World Championship events. Neither prohibited substances nor markers of the use of prohibited methods were found in the tested samples. The events and the list of riders tested are mentioned below.

MX1/MX2 Motocross World Championships – Valkenswaard-NED, 06/04/08
Ken de Dycker (NED, MX1), David Philippaerts (ITA, MX1), Billy McKenzie (GBR, MX1), Jeremy van Horebeek (BEL, MX2), Tyla Rattray (RSA, MX2), Gautier Paulin (FRA, MX2),

SPEA FIM Trial World Championship - Bangor-N.IRL, 06/04/08
Albert Cabestany (SPA), Jeroni Fajardo (SPA), Adam Raga (SPA)

Strijbos sidelined with thumb injury
(Story Update: April 23, 2008)

Grand Prix Kawasaki Racing's Kevin Strijbos is almost certain to miss the next three rounds of the MX1 World Motocross Championship after undergoing minor surgery to repair an injured thumb.

It's been a tough start to the 2008 MX1 World Championship season for GPKR's Kevin Strijbos who has already been sidelined from racing activities with a pre-season shoulder injury and then a stomach related sickness. The latest ailment to affect the 2007 MX1 series runner-up is a thumb injury which he sustained in a free practice session at the Spanish GP in Bellpuig. Although in a lot of pain, Strijbos pushed on through the power-sapping slop on his factory KX450F-SR to an impressive sixth placed finish in Sunday's one and only points paying moto.

Despite being able to ride through the pain and score his best result of the season so far, the 22-year-old Belgian rider's injury is worse than initially thought and Kevin had to undergo emergency surgery on Monday afternoon to fix the problem. The simple procedure to reattach the chipped piece of bone was carried out by Dr Claes in Belgium while Strijbos was under the influence of a general anaesthetic. Early indications show that the operation was a complete success but it's thought that Kevin won't be back in action on the GPKR Kawasaki until the British Grand Prix on June 1 at Mallory Park.

"It's been a tough start to the season for Kevin," said GPKR team manager Patrick Gelade. "He's already had an injured shoulder, sickness and now also a thumb injury which is really not so good for him or the team. We're now looking forward to having Kevin back to full fitness in time for the British Grand Prix in six weeks time."

Strijbos is currently the GPKR team's highest points scorer in the MX1 World Championship and sits in seventh place in the series standings after only two rounds but will almost certainly miss the next three races in Portugal, Bulgaria and Italy. The remainder of the GPKR squad as well as Kawasaki's other factory supported teams will be in action at the Grand Prix of Portugal at Agueda this weekend - April 26/27.

BERNARD HODGKINS
(Story Update: April 22, 2008)

In the early hours of Friday 18th April the Enduro World lost one of its most well respected and helpful people; Bernard Hodgkins passed away after a long battle with illness, he was 68 ½ years old, nearly everyone in the enduro paddock knew Bernard and his wife Jenny as they had travelled the world following a sport that they loved.

Bernard took full advantage of an enforced early retirement in 1982 which had enabled himself and Jenny to travel Europe and indeed the World. Bernard had also been involved with Motocross and “dropped the gate” of many GP’s at Farleigh Castle as well as participating as a rider in local trials during the early 60’s. Bernard and Jenny were also founder members of Southern England Trail Riders Association in 1976. They had attended every ISDE since 1971 supporting the British teams and also played a big part in helping the Japanese team from 1994-2006.  Bernard over the years had helped riders in the European Championship such as the likes of Mick Extance, Phil Smithson and also the late John Deacon.

Over the last couple of years Bernard had based himself along with his wife Jenny in the Midlands area near the home of Paul Edmondson and his family offering yet again his help and support to Paul’s racing and events.

Bernard was a true enthusiast and will be sadly missed around the enduro sport and by all that knew him.

Bernard’s wife Jenny however, will still continue going to events and following on the tradition.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday 30th April at 1.00 pm at St Giles’s Church, Whittington, Nr Lichfield. Family flowers only, anybody wishing to make a donation to one of Bernards charities (St Giles Hospice, RNLI, or Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust) these can be forwarded to Co-Op Funeral Directors, No.1 Birmingham Road, Lichfield, Staffordshire. Please telephone Paul or Kath Edmondson on 01543 685430/07973 563191 if you require more details.

WEDNESDAY EVENING XC SERIES 2008
(Story Update: April 22, 2008)

After last year's successful Wednesday night race series WOR Events are pleased to be linking once again with CF Racing of Corwen for a three round Wednesday evening Cross Country series that will run from May through to July.

Running on flowing and rideable XC circuits in the North Wales area, the events will run for 2 hours starting at 6.30pm on the following dates…

WED MAY 14TH
WED JUNE 11TH
WED JULY 30TH

As usual the with all WOR Events the races will cater for all classes and ability’s with Expert / Clubman / Veteran / Sportsman / Novice / Youth and Ladies groups.

CF Racing is a one stop off road specialist that caters for Enduro/ XC and MX riders throughout North Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire.

As an official GAS GAS UK dealer, along with supplying quality second hand machines of all makes and capacities, Gareth Lloyd (proprietor) has built up a strong reputation of running an honest, Knowledgeable and reliable service in the off road industry and with the shop coming into it’s first full year of trading has already built up a massive customer base and following.

CF Racing will once again be putting up some great prizes and quality silverware for this fun mid week series.
Gareth can be contacted on 01490 412146.

To enter the series simply call 07944378432 or visit www.worevents.com and click on enter online.

Gundersen due for knee op and Campano moves to MX1-GP
(Story Update: April 18, 2008)

UTag Yamaha.com’s Kenneth Gundersen is likely to miss the rest of the 2008 FIM MX1-GP World Championship after he was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and further damage inside the joint. His place on the YZ450F will be taken by team-mate Carlos Campano this weekend at Bellpuig for the Grand Prix of Spain while the British crew find a replacement.

Gundersen – who missed almost two campaigns of racing after a cartilage problem with his right leg in 2004/05 – landed awkwardly during Saturday practice for the season-opening Grand Prix two weeks ago at Valkenswaard in Holland. The Norwegian, a GP Yamaha rider for the last two years, had a lot of pain and travelled back to his home on Sunday. Examinations revealed the extent of the injury and he is set to go under the surgeon’s knife in the first week of May after swelling around the knee has subsided.

"It is a real shame for Kenneth, Yamaha, the team and all our sponsors,” said Team Manager Steve Dixon. “Kenneth had worked so hard over the winter and leading up to the first GP we were looking forward to some good results. I have never worked with someone as dedicated and as professional as Kenneth, he is so determined to achieve his goal and whilst he stayed in England I have witnessed that commitment.”

“I really hope Kenneth can make a full recovery and we will hope to finish what we set out to do in 2009, albeit a year later.”

Dixon also confirmed the new role for current MX2-GP rider and former Spanish Champion Carlos Campano. “We have moved Carlos up to the MX1 class so we can fulfil our MX1 obligations, as there simply does not seem to be any replacement riders around this early in the season,” he said. “We will have to adapt as the season goes on to maximise our coverage and profile on the track."

KTM Rally Team tackles first Central Europe Rally
(Story Update: April 17, 2008)

The KTM Rally Team are about to launch an attack on the first ever "Dakar Series" Central Europe Rally which sweeps almost 2700 km through Hungary and Romania starting in Budapest on April 19 and finishing at Hungary's Lake Balaton on April 26, 2008.

Organisers had planned to stage the first Dakar Series in 2009 but the last minute cancellation of the Dakar Classic in January 2008 for security reasons prompted them to accelerate plans for the Central Europe Rally. The event goes some of the way towards reversing the disappointment of professional teams and amateurs who were denied the chance to test themselves in the Dakar.
 
Seven Stages and two countries
The rally is in seven stages with 1092 km of special stages and 1579 km of road sections starting in Budapest before sweeping east for a loop into northern Romania before returning to Hungary to finish at what is one of Europe' biggest lakes. Organisers had planned to hold more of the rally distance in Romania but recent bad weather including heavy snow, forced significant changes to the course.
 
KTM Rally Team manager Hans Trunkenpolz underlined that the organisers had already achieved much in the extremely short preparation period. He said the KTM Factory Rally Team, including riders of the calibre of Dakar winners Marc Coma and Cyril Despres, were committed to delivering a solid performance in the new event.
 
 
Interview with Hans Trunkenpolz, KTM Rally Team Manager:
 
What is the initial situation with this new event?
The stages are significantly shorter than those in Africa for which our Rally Replica bike was developed, so the full tank capacity will not be needed. Our top riders will also not be called upon to test their full physical endurance on these shorter stages so the sprinters among the rally and Enduro riders will have a good chance to be on the podium.
 
Also, the terrain, which apparently includes lots of narrow tracks and curves means we will not be able to take advantage of the speed and the power of our rally bikes. Riders on bikes with less displacement will have the advantage here.
 
What does this mean for the KTM Rally Team?
Our Rally Team will tackle these new challenges on our Rally bike. They won't be switching over to a lighter type of offroad bike from our offroad program. We are confident that the world's best rally riders in the KTM Rally Team will be able to fight for victory even under unusual conditions. KTM is putting Cyril Despres and Marc Coma on a prototype RALLY LIGHT bike, which with its reduced tank capacity, narrower cladding and a somewhat modified geometry should suit these new conditions.
 
What should we understand by the term "Rally Light Version"?
For a long time now we have been thinking of developing a module for the Rally Replica that would allow it to be converted to better suit rallies with shorter distances between refueling stops. The cancellation of the Dakar and this short term confrontation with very different conditions has brought this development forward. We've immediately put it into practice so we do not lose our competitive edge. According to the KTM philosophy, if this RALLY LIGHT kit that is being tested by the factory team comes out positively then any Rally Replica owner will be able to buy it. One important advantage of this new development is that a rider can vary his machine between standard and light during the rally. If the day calls for relatively easy reach then he can use the light version; if there are longer distances between refuelling stops then he can use the standard version. This should ensure that KTM continues to be the dominant brand in rally sport. When this kit will be available depends on what modifications we have to make after the Central Europe Rally, but it should be on the market in time for the planned Dakar replacement rally in January 2009.
 
Hans Trunkenpolz concluded by saying the Central Europe Rally will be of a very high standard. "It's going to be tight all the way but we will very much miss the special challenges of the long stretches in Africa," he said.

Prumm to take on Dutch championship round
(Story Update: April 17, 2008)

Double FIM Women’s World Cup winner and new Van Beers Yamaha rider Katherine Prumm will attempt to make a small piece of history in three weeks time when she strives to become the first female to qualify and participate in the Jumbo Dutch Motocross championship. The New Zealander, who has been based in the Netherlands since mid-March in preparation for her assault with the YZ250F on the first ever Women’s World Championship this year, is aiming to pit herself against Holland’s best, and no-doubt a selection of Grand Prix racers, at the third round of the series at Rhenen on May 1st.

The 19-year-old has been adapting to life in Europe over the past month after sharing an apartment – organised by the team – with fellow Van Beers racer Evgeny Bobryshev. After completing tests in Italy and also through the French sand of Dunkirk in recent weeks Prumm is now searching for events to sharpen her race speed in the build-up to the first GP of five in the world championship that takes place at the impressive Sevlievo circuit in Bulgaria on May 11th.

“I have been in Europe for quite a while now and we are just looking for some races to contest before going to Bulgaria,” she commented. “Rhenen will be a big challenge and something I am really looking forward to.”

“I am not daunted by the track but obviously the level of competition is going to be very high and there will also be some of the top guys from the world championship in there also.” She added, “to qualify would be an achievement and I will certainly try my best.

“My time here has been good and beneficial. I have been doing a lot of training and getting the bike set up. I went to the first Grand Prix at Valkenswaard and generally things have been going OK, even though the apartment is a bit empty at the moment because my team-mate has gone back to Russia for the week!”

Rhayader M.C. Youth Presentation Night and Buffet
(Story Update: April 16, 2008)

Rhayader M.C. held their Annual Youth Presentation Night & Buffet last Saturday Evening when Enduro star Tom Sagar was on hand to present the awards.

Held at the Elan Valley Hotel, just outside Rhayader the evening was a great success with a 100 guests turning up.

Awards were presented for the Club's Youth Fun Trial Series which was run over three events last summer.

CLICK HERE for final 2007 standings.

Rhayader Evening Motocross Series 2008
(Story Update: April 16, 2008)

Entry Forms for this year's Evening Motocross Series are now out!!!

Again the series will take place at Rhayader M.C.'s popular hillside motocross circuit at Cwmythig Hill in the heart of Mid-Wales.

Date's for this year's series, which again are all on Wednesday Evenings are 28th May, 18th June & 9th July.

Classes are split into 3 groups: MX1/MX2, Seniors & Juniors, Novice's & Local Beginners.

All groups will get three races on the night, as well as the MX1/MX2 getting the "Dash for Cash Grand Finals"!!!

Prize money has been increased by another £1000 per night for MX1/MX2 taking the Prize Fund for each night up to £3500, so top the expert rider on the night can walk away with a staggering £950.

So don't miss out, entries do fill very quickly and it is advised to enter ALL three rounds to guarantee your ride.

Watch this space for further developments!!!!

Click HERE to view the event poster.

Event Regs can be downloaded off the Regs Online page.

CAS HONDA TEST NEW GRAND PRIX TRACK AT MALLORY PARK
(Story Update: April 14, 2008)

The CAS Honda team ventured to Leicestershire on Friday to test the all-new track at Mallory Park, which is under construction for the prestigious British Grand Prix on June 1st.

Racers Billy Mackenzie and Mike Brown lapped the partially completed circuit aboard their CRF450R’s to provide event organisers, RHL activities, with feedback as the track begins to take shape.

Both riders commented on the huge amount of work that is going into the race, which was unable to be accommodated anywhere else in the UK in 2008. Leader of the project Gareth Hockey, along with his team, has taken on the massive task of creating a successful event, particularly as the British Grand Prix so far hasn't managed to find a permanent venue.

A total of 300 lorry loads of earth have been delivered to the Leicestershire track, each carrying 15 tonnes and two of the jumps have been completed. Justin Barkley, who has been involved with the other big circuits in the UK, is now heading the track construction and design.

As a British-based team with a British rider in Billy, CAS Honda understands the importance of the Grand Prix at Mallory Park and will be following the project closely as it develops over the next few weeks. Both riders and team manager Neil Prince will be on-hand to support the event as much as possible, although it's obvious there is still a lot of work to be done.

Billy Mackenzie - #211
"It was very wet at the track on Friday so it was difficult to get a real feeling of what the ground would be like in the dry. I can see there is a lot of work going into the event and I've offered my feedback on what can be done to make it even better. Gareth and his team have some good ideas, but for me it's important that the track provides some great racing. I don't want us to lose our home Grand Prix so I feel everyone should support the event and make it as successful as possible, so we end up with a permanent place on the World Motocross calendar in years to come. There is still a lot of work to be done at Mallory Park and CAS Honda will be on-hand to give more feedback as the build progresses in the next few weeks."

Mike Brown - #3
"It was good to have the opportunity to ride the finished section of the Mallory park circuit on Friday. The track was wet and the biggest concern for the riders is the ground, but if the organisers do what they say they have planned with the dirt then I don't think this will be a problem. Justin has a lot of experience and I know he will do a good job of the track. For me it's important they keep this GP as Britain is a bit like home – I spend a lot of time here. I'm looking forward to the race and I know that Gareth and his team will listen to our comments and do everything possible to make it work out."


CAS Honda Team Manager – Neil Prince
"I hope that Friday was useful for Gareth and his team to hear the riders' thoughts on the partially built track at Mallory Park. There is still a massive amount of work to be done there, but we realise that the scale of the project is huge and a lot of effort is being put in to make it a success. For CAS Honda we feel it's important that we don't lose our 'home' Grand Prix and we will endeavour to offer our help, advice and feedback as the track build progresses."

Goodwood Festival of Speed - Press Day
(Story Update: April 14, 2008)

Dougie Lampkin joined a whole host of stars from the World of motor sport, both two-wheel and four wheel, as he played his part in the recent press day for the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed. Lampkin lined up alongside greats such as the legendary Stirling Moss, from Formula One Lewis Hamilton’s father Anthony, sports car driver Derek Bell, British Superbike rider Michael Rutter and BBC radio two DJ Chris Evans.

This was Dougie’s first visit to the beautiful Goodwood estate at Chichester, East Sussex despite having been invited to be a part of the festival on several previous occasions. Unfortunately date clashes with the World championship have prevented Dougie accepting Lord March’s kind invitation in prior years, but a kinder schedule in 2008 means that Lampkin will be a part of the action when July comes around.

Lampkin took centre stage on the evening before the main press day, as he stunned the guests of a private dinner party in Goodwood House as they made their way from the drawing room to the dining room.

A shocked Stirling Moss could hardly believe his eyes as Dougie emerged at the top of the main staircase before travelling down the full length of the carpet-covered stairway on his front wheel. Lampkin’s arrival amongst Lord March and his guests in the hallway was met with spontaneous applause, before Dougie parked his bike in the dining room and joined the elite party for dinner.

On the main press day, Dougie performed in front of the many mainstream and specialist media who were present, and stole the show with a stunning routine that included several different elements throughout the day. The highlight of the occasion for all present was when Dougie first rode over a mock course car, before disappearing into the house via the front door and out of view of the press.

Seconds later Lampkin reappeared on the first floor balcony where he performed a series of tricks before returning to the main internal staircase once again, where the press were waiting to capture the routine he had executed so well the previous evening.

This was just a small taste of what Dougie will be doing at the actual Festival of Speed on 11/12/13th July 2008 that takes place at Goodwood House. Speaking about this great opportunity Lampkin commented.

“This is an event I have long wanted to be a part of, but unfortunately in previous seasons my schedule has not allowed me to do so.

“I am both proud and very privileged to have been invited by Lord March to play a role in what is undoubtedly one of the great motorsport events not only in Britain, but anywhere in the World.

“At this point in my career, I don’t often get nervous, but when I sat at the top of the stairs in front of some very special guests, my heart was really pounding.

“Thankfully it all went really well, and everyone thought it was great and very different to anything seen before at Goodwood.

“I am really looking forward to July, as we have got some really special stuff planned that will certainly cause a stir amongst the 150,000 people who are expected over the three days.”

At a quieter moment during the day, Dougie enjoyed a rare outing as a co-driver in a rally car around a newly constructed special stage.

NEW ROOKIE MOTOCROSS SERIES SET FOR 2008
(Story Update: April 13, 2008)

A brand new event to encourage rookie motocross riders will take place at the 11th World MX1 Championship round at Lommel in Belgium on August 1st.

The event is dedicated to all the MX2 machine-mounted amateur riders who will have the privilege to race the final on the GP circuit.

With the selection process being carried out on a separate race track during Wednesday and Thursday, the scenery of the final will move to the Grand Prix circuit and the eventual top three finishers will receive their trophies on the World Championship podium.

MX Rookie General Director Eric Geboers and FAM (Federation of Amateurs Motocross) Secretary Guido Verboven recognised the amateur riders as the base of a pyramid structure where the top is represented by the FIM Motocross World Championship. Setting up the MX Rookie right next to the Grand Prix circus will represent the chance to connect the base with the top, with the event representing the bridging.

FIM Motocross World Championship promoter, Youthstream's President. Giuseppe Luongo said: "What matters for us is the sport of Motocross. Of course we have professionals and amateurs, and of course all professionals have been amateurs in their early days of racing. Now subject to the FIM final approval and to the homologation of the track, I will give the Youthstream approval to make the MX Rookie final on the official Grand Prix track on the Friday and to use the World Championship structures, including the podium."

CCM and Greg Hanson reunite in search of World glory
(Story Update: April 13, 2008)

CCM Racing have announced that their former factory rider Greg Hanson will return to their ranks, as the famous Bolton based firm goes in search of World success. Hanson, a multi British motocross champion last rode for the British company back in 1990, when he was the lone four-stroke campaigner on the World scene. Whilst Greg has remained active in the motocross community by managing his own race team and as an official test rider for both DBR and TMX, he last competed seriously back in 2002.

The recent introduction of the FIM Veteran Motocross World Cup, which was won by Britain’s David Thorpe last season, and the advent of CCM’s revolutionary MX450 has been enough to tempt Hanson out of self imposed retirement to compete in the three round World series that runs as part of the main MX Grand Prix calendar.

This marks another great step for CCM Racing, who only returned to the international arena last month, with their newly formed CCM Racing team that has captured the imagination of the paddock and the fans alike. Hanson will be equipped with a full factory CCM MX450 built to the same specification as the machine currently being used by Oliver Sandiford-Smith in the Maxxis ACU British Motocross Championship.

Although Greg had already planned to compete in the Veteran series, his original idea of competing on another make of bike was thrown out of the window after he recently tested the CCM MX450 for Dirt Bike Rider Magazine. Impressed by the performance and potential of the hand-built machine, Hanson immediately opened negotiations with his former employer to establish a contract for his pending campaign.

At the age of forty-four, Hanson will be among the younger riders in the Veteran World championship which caters for rider aged between forty and fifty-five years old. The series will take place over three rounds. The opening event will be at Bellpuig, Spain on 20th April, followed by the British round at Mallory Park on 1st June. The final and deciding round is scheduled to take place at Lommel, Belgium on 3rd August.

Hanson will use the remaining weeks to work on a final set up, before travelling to Spain for his first meeting on a CCM since he claimed the Four Stroke British Championship for them back in 1990. Speaking about his return to the Bolton based team Greg stated. “It is quite a special feeling to be riding for CCM again, as I have such a strong and fond memory from when I last rode for them. After testing the CCM MX450 last month, I was immediately impressed and knew it was the right bike to go after the World championship with. It’s along while since I have been this excited, but I am really looking forward to going racing again and especially on a CCM, let’s just hope we can get back to our winning ways.”

A former fan of Hanson’s hard charging riding style, CCM’s Sporting Director Austin Clews spoke about welcoming Greg back to the fold. “Having Greg back is quite a story and one that could develop into an even bigger story if he can do the business out on the track. Having watched and worked Hanson in action in his former years, I know that he will give it 110% and do his absolute best to win the title both for CCM and Great Britain. We are serious about Greg’s assault on this championship and will ensure that he has the full resources available to him to put him on a level playing field with his rivals.”

Builth Wells Motor Club Hare & Hounds Series 2008 - Round 2
(Story Update: April 11, 2008)

Further to Builth Wells Motor Club releasing dates of its 3 Round Hare & Hounds series for 2008, the Club are pleased to confirm a new venue for Round 2 on the 15th June. The Club has secured the use of ground at Church Farm, Crossgates, near Llandrindod Wells. Most people might remember it, as some of the land was used for nearly twenty years as one of the special tests for “The Welsh Two Day Enduro”.

The club has plans to have a 4 to 5 mile track around parts of the old special test as well as some new ground. The landowner Gareth Griffiths has been very positive and allowed the club to put in new ideas and rides. A lot of the track will follow the old special test route along with some new loops included.

The venue has a wide variety of terrain with open fields along with more technical “going”. The majority of the track will be very wide so passing will not be a problem. The parking, start area and fuelling will all be situated together and should make some good viewing for spectators as most of the track is very accessible. A working party from the club visited the venue recently and everyone agreed that it looked to be an exciting venue.

At the moment the club is concentrating on getting Round 1 ready which is “The Adrian Nixon Memorial Hare & Hounds” on the 20th April, but plan to start work at Church Farm straight after. Some of the old “rides” are grown over and need opening up again. With some work from Club members this will create, what we believe to be a very good event.

As always, Builth Wells Motor Club aim to create tracks to suit all ability of riders. This event will run with classes for Experts, Clubman, Over 40’s, Sportsman, Ladies and also will include a Sidecar class.

Remember we have a £1500 prize fund* up for grabs again this year! This will be split between Expert, Clubman, O-40’s and Sportsman after the 3 rounds are complete. Download your entry form now and remember to get your entries in for Round 1 on the 20th April- Adrian Nixon Memorial Hare and Hounds.

* Please note that Sidecar and Ladies entries will not be eligible for Championship points or prize money.

Mid England MXC (Moto X Country)
(Story Update: April 08, 2008)

A brand new race series is heading for mid-England aimed at bringing Moto X and Enduro together with a 4 round championship run on Saturdays from May through to July.

The events will all be based on stubble field type land with small woodlands linking a smaller than normal enduro course but a bigger than normal MX circuit together. All of the venues will be based in mid England with FUN being the focus of these races.

The GBXC team are trying to encourage all of the Midlands-based motocross riders to come and have a go at Cross Country racing.
The format is simple with riders getting three races each during the course of the day.
The adults will race in 3 x 45 minute motos and the juniors will ride 3 x 30 minute races, with 1 result at the end of all three.

With Classes in the adults catering for Open/Clubman/veteran/sportsman Enduro riders and Expert/senior/ and Junior MX riders.
The Juniors races will cater for up to 65cc/upto 85cc/Upto 150cc.

The Mid England MXC is being run on a Saturday as to not interfere with the already very busy motocross and enduro calendars, thus giving riders chance to come and sample quality XC racing ON FUN RIDEABLE EASY VENUES.

The venues will all be totally rideable and flowing and all offer good parking.

The venues and dates for MEMXC are as follows…
SATURDAY MAY 31ST  MIDLANDS
SATURDAY JUNE 14TH WEM
SATURDAY AUGUST 2ND  SHROPSHIRE
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27th  SHROPSHIRE         

Once again Paul Edmondson and Steve Ireland have come up with the logistics to promote and organise this new exciting series and their GBXC (Great Britain Cross Country) credentials will ensure some great racing.

Entries will be limited(200 per meeting) so riders will have to book in quick as it will be a first come, first served system with riders not needing to hold licences or become registered with the series.
More information and entry details are coming very soon.

For further enquiries contact
Steve on 07929902692 or Paul on 07973563191.

Kawasaki present official racing teams to global media in Valkenswaard
(Story Update: April 05, 2008)

Kawasaki’s official World championship motocross teams are presented to the world’s motocross media during a 60 minute show just hours before first GP in Valkenswaard.

The massive line-up of Kawasaki’s official World championship motocross teams - Kawasaki Racing Team, Team GPKR, Molson Kawasaki Racing and Team CLS – were presented to the world’s motocross media during a slick 60 minute show in Valkenswaard, Holland just one day before the MX1 and MX2 World championships began.

In front of an assembled assortment of moto journalists from around the world Kawasaki Motors Europe Marketing Executive Frank Zoontjes hosted the presentation. Kawasaki Europe’s racing co-ordinator Steve Guttridge, Takashi Yasui and the Managing Director of Kawasaki Motors Europe Masafumi Nakagawa were all introduced formally before the Team Green concept was reaffirmed and each individual team’s manager and riders took centre stage to offer a brief explanation of their own history and goals for 2008.

Between them Kawasaki’s official World championship motocross teams have 10 riders participating at round one of the MX1 and MX2 world championships in Valkenswaard.

Fiery launch for Yamaha Monster Motocross Team
(Story Update: April 05, 2008)

The Yamaha Monster Motocross Team will be hoping to strike extra fear into their FIM Motocross World Championship rivals in 2008 thanks to a new alliance with Monster Energy drinks. The factory-backed Grand Prix squad – now entitled ‘Yamaha Monster Motocross Team’ thanks to the title sponsorship - will benefit from a high-profile three year joint programme with one of the new powerful movers in motorcycle racing for their attempt on the MX1-GP title.

On the eve of the first Grand Prix of fifteen in the 2008 MX1-GP World Championship the heart of the press corps headed north of Valkenswaard – location of the Eurocircuit, venue of the GP of the Netherlands – to see Philippaerts, Coppins and key personnel from Yamaha Motor Europe and Monster Energy present the new all-black factory YZ450FMs for the imminent season.

After the beach demonstration that saw Philippaerts manfully steer a snowmobile for the first time and Coppins actually getting some air under his wheels on the ATV, the riders and team took the covers off the works machinery and then joined in a small Q+A before a dinner took place. Over forty journalists and photographers from Europe, USA and Japan gathered to witness proceedings.

“For six years we have been pushing hard for titles with a lot of success, and as this is the first time that we will be wanting our red plate back everyone is more motivated than ever this season,” said Yamaha Motor Europe’s Racing Division Manager Laurens Klein Koerkamp. “In Josh Coppins we have a strong and fast rider who came so close to our fourth championship in four years last season and with David we have some new young blood that we hope will be capable of some very good results. We will be on the attack in the premier-class in 2008. I would also like to extend a deep welcome to Monster Energy and we look forward to a prosperous relationship together.”

“Yamaha’s team in MX1-GP is one with a fantastic heritage and a record of results that we like to be associated with,” said Monster Energy spokesman Scott Sepkovic. “We have a strong belief in allying our product with motocross and supercross and this can be seen in our support of youth programmes right through to our top athletes. I want to wish Josh and David all the best for the coming season.”

“The main difference you can see with the 2008 race machinery compared with 2007, is the colour,” joked Team Principal Michele Rinaldi, alluding to the departure of the Yamaha blue. “The bike has undergone some modifications to the chassis and suspension, we have gone from 50mm to 48 on the front end, and the engine has also had some work to the cylinder head, valve and exhaust among other things to improve the torque which gives more traction and stability. The noise limit has also been lowered from 96 to 94 decibels and this presented another technical challenge. As ever I am indebted to the work of the team and also our technical crew behind-the-scenes. We will see tomorrow the fruits of our work and hopefully even more so on Sunday afternoon.”

“I did not think I could be hungrier than I was last season to win the championship,” said Josh Coppins who came through his outing on the ATV without any problems regarding his healing toes. “However it is obvious that I have some unfinished business from last season. This is the not best start I could have hoped for,” he added referring to the support cast on his right foot “but I will be out there and ready to get this year underway.”

“The 2007 bike was already good but I feel the changes we have produced for this year have made it more user friendly - certainly for me - and it is good for your confidence to go to the gate with something you know is capable of delivering the goods,” the 31 year old commented on the 2008 YZ450FM.

“It is great to be part of this team, especially for me being Italian; it is so easy to work with them and I feel very comfortable,” admitted Philippaerts, who makes his Grand Prix debut for the team over the weekend. “I think the good feeling I have has been obvious with some decent pre-season races. I am excited to start the season now and can’t wait for tomorrow.”

The first day of practice and qualification at the Valkenswaard circuit takes place on Saturday before the two 35 minutes and 2 lap motos for the MX1-GP and MX2-GP classes commence on Sunday.

Two weekends on the trot for WOR CHAMPIONSHIPS in April
(Story Update: April 02, 2008)

News just in from WOR...

APRIL 6th NOW AT LLANDRILLO FOREST
Contary to yesterdays news (see below), this weekend will NOT be returning to Maeshafn as unfortunately the car park area is not drying out as planned and in the interest of not damaging the field any more the land owner has asked us to make other arrangements.

So, Round 1 of the Acerbis Sprint Scramble will now be at Llandrillo Forest.

OPEN PRACTICE DAY ADDED FOR THE 5th APRIL
Due to moving this Sunday’s event to Llandrillo Forest we are able to add an open practice day on the Saturday.

This will be similar to the race experience days but with out a race. You will be able to do as much riding as you like from 10:00am through until 3:00pm

More details available from the web sites home page.

WOR Events will be definitely by running the first round of the ACERBIS SPRINT SCRAMBLES this coming Sunday, April 6th. After postponing it due to "freaky" wet weather last weekend, the event will be re-run this Sunday.

“No matter what the weather... if we have a dry week then the event will go ahead at the planned MOLD, MAESHAFN venue,” said Steve Ireland. “If it turns out to be a bad week of rain then the club have the provision in hand to run at a hard-standing forest-based venue not far away from Mold.”

This decision will be announced nearer the weekend, although it is 90% certain to be at MAESHAFN.

All entries for this event are to be run through Ian on 07944378432 or entries@worevents.com.

STOP PRESS... With the PUTOLINE XC series cancelled by Fast Eddy Racing on the 6th April, WOR will be happy to accommodate disappointed riders that would have been travelling to Kent.
 
The following weekend (12/13th APRIL) sees WOR Events stage the first round of the FMF JUNIOR HARE SCRAMBLES of 2008 and the MOTUL GB HARE SCRAMBLES kick off at the awesome Robins Mountain Venue near Abergele. A548 from A55.
This is always a great venue and is one of the club’s best, However it just got better as new land has been released to WOR to make the circuit even better.
 
With some lovely new bits of grasslands and some really nice hill climbs and descents, along with recently graded and new tracks in the 12 separate sections of woodland the venue will offer a brilliant ride for all abilities.

The new FMF junior series has had loads of interest and looks like being a real stormer, catering for kids from 65cc's through to 150cc's, there will be fun to be had for all. Running on Saturday afternoon(12th) for 2 hours, starting at 3.30pm.

The kids’ series is open to newcomers and in fact any young off road rider interested in having a go at racing Hare Scrambles and XC.
 
Then the MOTUL HARE SCRAMBLES returns on the 13th. A 2 hour am race for the intermediate classes followed by the good old 3 hour main moto at 12.45 pm.
Hopefully there will be a run of some nice spring weather to make everyone lift out of the gloom of the recent rains.

Anyone interested in more info on all WOR race challenges should visit www.worevents.com.

Ultimate Open Class Maico?
(Story Update: April 02, 2008)

For those riders striving for the ultimate open class weapon on which to do battle look no further, the monster Maico has arrived. Back in the day, circa 1979-1982 when men were men and women definitely didn’t run motocross companies! The 490 Maico was considered to be the ultimate open class bike. 27 years on and it looks like the German marque may be set to snatch back the title it once held with the 700cc two stroke missile.

Following a year’s development work carried out by Southern Motocross Chief Tony Ford, the monster Maico is now available in England via importer Maico U.K. with a demonstrator on hand for those who wish to attempt breaking the sound barrier to the first corner!

Despite the fear instilled into many by the engine size and the rumoured output of around 80 B.H.P. anyone familiar with the iconic brand will find the same smooth power delivery pulling right from the bottom end.

Speaking last week Maico U.K. boss Lesley Watton said “We have had massive interest in the supermoto versions of the 620cc and 700cc in England and have daily enquiries from around the globe for the Motocross version and can now offer what must be the ultimate open class bike to every horsepower hungry motocrosser in Britain.”

Dan and Neil prepare for Maico Assault
Providing the backdrop for the opening round of the D.E.P. British Two Stroke Championship, the Canada Heights circuit near Swanley in Kent will see its almost legendary race track swarming with two stroke devotees when the series clicks into gear on the 6th of April.

Taking a change of direction for this season, fast charging local racer Dan Lillington has opted out of the four-stroke brigade and will be mixing it up in the open expert class onboard a new Maico.

The 21 year old, who is well known in the area, has worked his way up through the schoolboy ranks taking various titles along the way and over the last few years has established himself racing in the Maxxis British Championship on board a 450 Honda.

Following a chance meeting with importers Maico U.K. last year Lillington found himself back on a two stroke and spent several days testing a 500cc and 320cc Maico at a local practice venue. Clearly looking comfortable on either bike and after a few engine and suspension tweaks to suit his weight and riding style, Dan was presented with the opportunity to campaign the bikes for the year in the British Two Stroke Championship.

Relishing the chance of a fresh challenge Dan will have a 500 and 320 Maico at his disposal this season and is looking forward to the ten round series.

After a hard fought campaign in the junior open class last year, taking 6th place overall in the series, local teenager Neil Watton is hoping to join the Maico line up later in the year on-board a Hardcore tuned 250cc or 320cc.  The 19 year old has provided invaluable feedback since the first batch of bikes hit the U.K. shores in October, working tirelessly at every opportunity testing various different set-ups for the bikes.

Bringing the iconic German Marque back to the U.K. with a substantial line up of on and off road machines including the phenomenal 685 Supermoto and 700cc Motocrosser, Maico U.K. have found a wide and varied customer base for the entire two stroke range. Speaking to us last week Maico U.K. chief Lesley Watton told us, “Brand awareness is crucial for us and I am confident that both Dan and Neil will work hard to help us re-establish the Maico name out on the track. We are currently dealing with a high demand for the big bore bikes and have recently registered and sold two road going 500’s, one in Enduro format and one in Supermoto guise, as well as shipping several bikes abroad with the most recent one on its way to South Africa.”

With several companies including Maxima Oils U.K., Pro-grip, Pro Clean, and Falcon Shocks already showing allegiance to the brand in terms of Race support and sponsorship the companies foothold is growing steadily in both sectors of the marketplace. Fans of the big bore bikes will be pleased to know that due to the unexpected demand for the monster sized motors Maico have introduced a 700cc motocross demonstrator which lines up next to the 250, 320 and 500.

For those interested in testing the monster Maico 700 or any bike in the range please contact Maico U.K. 07884 190941 or e-mail info@maicouk.co.uk.

Swanepoel to miss start of GP season
(Story Update: March 31, 2008)

Molson Kawasaki’s South African superstar Gareth Swanepoel is due to undergo a wrist operation on Wednesday and is confirmed to miss the start of the MX2 season

After struggling through the pre-season races in a lot of pain and discomfort 23-year-old Gareth Swanepoel has made the brave but smart decision to sit out the start of the MX2 world motocross championship in order to get his wrist fixed hopefully once and for all.

The scaphoid injury has been a problem for Gareth since early in the 2006 season when he originally broke the troublesome bone in his right wrist but after late season bone graft surgery in ’07 it was hoped that the small bone would heal properly with the aid of a small screw. Unfortunately for Gareth this wasn’t the case and a recent exploratory examination proved that the surgery had not been completely successful and the bone had still not healed.

Gareth will now go under the knife again and a vascularised bone graft will be carried out. The aftercare for this operation includes being plastered to above the elbow and it’s expected that the recovery period should be in the region of four months.

"Obviously we are devastated for Gareth,” explains Molson team manager Lisa Church. ”We know he has worked hard over the winter to get over both his foot and hand surgery and we had high hopes for him for the ‘08 season. He has been struggling with the wrist pain in the early races and it is quite a serious problem and something he needs to get sorted. We have every confidence that he will come back strong and hopefully without any pain.”

The remaining members of the Molson Kawasaki team go into this weekend’s opening round of the world championship with high hopes of success with Stephen Sword and Gautier Paulin flying the Molson colours in MX2 on their factory KX250F-SRs while Tom Church makes an MX1 debut for the Molson squad on the KX450F.

Rattray teams up with Red for stellar GP campaign
(Story Update: March 30, 2008)

As the clock ticks down to the start of the 2008 FIM MX2 Motocross World Championship one of the main favourites for the crown, factory KTM racer Tyla Rattray, is able to count on the help of a valued partner in his quest for title glory.

The South African and former MX2 series runner-up has closed a deal with Red clothing, a leisurewear division of the Mr Price Group Limited, as he enters his sixth season as a leading MX2 protagonist and hoping to add to his haul of 14 Grand Prix wins that makes him currently the second most successful rider in the category.

The 22-year-old has enjoyed an association with high-street label Mr Price for several years and will now promote Red, a surf-wear section of the group that was established in South Africa in 1987 and now has over 800 stores across the country and other African states.

"I am really happy to have signed a deal with Red,” said Rattray, who is set to steer the very latest works 250cc machinery from the Austrian manufacturer for the sixth year. “It is a very big company and I am happy to be apart of their sports team. It is also good for me to have a South African sponsor, which is not always easy to obtain because all my sporting events are based in Europe. As the saying goes ‘I am a proud South African’ so to have this deal with a company at home really inspires me, so am really looking forward to this season with them and to having many more."

“Mr Price / RED are really ecstatic to have signed up Tyla Rattray as one of their athletes,” commented Brad Rowlett, Mr Price Sports Marketing. “Not only does Tyla and the sport he competes in represent the RED brand in accordance with the company’s target market and everyday consumer, the fact that Tyla is a South African by nationality makes the fit and association with the brand that much stronger! We have no doubt that Tyla will be a great ambassador for the brand given his friendly personality, hard-working attitude and having world class recognition to back these attributes up.”

Along with AMA campaign Grant Langston, Rattray is arguably South Africa’s most internationally recognised motorcycle racer. He entered world championship competition as a wide-eyed teenager in 2001, gained his first podium result in 2002 and maiden victory in 2004, the year he finished second in the series. Although several injuries have frustrated his pursuit of the ultimate prize in the last three campaigns Rattray now has a healthy degree of experience to match his determination and speed. In 2008 he will be looking to dethrone Italian Antonio Cairoli and again represent his country as one of the three best South African motocrossers for the 62nd Motocross of Nations at Donington Park in the United Kingdom.

The fifteen round world championship will begin on April 6th at the Valkenswaard circuit in Holland. Thereafter trips to Spain, Portugal, Bulgaria, Italy, Great Britain, France, Germany, Sweden, South Africa (at Nelspruit), Belgium, Czech Republic, Ireland, Holland and finally Italy once more will occur over the following six months.

Roof of Africa 2008
Do it again!
(Story Update: March 28, 2008)

Mark your calendar. The Roof of Africa returns to the Kingdom of Lesotho. The 41st edition of the legendary race takes place from 27 to 29 November 2008, and race promoter BABOONS, together with KTM, impress yet again with an exciting race package for European participants.

Following the magnificent revival of 2007, the Mother of all Hard Enduro events keeps raising the bar. And those die-hard enthusiasts who accept the challenge will be rewarded big time. With breathtaking mountains. Through African tradition. By a course laid out to separate the men from the boys.

Originally the Roof was a car race, but soon motorcycles and quads were added. From 20 participants during its 1967 debut, the event grew steadily and the 2006 event saw more than 500 bikes and quads on the line - all desperate to earn the prestigious finisher batch.

Last year BABOONS took command by purchasing the international marketing rights from the national Lesotho organisation and together they decided to make it a motorcycle-only event - due to logistics and infrastructure. This move allowed for a much more selective race course and resulted in only 10 per cent of the about 250 starters in the 2007 event actually taking the chequered flag.

This year‘s three-day spectacle will again kick off with a Supermoto-style prologue through the capital of Maseru. The track will be lined by thousands of local Basothos who are well known for their friendly enthusiasm. There‘s little doubt they‘ll turn the streets into a madhouse - in the word‘s very best meaning.

While the opening may be unique, and the following 80 time trial km still on the easy side, the real challenge is to unfold the next morning when 400 km of outright honest off road terrain present their ugly face. Honest because there‘s neither a road book nor any connecting or special stages. The whole course is marked by a colour system that‘s easy to comprehend while at race pace. This allows maximum concentration and plays a big part in why there never have been serious accidents or even fatalities in the history of the “Roof".

But there‘s also the option of navigating by GPS if desired.

The nasty course offers all you could possibly ask for: winding trails, rocky up- and treacherous downhills, tricky corners, drifts, river beds, 3000-plus mountain giants. You name it, Lesotho has it.

When the day is finally done, the hotel in Maseru forms the base camp for the next day. Then, much to everyone‘s joy, the torture starts all over again. Just on a different path.

The scoring couldn‘t be any simpler, too. The quickest after three days wins. Period. But be warned again. On average no more then 10 per cent do receive the prestigious finisher badge during the closing awards ceremony.

Such survivors will be entered into the “Roof Ranking of Fame" inside which, even after so many years, only a handful of European names can be found.

For the 2008 edition, race promoter BABOONS and KTM offers the following all-inclusive packages for European participants: return flight, service, catering, fuel, a “ready-to-race" KTM 300, and more. The price for all of this and a once-in-a-lifetime experience is ca. EUR 3,500.

Oh yes, before we forget: we know of certain KTM and BMW factory riders eager to take their rivalry to the Roof this coming November.

They‘ve marked their calendars well. What about you?
Further information visit: www.roof-of-africa.com

“LIFE WITH THE SHERCO’S SO FAR!”
REPORT BY STEVE IRELAND
(Story Update: March 28, 2008)

“Well here I am four months down the line, living with the Sherco 4.5i.
After the giddy start of winning the Ceri Expert Ironman, first ride ever on the 07 bike in mid-November last year, it has been a case of use the bike, wash and prep the bike, use the bike, wash and prep the bike and so on.

Trailworld Ltd, the very helpful and keen importers of Sherco Enduro Motorcycles into the UK, presented me with a 2008 4.5i in early December (leaving me with the 2007 4.5i as backup and for people to try!!).

The 2008 has some subtle changes but nothing to blast on about.
Testing the 2008 and the 2007 machine back to back on my forest-based test track showed absolutely no difference between the machines although the 2008 machine is even quieter than the 2007 due to an all new “cat” system for 2008.
 
This is even better because in this day and age, NO noise or low noise is so bloody important!! (Take note noisy 4t riders and 2t riders… the net is closing on you!!)

The bike in my opinion is still just unbelievably good and pushes all the right buttons for me. From suspension, handling, power delivery, brakes and the most important one… rideability… The  Sherco is still one of the best 4t enduro bikes I have ever had the privilege to put my leg over.

In January 2008, I booked into the excellent MWTRA Colstey hare and hounds in the competitive 4t enduro class. (This is an event that I have ridden every year for the last 11 years!!).
Riding the 2008 4.5i in totally standard trim apart from my Renthal Twin wall handle bars, Acerbis Hand Guards, bigger after market pegs and of course my Michelin Mooses, the bike performed awesome.

I had the ‘08 Tough One to organise only weeks away and rode the Colstey slightly less committed as I would normally have done due to the fact that I could not afford to hurt myself. Come the end of the 3 hours I had won the 4t class by 12 minutes and finished 6th overall out of the entire entry. I simply was not tired and again had fully enjoyed my time out on the track on the 450, proving my findings from the Ceri in late ‘07 were not in any way false or first time out luck (on the Sherco).

Lots of spectators and friends commented how smooth and quiet the bike was, yet it looked purposeful and aggressive in the slippery forest conditions.

That was the last competitive outing on the Sherco for me apart from two laps at the Kinnerton Hare and Hounds at the beginning of March and my bad back that plagues me every now and then literally put me back in the van after just 30 minutes.

In the meantime via my WOR Events, races, race experience days and training schools I have managed to get plenty of people taking interest in and, in fact, riding the awesome French built machines.

Championship BEC Enduro rider Chris Tett tried the bike (07) for an hour at one of our practice days and thought it was stunning, Rowland Morris (regular WOR winner) tried the bike (07) in a couple of races, winning one overall and then struggling a bit in the other which was round 1 of the GBXC in Matchams park. The reason Rowland struggled was down to his lack of experience riding in deep, whooped out sand rather than any failings on the bike.

Jason “Ratboy” Thomas then had a go on my 2008 machine on one of our RED days and was blown away by how smooth and powerful the bike was. Now Jason is quick on any bike and is in the top three fastest XC riders in the UK, full stop. He rode in round 1 of the Gas Gas XC series at our venue in Llandrillo and was simply unstoppable on the 4.5i.

What made Jason’s win even more impressive was the fact that he broke the rear brake pedal on lap two, therefore no rear brake at all, then he broke the gear lever and had to change by hand from lap 4. He dug deep and took a great win.

Jason commented at the end how hard he had found the disabilities of no brakes and a wonky gear lever but the overall performance of the bike was incredible with bags of grip and seamless fuel injection fed power.

So 16 weeks down the line and the findings for the Sherco are all still brilliant. Build quality is very good although stuff like decals tend to come off with power washing but that’s no big deal.
I’ve found the fork seals need lots of cleaning on the superb PI/Kayaba’s but so do most other competitive forks out there.

The connecter blocks on the wiring loom are now fully waterproof for 2008 and the bike has NEVER once failed to start on the button, First turn. (Neither has the 07 4.5i though!)
Fantastic piece of mind stuff!

I literally have no complaints... the very much anticipated 2.5i (250 4t) is on its way any day now and that bike will certainly cause a stir once out and about for the public to try. Watch out other 250 4t manufacturers as I reckon this little baby is special and will impress a lot of people.

Trailworld / Sherco Enduro UK will be present once a month at our WOR race experience days and offering try outs on the awesome range of these superb Enduro 4 stroke machines.
For further details visit www.worevents.com or www.trailworld.co.uk/shercoenduro.

I’m available at any time on 07929902692 to discuss my findings with the bike with any perspective buyer.

Until the next report ….signing off… to go play on my SHERCO!

Steve Ireland

Builth Wells Motor Club 2008
(Story Update: March 26, 2008)

After a very successful Hare and Hounds series in 2007, Builth Wells MC are hoping for a repeat performance for this year’s three-round Hare and Hounds series. Using two of last year’s venues, namely Coed Llyn Y Waun at Hundred House and The Bwlchciliau Forest near Llanafan, plus a venue yet to be confirmed, the club looks set to build upon the successes of 2007.

2007 was a great year for the club, putting up a prize fund of £1500 for the Hare and Hounds series proved to be an excellent move resulting in over 100 riders, including some top names attending the events. This year, the club are building upon the success of last year’s events and are continuing with the offer of a £1500 prize fund to attract a good number of entries.
 
The first event of the series is at Coed Llyn Y Waun, Hundred House, Llandrindod Wells on Sunday 20th April. The Club is running the event as the “Adrian Nixon Memorial Hare and Hounds” in memory of Adrian, who tragically lost his life in 1997. This event will be an annual fixture on the club’s calendar, and it is hoped to run the event as an Enduro in 2009 – as there is a chance of a superb start location just outside Hundred House village and a generous offer of new ground to run the event on... watch this space!

The first round of the H & H series looks set to be a good one, the club is continuing to use the popular Coed Llyn Y Waun venue that has been used for the past three years. This track has always been popular with competitors, mainly due to the varied terrain it offers riders, from woodland to open hill, bogs to brooks, this course has it all.

Since last year’s event a lot of the wood has been felled - however all Club members have worked hard together to create some new rides. Fortunately the owner of the wood, Gary Price, is exceptionally supportive of Builth Wells MC and is keen to conserve the track and work around it. This has created great scope for the club and enabled them to have an input in the design of the course.  The initial plan is to create a 7-mile loop, consisting of varied terrain that will be great to ride. This course really does have all the ingredients to create a high quality event that will be popular with riders. Entries always fill up quickly for this event, so please get your entry in early to avoid disappointment.

The venue for the second round of the series is yet to be confirmed but will run in May or June. We will keep you posted and watch out for the Regs which will be released soon.
    
The third and final round will be run on November 2nd at The Bwlchciliau Forest near Llanafan, Builth Wells. This event is all in the forest and is the more traditional “Welsh Enduro” type going. The event incorporates a lot of forestry tracks as well as some more technical going.  Regs for this event will be released nearer the time.

All of the events are designed to cater for all classes and are set out with every ability of rider in mind. Any more details on the series or events which Builth Wells MC put on can be found out by contacting Club secretary Nick Morgan on 07968331152

·Round 1- Adrian Nixon Memorial Hare and Hounds on 20 April 2008. Classes for Expert, Clubman, O-40’s, Sportsman and Ladies. Start 11am at Coed Llyn Y Waun Wood near Hundred House, Llandrindod Wells, Powys.
Regs HERE!

·Round 2- TBC

·Round 3- Bwlchciliau Forest Hare and Hounds on 2nd November 2008. Classes for Expert, Clubman, O-40’s, Sportsman and Ladies. Start at 11am at Bwlchciliau Forest near Llanfan, Builth Wells, Powys.

KTM's Offroad Director Pit Beirer talks about the 2008 MX season
(Story Update: March 21, 2008)

What are your expectations for the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team in 2008?
It is our goal to bring the entire team through the season in good health and to see a couple of our guys on the podium every Sunday. Together with Stefan Everts we have prepared a three-year plan and now we go together into the second season. We want to present our fans with a strong KTM performance through good team spirit and targeted preparation.
 
Strong contenders for the MX2 title with both Tyla Rattray and Tommy Searle?
I am certain that Tyla and Tommy have what is necessary to fight for the world championship title in MX2. Who ends up being the world champion at the end of the season is often a matter of luck. What we aspire to do is to be prepared in such a way so that our guys will be fighting it out for the title right up to the last GP.
 
What do you expect from Max Nagl this season?
For Max this season is definitely all about finally establishing himself among the world's top riders. He is still very young for the MX1 class and we are giving him time to further develop. I am very sure that Max can muster his power and finish on the podium at any time and a place in the top eight in the world championship should be possible.
 
What are your general expectations for the five new KTM supported teams in the 2008 MX season?
Our aim is simply to have a broader based- and bigger overall presence in the sport. It's our dream for the future to have our own factory riders come from our youth program. It's a lot of fun to work with these young guys and through our co-operation with Stefan Everts and his father Harry we have the possibility to offer the best training program on offer in the entire world of Motocross.
 
A few words about the strategy of supporting these teams?
The strategy is clearly defined. The spearhead is made up of the factory team with its four factory riders. Then there are the five satellite teams that we have created in close co-operation with our subsidiary companies in the various countries. Included in this is a further structure where we are already trying to bind talented young guys to us in the European championships.
 
Is it about nurturing young talent? Increasing KTM presence in the paddock?
It is not so much about increasing KTM's presence in the paddock; it's much more about training young athletes and preparing them for the big leap into the factory team. In the meantime it's become very expensive to get into the sport and there are not many who are able to afford to compete in the world championships. With our program we want to show that it's possible to get to the top through good results and a start in the world championship is not just about having plenty of money.
 
I hear you worked closely with the KTM motor sports representatives in the individual countries to choose riders for the five supported teams. Is that correct and what qualities were you looking for in the riders?
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our managing directors from our country subsidiaries. We would not be able to find these great talents without their help and their skill at having the right eye to pick them out. The qualities we look for are simple. We want guys who really have the passion for the sport, that have a big heart and the will to work towards the big target.
 
Looking at the very young riders - for example in the GP Juniors Team Champ (Jeremy van Horebeek and Joel Roelants): how were these guys selected and what makes them stand out as being ready to race at this level?
These two are a wonderful mix from our junior structures. Joel was discovered by Jacky Martens and he already took care of him for us in the European Championship. Jeremy was discovered by Kees van de Ven and he rode to podium places in his first year. It is only because of these structures that we have these young guys in our line of vision, otherwise maybe we would not have seen them until it was too late.
 
What would you expect from them in the first year?
If they could ride regularly in the top ten of the world, we would be very happy.
 
Some of the teams are new and it will be a chance for young riders to gain a footing in top class racing. But Jonathan Barragan will be riding in MX1 for Team Silver Action and so will Marcus Schiffer (Team Sarholz). So here we have two riders who can challenge the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rider Max Nagl. Will any of these three riders be title contenders in MX1?
I am really sure that Jonathan and Max will be regular guests on the world championship podium but it would be presumptuous to talk about the world championship title at this stage. I think we should use this year to perfectly position the team for the future and in 2009 a young rider from our own juniors program will then fight for the MX1 title!!

NMSF (Namibia) Championship celebration at Hotel Thule
(Story Update: March 18, 2008)

The posh Thule restaurant was the place to be on March 15th. for all ardent motorsport enthusiasts when the Namibian Motor Sport Federation (NMSF), held their annual prize giving for the 2007 National Champions in the various categories. It was a highly-festive atmosphere, the dinner was excellent and the recipients of the valuable trophies were all smiles. At the time of going to press only the results of the motocross as well as the enduro riders were available.

MX 50cc: 1. Michal Barlow; 2. William Smith; 3. Yoshua Becker;
MX 65cc: 1. Eric Garbers; 2. Tristan Muller; 3. Pauli Loots;
MX 85cc: 1. Mark Sternagel ; 2. Jaco Loots ; 3. Schalk Louw;
MX 125cc: 1. Frank Klosta; 2. Eckhard Hall; 3. Henry O’Kennedy;
MX Open: 1. Ronnie Adams; 2. Arno Engels; 3. Sascha Becker;
MX King of the Dirt: 1. Frank Klosta; 2. Arno Engels; 3. Ronnie Adams.

The enduro riders form their own working group within the Windhoek Motocross Club, they organise Enduros countrywide and are very active. During the course of the evening Enduro Champion Ingo Waldschmidt made a speech, thanking his sponsors who had enabled him to participate in the famous Paris-Dakar Rallye (which was stopped because of feared terrorist attacks) and promised to train hard for the upcoming replacement Rally in South America next year.

The following are the Namibian Champions 2007 in the Enduro categories:
Enduro Class 200cc: 1. Andreas Brendel; 2. Luke Pennefather: 3. Robert Liebchen;
Enduro Class 201 –250cc. 1. Ingo Waldschmidt; 2. Ronnie Adams; 3. Heiko Hennes;
Enduro-Quads: 1. Phillipie Baard; 2. Dirkie Baard; 3. Marius Faul.

Yamaha factory MX team unites with Monster Energy
(Story Update: March 18, 2008)

The Yamaha Monster Motocross Team will be hoping to strike extra fear into their FIM Motocross World Championship rivals in 2008 thanks to a new alliance with Monster Energy drinks. The factory-backed Grand Prix squad – now entitled ‘Yamaha Monster Motocross Team’ thanks to the title sponsorship - will benefit from a high-profile three year joint programme with one of the new powerful movers in motorcycle racing for their attempt on the MX1-GP title.

Monster Energy, a product of California-based subsidiary Monster Beverage Co. part of the Hansen Beverage Company, have also lent their backing to the AMA Supercross series (an FIM World Championship) and have now extended their reach into the motocross Grand Prix paddock with the team responsible for winning three of the four titles since the MX1 class was born in 2004.

“It's fantastic to have Monster Energy on board with us,” said Yamaha Motor Europe’s Racing Division Manager Laurens Klein Koerkamp. “Our results with the team over a long period have shown that we can offer Monster - as a partner - the top level successful image that they are looking for in Europe. During the discussions it was clear we were speaking to a company dedicated to supporting us in getting the best results and above all passion for off-road sport. Monster is a young and fresh brand, relatively new to Europe. It will be also exciting from a marketing point of view to work with them and raise their awareness on this side of the world.”

The works YZ450FMs of Joshua Coppins and David Philippaerts will run a new design and livery for 2008 that will be unveiled in a special presentation on Friday evening prior to the first Grand Prix in Holland on April 6th.

The team rightfully fill a position of prominence in world championship motocross racing having won the MX1-GP crown three times in succession with the potent YZ machinery from 2004 to 2006. Prior to the inauguration of the MX1-GP class they were also responsible for three 500cc titles in 1999, 2001 and 2002. They dominated races in the short-lived MXGP competition (a forerunner to MX1-GP) in the 2003 season when Stefan Everts also made history by winning three motos on a Yamaha in three different categories on the same day at the Grand Prix of France. In 2006 they helped the Belgian to record ten world championships and 101 career victories before his retirement.
The crew were desperately close to a fourth crown in 2007 until Coppins sustained an untimely injury deep into the second half of the campaign while leading by a mammoth 107 points. With five overall triumphs and nine moto wins the New Zealander was still an outstanding performer of last year’s championship with more trophies than anyone else.

Monster Energy is emerging to become one of the premier energy drink brands on the planet. Popular in the United States, the drink first appeared on the market in 2002 and has expanded both in terms of its distribution, profile and range of flavours and products on offer. They are currently birthing and evolving their network in Europe and the association with Yamaha as one of the most successful motorcycle brands in off-road sport and one of the most prolific teams within the last ten years of motocross, is sure to assist in their blossoming project.

“We view the partnership between Monster Energy, Yamaha and the Rinaldi brothers as a European version of Monster Energy’s relationship with Mitch and Pro Circuit,” said Monster Energy spokesman Scott Sepkovic. “The Rinaldi Yamahas enjoy great racing heritage on the GP circuit, dating back to championships won by Donny Schmit and Bobby Moore. Monster Energy is looking forward to teaming up with this fine racing tradition as we continue to expand the Monster Energy brand globally. Here’s to a strong and healthy season for Josh Coppins and David Philippaerts the best of luck to both racers at their quest for the MX1 class championship. We’re pumped to have Yamaha Motor Europe and their team on board with Monster Energy.”

Team SUSO MVR-D Suzuki
(Story Update: March 18, 2008)

Team SUSO MVR-D Suzuki would like to set the record straight after what was a disastrous start to our British Championship campaign at Donington Park last weekend.

There was an issue with tyres and wheels which has now been fully looked into and the problem solved. The tyres supplied by Goldentyre have been extensively tested by the team with great results including the new tubeless system.

The team has tested and raced with no problems what so ever, at Donington it was human error that was at fault not the product, it was certainly a day to forget.

Team Manager - Mark Chamberlain: "I have to take the blame for what happened at the first round as I made the call on what to use. We have tested throughout the off season and the feedback from all riders has been positive.

"The confusion at Donington was that it said tubeless on the side of the tyre as this is the mould for the future production of the tubeless tyre. I made a mistake and I apologise to our sponsors and riders for what happened.

"SUSO MVR-D Suzuki and Goldentyre are now working hard to put things right and make sure we never have a mix up like this again. I strongly believe in Goldentyre as a product and the tubeless system, it was purely a mistake but one that has cost us dearly.

"Jason's second race DNF was unrelated as a stone got caught in his chain guide and it derailed it. It was a frustrating weekend all round and we are all determined to put things right in the coming weeks.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved with the team as the amount of hard work that has gone in is second to none to get us on the race track with what is a limited budget at this level. I'm convinced the riders will make it all worthwhile and the team’s true potential will push them to the forefront of motocross in the UK and Europe."

ACU and TRF Agree Landmark Rights of Way Deal
(Story Update: March 08, 2008)

The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) and the Trial Riders Fellowship (TRF) have agreed a new deal that will help secure the future of many Rights of Way across the country.

As National Governing Body for motorcycle sport in the UK, the ACU are one of a number of ‘Statutory Bodies’ appointed to by Government to receive notices and notifications about changes to Rights of Way across the UK. These range from the simple re direction of a footpath to the complex and wide ranging implications of the on going Cross Rail development in London.

Once sorted, information and notices relevant to motorcycle sport and recreation are disseminated to a network of local ACU and other volunteers who can take whatever action they feel necessary in light of the information they receive.

However, a significant decline in the number of individuals prepared to receive and handle this information over recent years has meant that the whole system has slowly lost its efficiency in many areas of the UK.

The new deal between the ACU and the TRF will see all future notices being sent directly to the TRF for distribution amongst both the existing Respondents and active TRF members in relevant areas of the UK.

Andy Gerrard, Chairman of the TRF is delighted with the new deal, “We have been discussing this with the ACU for some time, and I am personally delighted that we have agreed this new system,” explained Gerrard.

“The lack of volunteers on the ground willing to undertake this work has become a serious flaw in the system and is an issue for both the TRF and ACU. I am confident that with a combination of the existing ACU Respondents and some of our active TRF members we will be better able to give all relevant Rights of Way notices the attention that they require” he continued.

ACU Business Development Manager Dave Luscombe is equally delighted with the new agreement,
“Access to Rights of Way is fundamental to both motorcycle sport and recreation,” explained Luscombe.

“At a time when the volunteer ‘work force’ is declining across all sectors, it is vitally important that organisations with similar agendas and objectives work together to achieve the results that they both need. It has been a pleasure to work with Andy to reach this deal and I believe that this marks the beginning of a closer working relationship between the two organisations for the wider benefit of all sporting and recreational motorcyclists” explained Luscombe.

ACU Coaching Courses
(Story Update: March 08, 2008)

ACU Move to Give Added Value to Commercial Coaches
In recognition of the fact that a core of well trained and passionate sporting Coaches is fundamental to the success of the next generation of motorcycle champions, the ACU Training Department is launching two new initiatives to give added value to ACU Commercial Coaches.

With demand for places on the ACU Commercial Coach programme at an all time high, the numbers of Commercial sporting motorcycle Coaches is set to double in 2008. This will be a significant boost for anyone wishing to learn motorcycle sport’s essential skills.

To enable the public to make an informed choice when looking for a Coach, the ACU will be promoting its Registered Coaches via electronic and printed media.

First of all, the public will be able to find a full list of Registered Commercial Coaches on the ACU Web Site under the Training and Coaching link:

http://www.acu.org.uk/news/stories.aspx?category=Coaching&subcategory=News

Secondly, the ACU will be running a series of six adverts in the off road motorcycle press during the summer of 2008, with a full list of Registered Commercial Coaches and an outline of the main benefits to parents and riders of choosing a National Governing Body Registered Coach.

Dave Luscombe, Head of the ACU Training Department sees this new initiative as an important development in the ACU Coaching Programme, “ACU Registered Commercial Coaches have made a significant investment in themselves by choosing to qualify for the Register of Commercial Coaches. This new initiative recognises this investment and the valuable contribution that they are now able to bring to the sport,” explained Luscombe.

“By promoting our Coaches in a public domain we will also give the riding public, and parents of riders, the information that they need to make an informed choice about the most appropriate people to train their children; ideally choosing those who are properly qualified, assessed and have undergone the necessary checks. Naturally ACU Registered Coaches can tick all of the boxes!” continued Luscombe.

For more information on the ACU Coach Certification Programme, please contact the ACU Training Department on 01788 566419 or dw@acu.org.uk.

ACU Commercial Coaching Goes From Strength to Strength
The ACU Commercial Coach programme gained even more credibility as the recognised industry standard for motorcycle sport when another class of high calibre students ‘graduated’ from the latest Commercial Coach Course.

The two day course, conducted at the Lilleshall National Sports Centre, near Newport, Shropshire, is the final step on the road to full Coach Registration, for anyone wishing to become a commercial motorcycle sport coach.

The latest group of students to attend the commercial coach course included former top British and GP Motocross rider Paul Malin and top Trials and Enduro rider Wayne Braybrook.

The twelve coaches were put throu