World Champion – Toni Bou ready for his maiden trip to Scotland
(Story Latest Update: February 05, 2010)

Whilst Toni Bou – Repsol Montesa is currently occupied and focused on retaining his SPEA FIM Indoor Trial World title, the twenty-three-old maestro also has one eye on the challenge that lies ahead later in the year when the action switches outdoors. Since joining the mighty Montesa squad at the back end of 2006, the young Spanish rider has been simply unstoppable, winning six World crowns to date.

Bou’s campaign to be 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Champion will begin in his homeland in mid April and will be at its crucial halfway point when the series visits the Scottish Highlands come the end of June. With the championship having last visited Scotland back in 1992, many of the new crop of top riders, Bou included have never been to what remains the Mecca of trials globally.

Fresh from his devastating win at the SPEA FIM Indoor Trial World Championship event in Barcelona, Bou talked about his excitement at finally having the chance to visit Scotland and especially Fort William later this year.

“I have never been in Scotland before in my whole life, so I am really looking forward to this competition. Ever since I was young I have known about Fort William because of the Scottish Six Days Trial. It is a special place for all trials riders including me.

“I have some idea of what to expect as I have watched some DVD’s about the Scottish and each year I follow the trial on the internet or in the Spanish magazines.

“I think it will be a different type of trial, but one I am looking forward to. Maybe it will be difficult for the Spanish riders, as the conditions will be difficult for us as we are not used to slippery sections. Anyway I have time to train and prepare for this event, as I really want to win in Scotland for many reasons.

“The British public are always fantastic, as they really know our sport well. I know that perhaps they will want a British winner, maybe Dabill or Lampkin, but also I know that they always give me good support.

“There are many competitions before Fort William, but already I am thinking about this special trial.”

The only UK leg of the 2010 SPEA FIM trial World Championship will take place at Nevis range, Fort William - Scotland over 25/26/27th June, and is just one of three two-day competitions in the series.

For further event information and to take advantage of the great advance discounted ticket offers please visit www.ukworldtrial.com or call 0845 643 6756.

Britain’s best take on international stars at BESC opener
(Story Latest Update: February 05, 2010)

Knighter leads long list of British talent while Taddy Blazusiak and Joakim Ljunggren add international flavour.

The majority of Britain’s best enduro riders have already confirmed their participation in the 2010 British Enduro Sprint Championship, which gets underway on March 27/28 at Chavenage Farm, Gloucester, with Farioli KTM star David Knight leading the way. With entries in the Elite, Expert and Under 23 classes filling up one thing that won’t be missing when this exciting new series gets underway is close racing action. With KTM’s Daryl Bolter, Greg Evans and Ed Jones, Husqvarna’s Si Wakely and Matt Ridgeway, TM’s Philip McLaughlin and Aussie import Josh Green, Husaberg’s Ollie Moyce and Jamie Paget, and Gas Gas riders Ashley Wood and Bradley King just some of the confirmed riders the race to claim this year’s BESC titles is already hotting up.

Confirmed as competing alongside Britain’s best are KTM’s indoor and extreme enduro specialist Taddy Blazusiak and Husaberg’s #1 WEC racer Joakim Ljunggren. Both using the event as preparation for the opening rounds of the World Enduro Championship their participation will not only add an exciting international twist to the event, but also ensure more great racing action. With Taddy the reigning US Endurocross and FIM Indoor Enduro World Cup winner, and Joakim a former two-time Enduro Junior WEC champion who placed third in last year’s Enduro 2 WEC category, both will be looking for a spot on the Elite class podium.

The rider to beat in the Elite class looks set to be former two-time World Enduro Champion and US GNCC title winner David Knight. Wanting to be the first rider to win the Elite class BESC title, and in doing so adding to his long list of championship and event victories, Knighter will unquestionably be a force to be reckoned with. But with former European Enduro Championship winners Daryl Bolter and Si Wakely, and experienced enduro racers Ed Jones, Greg Evans and Philip McLaughlin, all up for the challenge there’ll be plenty of home-grown talent gunning for success.

The Under-23 class is already stacked with talent, ensuring racing every bit as close as in the Elite and Expert classes. Bringing together Britain’s growing number of gifted Under 23 enduro riders most all manufacturers will have at least one rider hoping to triumph. Included in the Under-23 class riders so far confirmed for the BESC series are the likes of Ashley Wood, Bradley King, Matt Ridgeway, Ollie Moyce, Jamie Paget, Alex Rockwell, Charlie Evans, Craig Reynolds, Frazer Norrie, Gave Houson, Tom Braddock, Joe Jones, James Burroughs, Mike Evans and Australian Josh Green.

Not to be overlooked the Expert class, which combines both Expert and Clubman class rider, has also attracted a sizeable group of riders all hoping for success. With the likes of Karl Greenall, Tom Smith, Robert Lynn, Tony Cotty, Jesse Say, Freddie Broadway, Simon Ellway, Richard Ely, Peter Ballinger and Aaron Poolman all confirmed it ensures that the opening round of the BESC series is an event not to be missed.

Riders wanting to compete in the British Enduro Sprint Championship can still do so and can find Regs and entry forms, as well as detailed championship information, on the series’ website – www.enduro-sprint.com.

John Collins – ACU Trials & Enduro Chairman: “It’s fantastic to see that so many riders have already stepped forward to compete in the first British Enduro Sprint Championship, not just in the Elite class but in all classes. From the Elite class through the Expert class to the Under 23 category it’s clear that competition will be high, which can only be a good thing for British enduro sport. The addition of a handful of international riders will help add to the sense of occasion at the first round. This is a hugely encouraging start to the BESC series, the ACU now hopes more riders will compete in this exciting new series.”

WOR EVENTS TIMECARD ENDURO
(Story Latest Update: February 03, 2010)

WOR Events have announced that after a three year gap since the last one, The organisation are bringing a new Time Card Enduro to their already busy race schedule.

Running on Sunday March 7th, 2010 at the Club's superb Cefn Llwyd Forest, the event will be a traditional Time Check affair with a superb natural and flowing 15k loop and a very interesting special test.

The event will cater for all classes from Experts through to Beginners and Regs are available to download as you read this from the clubs website, www.worevents.com. The course will be a full-on forest bonanza and will typify what an old fashioned Enduro used to be like.

Entries are limited to 140 and are expected to fill up very quickly indeed with only postal entries being accepted. The WOR guys have be inundated with requests to run another TCE after the success of the first one back in April 2007 that Tom Sagar won in fine style whilst he was a fully supported KTM rider. Tom Sagar and Enduro Legend Paul "Fast Eddy" Edmondson who are the top guys in the new Fast Eddy Suzuki Putoline Enduro team are already booked in and headlining the 2010 event, so a quality entry will be a certainty.

All riders are welcome to come and have a go at this event and it is open to non-WOR riders to enter also, opening the door for new riders to come over and ride within the quality WOR Events’ camp.

More details and entry forms are HERE or at www.worevents.com and by calling 07929902692 (leave a message if no answer!)... be quick though as this event is expected to fill quickly.

Anderson, Simpson and Nunn are latest to sign up for Hawkstone
(Story Latest Update: February 02, 2010)

A whole host of top British Motocross riders have now signed up for the 13th Annual Hawkstone International meeting on the 7th March 2010. With the event fast approaching and the weather finally starting to look more appealing some of the best British riders have put their name down for part of the action.

2009 British MX1 Champion Brad Anderson has signed up on his PAR Homes Honda and will be eager to kick start the season with a strong results and show what he is worth in front of some of the World's best riders. He will be joined by his PAR Homes team-mates, local rider Ray Rowson in MX1 and new signing Irish star Martin Barr in MX2.

Red Bull KTM factory rider Shaun Simpson will be a welcome sight at the Hawkstone International and this could be one of his very few appearances on British soil this year. The formed British MX2 Champion and GP winner will be keen to put on a good show in front of his home crowd and fight off the likes of World number five, youngster Ken Roczen on the TEKA Suzuki and World number 7 Joel Roelants on the JM Racing KTM.

Another former British Champion and crowd favourite Carl Nunn will be competing in the MX1 class on the MVR-D Suzuki and Hawkstone whizz kid Matiss Karro in MX2. The two MVR-D riders will be joined by a number of top brits including  James Noble, Wayne Smith, Tom Church, Lewis Gregory, Stephen Sword, Elliott Banks-Browne, Lewis Tombs, Kristian Whatley, Lewis Rose, Josh Waterman and James Cottrell who are all competing for the top spots in both the MX1 and MX2 classes.

LEOVINCE CONTINUES WITH CAS HONDA IN 2010
(Story Latest Update: January 28, 2010)

CAS Honda have announced that they will continue their long-term partnership with LeoVince for the provision of performance silencers, used to help power the team’s CRF450R race machines, for their assault on the British and World MX1 Championships this season.

Following a six-year partnership with the team, which is entering its 12th season of racing, LeoVince has confirmed that it will be continuing its commitment to the CAS Honda squad in both the domestic and World motocross series.

The LeoVince brand is owned by the Sito Group, a family run business based in Italy, which has been manufacturing products for motorcycles for more than 50 years. LeoVince produces silencers for two and four-stroke engines, and specialises in performance exhausts, as used on the CAS Honda CRF450R race machines.

LeoVince has been developing products and with its years of experience designing pipes, especially using titanium and carbon materials, the company has enjoyed many successes in the MotoGP, Superbike, Motocross, Enduro and Supermoto World Championships.

CAS Honda, who will field Gareth Swanepoel and Evgeny Bobryshev this season, is looking forward to maximising its partnership with the silencer manufacturers. The team will be responsible for providing LeoVince with valuable feedback of its development and performance products over the course of the year, which helps the brand’s designers further improve exhausts for the consumer market.

CAS Honda is currently testing in South Africa, and will return in time for the opening round of the British Championship at the Little Silver Track in Exeter at the end of February.

Neil Prince: CAS Honda Team Manager:
“We are extremely pleased to be continuing our long-term partnership with LeoVince, as their products and support form an important part of our overall race package. We will continue working together to develop LeoVince products using our bike and riders, and our extensive pre-season testing programme is currently taking place in South Africa. We are looking forward to this season, and the use of quality products such as those we are supplied by LeoVince, who are always developing their systems to further improve performance, which certainly makes our job easier. I am pleased we will continue to be associated with a company with so much experience in the sport in providing quality products.”

Fabio Mozzone: Sito Gruppo Industriale S.p.A Marketing Manager:
“LeoVince has been a partner of the CAS Honda team since 2004. We have together enjoyed many exciting seasons and challenging times together, and we are looking forward to continuing our partnership in 2010. The technical commitment from CAS Honda’s staff has been always been of high quality, allowing us to develop our product even further. We know that in 2010 we will deal with a very heated championship, but we certainly start as sure protagonists, at the top of the category. Our commitment and experience here at LeoVince will be at the team’s disposal for us to supply an exhaust system at the highest quality to help their campaign.”

AASE PROGRAMME HEADS TO SILVERSTONE
(Story Latest Update: January 22, 2010)

The Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence scheme is now beginning to pick up pace, Monday and Tuesday, 18th and 19th January, saw the lucky participants have their second two day residential session at the Silverstone Circuit. This time they headed for the Porsche Performance VO2 centre where they were studying Health and Fitness in Motorsport. As part of the delivery the riders were not only put through their paces in both health and fitness testing they were also taught the reasoning behind the testing and also how to administer the tests, they then went on to work in the centres fitness lab to administer the test on each other. The motocross riders, Mel Pocock, Harry McKenna, Josh Waterman and Jamie Houghton along with quadcrosser Sheldon Seal worked closely with the drivers from the world of race, rally and cart on conducting the test under observation from their assessors and tutors. The performance centres Andy Blow and Eliot Challifour, co authors of the Haynes Motorsport Fitness Manual were also on hand to pass on their vast knowledge on the subject and ensure that the test were conducted correctly.

The AASE programme is a combination of both a BTec technical qualification as well as an NVQ vocational qualification. Ex Rugby player Stuart King is delivering the underpinning knowledge at these residential sessions for the students to complete the BTec side of the course which is an academic programme where the students complete written assignments. The NVQ part of the qualification is where the students are assessed on how they put this knowledge in to practice exactly the same way that a Bricklaying or Engineering NVQ student would be assessed. On hand for this task are a number of experts; Tom Gaymor from the world of car circuit racing, James Wozencroft from the world of rallying, Greg Symes from the MSA office and Mark Hucklebridge and Roy Barton looking after the motocross and quad riders.

These select few riders are being given opportunities to access people and knowledge that is not generally available to all, as an example, working at the centre on the first day with the students was current American Le Mans Series Champion and ex Formula 1 driver David Brabham. David stayed on to have lunch at the hotel before giving the students the opportunity of an open question session with him following a short speech. Further visits from influential people from the world of motorsport are planned for future deliveries.

This is the first time that a formal education has been available to the world of motorsport and it is good that those taking part in this inaugural project are already able to see the benefits that it can bring, the general course has been in use for around five years in other sports such as football, golf and tennis and has been adapted to meet the unique needs of motorsport. During the course the students will cover units on The Body in Action, Health and Safety, Training and Fitness, Fitness Testing, Sports Nutrition, Sports Psychology, Technical and Tactical Skills, Lifestyle, Sports Injuries and Recovery, Rules,  Regulations and Officiating in Sport. Also as part of the course they will take part in Sports Coaching programme that will see them qualify as recognised sports coaches. The course runs over a fifteen month period which will begin in August of each year with the residential deliveries being given prior to the start of the racing season so as not to interfere with competitions.

With this being an official qualification it is fully funded so there is no cost to the students and will be seen by the authorities as equivalent to two ‘A’ level passes and will qualify for UCAS (Universities & Colleges Admissions Service) points should the students wish to go on into further education.

Ex-world rally co-driver Robert Reid, who was instrumental in getting the scheme up and running with the MSA and Croydon College as the education provider, is extremely pleased with the progress of the course and will be looking to expand the programme in the future, looking to take the NVQ into schools as well as opening up the opportunity for the subject to be studied at degree level.

Croydon College NVQ assessor Roy Barton commented, “I am extremely enthusiastic to see this scheme continue in to the future, it is a unique opportunity for potentially elite competitors to develop themselves in to the complete package required of professional athletes these days, pure talent is no guarantee that you will make it in sport. The curriculum that is being delivered has been proven in other sports, Rebecca Adlington is testimony to this as she was on the scheme when she won her two gold medals at the Olympics in 2008. Being given the opportunity to have free access to facilities such as the Porsche Performance centre and to consummate professionals such as David Brabham is not something that comes along everyday.”

British Enduro Sprint Championship
(Story Latest Update: January 20, 2010)

Regulations and entry forms now available for British Enduro Sprint Championship

GMC Events Ltd, the promoters and organisers of the newly formed 2010 ACU British Enduro Sprint Championship, are pleased to announce on behalf of the ACU that Regs are now available and entries open for the opening round of the BESC series, being staged at Chavenage Farm, Tetbury, Gloucestershire.

Running alongside the long-standing British Enduro Championship, the British Enduro Sprint Championship is a new for 2010 ACU governed enduro series that is open to riders of all abilities and features a simple and exciting new class structure. Taking place over three weekends, each two-day championship event will feature close racing action as well as a professional and welcoming atmosphere. Following the opening event in Gloucestershire the series will travel to Bere Regis in Dorset and then Powys, Mid Wales. Full details of all rounds of the series can be found on the series website www.enduro-sprint.com.

To ensure maximum track time for all riders at all events the number of competitors accepted into each event will be no more than 125. Due to this, and the fact that there has already been considerable interest in the series, it is suggested that interested riders enter ASAP.

Riders can reserve entry to all remaining rounds of the ACU British Enduro Sprint Championship when entering Rounds 1 and 2. This can be done by completing the ‘BESC Series Registration’ section on the entry form and making payment of £50.00. This payment will then be deducted from the entry fee of the remaining rounds of the series. Again, due to the high levels of interest in the series riders wishing to compete in the whole series are asked to reserve entry to avoid disappointment.

Riders that register for the full series can request a permanent riding number.

Regulations are available via the BESC website www.enduro-sprint.com or by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the Secretary of the meeting: Mrs. Julie Evans, 21 Ffordd Gwynedd, Garden Village, Wrexham, LL11 2TF.

HAWKSTONE INTERNATIONAL MOTOCROSS 2010
(Story Latest Update: January 20, 2010)

Big Names in for Hawkstone

Some of the World's best Motocross riders have signed up for the International Motocross meeting at Hawkstone Park on the 7th March 2010. MX1 World number two Max Nagl is just one of the top names who has confirmed he will be riding at Hawkstone onboard his Red Bull KTM. He will be joined in MX1 by Kevin Strijbos on his newly formed BO Racing KTM, Strijbos who was ruled out of most of the 2008 and 2009 season due to injury will be hoping to make a big impact with his new team.

Ex 125 and MX1 World Champion Steve Ramon will be there with his TEKA Suzuki team and he will be joined by his team-mate and 2009 World MX1 number three, Clement Desalle. The pairing will be out in force and will all will mean business! Marc de Reuver on the Beursfoon Suzuki will be back racing after being ruled out of 2009 with a serious back injury which he sustained in July.

A whole host of top British riders will also be battling it out for the top honours, the Buildbase CCM Team comprising of 2009 MX2 Champion Stephen Sword and ‘09 MX1 front runner Tom Church. 2009 British MX1 runner-up James Noble will be in the running on his Proppa.com STR Honda alongside team-mate Nathan Parker.

There is a large British entry in the MX2 class including DB Racing's Elliott Banks-Browne, Road & Track/Hardcore Yamaha Alex Rockwell, 2009 British MMX Champion Kristian Whatley on his LPE Kawasaki. The Buff Husqvarna team have entered their three riders comprising of Lewis Rose, 2009 BYMX and MXY2 Champion Josh Waterman and third team-member Luke Burton. Young up-and-coming star Ken Roczen is one of the biggest international names to sign up so far for the MX2 class, 16-year-old ex Belgium 65cc and 85cc Champion Jens Getteman will also be making a UK appearance. With new names coming in every day it is yet again set to be another stunning event.

£20 entry on the gate, kids under 14 free, camping is £20 per motorhome/caravan/tent.

Timetable of events: -
09.00 - 09.50 MX2 Qualifying - 15 minutes free practice / 30 minutes timed/ 5 mins start
The top 36 plus 4 promoters' choices qualify for the International races
Non qualifiers go into the Support races
10.00 - 10.50 Open Qualifying - 15 minutes free practice / 30 minutes timed/ 5 mins start
The top 36 plus 4 promoters' choices qualify for the International races
Non qualifiers go into the Support races

Interval

12:00    Race 1 MX2 International - 25 min plus 2 laps
12:45    Race 2 Open/MX1 International 25 mins plus 2 laps
13:30    Race 3 Support Race 15 mins plus 1 lap
14:00    Race 4 MX2 International 25 mins plus 2 laps
            Presentation top 3 in MX2
14:50    Race 5 Open/MX1 International 25 mins plus 2 laps
            Presentation top 3 in Open/MX1
15:35    Race 6 Support Race 15 mins plus 1 lap
16:15    Race 7 - Superfinal Open/MX1/MX2 25 mins plus 2 laps
            Presentation top 3 in Superfinal

MX1 Rider So Far :
Patrick Roos Pater MX Team KTM
Max Nagl Red Bull KTM
Kevin Strijbos BO Racing KTM
Ben Saunders Delkevic Kawasaki
Steve Ramon Teka Suzuki WMX
Marc de Reuver Beursfoon Suzuki
Wayne Smith Maxxis,Henderson,LPE Kawasaki
Tom Church Buildbase CCM
Clement Desalle Teka Suzuki WMX
Jordan Rose Maxxis,Henderson,LPE Kawasaki
Bart Conen EMD Racing Team Yamaha
Nathan Parker Proppa.com Honda
Stephen Sword Buildbase CCM
James Lassu Team Madness Yamaha
Mike Alessi KTM
James Noble STR Proppa.com Honda
Noud Aerts Team Heli Motors Honda-Aditech
Jason Dougan 
Ray Rowson PAR Honda
Adam Reynolds Wadsworth Kawasaki
Stuwey Reijnders Van de Wetering Team Suzuki

MX2 Riders So Far :
Matt Burrows Rob Hooper Suzuki
Arnaud Tonus Teka Suzuki WMX
Herjan Brakke Team Nestaan JUMBO Yamaha
Glenn Coldenhoff Team Nestaan JUMBO Yamaha
James Dodd Kawasaki
Elliott Banks-Browne DB Racing Honda
Jens Getteman AMX-Alpha/Motorsport Future Team Honda
Brett Hillman RSH/Thunderoad MC`s/RB Racing Honda
Jose Antonio Butron Team Beursfoon Suzuki
Jack Rowland KTM
Ken Roczen Teka Suzuki WMX
Donny Bastemeijer Team Beursfoon Suzuki
Stephen O`Connor Magotteaux Racing Suzuki
Marcus-Lee Soper SVDH Design/Romviel Honda
Alex Rockwell Road & Track/Hardcore Yamaha
Kristian Whatley Maxxis,Henderson,LPE Kawasaki
Ricky Mair Moto One KTM
Lewis Rose Buff Husqvarna
Nick Kouwenberg Team Moto Wash-Laurense Motors Suzuki
Josh Waterman Buff Husqvarna
Eric Leijtens F&H Racing Team KTM
Luke Burton Buff Husqvarna
Dennis Ullrich Team Honda Waldmann

Maico MMX
(Story Latest Update: January 20, 2010)

Allowing the burning fires of enthusiasm to cool to just a gentle smoulder following the release of the 2010 bikes, Maico International adopted the attitude and prerogative of every bride-to-be by arriving fashionably late with a very fresh and new looking bike for 2010.

Taking on the Research and Development mantle in the U.K, the Bournemouth-based company have spent the last year developing and testing a wide selection of new products and are working very closely with several well established companies and British craftsmen who have been supplied with an open ended remit in terms of product design, and quality.

Shedding the previous swing-arm the new bike features an all new hand-made 7020 aircraft aluminium shotgun style swing-arm. The high grade alloy is stronger and lighter than standard aluminium, but more crucially behaves in a different way when it comes to flex. The arm has been reduced in length by 4.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres in depth to provide a substantial improvement in tracking, handling and manoeuvrability.

Maicos have been somewhat renowned in the past for their rather tall stature, so in order to reduce the seat height but maintain a comfortable position for the rider the bike comes with a new hand made 7020 aircraft aluminium subframe. Saving almost half the weight of the previous chrome moly piece the geometry has been slightly altered to allow the seat height to be reduced in conjunction with the all new alloy tank.

Hand crafted by leading tank designer Simon Parker, famed for his work with Harley Davidson the shiny work of art has had the height reduced by one and half inches yet the design has lifted the look and style of the tank saving more weight over the previous plastic version and increasing the airflow around the radiators, with only losing half a litre in capacity, at 9 litres. Taking this approach has reduced the centre of gravity and helped to centralise the weight. The decision to go with alloy has a long term effect as reliable information from sources close to the company within the petroleum industry have indicated that fuel generally, is changing and as things progress it is expected the time will come when the current plastic tanks will not be able to hold fuel without an unacceptable level of seepage.

The mechanicals have not been overlooked either with some significant advancements in this area. A new chrome lining is fitted to all the barrels here in the U.K. before they are ported and fitted with different base gaskets. After a long and almost protracted love affair with the brand the traditional Bing carb has finally received its “Dear John”, and is replaced by the well respected Kehin air striker which will adorn every model. Keeping the fire burning, ignitions specialists West Country Windings are supplying a modified P.V.L. ignition system for improved starting and a new C.D.I.-Coil unit which ultimately assists in a freer revving engine.

Taking advantage of the increased airflow created by the new tank design H.C.R high performance radiators will be keeping things as cool as possible, and will be fitted as standard equipment to the bikes for 2010. The engine casings have also been the subject of attention, now being hand polished to give a cleaner and more graphite style finish with new stronger T6 alloy head-steadies.

To compliment the new swing-arm and subframe the chassis is now powder coated red
And is graced with Reikon titanium foot-pegs which sit very comfortably with the new lighter alloy gear lever. Firm favourites, White Power forks and the Reiger shock remain in place along with the H.G.S. pipe but the rear brake master cylinder is now replaced with a newer all in one Brembo unit.

The New Year’s resolution of losing weight continues to succeed with the standard fitting of  Talon sprockets and wheels with billet alloy hubs and excel rims, dressed with Dunlop tyres. The business of stopping the damn thing is now the responsibility of “Braking” discs again fitted as standard to the Brembo brakes.

Drastic changes in the cosmetic department have brought about a vibrant new look courtesy of Acerbis, which sees the bike decked out in an exotic new colour scheme. Sporting new front fender and race plate, new tank shrouds, and new wrap round fork guards, with only the rear fender and side panels remaining the same design in a very high gloss white. Saxon Seats have been responsible for the all new hand made seat cover with the brand name sewn into the panel on the rear of the seat.

Maico International’s commitment to a long term development plan is taken further by the substantial options list available for the bikes which includes 7 different wheel and hub colour co-ordinations, three different frame colours, several different seat cover colour combinations, a high polish or satin finish for the swing-arm and subframe and much more.

Company bosses Vincent Page, Lesley White, and development co-ordinator Neil Berry, are currently working on several other products with key companies and explained: “We have tried, wherever possible to make as many of the changes accessible to customers who have previously bought bikes and may want to upgrade their bike with one part at a time. Bikes are not cheap now and we feel a majority of manufacturers design new parts for the sake of it every year, and every part, every year, naturally comes with a price increase. We feel we have raised the bar in terms of the quality of the product and will continue to strive to achieve this in the future. We are working on a scheme which will enable customers to buy a bike and at the end of the first year of ownership they can bring it back to us and implement any changes that we have made for the following years bike. We are planning on fitting these changes (including a full service) with no labour charge, the customer purely pays for the parts they wish to upgrade, thus enabling them to keep their bike up to date in all areas and provide another year’s use.”

The standard range of bikes will continue to be available in their current guise for those who prefer them. We would like to thank all our sponsors who have helped us continue to improve the brand, your support is invaluable.

CAS HONDA ANNOUNCES 2010 PLANS
(Story Latest Update: January 19, 2010)

CAS Honda is excited to announce its 2010 plans following the Christmas period, as the team prepares to head out to South Africa for testing this week with new signings Gareth Swanepoel and Evgeny Bobryshev.

Following a huge amount of work behind the scenes, the Honda squad is looking forward to this season where it will continue its quest for further success in both the British and World MX1 Championships.

Swanepoel, who joins the CAS Honda outfit for his second year in the MX1 class, is excited about his prospects having tested the CRF450R during the last few months. The 25-year-old finished in a very respectable eighth position overall in the World and was runner-up in the British Championship last year, a result he is intending to better this season.

Swanepoel, who joins the team on a two-year deal, is currently focussing on his fitness and dialling in his Honda machine ahead of the pre-season test regime that begins with the team this week. The South African pilot is certainly looking forward to racing with the CAS Honda outfit, and with the experience he has already gained racing MX1 in both the British and World Championships, he will be looking for strong results from the off this season.

Partnering Swanepoel and stepping up into the MX1 series is Russian rider, Bobryshev. The 22-year-old is hungry for success and has shown some good form during last season in the World series, while also finishing runner-up in the Dutch MX2 Championship.

Following a test on CAS Honda machinery late last year, Bobryshev, who hails from Kondrovo in Russia, impressed team manager Neil Prince enough to secure a place on the team for this season. Although he is relatively unknown to the British motocross fraternity, the Russian racer will certainly be one to watch this year, as the youngster is working hard to step up to the mark with the ultra-experienced CAS Honda squad.

Both riders will undergo an intense testing regime this week in the South African sunshine thanks to the support of Honda South Africa, as they prepare for the gruelling schedule of eight British and 15 World Championship rounds over the next nine months. The team’s first official outing will be at round one of the British MX1 Championship at Little Silver, Exeter on the 28th February, followed by the Hawkstone Park international, Shropshire, one week later.

Gareth Swanepoel:
“It’s really great to be working with CAS Honda and I’m looking forward to this year. So far I’ve managed to have a very good off-season and improve my programme. I already feel really good on the Honda and this week Neil will arrive in South Africa with Evgeny to do two weeks of testing. I’m excited to test, as well as ride with my new team-mate, especially here where we can make use of our good weather and great tracks. I feel that so far we are on target to reach my goal of top five in the World Championship and to challenge for the British title.”

Evgeny Bobryshev:
“I’m very happy to be with CAS Honda after talks with Harry (Ainsworth) and Neil. They are very good people and for me it’s very important I work with a team I’m happy with. I have not ridden a Honda before, but I tested the CAS Honda CRF450R for the first time at the end of last year and I was very surprised; I didn’t want to get off it, I was enjoying riding it so much. I am training hard at the moment in the gym and riding on the ice with spikes in my free time. I am aiming for very good results, so I am working hard. I’m looking forward to riding with the team and on the bike, and we begin work together next week, which is going to be great.”

Neil Prince: CAS Honda Team Manager:
“It’s going to be an exciting season for CAS Honda in 2010 and I’m looking forward to a fresh start. There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes over the last few months and we have a lot of new motivation for the year ahead with our new signings in Gareth and Evgeny. Obviously we are in a very difficult economic climate at the moment, which is affecting racing everywhere, and as with many teams, it’s been hard work to pull everything together, but I’m pleased to say we have managed to secure more support for the coming year and I am happy with the two riders we have employed. Gareth has a lot of experience and has proven what he is capable in his first year in the MX1 class. Our aim is to build on those performances this season and improve his results even further with our team. In Evgeny I saw something when he tested our bike last year. He has some growing to do and to adapt to racing an MX1 machine, but he is certainly an exciting prospect for us, which I am looking forward to working with. Now we will head to South Africa to begin our intense testing regime with both riders, who have been working hard over the winter, before the season kicks off with the British Championship round at the end of February.”

ABERYSTWYTH & DISTRICT MCC AGM
(Story Latest Update: January 18, 2010)

The 2010 AGM of the Aberystwyth & District MCC will take place on the 1st February 2010, 8pm. at the Falcon, Llanilar. There will be a buffet provided and anyone interested in attending is asked to contact the club.

Club Trial
February 28th 2010 sees the start of events for the club with the Strata Florida trial held in Pontrhydfendigaid. The event will have a good mixture of sections around the motor sports arena and has a large hard standing parking area. Food will also be available before, during and after the event. The facility provides easy access for spectators to all areas. Anyone interested in helping at the event is asked to contact the club.

Special Test Challenge
On April 11th the club will run a special test practice day to give riders of all classes the opportunity to spend some time improving their special test times. The day will comprise of an early morning practice followed by as many laps as you can get in. The laps will be timed by transponders and riders will be set off in their groups.

The numbers will be limited to ensure that riders have maximum time on the lap. See website for full details and details of the Endurocross sections.

Putoline Fast Eddy XC Championship 2010
(Story Latest Update: January 03, 2010)

The Fast Eddy team have announced yet again its continued association with Putoline who are now onboard for the sixth year as title sponsor.

The crew are getting ready for the 2010 season with things getting underway on February 7th at the popular Old Parks Farm venue, Ashby de la Zouche. This was the venue used for the final round of the 2009 championship and all who rode were very impressed with the newly designed circuit. Parking is on firm flat ground with some hard standing available for the bigger trucks.

At this first round for the new season we have made a few final changes to the classes we will be running. For the Youths we will have: XC Girls, XC 85 & 150 Big wheel, XC 85 Small wheel, XC 65 and new for 2010 XC Autos. For the Adults we will have: XC Pro, XC1 (Experts), XC2 (Clubman), XC Vets, XC3 (Sportsman) and new for XC4 (Hobby and Fun Riders) and XC Youth (14 to 16-year-olds).

Our main focus again this season will be to design and build rideable, safe and enjoyable tracks for both youth and adult riders to encourage them into the sport of XC racing. They will once again have a race of one and a half hours, depending on weather conditions and trophies will be awarded for all classes. The adult race will continue to be two and a half hours, once again depending on weather conditions and safety and trophies will be awarded for all classes at all rounds.

For the first two events the Fast Eddy crew have already decided to use transponders for the timing of the races just in case the early season weather decides to be cruel. We have also decided to stick to a one day format for these events; however, plans are already underway to go to a two day format when the summer part of the championship kicks in.

As in previous years we have decided that there will be NO charge for club membership or any license fees. Entry fees for the events will also remain the same as last season at £30 for Youth riders and £40 for Adults which, we feel is great value for money in these stretching times. The usual dad’s “n” lad’s rates will also once again be available for 2010.

Entries are available by calling Mandy on 01543 370070 or e-mailing mandy.edmondson@virgin.net. For further and up to date info check out www.fasteddyracing.com.

KARRO COMES OF AGE AND REFLECTS UPON HIS YEAR
(Story Latest Update: January 02, 2010)

For most people, turning 18 is a special event. All manner of doors now lie open, and all kinds of freedoms accumulate. The car licence becomes a reality. A copy of the house key gets thrusted into a clammy hand. The girlfriend gets the parental nod of approval, and life, in general, looks rosy. You will notice that we prefaced this literary masterpiece with the words "for most people". Matiss Karro is not most people. At the age when most teenagers sprout their wings and start to fly, he has been an international motocross racer for a number of years. He had participated in his first motocross GP before he was 16-years-old. He holds a junior world title, and in the course of travelling the world has ridden to top 10 results in a number of GP races.

Not the typical lebenslauf for an 18-year-old, you may agree. However, the past is the past, and as soon as the new year festivities of 2009 were in the bag, His Curlyness got stuck into his preparations for the new season again. He opted to ride in the colours of the MVR-D Suzuki team, and seeing as the team is as English as a Tandoori Chicken dinner, British Championship races of all descriptions were naturally very much part of the calendar. Matiss started off with a bang at the first round of the British Under-21 championships, a series which is more competitive than the name might suggest. Matiss is not fazed in the best of company, and thus the season opener held no fear for him, which he promptly proved by charging to second in the overall result.

The "mini GP" of Hawkstone Park was next on the menu. This race traditionally provides one of the earliest opportunities in the season for GP riders to cross swords in preparation for world championship hostilities. The Latvian teenager again gave as good as he got and finished 6th against some very classy opposition. He was now riding on a wave of confidence, and despite a crash in the first heat of the British Championship season opener, he set matters right in the second race by riding to his first race podium in the British series.

The world championship season started off as a bit of a damp squib for Matiss. The first GP was held in Faenza, Italy, and there the squib, its container and all around were most decidedly damp as the race took place in weather conditions last recorded in biblical times. The muddy race was a bit of a lottery, and although he came very near to the points zone, Matiss left the first world championship event with a blank scorecard. His woes continued at the second GP in Bulgaria, when he tested the earth's ability to withstand the impact of his shoulder. The earth won on that occasion, and the scorers remained untroubled by the young Latvian.

Matiss was in for some Turkish delight as he finally scrambled onto the scorecard in Istanbul. His weekend in Turkey started off well when he qualified ninth, his best ever qualifying performance. He bagged a couple of 13th places in the races, for 12th overall on the day, and his world championship tally had begun. He left the exotic shores of Turkey and hightailed it back to England for the inaugural round of the Red Bull Pro Nationals series, where he collected some fine silverware by finishing second overall.

The young man must have felt robbed when he crashed in the second heat of the Dutch GP at Valkenswaard whilst lying in sixth position with a mere two laps remaining. This would have gifted him the second top 10 overall GP result of his short career, but unfortunately it was not to be on this occasion. His Karrpe Diem day in England came at the second round of the British championships. He pulled the pin like a special forces member invading a small country, and quite simply disappeared into the distance in both races to comprehensively claim his first ever overall victory in the series. This hoisted him up to second in the championship standings, and suddenly, those doubting souls who sniggered when team manager Mark Chamberlain stated that his rider was a championship candidate, were forced to swallow their smirks.

If Matiss could wipe the Iberian peninsula off his Google map, he might very well be tempted to do so. The region did him absolutely no favours in 2009. In Portugal, an ankle injury took him out of action before the starting gate had even fallen, and in Spain the week thereafter, he crashed heavily, injuring his thumb and consigning himself to the couch for the next month or so. He arguably rushed his return to the track a bit too much to defend his second position at the next round of British Championship series, but it was nevertheless a decent exercise in damage control, with a few more points added to his tally, although he dropped quite a way down the leaderboard in the process.

The injury was still not fully healed by the time the GP circus swung round to Riga in Latvia. Matiss was well and truly bummed out by this, since he would have liked nothing more than to produce a scintillating performance in front of his home crowd. Apart from the fact that the thumb was still tender, he was also not quite up to full race fitness yet, but he is not known as a little terrier for nothing, and despite his discomfort, he raced to 13th and 12th in the races respectively, giving his home fans some cause for cheer at least with another handful of world championship points. The highlight of the season came one week later at the Swedish GP in Uddevalla. Matiss rubbed elbows with some of the world's top riders during the course of the two races. Although his lack of race rhythm cost him some positions, he still bagged very respectable eighth place finishes in both heats for seventh overall, matching his career best GP result to date.

He returned to the Red Bull series with a bang after having missed one round, and again booked himself a spot on the podium with second overall. At the final round of the series, he was on the receiving end of the bang when a rock reared up, somehow navigated its way through the opening in his helmet, and hit him smack on the lip. The sew-up job performed at the nearest hospital would not have looked out of place on a Gucci handbag, but Matiss was not a picture of happiness, as he did not score a single point on the day. team-mate Carl Nunn brought the title home for the team, however, and was magnanimous enough to share his champagne with his younger team-mate.

Matiss fulfilled a lifelong dream during the season when he got the opportunity to participate in a round of the US AMA national championships. He arrived in Steel City a day before hte race, with the jet lag still clinging to him like ants to a jam-covered picnic blanket. He overcame the unfamiliar surroundings, bike and opposition to qualify for the race with ease, and after a first race that can best be described as a learning curve, he mixed it up with some of America's top riders in the second race to finish sixteenth, placing himself in the AMA scoreboard as well.

Matiss finished his domestic season with the same kind of bang that he started. Thoroughly miffed at being excluded from the result of the first heat of the final British Championship race at Landrake, he was in no mood for taking prisoners, and he scorched to a convincing victory in the final heat of the series. He rounded his season off by helping his country qualify and finish 13th in the Motocross of Nations, and as the sun set on the 2010 season and the tracks were rolled up and put in storage for winter, he could reflect on a season that offered much in the way of disappointment, but also a good number of highlights.

Matiss is already in full preparation mode for the 2010 season, having tested the new fuel-injected 250cc Suzuki. He feels himself at home with the British team, and bacon and eggs, bangers and mash, rugby and cricket are now an integral part of his life, and he speaks the vernacular like a true local. It is no wonder then that he has become a favourite of the British crowds, and it will be a sizeable following that will urge him on to championship glory in 2010.

Ashley Fiolek joins LS Motors-Honda’s 2010 effort
(Story Latest Update: January 02, 2010)

Following their successful 2009 campaign LS Motors-Honda today announced the latest addition to their already impressive line-up, featuring Tanel Leok and Davide Guarneri in MX1. The Belgian team is proud to continue its partnership with America’s leading lady of MX: Ashley Fiolek. Fiolek (19) herself enjoyed an outstanding season on the Honda CRF250R.

‘Kickash’ added the X-Games Moto-X women’s and WMA titles to her tally and rode to two podium finishes in her FIM WMX appearances (Bulgaria and Portugal).

Team principal Steven Lettani said: “We’re very pleased to have Ashley with us for the third consecutive season. Not only is she very fast, Ashley also brings a lot of energy and personality to the team! She is an amazing ambassador for our team and the sport. And since we’re still a young team it’s cool to remind people that she was in fact the first to get LS Motors-Honda
on a GP podium in 2008!”

“For now the plan with Fiolek is to compete at six out of seven WMX races. However if Ashley is on course to a final overall podium in GP’s she will race the complete series. We will co-operate closely with Ashley and her dad to make sure she gets the same kind of top notch equipment she’s used to run with the Honda-Red Bull team in the US.

“The agreement with Ashley completes our team for next season, which is kind of a dream team really. We couldn’t be more happy with our riders. All three of them are talented, proven race winners. On top of that Tanel, Davide and Ashley share the same strong work ethics. I have to admit that all of us in the team were longing for vacation after a long and demanding season. But now the batteries are completely recharged and we’re incredibly motivated to make this our best season ever!”

Ashley Fiolek: "I am so excited to be returning to Europe in 2010 to race for an FIM World Championship! I'm especially excited to be returning to LS Motors-Honda, this is my third year with the team. Steven and Linda (Lettani) make sure everything I need is there and I am comfortable when I am away from home. I really can't thank them enough for their efforts and I think it shows in the results they have achieve in the MX1, MX2, and WMX in a very short time. (big smile) See you all in April!”

SHERCO AND CABESTANY HAVE AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR 2010
(Story Latest Update: January 02, 2010)

Albert Cabestany and Sherco will face 2010 with new motivation. The rider from Tarragona, who has been representing the brand in the world trials championships, has a new season set before him that has new challenges. He will be competing on the new Sherco ST10 with its many advanced technical innovations and he will also be back on a 2-stroke. This is after competing on the 4-stroke for the past two seasons, which has allowed the Franco-Spanish brand to solidify its leadership in this market.

The renewal of the contract between Cabestany and Sherco for 2010 marks the fifth season of collaboration between the two parties. They are facing an ambitious sports program for 2010 which includes the world indoor and outdoor championships as well as the Spanish championships and other major international events.

Albert Cabestany is currently the vice world indoor champion and the world team champion in both indoor and outdoor. Cabestany will ride the new Sherco ST10 at the first World Indoor round which will be held in Sheffield (UK) on January 9, 2010. For Cabestany, back to the 2-stroke presents a new challenge: "After two years on the 4-stroke, back to a simple engine means a new motivation for me. However, the evolution of this engine has shown to be very dramatic with the new bike. I think we will be very competitive from the start of the season."

Josep R. Paxau, technical manager of Sherco has these thoughts, "Cabes has a particularly fine sensitivity and adapts easily to any type of engine. Our work on the evolution of both the 2-stroke engines and the 4-stroke is a joint effort now and we have decided to give new impetus to the 2-stroke engine."

According to Marc Teissier, Sherco senior manager, "The Sherco image in recent years has been linked to that of Cabestany. This union has been successful and provided an excellent image that we will carry while we continue our ascent to power."

LAMPKIN RE-SIGNS WITH BETA FOR 2010
(Story Latest Update: December 30, 2009)

Dougie rounds of the year with a win

Dougie Lampkin rounded off his 2009 season with a win at the traditional Boxing Day Trial organised by Bradford and District Motor Club. In heavy and slippery conditions the thirty-three year old ex multi World trials champion remained feet up for the entire event that takes places on the steep wooded hillside that over looks Lampkin's home town of Silsden, West Yorkshire. The well-covered venue was free of frost and only had a limited covering of snow despite the recent bout of wintery weather that has caused much disruption to the region.

With this being Dougie's final competitive outing of this year, the veteran campaigner used the opportunity to confirm his plans for the forth coming season, after having recently agreed terms to remain with the Italian factory Beta for another twelve month period. As per 2009 Lampkin will once again participate in a mixed discipline schedule that will include both trials and extreme enduro events. Dougie will compete in all rounds of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship, the 2010 FIM Indoor Enduro World Cup, plus other selected competitions.

Lampkin's 2010 campaign will begin on home soil, with the highly popular Yorkshire born rider taking part in the opening round of the 2010 SPEA FIM Indoor Trial World Championship at Sheffield Arena on Saturday 9th January as one of the two chosen wildcard entrants. Dougie remains the undisputed 'King of Sheffield" having won this annual event on no less than eight occasions, despite having not been victorious in more recent years.

Later in January Dougie will switch back to his enduro bike, as the ex-twelve times World trials champion looks to conquer the Tough One Extreme Enduro at Nantmawr Quarry on the Shropshire - Welsh Border. Lampkin finished fourth at this event earlier this year at his first attempt, and will be hoping for an even better result this time out. A week later Dougie will then make the long trip south to Barcelona, Spain for the final round of the 2010 FIM Indoor Enduro World Cup, which will take place at the Olympic facility high above the famous city.

Talking about the challenges that lay ahead of him in 2010 Lampkin said, "I am really looking forward to the new season. It has worked out well this year with me doing a mixture of trials and enduro. Unfortunately the injury to my wrist back in August spoilt what otherwise could have been a pretty successful year on both fronts."

Dougie continued, "To be riding at Sheffield indoor trial again is incredible, as each year that goes by, I think maybe will be my last. The support from the crowd is always amazing and really helps me lift my game against the younger crop of riders who are now more suited to this part of the sport. Believe me I will be doing my absolute best to be up and amongst the front-runners."

"On the enduro side of things, it has definitely been a steep learning curve, and one that has really taken me outside my comfort zone after so many years as a trials rider. I have been relatively happy with my first season in this discipline, and hopefully I will be able to build on the experience I have gained so far as I go into my second year," Lampkin ended.

2010 SCEC Memberships
(Story Latest Update: December 16, 2009)

2010 membership forms are now online now and applications are welcomed
http://www.enduro.org.uk/documents.html

Membership will again be restricted to guarantee all members places at all events throughout the season. If you're planning to ride with us in 2010 (and we hope you are!) please help us by getting your applications in as soon as you can - especially if you have a favourite race number you'd like to use.

Don't forget, in addition to a great race program membership also includes the following benefits:

    * Affiliation to ACU (required for ACU licence)
    * Affiliation to AMCA (required for AMCA licence)
    * Restricted entries for maximum enjoyment with guaranteed entry for all members – plus members get reduced entry fees at all SCEC events.

    * Registration for the exciting SCEC ‘S.C.O.R.E’ championship series with priority for places and reduced entry fees, plus only registered riders get points, awards & prizes
    * Your membership number is your race number - keep the same number all year
    * Exclusive members only SCEC & S.C.O.R.E series stickers
    * Free ‘environmental mats’ for those competing in BEC rounds
    * Amazing members only deals on Golden Tyre’s superb Enduro tyres

2010 Provisional Dates…
    * 14th February
    * 28th March
    * 2nd May
    * 13th June
    * 19th September
    * 31st October
    * 5th December
    * Rogershill Summer Series dates tba

MOTUL CONTINUES CAS HONDA PARTNERSHIP FOR 2010
(Story Latest Update: December 16, 2009)

Team CAS Honda has announced that Motul will be continuing its partnership with more lubricants support for the team’s British and World Motocross Championship campaign in 2010.

Following a successful partnership with the team in 2009, Motul has decided to continue its support for next season as both parties move forward with their World Championship goals.

The Motul brand was created in in 1853 and the company is now operating in more than 80 countries world-wide, with its headquarters based in Paris, France. Motul’s extensive range includes oils, coolant and cleaning products all produced at the highest level as needed for leisure or competition use.

CAS Honda wishes to continue being part of the company’s development programme in the future, and testing new products throughout the racing season as Motul progresses with its extensive research in product advances.

CAS Honda is looking forward to 2010 where the team is aiming for better results following a tough 2009 season plagued with injuries. The World Championship outfit will be beginning its winter testing schedule and announcing its plans shortly.

Neil Prince: CAS Honda Team Manager:
“We’re very pleased to have Motul on-board again for 2010, as this association is a real asset to our team. When racing at the highest level it is vital we have the highest quality products at our disposal, and I believe we achieve this with our Motul partnership. The company has been exceptionally easy to work with and I am looking forward to continuing our relationship for the future. I hope we will enjoy plenty of success together next year.”

Nick Turner: Motul UK Brand Manager:
“It is great that we are able to continue our strong relationship with CAS Honda for another year. The team has access to a range of our products, and play a vital role in the promotion and development of Motul lubricants. We are continuing to extend and improve our product range, and receive a huge amount of benefit from having a team such as CAS Honda putting our products through their paces as this development helps us improve our oils for the consumer market. I am confident our partnership will be a strong one, and that we will be able to achieve a lot of positive results together next season.”

BRADLEY KING BACK IN ACTION
(Story Latest Update: December 16, 2009)

Brad King is back on the bike after a long layoff due to injury. Here's what he had to say after getting back in the saddle:

"Hi everyone! I have had a busy few weeks since I've got rid of my back brace. I've been having daily physio and doing regular swimming to regain movement in my back. The main priority now is getting strength back again as the time spent not being able to move it and exercise has meant most of it has been lost. I've been back at work for over 4 weeks now and do most things trouble free. I have been back in full training for 2 weeks now and this has shown how much fitness and strength I have lost. But I am confident with lots of hard training I can get back to full fitness ready for a successful 2010 campaign.

"I've been back on the bike twice now and I'm slowly rebuilding speed and confidence. The first time I just went out for a slow ride to check it felt OK. I was pleasantly surprised to find no real pain in my back although I felt it the next day! My second time back on the bike was yesterday when I went out to Rogershill Raceway MX practice track which was open for practice. Despite all the recent rain the track was in near perfect condition and I really enjoyed it. I was able to put in some good steady laps on the MX track without any back pain although I was struggling a little with my thumb that I also injured in Slovakia. I got faster during the day and hopefully with a few more outings I will be able to move on the bike quicker and put in some quick times."

Namibian Motocross 2009 in retrospect
(Story Latest Update: December 16, 2009)
By Bernd Kroemer

The year 2009 was marked by a decline in spectator numbers. The dissatisfactory sponsorship situation must be addressed as well. Another critical point is the recruitment of young talents, since due to a lack of riders the 65cc Class stopped existing this year. Here however, help is already on the way in the form a new track being built at the club house in Olympia, which is suitable for children.

Next to these negative points, there were absolute highlights in terms of sport this year. In retrospect one must say that the WMCC deserves the highest acknowledgement for what they have achieved in 2009. Apart from the 9 races of the "Namibian Moto Cross Championship" the "Full Throttle AMU-Africa Championships" were held at the Gallina Moto Cross Park in June. Africa's best riders met in Namibia to find out who's the cream of the crop. This event was dominated by the South African riders who dominated the nations-rating and won with 561 points, ahead of the Zambian Team (312), Zimbabwe (301), Namibia (265), Uganda (30) and Kenia (28). Best Namibian and overall 3rd on the rostrum in the MX2 Class was Björn Bierbrauer. Outstanding!

Then the preparations for the annual Moto Cross Inter-Series started, which took place for the 13th time this year. The prize money, worth N$25 000 in the MX1/MX2 Moto Cross Class and the Quad-A-and-B-Class, attracted the best riders of southern Africa, but also a handful of talented European riders. The races took place on the 7th of November in Swakopmund and a week later at Gallina Motocross Park. The overall champion was Ross Branch from Botswana, who not only won the Kingsley Trophy in Swakopmund but also the Jägermeister-Trophy in Windhoek with a maximum number of points. He is now the official "Namibia International Champion". South African Michael Kok ranked second, ahead of his fellow countryman Richard van der Westhuizen.
 
In the overall class-assessment MX2, Namibia's poster-boy Björn Bierbrauer won, ahead of Peter Mitchell from Scotland and Frank Klosta from Namibia. Countryman Ruhan Gous' performance was really good; he gained an excellent 4th place, ahead of Kerim Fitzgerald (South Africa) and the German Christian Lechner.

In the overall class-assessment MX1, Ross Branch won ahead of South African Kok and van der Westhuizen. Briton Andre David ranked 4th, ahead of Tommy Gous (Namibia) and South African Geoff Den. "Rookie of the year" Jaco Loots landed on 7th position. All in all the Namibians knew how to draw attention to themselves. This also goes for the protagonists in the Quad-A-and-B-Class. High flyer and reigning South African Champion Dirkie Baard from Walvisbay won the Namibian Quad Inter-Series with a maximum number of points and can call himself "Namibia International Quad-Champion" for the next 12 months. Clearly superior, Dirkie Baard won ahead of Michael Behnke (Namibia) and South African Jaques Struwig. In the overall assessment of the Quad-B-Class Ecki Spoerer won once again, ahead of his fellow countrymen Louw Greyven stein, Pierce van Wyk and South African Brandon Darlow.

In the assessment Quad-A-Class Dirkie Baard won ahead of Michael Behnke and his brother Phillipie Baard. The Namibians Wolfgang Röhl in 4th and Stephan Smidt in 5th also showed a strong appearance.

These international events as well as the national races were supported greatly by the local and international print media and electronic media. They deserve special praise! The remaining sponsors are also gratefully acknowledged: Jägermeister, Tafel Lager, Radiowave 96,7 fm, Pupkewitz-Honda, I Dream Africa, Erindi Ranch, Red Square, Kingsley, and last but not least Bike & Quad Clinic. These are joined by Class- and Team sponsors for whom the WMCC is very grateful. Since the WMCC will vote a new chairmanship in 2010, a heartfelt thank you goes to the present chairman Tobie Barlow as well as to the two committee members Melody and Paul Loots who were present at all board-meetings and always lent a helping hand .
For their dedicated work at the AMU-Full Throttle Africa Championships, Michael Nederlof and Muis Nederlof deserve a special thanks.

Furthermore we owe our thanks to Mrs. Rene Baard for her dedication to the Quad sport and  Ronnie Adams, who always makes sure that the track is in mint condition.

In 2010 the racing programme will be changed, meaning that the races of the junior classes will take place before noon and from 2pm onwards the protagonists of the MX1/MX2 Class and the Quad-A-and-B-Class will dominate the action. With this solution the spectators will get entertained only by the best riders of the sport. Boring racing with 4 riders on the track are happenings of the past.

TERREBLANCHE MAKES HIS MARK IN DEBUT MX1 SEASON
(Story Latest Update: December 16, 2009)
Reporting by Vangani Racing

Imagine, if you will, being in charge of a lawnmower. Not any old lawnmower, mind. The machine at your disposal displaces 450cc and generates close on 50 horsepower, enough to rip your arms clean out of their sockets. Now imagine having to get in control of this beast. Not on any old terrain, mind. Your backyard is rutty and bumpy and every few yards or so you have to physically haul the thing over 3 foot high molehills. On a steep slope. Now imagine that you have to do this for 40 minutes long, with no rest, no ice tea, no beer, nothing. And to make it even more interesting, all around you are 29 other crazy souls who don't really like you being there and are doing their best to make things even more difficult for you by, for instance, punting you into the scenery.

If you can begin to imagine all this, you have scratched the surface of what it takes to race motocross in the MX1 class. Not any old races, mind. Imagine all this at the very pinnacle of participation, the world championships. Not a couple of lads from down the street going for a fun ride. We're talking about the best in the world here. Period. All of this is what Shannon Terreblanche let himself in for when he made the decision to move to the MX1 class at the beginning of the 2009 season. Many people looked at the South African askance, tapping their foreheads with a pointed index finger. Craaazzy. There is no other word for it. Or is there?

You have to hand it to Shanter. Coming into the 2009 season, he was in the last year of teenagerdom, yet he had already amassed a wealth of international racing experience. Where others may have given up due to the hardships, he soldiered on. Where others may have returned home from foreign shores far, far away, he stuck it out. Uwe Rommel, a German sponsor with a heart of gold and an unbridled passion for motocross, saw all this, and made the arrangements for Shannon to find his place in the Sturm Kawasaki racing team.

Shannon's season started when winter still had its teeth dug deep into the European heartland. Though it may have been cold outside, Shannon was on fire inside at his first supercross race for the team in 2009 at Goes, Holland. He was burning up with fever, and although he gave all of himself on the track, it was no wonder that his first race weekend of 2009 is one best consigned to the "forget it rather quickly" shelf. A week later, the fever had subsided to tolerable levels, and the South African rode to his first victory for his new team at the supercross of Zwolle.

The preparation for the world championship season continued unabated, with international races in Belgium and Holland on the calendar. Shannon was steadily getting used to the bike, and at the second round of the Dutch Championships at Halle, he proved that the racing firm of Terreblanche and Co. was getting well on track, when he came within a smidgen  of a podium finish in the final race of a very competitive event. He was steadily finding his feet on the bigger machine, so it seemed.

The sharp end of the sword is the world championship series, however, and all preparations were aimed at one thing - getting to a competitive level in the GP series. If someone ever were to referred to Shannon as a stick in the mud, however, the first GP at Faenza would have been the place. The heavens over Italy opened up all the sluice gates and turned the track into a slippery, gloopy, nearly impassable mess. Shannon got stuck on one of the steep hills early in the race, and with a ton of mud stuck to the bike, there was no way that his race was going any further. In Sevlievo, Bulgaria, he set matters right by scoring his first world championship points in the premier class, and now he was on the board.

A thumb injury  kept Shannon out of the points in the first ever Turkish GP, but in Portugal he bounced back and scored five points, proving to himself and his supporters that he could now start to delve into the points scoring zone. In Spain he went one better, scoring points in both heats. From then on, he kept the points counter clicking at every GP for the remainder of the season, building up a base of consistency whilst improving steadily on his skills and outright speed.

Over the years Shannon has built up a love affair with the Baltic region. He has been invited to race in international races in Latvia and Estonia on numerous occasions, and has developed a sizeable fan base in the region. It was appropriate then, that he produced his best GP result to date at the Latvian GP, finishing 15th in the first race. He went one better the week thereafter in Sweden, a result that may or may not have been brought on by a memorable evening of being feted by his Latvian fans. Be that is it may, the naysayers were having to eat their words. Although he was still not quite in top 10 territory, Shannon was by now definitely a recognised MX1 world championship rider, able to ride into the points in almost every outing.

The likeable South African put the hammer down with the most force in front of his biggest group of fans however. In Lommel, Belgium, within crawling distance of his Belgian base, he took hold of the gut wrenching, energy sapping, soul destroying deep sand whoops, and with two solid results, scored his first ever overall top 10 result in a motocross GP. Riding to a top 10 result in a world championship event is not a performance given to everyone, and even less so in a notorious hell-hole such as Lommel. Uwe Rommel was beaming from ear to ear and could for all the world have floated back to his home near Stuttgart on a cushion of air.

When all the dust had settled, Shannon finished the season in 22nd spot in the world standings. To the casual observer this may not seem like much, but we would suggest that the cynics go and watch just a single motocross race, even at local level, to appreciate the true extent of this fine achievement. It was clear that South Africa, who had already gifted the motocross racing world three world champions and a host of international stars, had yet again produced a world  level rider.

Apart from his ceaseless toil in the world championship series, Shannon also represented his team in the world class ADAC Masters series in Germany. Although his campaign started rather inauspiciously with 0 points in the first round, he quickly found his feet in this competitive series, and before long, he was a regular visitor in the top 10 zone. He ended the season with a flourish, and at the final event in Höchstädt,  he was well in the mix, finishing fifth overall, in amongst some pretty illustrious company. This helped hoist him to ninth in the final standings, whilst establishing a growing fan base for him in Germany.

Shannon is not by a long shot the only person in the household that made his mark in the motocross world championship arena either. His girlfriend Marianna Veenstra finished eighth in the women's motocross world championships, despite a heavy crash in Sweden that would have rivalled those of any of the lads. We guess that the dinner talk between the two of them will in all likelihood not revolve the latest knitting patterns, therefore.

Shannon is in the midst of the winter Supercross season in Germany, and after the final event in Munich, he will return home to South Africa for some well deserved R&R before heading back to Europe in preparation of his 2010 campaign. He will spend a sunny and warm Christmas with his friends and family, and with the substantial media interest that he has generated over the course of his international career to date, he will doubtless be a sought-after Shanter Clause at all the Christmas parties back home.

PELA RENET CELEBRATES MX3 WORLD TITLE
(Story Latest Update: December 15, 2009)
Reporting by Vangani Racing

NICE GUYS DO SOMETIMES FINISH FIRST

Allow us to dwell in history for a bit. The 2008 season was in many ways a forgettable one for Pierre-Alexandre Renet. The lanky Frenchman came into the year in recovery mode, after breaking his femur at the Supercross in Bercy the previous November. Just when he had put it all behind him and seemed to get his hooks into his MX1 world championship campaign, he broke his thumb, and yet again he was forced to watch from the sidelines and agonise about the season floating by.

With his CV thus compromised, the pleasant young man may very well have been stuck in the motocross wilderness for the 2009 season. With the economic recession biting down like a bulldog on a rump steak, good rides were hard to come by, and many world level riders were left with a dwindling range of options. Fortunately for Pela, team owner Bodo Schmidt's chest harbours a heart that pumps pure motocross, and although the German team owner was having to contend with more than enough challenges of his own, he bit the bullet and entered his team in the open class MX3 world championships, even though the sponsorship support he had managed to gather around his effort looked like slim pickings indeed.

Bodo and Pela brainstormed before the season, and they concluded that, with proper preparation both as far as team and rider are concerned, a dash of speed here and there, and just a smidgen of good fortune, Pela would be a definite candidate for world championship honours on the big Suzuki. The young man gave his preparations the attention it deserved, and showed a good dash of speed in the early season French championship races.

The world championship campaign kicked off at Hawkstone Park in England, and the first outing was a bit of a duffer for the Frenchman, as he managed only seventh overall. Pela's pleasant demeanour and boyish charm hides a steely determination however, and at the second GP of the season in Talavera De La Reina he bounced back. He narrowly missed his first ever GP podium, but leapt to second in the world standings behind compatriot Julien Vanni. At the next GP in Cortelha, Portugal, he took the race by the scruff of the neck and blitzed to victory in the first heat. Despite injuring his hand in the second race, he surged to third in the heat, thus allowing himself the unforgettable luxury of mounting the top of a GP podium for the first time in his life. He proved that this was no fluke by finishing second in Chile at the next GP, and the battle for world honours looked to be developing into a three way tussle between Pela, Vanni and Italian Alex Salvini on the factory Husqvarna.

A fourth overall in the Czech Republic kept our young hero in the hunt, but he crashed hard enough in Troyan, Bulgaria, to bother the local earthquake monitors, and only collected three points in the second heat, which dropped him to third in the standings. Pela and his team were quite anxious going into the Dutch GP at Markelo. The shoulder that he injured in Bulgaria was still tender and weak, but he exhibited all the gumption expected of a world championship candidate, bit his teeth and finished third in the first heat. He recovered from a disastrous start in the second race to gain more valuable championship points, and clawed back 12 points on championship leader Salvini in what counted as a very satisfying outing.

Successful racing seasons often hinge on a signature event – that one race where the dynamic of the season changed, and for Pela, this happened in the backyard of his main remaining rival Salvini. The Italian GP at Faenza was supposed to have favoured the Italian, but it was Pela who lobbed a spanner into the works by cruising to victory in the first heat.

Although Salvini claimed victory in the second race, Pela finished second, which was enough for him to celebrate his second GP victory.

The momentum was beginning to build, and at Orehova Vas in Slovenia, Pela charged to his second GP in succession. A scaphoid injury to early championship leader Julien Vanni had now taken him out of the running for the world title, and although this eliminated one of Pela's main rivals, he was by no means gleeful about the turn of events. Apart form the fact that Vanni is a close friend of his, he had himself experienced the agony of injury-induced layoffs on more than enough occasions to wish it on anyone else. Still, the reality was the the Bodo Schmidt rider had now taken the world championship lead, and could sport the red number plate on his bike at the next race.

Funny as it may seem after a fairly extensive career, Pela had never raced at Mladina in Croatia yet. The weather did his unfamiliarity with the track no favours either, as enough rain fell on Saturday to send the local Noah's scurrying for ark building materials. The qualifying sessions on Saturday were cancelled, but despite very limited opportunity to get to know the track, Pela finished second in the GP, thus extending his world championship lead.

An ironic twist came at the German GP at Schwedt. This is the Bodo Schmidt team's home GP, and with his superior sand skills, Pela was expected to tie his main championship rival in knots. Salvini came out swinging like an underdog fighter however, and the Pela committed a couple of unforced errors, which cost him the overall victory. Salvini had now closed the world championship gap to a single point, and Pela's family, supporters, dogs, cats and goldfish had their nails chewed back all the way to the bone as the tension reached boiling point.

Pela remained unflappable, however, and in front of hordes of rabid home supporters at Lacapelle Marival, on a muddy track that was more slippery than a troubled banker at a financial enquiry, he simply cleared off into the distance and won both races with margins that may as well have placed him in another postal code to the rest of the field. His world championship lead had now grown to 26 points, but he still remained guardedly optimistic about his title chances, knowing
full well that disaster always lies in the lurk.

A steady performance in Finland added three more points to his leading cushion, and the absolute highlight of his year came at the penultimate GP at Randers in Denmark. With 100 points still on the table, it was possible, but not probable that he could already secure the world title. After a troubled first race during which he was hampered by mud-caked goggles, he surged to victory in the second race which gave him yet another GP triumph but, more significantly, also the MX3 world title after Salvini had experienced a troubled outing.

The series returned to France for the final round with the world title already safely in the bag, the pressure was off his broad shoulders. Pela still wanted to give his fans a show, however, and this he did by finishing second in the GP behind compatriot and MX3 debutante Xavier Boog.

Against the odds, and with a fighting spirit that is the stuff of Hollywood, Pela had reached the pinnacle in an eventful year. He was undeniably chuffed, and gushed praise for team manager Bodo Schmidt, the sponsors, his colleagues, mechanics and team staff, and all his supporters.
With a world title trophy in the cabinet, Pela had some hard decisions to make going into the 2010 season. In a move that surprised many, he opted for an entirely different tack, and will ply his trade in the Enduro world championships in 2010 on a factory-backed KTM. The motocross world loses one of its most presentable ambassadors, and the enduro world will be all the richer for it.

Red Bull Romaniacs hard enduro rallye 2010 Inscription race begins
(Story Latest Update: December 15, 2009)

Sibiu - Romania 26th to 30th June 2010 - Prolog & 4 offroad days of Enduro paradise

The race to get a starting place and to win a lower placed start number for the World’s toughest hard enduro rallye has begun. Inscribe now at www.redbullromaniacs.com/

For 2010 the competition classes have expanded into seven classes: -
Single competitor class:
Pro, Expert, Hobby  (Enduro motorcycles)
Trial expert class  (Trial motorcycles)

Team classes:
Expert teams, Hobby teams, Tourist teams

New Hobby single class - Due to success with mini-trackers and with more experienced and professional Red Bull Romaniacs guides and helpers, we are introducing this much requested class for 2010.

Trials competitors have watched Red Bull Romaniacs films on Television, viewed our yearly DVD’s, watched video clips on www.redbullromaniacs.com/ website, and seen Pros sweat on difficult climbs, they liked what they saw, they want to come and join that special offroad atmosphere of Sibiu. So we let them!! “Trial motorcycles” get their own Expert Trial class in 2010!

Since the finish of the 2009 race, the Crazy bike club Sibiu and Red Bull Romaniacs track managers and the ever creative Martin Freinademetz have unearthed some superb new hobby and expert tracks.

Of course there is a new selection of adventurous? tracks to keep the Pro riders hearts a beating and their work rate up high. 

There is even greater interest across the globe in the Red Bull Romaniacs hard enduro rallye since the formation of the World Xtreme Enduro Championship www.wxec.info/  ,many competitors wish to experience this race and test themselves before the series goes fully live in 2011.  We will host only 250 riders at Red Bull Romaniacs in 2010 explains creator Martin Freinademetz of organising company www.xventure.net/ competitors who pay the entry fee earliest and inscribe early get priority, and get into the race.

 

FIM Motocross & SuperMoto World Championships
Changes to the 2010 Regulations
(Story Latest Update: December 10, 2009)

The FIM Motocross/SuperMoto Grand Prix Commission, composed of Mr Wolfgang Srb, President of the CMS/FIM, Giuseppe Luongo, President of Youthstream, and Takanao Tsubouchi, MSMA Secretary General, in a meeting in Salzburg (Austria), on December 3, unanimously decided the following changes to the 2010 Regulations.

General

The use of
- handlebars made from carbon, Kevlar or any other composites material
- electric/electronic controlled suspension
is not authorised in the competitions of Motocross (including Sidecars, Supercross, SuperMoto, Freestyle, Snowcross and Quads).

Motocross

The "Race Direction" (Event Management, Race Direction, FIM Stewards Panel) which has been implemented in the FIM MX1, MX2, Women's Motocross, FIM Motocross of Nations, FIM Veteran Motocross World Cup, FIM SuperMoto World Championship and FIM SuperMoto of Nations as of 1.01.2008 will now also be used in the FIM MX3 Motocross World Championship. However, in the case of the MX3 class, the FIM Stewards Panel will consist of one FIM Chief Steward and one FMNR Steward only.

The time schedules of FIM MX1, MX2 and MX3 World Championship events will be slightly adjusted.

SuperMoto

The recognised class for the FIM SuperMoto World Championship and FIM SuperMoto of Nations (the 3 riders of each national team) is the S1 class (motorcycles of Cat. I, Group A1, over 175cc up to 250cc for 2-stroke engines and over 290cc up to 450cc for 4-stroke engines).

A maximum of 32 entries will be accepted at each round of the FIM SuperMoto World Championship.

Each round of the FIM SuperMoto World Championship will count 3 races. The starting positions will be determined as follows:
- For Race 1: according to time practise and SuperPole
- For Race 2: according to the results of Race 1
- For Race 3: according to the results of race 2.

At each round, the riders will be authorised to use a maximum of 6 tyres from the official tyre supplier (one compound for dry and one compound for wet races).

The time schedule of FIM S1 World Championship events will be adjusted to the new race format.

TYLA RATTRAY LOOKS BACK ON DEBUT AMA SEASON
(Story Latest Update: December 10, 2009)

Sometimes events rush at you with quite breathtaking speed, and the circumstances that envelop you take on a life of their own. As a spray of champagne welcomed Tyla Rattray at the end of the 2008 Italian GP, his life was irrevocably changed. He was now one of the very small group of people that could call himself a motocross world champion. Naturally, teams and sponsors were beating a path to his door, but his 2009 plans lay clear before him. Then, a confluence of circumstances developed into a whirlpool of cause and effect, and almost in the blink of an eye, the South African was headed for the home of the brave and the land of the free to pursue his lifelong dream of participating in the AMA motocross series.

As a reigning world champion, Styla naturally had the full glare of the media spotlight on him. There has been an age-old, (mostly) good natured ribbing between fans either side of the Atlantic as to which series is actually the most competitive, the world championship series which is contested mainly in Europe, or the US national championship series. Those really in the know realise that there are good riders on both sides of the big pond, and a reigning world champion certainly would have no trouble in raising the interest of knowledgeable team managers in the United States. So it came to pass then, that legendary Pro Circuit owner Mitch Payton found a vacant spot in his team line-up and in a mum of time, Tyla had an offer on the table. After some negotiation, KTM generously agreed to release him from his European-based contract, and the road was clear for the South African to don Monster Energy Pro Circuit colours for the 2009 season.

The pre-season flurry of activity was nothing in comparison to the action that awaited Tyla on the track. After settling in in his new digs, it was full speed ahead with testing and getting to know his new team and bike. After so many years on KTM motorcycles, he had to adapt to a new mount, but to a pro, this is never a problem. The anticipation was high going into the season opener at Glen Helen, and although he finished fifth in the first heat after a bad start, he came back with a bang in the second race. In a crowd-pleasing performance, he was involved in a titanic tussle with eventual race winner Ryan Dungey, finally grabbing the runner-up spot with a deficit of less than 1.5 seconds. This was good enough to gain him an invite to the podium for third overall, not a bad debut at all.

After an encouraging start, Tyla's season developed into a series of stable, if not spectacular results. The problems in this new environment were twofold - his starts and the propensity of the American riders to build their races with an explosion of aggressiveness in the early laps. He worked at his starting techniques on the concrete starting pads without fail, and soon started to master this skill as well, one that was not required during his world championship years in Europe. He also adjusted his race build up to come into the battle swinging as his opponents do. This paid dividends, and at Hi Point raceway he was again within a tad of the overall podium, all the while maintaining an overall fourth position in the championship standings.


The Independence Day race at Red Bud raceway brought no holiday cheer for the hapless South African. He was looking on fire throughout qualifying sessions and the early part of the race, and for once he was taking the battle to the championship leaders. His progress ended abruptly however with a thudding crash, and by the way he was holding his hand, it was clear that he was far removed from being a happy and healthy rider. A check-up confirmed the early diagnosis that he had broken his thumb, and his championship run ended then and there.

After a period of convalescence, Tyla was back in action in the latter part of the season. The click came upon his return to action at Southwick raceway. In the first race, he very nearly got collected by another bike when his trajectory intersected with that of another rider, and he had to recover from deep down in the field to finish sixth. The second race was vintage Tyla Rattray stuff, however. When he surged to the lead with a clear holeshot, all bets were off, and after seeing off some early opposition, he cleared off into the distance for his first victory on US soil. His race victory gifted him a second position overall, his best ever in the United States.

After a season that offered a bit of everything, Tyla finished ninth overall in the championship, largely due to his injury-induced layoff. He has a wealth of additional experience in the strong room now, however, and looks forward to returning to the series in 2010 with renewed vigour. For the first time in his career, he will also participate in the US supercross series, and since this series starts early in the year, he has foregone his usual holiday trip to his native South Africa to focus 100% on his preparations for this tough discipline.

Factory Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross team joins forces with Öhlins for 2010!
(Story Latest Update: December 09, 2009)

The Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team will be able to count on the technical expertise of renowned Swedish suspension specialists Öhlins for the 2010 FIM MX1 and MX2-GP World Championship after an alliance between the two parties was recently confirmed after successful initial tests.

The new YZ450F of David Philippaerts and 2010 revised YZ250F of fresh recruit Gautier Paulin will embrace the technology of the firm established in 1976. Testing will continue extensively with a view towards achieving optimum set-up for the beginning of the pre-season campaign in February and then the first Grand Prix of fifteen in Bulgaria on April 4th.

“I have pleasant memories of working with Öhlins and of course their reputation in the motorcycle sport world is very highly regarded,” commented Team Principal and Owner Michele Rinaldi. “We have two new motorcycles with the latest generation of the YZ450F and the 2010 YZ250F to race in 2010 and we are confident that the support and knowledge of Öhlins will help us achieve our goals both on and off the track.”

“This new co-operation is very exciting for us. We have a completely new damping system ready for the team along with our high level of technical service and support - we believe that a forceful combination has been created,” said Öhlins Racing Manager Mats Larsson. “The factory team has a fantastic racing history and we look forward to similar success in the future. We are also very much looking forward to being part of the competitive development for the new YZ450F and YZ250F.”

2010 Race Edition MX Forks
After the successful press conference held at the EICMA show, where Öhlins announced that Team Rinaldi will use Öhlins suspension for 2010, there has been a recent development regarding the availability of the new 48RXF factory front fork.

Öhlins will now offer the Race Edition TTX front fork (48RXF) to everyone! These forks will not only be available for contracted teams (as in previous years) through the Racing dept. but now also through Öhlins UK Centres for national teams and riders. The 48RXF fork is based on the production TTX cartridge system with an outer and inner tube design used exclusively by the Racing dept. The RXF front fork will be available for the following 2010 models:

Honda CRF 250R
Honda CRF 450R
Kawasaki KX450F
KTM SX 250F
KTM SX 450F
Yamaha YZ 250F
Yamaha YZ 450F

This front fork can only be ordered through Official UK Öhlins Centres. FTR Suspension is an Official Öhlins Centre and can order these forks direct from the factory in Sweden. The RXF front fork is sold with retail price of £3,652 + VAT so get in early before the VAT increase! (Jan 2010).

These front forks will be produced in very limited quantities, one production batch only!  This is scheduled to be delivered in February 2010. Orders must be placed before 21st December 2009!

HONDA LAUNCHES EUROPEAN XTREME ACADEMY
(Story Latest Update: December 08, 2009)

Honda Europe has announced the launch of the Honda Racing Xtreme Academy – a series of new 150cc big-wheel off-road racing championships being held across several European countries in 2010.

Young riders can register their details now at Honda Europe’s racing website and the programme is being seen as a potential first step on the ladder to becoming part of Honda Racing's World Championship Xtreme programme in MX1, MX2, Enduro and even the Dakar Rally.

Championships in each country will stand alone or be part of an existing series and will be solely for Honda CRF150 big-wheel MX machines. The programme is designed to support young riders aged 11-15 and give them a chance to experience the excitement of motocross competition on a reliable, fast 4-stroke machine.

Entry into the Honda Racing Xtreme Academy will secure individual rider sponsorship, access to an exciting prize pool, plus discounts on – and a chance to win – training programmes with John van den Berk - double world champion and MX des Nations winner, who now coaches many of the world's top MX1 stars at his Pro-MX training base in Spain.

Each of the individual country championships is being scheduled to run in parallel with the brand-new UEM 150 4-stroke European championship run by Youthstream, meaning that Honda Racing Xtreme Academy riders will be able to compete in both
series.

Roger Harvey, Honda Europe's off-road manager, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Honda to help young riders hone their skills on the perfect bike and for those riders to compete in two complementary championships.

“We anticipate this will help them to become part of the wider Honda Racing family,” he added, “and, ultimately, to prepare for the step up to the 4-stroke machines that compete at world championship level.”

Young riders interested in finding out more about this exciting new opportunity are invited to register their details immediately on the Honda Racing website at www.hondaracing-eu.com/xtreme. Applicants will then be contacted by Honda when each country's championship details are confirmed.

TANEL LEOK - The year in review
(Story Latest Update: December 08, 2009)

With each passing year, time just seems to fly by faster. The 2009 international motocross racing season is certainly no exception. For Estonian strongman Tanel Leok, the year held much in store. In many ways the year signified all that is new and changed for him. Firstly, (and our fear of the Estonian handbag attack dictate that we note this as most importantly), he sported a brand new accessory in the form of a wedding ring, to pay testament to the fact that he and Karoliina had tied the knot nice and tight. Secondly, after four years in the factory Kawasaki squad, he had switched to blue, and would in 2009 defend the colours of the Red Bull Yamaha de Carli team.

It is not for nothing that Tanel has earned the moniker "The Estonian Express", and he set about his season's activities with his renowned enthusiasm. Seeing as his team is Italian-based, the early-season Italian championships naturally formed a major part of the team's early season preparation. Tanel took to his new "home" series like the proverbial duck to water, and before too long, he was on the top of the podium, basking in the adulation of the Italian fans if not in the weak and wintry sun. The Italian international motocross championship series is atypical in the sense that it runs in a short, sharp burst at the beginning of the year. By the time that other national championships are just building up steam, the Italian champion is already known. Going into the series finale at Gazzane di Preseglie, it was clear that, barring a mishap of seismic proportions, the title would fall either to Tanel or to team-mate Antonio Cairoli. Tanel was the one with the series lead in his pocket, however, and he held onto that lead with his massive and powerful hands to claim his first championship trophy for his new team.

Most riders would, having already won a major international title, have regarded their job for the season as being done, but for Tanel the season was just starting. The world championship was looming large, and the first GP outing of the year was scheduled for Faenza in the team's home country. The weather gods were not kind, however, and the rain came pelting down all weekend. Some of the local ducks were even spotted packing their bags in disgust and heading out for better climes. If the ducks were not in their element, however, Tanel certainly was, and he sloshed his way to victory in the first race. Conditions became so bad that the second race was cancelled, and thus Tanel got the opportunity to step on top of the podium as the winner of the first GP and early world championship leader.

After such an illustrious start, the spotlights and gun sights of the opposition were firmly focused on the Estonian, and his season from then on turned into a bit of a roller coaster ride. A disastrous first heat at the Grand Prix of Turkey netted him only two points, and by now he had relinquished the lead in the world standings and dropped a ways down the leaderboard. He bounced back at the GP of the Benelux at Valkenswaard, and once again he could savour the sweet taste of podium champagne. A crash-filled outing made his Spanish GP one best consigned to the dustbin, but his yo-yo year continued with a better result in the British GP. His world standing was always within the top 10, but his goals were to definitely improve on his 8th raking of 2008, and preferably move into the world top 5.

The French GP was more friendly to the Estonian charger, and he just missed the podium with a fourth overall. He looked for all the world like a gambling man a the German GP, scoring all the sevens, and moving to seventh in the world standing. Quite possibly his biggest disappointment of the year came at the Latvian GP. Latvia borders his native Estonia, and his home fans descended onto the event en masse to witness him fight for another overall victory. He was well placed in the first heat when he went down, and thereafter the bike resolutely refused to start with a stubbornness that would be the envy of every mule on the planet. A collective sigh rippled though the crowd as all and any chance of an overall victory went up in literal smoke.

A steady outing netted Tanel sixth in Sweden, and the remainder of his season was characterised by steady, if not spectacular results. He narrowly missed a podium finish at the penultimate GP in Lierop, Holland, but the personal disappointment was counteracted by the buoyant spirit under the team tent as team-mate Antonio Cairoli was crowned MX1 world champion. With years of GP experience under his belt, Tanel knows better than most that a good final world championship standing is built up over the course of a full season, and when the curtain was drawn after the final GP, he had confirmed his standing as one of the elite MX1 riders in the world, with a final world standing of seventh.

The contractual musical chairs started quite early during the 2009 season, and after evaluating a number of offers from various teams, Tanel finally opted to pen his signature on the contract offered by the Belgian-based LS Honda team for 2010. He thus returns to one of his favourite brands, and he is Honda's highest-ranked rider to be contesting the 2010 world championship series.

Tanel is not one given to undue sentimentality, but his stony facade did slip a bit when he bid his team principal, staff, and team-mates good-bye after an eventful season. He thoroughly enjoyed his year in Claudio De Carli's squad, but new challenges beckon, and his mind is already locked onto the adventure that awaits him in 2010.

KAWASAKI'S CHAD REED TAKES HOME AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS TITLE
(Story Latest Update: December 08, 2009)

Monster Energy Kawasaki's newest rider Chad Reed made an impressive debut with his new team by reclaiming the Monster Energy Super X Championship in his native country of Australia.

Competing on a Kawasaki for the first time since 2001, Reed put his KX450F on the top step of the podium four times during the seven race season, including wins at the final three events.

"The Monster Energy Super X series was great," said Reed. "I was able to win back-to- back titles and my second championship of 2009. Getting this championship on the KX450F for the Monster Energy Kawasaki team is a great way to start our relationship. Racing in Australia was great for me to get used to my new team and bike. I feel good about my riding and my prep for 2010."

Reed is not only the two-time champion of the Australian series but also one of the organisers.

"The Monster Energy Super X series is growing," continued Reed. "In only its second year, we saw great tracks and large crowds. For the first time we travelled to New Zealand for an event and all the riders stepped it up and rode awesome, making it hard on me to win the title."

Reed is now headed back to the United States to continue his preparation for the 2010 Monster Energy Supercross season, which begins Saturday, January 9 at Angels Stadium in Anaheim, California.

TEAM SUZUKI INCREASES AMA RACING EFFORTS IN 2010
(Story Latest Update: December 08, 2009)

American Suzuki has announced its significant racing agenda for 2010 that will see the Suzuki Road Racing, Supercross, Motocross and ATV teams managed by long-time development partners Yoshimura.

Suzuki will commit to a larger racing effort along with returning sponsors Rockstar Energy Drink and Makita tools, which will be run by long-time partner Yoshimura R&D of America, and will house all of the Rockstar Makita Suzuki racing teams under one roof.

"Suzuki products are truly industry leading and we stand behind them 100 per cent," said Senior Advertising Manager Steve Bortolamedi. "We proved that last year with our six titles. For 2010, what better way to demonstrate this again than by putting our reputation on the line?"

The Rockstar Makita Suzuki racing efforts won an unprecedented six championships in 2009, dominating the Supercross, Motocross, Road Racing and ATV championship series, and Suzuki has committed to putting the competition-crushing GSX-Rs, RM-Zs, and QuadRacer on top of the podium in 2010.

"Yoshimura will be managing Suzuki racing efforts in Supercross, Motocross, Road Racing, and ATV Racing," Yoshimura R&D Senior Vice President Don Sakakura said. "We hope to be able to showcase the performance of the Suzuki line of high-performance motorcycles and ATVs. Suzuki is proud of their products and is ready for the upcoming racing season. We at Yoshimura are equally looking forward to 2010."

Suzuki revealed its impressive roster of racers for the 2010 season on Friday at the International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, California:

Supercross/ Motocross:
AMA Supercross and Motocross 2009 Champion Ryan Dungey is returning to the team for 2010 aboard the unstoppable RM-Z450. Australian Matt Moss, who won the 2009 Australian National Pro Lites Championship as well as the Australasian Supercross Pro Lites Championship, will join Dungey in the 450 class. Rounding out the team will be Austin Stroupe, who's set to compete in the Pro Lites East series aboard the RM-Z250.

ATV:
Back-to-back AMA ATV Motocross champion Dustin Wimmer will defend his number 1 plate aboard the QuadRacer R450, joined by racing up-and-comer Josh Creamer.

GNCC:
Josh Strang will return to the XC1 class to win with the RM-Z450.

When asked about Suzuki's chances for the 2010 season, Sakakura was optimistic, "With great sponsors like Rockstar, Makita and the Suzuki family of program partners, it really frees us up to go out and win races. With team managers like Roger De Coster in Motocross and Supercross, Pete Doyle in Road Racing, and Kory Ellis and Kevin Mummah in ATV, I'd say we are looking pretty good."

2010 UK WORLD TRIAL - NEVIS RANGE - FORT WILLIAM - SCOTLAND
(Story Latest Update: December 08, 2009)

June 2010 may seem a long way off, but things are really gathering momentum as Fort William prepares to welcome the SPEA FIM Trial World Championship at Nevis Range next Summer. With Christmas just around the corner, there has never been a better time to benefit from the massive discounts on all advance tickets for this event. Any tickets purchased prior to 1st January 2010, which will make the ideal Christmas gift for all ages, will be at the current 2009 prices and will also be exempt from the pending VAT increase.

Advance tickets are currently selling well due to these great savings, which includes a three-day family pass that is an incredible £120 cheaper than paying on the gate. The bargains do not stop there, if you buy an adult three-day pass in advance you save £25, or £20 for the two-day ticket. What is more, if you are quick you can also buy VIP car parking passes, which allow you to enjoy the same access as the riders, officials and VIP guests. Tickets can be purchased via www.ukworldtrial.com or by calling 0161 705 2075.

Offering further value for money  the event organisers L+M Events have secured a special rate at the famous Alexandra Hotel in Fort William of £45.00 per person per night*, which includes full Scottish breakfast. This  can be booked direct with the hotel and secured with a credit card for future payment – contact details are listed below.

Whilst the three-day event staged over 25/26/27th June will deliver non-stop entertainment throughout what promises to be a long weekend to remember, the region has so much more to offer for those who wish to extend their stay in the area.

Whilst himself a regular visitor to Fort William over the last three decades, ex-multi World trials champion Dougie Lampkin recently discovered a whole host of new activities in and around the town, and was keen to experience these first hand. Dougie enjoyed an action packed couple of days in the care of a group of youngsters who are currently studying outward bounds activities as a degree course at a local institution for higher education.

Kayaking, indoor rock climbing, a fast boat tour, a trip to the local whisky distillery and a spot of ice walling were just some of the activities Dougie got to sample, as he got to understand why Fort William and Lochaber is an outdoor playground like no other and is titled the Outdoor Capital of the UK.

To find out more about what Dougie got up to during his recent Scottish adventure please visit the official event website www.ukworldtrial.com.

The Alexandra Hotel
The Parade, Fort William,  PH33 6AZ
T: + 44 (0) 1397 702241 F: + 44 (0) 1397 705554

E: salesalexandra@strathmorehotels.com
W: www.strathmorehotels.com

Please quote World Trial when booking.

*Subject to availability / based on twin occupancy

Beat the 1st January price increase buy your discounted advance tickets now.

KTM - Winning MX Bike on Tour for Success
(Story Latest Update: December 04, 2009)

For KTM and its factory team riders Marvin Musquin and Max Nagl the 2009 season could have hardly been better.

Whereas Musquin was able to win the MX2 World championship title on his KTM 250 SX-F, Max Nagl on his KTM 450 SX-F finished as Vice World Champion in the big MX1 class. Now the brand is passing these numerous victories and successes onto its MX fan community via the exclusive Musquin and Nagl Replicas.

French rider Marvin Musquin put his stamp on the MX2 class in the 2009 season like no-one before him. He not only impressed the Motocross world with his huge talent and riding ability but also with his previously unrecognised nerves of steel. The rider with the passionate desire to win celebrates his 20th birthday on 30.12.2009. Following a season that gave him his share of stress off the race track, Musquin settled into the KTM family and finally found success and satisfaction. And as far as Marvin is concerned that's the way it should stay for a long time. The new MX2 World Champion also starts in 2010 on his KTM 250 SX-F in the Red Bull KTM MX2 Factory Team.

When reflecting back on the 2009 MX1 season and Vice World Champion Max Nagl, what one cannot forget is the unbelievable starts made by the German rider on his KTM 450 SX-F machine. He was the 2009 "Holeshot King" thanks to ultra power from Mattighofen, the KTM headquarters in Austria. And the 22-year-old KTM factory rider and Grand Prix winner doesn't want to be without this guarantee of success also in 2010 when he continues to ride in the Red Bull KTM MX1 Factory Team.

By introducing both of these select special series - the 2010 KTM 250 SX-F Marvin Musquin Replica and the 2010 KTM 450 SX-F Max Nagl Replica, KTM guarantees its customers the same very special level of enjoyment that is experienced by the factory riders. At the same time, these two special and very rare models give KTM, the manufacturer that is passionate about motor sports, a perfect opportunity to pay homage to the efforts of its factory riders in a very stylish way.

Details of components:

KTM 250 SX-F Musquin Replica (Limited to 200 units)
- Complete Akrapovic titanium silencer and headers                            
- Frame coated in orange                                        
- orange anodised triple clamps
- Renthal Fatbar handlebar black
- Handguards
- SXS seat
- Skid plate
- Brake disk protection (front)
- Operating hours meter + holder
- Air filter cover orange
- Radiator shield orange
- Orange-coloured rear sprocket
- Red Bull Factory Graphics

KTM 450 SX-F Nagl Replica (Limited to 100 units)
- Akrapovic exhaust silencer
- PHDS handlebar clamp
- Frame coated in orange
- orange anodised triple clamps
- Renthal Fatbar handlebar black
- Handguards
- SXS seat
- Skid plate
- Brake disk protection (front)
- Operating hours meter + holder
- Air filter cover orange
- Radiator shield orange
- Factory start
- Orange-coloured rear sprocket
- Nagl Factory Graphics

The special models are available via all KTM dealers from the beginning of December.

KTM 250 SX-F Musquin Replica 2.9 MB Brochure Download.
KTM 450 SX-F Nagl Replica 2.1 MB Brochure Download.

New Women’s Enduro World Cup
(Story Latest Update: December 01, 2009)

The FIM opened its championships to women almost ten years ago. It all started in Women’s Individual Trial Cup. Then from 2003 to 2005, world cups for women were created in Rallies and Motocross. In 2006, the FIM decided to set up the Commission for Women in Motorcycling. Its mission is to create equal opportunities and to work with the other sports commissions to promote and encourage the participation of women in motorcycle sport.

In 2010, the FIM is launching the FIM Women’s Enduro World Cup, constituted of three races with two rounds, held during the FIM World Championship Enduro events. The four best of the six results will count towards the final classification. Some technical and sporting modifications will be made on certain parts of the route to allow competitors to be able to complete the race.

Beaulah Schoeman, Commission for Women in Motorcycling President said: “The introduction of the FIM Women’s Enduro World Cup once again highlights the FIM’s commitment to promote women in motorcycling, and this decision is of course warmly welcomed by the CFM. On behalf of the CFM and all women motorcyclists, we wish each and every lady who will be participating in the FIM Women’s Enduro World Cup only the very best.”

Amedeo Michelotti, Enduro and Cross-Country Rallies Commission President added: “The CER is proud of the creation of the FIM Women’s Enduro World Cup which will give women participating in Enduro to be under the spotlight and show that this discipline may also be practised by women. This year at the ISDE in Figueira da Foz, in Portugal, no fewer than five women's national teams participated, and all competitors finished the race! We wish long life to this new World Cup and hopefully a big women's participation world-wide.”

FIM Women’s Enduro World Cup 2010 calendar
22-23 May   Lovere   Italy
12-13 June   Kwidzyn   Poland
25-26 September   Noirétable   France

The Technical and Sporting Regulations will be available at the beginning of January 2010.

CAROLE NASH INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE & SCOOTER SHOW
(Story Latest Update: November 30, 2009)

FROM DAWN TILL DUSK – THE OPENING WEEKEND OF THE 2009 CAROLE NASH NEC BIKE SHOW IS A ROARING SUCCESS

Thousands of visitors descended early on the Birmingham NEC over the weekend for the opening of The Carole Nash International Motorcycle & Scooter Show, with thousands more flocking to the UK’s premier two-wheeled event on Saturday evening to witness the high adrenaline action from the opening round of The Future West ACU British Supercross Championship.

Widely regarded by visitors and exhibitors alike as being one of the most publicised celebrity packed opening weekends in the Show’s history, the event has already hosted dozens of bike launches, star riders from the worlds of MotoGP, World and British Superbike Championships, a brace of TV celebrities and even a marriage proposal ably assisted by global bike adventurer Charley Boorman!

Crowd-pulling motorcycle innovations such as the Norton Commando 961SE, Yamaha XJ6 Diversion F, BMW S1000 RR coupled with novel bikes including the Viper V10 - the world’s fastest production motorcycle – have been the objects of fascination for the hordes of visitors. Countless celebrities from the likes of chefs-come-bike fanatics Gordon Ramsay, James Martin and The Hairy Bikers to former England cricketer and Strictly Come Dancing star, Darren Gough have each made special trips to the Show where, besieged by thousands of fans, they indulged in some early Christmas shopping.

As the lights dimmed at the end of an action-packed Saturday in Hall’s 1 to 4, Hall 5 was primed and ready to stage an evening of thrilling action from The Future West ACU British Supercross Championships where some of the best  off road talent were all vying to seize the early advantage in front of thousands of fans. It was a remarkable evening with awe-inspiring displays from over 250 riders who each jostled for position in front of a vocal and excited crowd. Highlights included ‘the big double’ – a 60ft jump – achieved by a promising rookie at just 7-years-old and the feat of British star Gordon Crockard, who took 1st place in the British Open and achieved a career-best in the SX1 International Class where he finished runner-up.

Future West's John Hellam, said: “It’s always a gamble to take an event to a new arena, however we couldn’t have hoped for a more electric start to the 2009 Future West ACU British Supercross Championships. The atmosphere inside what is Europe’s largest purpose-built supercross arena made it an evening to remember and a great precursor to this Saturday’s next round of action”.

Finlay McAllan, Managing Director of MCI Exhibitions, commented: “This weekend, by all accounts has been one of the most action-packed in the Show’s history. We have been inundated with celebrity appearances whilst the welcome addition of hosting the first round of the Future West ACU British Supercross Championships was very successful. The second round next weekend promises to be equally as thrilling if not more so.”


LPE KAWASAKI
The opening of the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the Birmingham NEC this past weekend also heralded the first round of this year's British Supercross Championship. Participating in both the show and the supercross, LPE Kawasaki's Kristian Whatley proved that even though he had never raced a supercross before, he was no slouch in that department.

As part of the show's schedule, Kristian joined other racers in the Supercross Arena on Friday and Saturday to demonstrate what supercross was to show visitors, and then in the Saturday evening race programme, qualified for the final races of his two classes with two top three performances. The British Open final continued Kristian's good progress throughout the evening, when he ended the race in the top five, but in the Pro SX2 final race, things went slightly awry. A start in fifth ended in the dirt with sore ribs with but two laps to go and a last place.

Nonetheless, both Kristian and team boss Steve James were pleased with the evening's progress, promising to give spectators an even better race at round two on the show's closing weekend on December 5.

FIM reduces decibels in competition
(Story Latest Update: November 28, 2009)

Involved for many years in the field of environmental protection and proud of the agreement with the United Nations Environment Program, for two years, the FIM has been committed to an initiative aiming at the reduction of sound levels of motorcycles used in off-road competitions.

With the support from manufacturers world-wide and our promoters, the new sound test method "2 metre max" * will be applied as from 2010 in Motocross, Enduro and Track Racing World Championships. The new method will be much more evident for our fellow citizens and for the fight against excessive noise.

The noise levels permitted will be an important first step in the reduction of sound levels, with an average reduction between 3 and 6 dB/A, compared to the current situation, depending on the discipline.

For Motocross and Track Racing, the maximum noise level admitted at a distance of 100 metres will be of 81 dB/A, and in Enduro the maximum noise level admitted at a distance of 100 metres will be 78 dB/A.

This action will be relayed in a new FIM campaign called "RIDE QUIET", not only beneficial for the future of motorcycle racing, but also for the benefit of all motorcyclists on the street.

Vito Ippolito, FIM President said: "For the past 15 years, FIM has become a leading sporting federation, actively involved in the study and application of solutions to fight against environmental nuisance. The rules of the new sound test method for competition, represents a significant progress. I'm really pleased with the collaboration with our partners to achieve this agreement."

Jean-Pierre Mougin, FIM Deputy President and Chairman of the Steering Committee for the reduction of sound levels added: "A major step has been made with the implementation of this new method, thanks to an excellent co-operation between manufacturers and promoters, not to mention the strong impulse given by the Danish federation (DMU). This is important for the survival of all FIM off-road disciplines. The FIM had to react effectively. 2010 will constitute a first step in the fight against noise nuisances and the results will define the future actions.”

*The new sound level test method "2 metre max" is carried out at with the sound meter positioned at the rear of the motorcycle, at a distance of two metres and an angle of 45°from the silencer. The engine is tested at maximum rpm.

JOSH COPPINS VISITS WALES
(Story Latest Update: November 27, 2009)
by Hayley Walton

Cool Coppins At Rhayader!

‘RYMXC’ Rhayader Youth Motocross Club held their annual presentations on Saturday, 7th November 2009 at Rhayader Leisure Centre and oh boy what a night it was with special guest Factory Yamaha Rider and World No 6 Josh Coppins and we felt very privileged to have Josh with us for the evening.

Club Chairman Christian Walton started the evening proceedings by thanking the track owners, St. Johns, past & present committee members, riders & parents and lots of other people who had helped run and supported the club during 2009. Christian gave a special thank you to Club Secretaries Mr & Mrs Lynn Evans who retired from their post and I presented them with a gift for all their hard work over the past four years!

Then it was over to me, a very, very, nervous Hayley who had to take the bull by the horns and get on with the job of holding the whole night together along with one or two bad jokes!!! (the one about Wyn Hope was my best)!!!!!  Anyway I firstly spoke briefly about how proud the committee was with all the riders who rode at the BSMA Semi Finals at Brookthorpe and how brilliant it was that we had four riders go through to the BSMA Finals at Swindon, as we had not had anybody qualify before! The Team Event was also a great experience for all RYMXC riders and everyone fully enjoyed it and what a huge result the Junior Team had with fourth overall, they were absolutely brilliant for such young riders.

Then I welcomed Josh to Mid-Wales and Rhayader town and we kicked off with Josh presenting all the Club Championship Awards with some extremely excited children waiting in the wings and of course oldies!! 

After the club awards there were some very special trophies to be handed out. The first one was the Chloe Price Award of ‘Best Local Rider’ which goes on the highest local point scorer and it was with great delight that I announced ‘The Rocket’ Mr Ryan Rowlands and everyone cheered!!!

The next award is a lovely award because it is voted for by the riders and it is called the Mick Simms Memorial Trophy ‘Riders’ Rider’ and the votes had been counted and checked twice and it was again ‘The Rocket’ Ryan Rowlands who won it by just one vote! So, well done to Ryan - he should be very proud of his achievements this year and he has huge family support and I know everyone will look forward to watching him again next season!

Christian had spoken earlier in the evening about Mr Trevor Evans who was a former British Sidecar Enduro Champion who sadly passed away from a very bad illness and his family had kindly donated the Trevor Evans Memorial Award of ‘Most Improved Rider’. This award was voted for by the committee members. Trevor’s granddaughters Jade and Lowri came up onto the stage to present the award to the ever-improving Mr Ieuan Morgan!!!  Ieuan has had a brilliant season and fully deserved the fantastic award, so well done to him and a huge thank you to Mrs Sue Evans and family for donating the special shield.

Then Josh had the job of drawing the raffles, a huge thank you goes to everyone who donated prizes and all the riders and businesses who donated such fantastic prizes for the special raffle - it is greatly appreciated and of course Josh for giving a signed racing kit. Sam was over the moon he won it but thought it might be a touch on the small side!!!

The night was the best yet and RYMXC would like to thank Mr Josh Coppins for giving up his time to present all the awards for 2009 and everyone who bought tickets and supported the club - it means a lot. And thanks go to Rhayader Leisure Centre and Fingers & Forks for such lovely food and not forgetting DJ Jammie Disco!

A big thank you goes to Mr Keith Bowen at MX247.com for all the great photos during the season and Dr Frank Morgan for all the brilliant DVDs which everyone has loved.
Thank you everyone!

RYMXC looks forward to another successful and fun season in 2010 with lots of exciting things happening. The talented brothers Ben and Nathan Watson will be riding with us for some of their season and also the Edmondson brothers Jack and Harry along with their dad World Champion Enduro Rider Paul Eddy and of course the multi talented Lee Eddy and much more!!

If you would like to become a RYMXC ‘Let’s Get Dirty’ Club Member please ring me, Hayley Walton on 07970262632 or e-mail at enquries@rymxc.co.uk

OUR 2010 DATES ARE NOW OUT!!!

2009 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS

AUTO
1st Ryan Rowlands
2nd Jamie Evans
3rd Ben Evans
4th Abby Thomas
5th Harry Edmondson
6th Shauna Hope

JUNIOR
1st Alex Walton
2nd Ieuan Morgan
3rd William Jones
4th Kieron Mills
5th Iwan Roberts
6th Dylan Leach

INTER-85
1st Joel Hughes
2nd Sonny Parker
3rd Connor Clewett
4th Kairon Watkins
5th Rhys Roberts
6th Charlie Price

INTER-OPEN
1st Ryan Waters
2nd Billy Johnson
3rd Ben Francis
4th Jamie Webb
5th Sam Newell
6th Hannah Hope

SENIOR
1st Oliver Paine
2nd Adam Morris
3rd Gareth Hughes
4th Spencer Eve
5th Dean Plumstead
6th Daryl Prisk

AMX
1st Chris Morris
2nd Jonathan Evans
3rd Wyn Hope
4th Gerwyn Exon
5th Chris Price
6th Adam Rees

XAVI GALINDO IS NEW HUSABERG FACTORY RIDER
(Story Latest Update: November 27, 2009)

The Spanish rider will focus his activity on the International Extreme Enduro Races and the Indoor Enduro World Cup.

Xavier Galindo switches to Husaberg with immediate effect. The 28 year old rider born in Masalcoreig (Lleida), several times Spanish Enduro and X-Country Champion, will join the Husaberg Factory Team alongside compatriot Oriol Mena, Joakim Ljunggren, Valtteri Salonen, Calle Sjöö and Benoit Fortunato. Unlike his team-mates Xavi's first priority will not be the WEC but the International Extreme Enduro Races, in which he has already demonstrated his competitiveness in the past, as well as the Indoor Enduro World Cup. Nevertheless he is also planning to participate in the first two rounds of the 2010 WEC season in Spain and Portugal and in the Spanish Enduro Championship.

Despite having suffered a 2009 season marked by injuries, especially the one in the right shinbone when he was leading the Red Bull Romaniacs Race in August, Galindo is considered as one of the physically strongest Spanish enduro riders. Coming from trial and motocross, he’s in the enduro scene since 2005, where he achieved his best results. Galindo has an enviable technical riding skill which allows him an incredibly fast pace in the toughest of riding terrain.

His first race aboard a Husaberg will be the Red Bull Don Quixote team race this coming weekend, where he will make up the Husaberg team together with Oriol Mena. One week later he will make his international debut at round 2 of the IEWC in Genoa, Italy aboard the Husaberg FE 390 alongside team-mates Joakim Ljunggren and Oriol Mena.

Xavi Galindo's enduro racing career highlights:

2005
- Spanish Enduro Champion (E3)
- Spanish X-Country Champion
- 6th position World Enduro Championship (E3)

2006
- Spanish Enduro Champion (E2)
- Spanish X-Country Runner-up
- 3rd position ISDE with the Spanish Trophy Team

2007
- Spanish Enduro Champion (E2)
- 6th position World Enduro Championship (E3)

2008
- Spanish Enduro Champion (E3)
- Spanish X-Country Champion

2009
- Spanish Enduro Vice Champion (E1)

FINAL 2009 CAS HONDA TRAINING DAY AT MINITT MOTOPARC
(Story Latest Update: November 25, 2009)

CAS Honda have announced their final training day of the year at Minnitt motoparc near Lincoln on the 9th of December 2009, which is aimed at helping the more advanced rider achieve their goals.

Former British Champion, World Championship rider and current CAS Honda team manager, Neil Prince, will once again be offering advice and tips on bike control, technique as well as machine set-up with plenty of one-to-one teaching to help riders further their progress, specifically tailored for this level of rider.

Prince is well known for playing a pivotal role in leading CAS Honda to its undeniable success. In the team’s eleven-year existence CAS Honda has achieved no less than eight British MX1 Championship titles, two British MX2 Championships including Honda’s first four-stroke 250 Championship win at the team’s first attempt, four British Supercross titles and many Grand Prix moto wins.

This special training day is strictly limited to allow riders to get the very best tutoring over some of the technical obstacles that the track features, which are very similar to a regular supercross circuit.

“This training day is our final event of the year and as the track has some more complex features, we’ve aimed it at the more experienced rider. We’ve also limited it so every rider gets some quality time learning on a one-to-one basis,” said Prince.

“We’ll be concentrating on technique as well as every aspect of riding and racing to help riders build their speed. The track is quite like a supercross track, which is where my expertise lay during my racing years, so I’m really looking forward to this training event and helping the group that wish to take on the challenge,” concluded the CAS Honda Team Manager.

To see a video of the track during the summer please visit: http://www.youtube.com/user/Rev356#p/a/u/2/drBKhCcdKb0

This exclusive training day is strictly limited and is available on a first come, first served basis priced at £85 per person per day. For more information please email press@cashonda.com or call 07725857203.

RALLY-TEAM ELF SHERCO DAKAR 2010 – 100% MADE IN FRANCE !
(Story Latest Update: November 24, 2009)

Last weekend on the French Riviera, David Casteu presented his new Dakar and 2010 Rally world championship Team.

In the headquarters of French Newspaper powerhouse that is Nice Matin, many elected officials, Chamber of Commerce representatives joined sports celebrities and sponsors such as Fred Lequien (ASO), Luc Alphand (Skieur-pilote auto), Fabien Planet (International Sherco Enduro rider), Arnaud Vincent (GP moto), Philippe Corsaletti (Elf-Total), Marc Tessier (Sherco), Philippe Quillot (Massa), Pierre Souvigné (O’But), Gérard Benielli (Dif’Azur)…

The very next day, Bivouac was set on the hills of local countryside in order to start Dakar simulations for the Team’s logistics and break-in the bikes.

David Casteu explains : « This year, with the help of my sponsors ELF, Sherco, Massa and Rockstar Energy, I chose to take my future into my own hands and to build my own team.
For the last two months, I have been wearing two hats : Rider#1 and Team manager. But the latter, I will drop it the day I land in Argentina to focus on my own race. »

Beyond extremely professional people, David has relied and surrounded myself with many devoted friends who are supporting him in more ways than one.
We can bet this synergy will make the difference in what is recognised as the toughest motorsport event in the world, Le Dakar.

« These last 3 months were really hard on us on all levels…. we did not really sleep much at all. But Saturday night, when I stayed in the field where we set up camp, I tool a look around me and really paid attention to my team, I was really happy. I did realise that I went far and deep with details and that I really used my years of experience as official factory KTM rider to put together a great team, my team ! »

This 2010 Dakar is marked as a stepping stone in the history of Rally Raid world because the highly successful promoter ASO did impose a 450cc limit for the motorcycles. « The fact that Sherco as well as Yamaha and Aprilia vested themselves in Rally is proof that the people against the new rule are in the wrong. It was a really good decision and at the finish of this Dakar, I think many factories will ask themselves serious questions and will regret to have missed on such new opportunity. »

« The 450cc Sherco with injection adds a « green » touch to my program as it is very easy to fine tune the gas mileage. The lightweight bike doesn’t require a lot of experience to ride it but an aggressive style is required. The total opposite of the large 690cc we were previously used to.
In this Dakar, we will still see KTM 690 but restricted in power, a wise choice by the promoters that will allow many 450cc riders to compete on a even field. It was important to look further than just one Dakar, I am committed for long term and thanks to my sponsors, I already have the next two years of ‘Dakar’ and world championships budgeted. »

My Team is composed of three riders, including Mika Pisano who is my designated ‘water carrier’ and Ludo Boinnard, additional assistant to our program who will be following us on my old Factory KTM.
We will be a total of 12 people, each with a very detailed designated task and I know I will be able to rest entirely on this group of people very tightly knitted by friendship and professionalism. »

LEATT BRACE Service center
During the Dakar, all competitors wearing a Leatt brace neck protector will be able to get technical support in the form of new replacement parts inventoried a tour truck. The Leatt company will set up booth next to our truck during admin and tech controls in Buenos Aires.

TEAM ELF / SHERCO / MASSA / ROCKSTAR energy

RIDERS
N°3 David Casteu (Sherco 450)
N°20 Michaël Pisano (Sherco 450)
N°26 Ludo Boinnard (KTM 690)

DAVID CASTEU
2 time runner up world champion Rally
2nd overall in Dakar 2007
4th overall in Dakar 2009
Winner overall Pharaoh’s rally – Egypt 2008
Winner overall Dakar Series- Central Europe rally 2008
1992 Trial French champion

MIKA PISANO
2nd French Nat Enduro championship 2002
2nd overall in Tunisia Rally 2008
First Dakar in 2009 Engine failure while running 12th overall

LUDO BOINNARD
4th overall Rally Dos Sertoes – Brasil 2005
9th overall Pharaoh’s rally – Egypt 2008
3rd French Nat Enduro championship 1983/1984/1985

TEAM

T5 MAN TRUCK
-Robert Arnaud : driver + bivouac set up
-François Bonnet : bivouac manager + Parts logistic
-Michel Thullier : Motorist

T5 SPRINTER
-Franck « Carbone » Quetier : Mechanic + carbon parts
-George Gianti : Mechanic + châssis specialist
-Patrick Ricroch : Mechanic Teacher IFA
-Alex Giorsetti : Mechanic student IFA

PICK-UP TRUCK
-Jean-Pierre Aujoulet : Administration
-Judith Tomaselli : Press relations

David Knight signs for Farioli KTM
(Story Latest Update: November 24, 2009)

Knight prepares for 2010 WEC E3 Title Assault

Former two-time World Enduro Champion and double US GNCC title winner David Knight has announced that he will race for the Farioli KTM team in 2010 where he will compete on official factory KTM machinery in the Enduro 3 class.

Returning to the World Enduro Championship at the start of 2009 following two winning seasons in the States, Knight endured a largely frustrating year despite claiming wins in both the WEC and US GNCC series. Now, with the support of the Farioli KTM team, David will start 2010 focussed on claiming a third Enduro 3 world championship.

Although not an official member of the KTM Factory Enduro Team David will receive factory backing, ensuring that he has both the machinery and support to claim World Championship success in 2010.

David Knight: I’m extremely happy to be riding for the Farioli KTM team next year, knowing I will receive full factory KTM equipment, and be part of what is a great team that I know well, means I’m really looking forward to the start of the new season. With the Farioli KTM team and support from my personal sponsors I know I can re-establish myself at the top of the Enduro 3 world championship. 2009 was a difficult year for me but I learned a lot and I’m even more determined than ever to win more WEC titles.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Kawasaki that has supported me during the second half of 2009, especially everyone at the Kawasaki Superbike Racing Team. Claiming victory in the E2 class at the final round of the 2009 World Enduro Championship for Kawasaki is something that I’m extremely proud of. I’d like to wish Kawasaki every success in 2010. During the coming weeks and months I’m going to be training hard during the winter both in the UK and in the States. I can’t wait for the start of the 2010 season.”

SIDCUP & DMCC BRITISH MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND
(Story Latest Update: November 24, 2009)

Unfortunately the Committee of the Sidcup & DMCC has not been able to agree a date with ACU Events Ltd. for an ACU  Maxxis British Moto Cross Championship Round in 2010 which was mutually acceptable to both parties.

However they are pleased to announce they will be running a round of the ACU Maxxis British Sidecar-cross Championships at Canada Heights on March 28th.

They are also in talks with the ACU Trials & Enduro Committee to run one of the rounds of the new ACU British Cross Country Championships later in the year.

MID WALES XC CHAMPIONSHIP
(Story Latest Update: November 24, 2009)

Lee Edmondson will be running a Hare and Hound championship in 2010 throughout the mid-Wales area which will be called the MID WALES XC CHAMPIONSHIP.

The dates are:
Round 1 - January 17 - Saints Wells, Bwlchysarnau, Rhayader
Round 2 - March 21 - TBA
Round 3 - May 30 - TBA
Round 4 - August 29 - TBA
 
There will be kids in the morning from 10.00 -11.30. Classes are: Autos, 65cc, s/w 85, b/w 85, 125cc.
The cost for the kids will be £30
 
In the afternoon there will be adults from 12.00 - 14.30. Classes are: Expert, Clubman, Sportsman, Vets 40+.
The cost for the adults will be £40.

All events will have transponder timing. There will be awards for the top three in each class.
All events will be working closely with the Putoline Fast Eddy XC Championship.

For more information call 07969242479.

Genoa Indoor Enduro
(Story Latest Update: November 18, 2009)

The Polish rider Bartosz Oblucki is still not recovered enough to take part in the Genoa Indoor Enduro World Cup (Round 2) on Saturday, December 5th. In his place will be the young Canadian Cory Graffunder who will make his debut in the World Cup with a brand new Husqvarna. Graffunder finished in a great fifth place at the Erzberg Rodeo 2009, riding a KTM.

The organisers are still  awaiting the final decision by Oriol Mena as to whether he will ride in Genoa. The Junior World Champion is taking a few weeks off to recover from the long 2009 season.

News is also awaited concerning David Knight. The Manx rider is understood to be very close to having a KTM 530 (E3), but his return to the Austrian brand must wait at least until the beginning of 2010.

Express Insurance backs British motocross
(Story Latest Update: November 18, 2009)

Leading insurance specialist Express Insurance will continue to invest in off-road sport in 2010 as it remains the title sponsor to the ACU British Youth Motocross Championship and insurance partner to the Maxxis British Motocross Championship.

Express Insurance made the conscious move into motocross in 2009 and has been thrilled with the reception it has had. It has been a successful partnership for everyone involved as well as a steep learning curve. Express Insurance has been involved in British Superbikes since 2004 so this was a bit of a departure going to the off road world.

By continuing to support the ACU British Youth Motocross into 2010, as well as backing the ACU Maxxis British Motocross Championship, Express Insurance shows it is serious in its commitment to off road sport. The intention is to support grass roots sport as Express Insurance sees this as the future of motorcycling.

In order to share its new found love for Motocross, Express Insurance organised two very successful "Learn to Motocross" days with assistance from Hucklebridge Events. Journalists from all disciplines were invited to Leigh Delamare in Wiltshire where former Grand Prix Motocross rider Mark Hucklebridge put them through their paces. Car journalists, Radio DJ's and motorcycle road riders alike were all taught how to ride off road and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the event.

As a leading intermediary Express Insurance can offer competitive insurance and tailor-made policies to meet you're every need even if you have points on your licence. It offers van; motorcycle and car cover which is ideal for any off-road fan, especially with Fire & Theft cover available for off road machines.

Tony Way, Express Insurance Managing Director, said: "Our first season in motocross, while it has been a learning curve for us, it has also been very productive and successful. We have enjoyed it immensely and we are really looking forward to 2010 when we hope both championships will go from strength to strength. The young talent that is out there at the moment is impressive and we hope that our continued support will help them develop their racing careers."

KTM presents brand new Innovations at the EICMA 2009
(Story Latest Update: November 11, 2009)

Click each photo to see a larger version.

KTM is presenting a range of innovative new motorcycles at EICMA 2009, recognised as the world's biggest annual motorcycle trade fair. On show will be a radical new 350cc Motocross prototype, the new Duke 690R and future models in the 125cc segment.

By presenting a 350cc pre-series racing bike, KTM again illustrates the typical determination of the Austrian company to go its own way. With the confirmation in Milan of the key data of the 350cc, including injection and linkage, the tradition-rich offroad specialist is forging "a new path" in Motocross. While the company's 250 SX-F and 450 SX-F models have been so successful and oriented to suit the specific displacement of the sport's regulations, now KTM is the first manufacturer in the world to present a 350cc displacement bike for the sport of Motocross. The completely new bike, which will be "ready to race" from 2010 carries the distinct development signature of MX legend Stefan Everts right down to the finest detail. With this project, the KTM MX team boss deploys meticulousness and all his unique ambition to catapult it to a new MX level. A concrete date for series production of this already very mature prototype has not yet been decided.
 
"KTM 125"
The developers at KTM don't have to learn about being consistent - it is a part of their natural daily creative process. Together with the company's enthusiastic customers, the Duke, Super Duke, RC8R and Adventure are all proof of this philosophy. Now this same dynamic is also evident in a smaller displacement bike segment with the introduction of a range of 125 cc products that have been one hundred percent developed at the company headquarters in Mattighofen, Austria.  The four-valve cylinder head, water cooling, fuel injection, two overhead cam shafts and 15 hp all demonstrate the desire for the highest level of technological development. The latticed tubular steel frame is the guarantee of perfect riding fun. As always, the very succinct KTM appearance comes from the extremely creative Kiska design team. High quality suppliers like WP Suspension and Brembo are the guarantee of premium quality components throughout. Coming with individual design possibilities, these completely newly constructed motorcycles are a breath of fresh air for the segment.
 
Duke 690 R
For KTM, the range of single cylinder LC4s represent tradition, legend and future and well as performance, rideability and the smooth, quiet, harmonious running of the engine.  When KTM introduced this motor concept in 2007, it elevated single cylinder enjoyment to a level that to date has not been surpassed. With the presentation of the Duke 690 in 2008 KTM caused another sensation among the worldwide community of Duke fans.  But KTM wouldn't be KTM when the ambitious developer wasn't set on constant improvement and innovation. Now 70 full-blooded hp packed into a vehicle weight of just 148 kg lend the Duke 690 R unrivalled panache. Highest quality components and the unique optics are also typical KTM. As well as the highly potent motor, the 690R also features the orange frame specially reserved for the R models. Carbon mudguards, an extremely sophisticated fork and the new orange rear damper spring are among the outstanding features of the Duke R. Other improvements include an extended maintenance interval and ensure that this very hot street bike will continue to have no serious rivals.
 
All round and in very best form
As well as the very latest models, KTM also exhibits other models at EICMA that make the line-up of sports motorcycles for the model year 2010 broader and more attractive than ever. These also include the rare RC8R Akrapovic Race Replica; homage to KTM's impressive first season in Superbike, while the company is also exhibiting the successful twin Red Bull Replica for the first time. Meanwhile, in honour of the amazing success of the KTM MX factory riders Max Nagl and Marvin Musquin, the motor sports company is also displaying genuine replicas of the MX1 and MX2 racing machines - naturally with orange coloured frames.
 
All current model updates and new optics are being presented in Milan along with the comprehensive range of KTM PowerWear and PowerParts products. With qualitatively better clothing ranges and performance-oriented spare parts and extras, the brand illustrates the Austrian lifestyle in best "Ready to Race" style.

KNMV Dutch Open Motocross Calendar 2010
(Story Latest Update: November 11, 2009)

1) 14 March - Mill
2) 28 March - Halle
3) 18 April - Gemert
4) 2 May - Varsseveld
5) 15 August - Emmen
6) 17 October - Harfsen

FIM Anti-doping controls
FIM Women’s Trial World Championship & Trial des Nations
(Story Latest Update: November 11, 2009)

Anti-doping controls were carried out at the FIM Women’s Trial World Championship & Trial des Nations meeting, held in Darfo Boario (Italy) on September 18.

No prohibited substances or their metabolites, or markers, or the use of prohibited methods were found in the tested samples.

The riders tested were: Rita VIERA (Portugal), Caroline ALLEN (USA), Laia SANZ (Spain).

2010 ACU British Enduro Sprint Championship
(Story Latest Update: November 11, 2009)

Exciting new enduro series comes to the UK in 2010

The British enduro scene is set to welcome an exciting new series for 2010 as the ACU has given the go ahead for an action packed, six round, British Enduro Sprint Championship. Making the UK the first country within Europe to feature an enduro sprint championship, the BESC as it will be known will compliment the existing British Enduro Championship while injecting new life into the UK’s enduro scene.

ACU governed ensuring an official British Enduro Sprint Champion, the new series will feature six rounds run over three weekends. During the first year events will take place on the last weekend of March, April and May.

A maximum of 100 riders will compete at each event, with the 25 fastest competitors earning their place in the prestigious Elite class. Each round of the BESC will feature one six to 10-minute long special test, raced numerous times, prepared to the highest standards and incorporating traditional enduro grass tracks as well as a mixture of motocross and extreme sections. All events will feature transponder timing. Each day of the championship will be filled with special test action, ensuring first class competition and spectacular racing.

Any rider that enjoys the competitive side of enduro sport and the challenges special test racing brings will benefit from competing in the British Enduro Sprint Championship. The BESC hopes to attract an exciting mix of established ‘named’ enduro competitors, up-and-coming and ambitious youngsters, proven Championship and Expert talents and mix it with top-flight motocross and trials riders keen to try their hand at something new.

John Collins, ACU Trials & Enduro Chairman: “Although the concept of enduro sprint events is an extremely new one, the ACU is fully behind this new series. We believe the events will offer a number of benefits to enduro riders in the UK and also the British enduro scene in general, and hope that it will attract riders that haven’t before tried enduro. The instant display of special test times, well thought out course, and slick running of the Putoline Oils Elite Sprint Enduro – the UK’s first enduro sprint event – impressed the ACU. Together with the traditional British Enduro Championship the British Enduro Sprint Championship will ensure year-long ACU governed national championship enduro events.”

Full details of the rules will be finalised by the ACU during November. Venues will be announced in the coming weeks.

2010 British Enduro Sprint Championship
Round 1 – TBA, March 27
Round 2 – TBA, March 28
Round 3 – TBA, April 24
Round 4 – TBA, April 25
Round 5 – TBA, May 29
Round 6 – TBA, May 30

View the promo video HERE!

DIRT BIKE SHOW 2009
(Story Latest Update: November 10, 2009)

Visitor numbers increase by 14% for the 10th annual Dirt Bike Show at Stoneleigh Park

This year’s Dirt Bike Show was one of the best-attended in its 10-year spell at Stoneleigh Park, with 21,000 people flocking to the Coventry venue over four days.

Many leading manufacturers chose the Show to exhibit key new models to the British public; Sherco took the opportunity to make the World premiere of their ST2.9 trials bike and even brought along European Intermediate Trials Champion and X Factor contestant Katy Bullock to sing the bike’s praises.

Meanwhile Husqvarna were showing off their new CR 125 2-stroke;

“We’re extremely pleased, particularly with the quality of motocross enquiries,” says Dave Plummer, Sales and Marketing Manager at Husky Sport. “The Dirt Bike Show is a great place to re-launch the Husqvarna brand.”

KTM unveiled their new 525 road legal ATV to the British public and were equally positive.

“The Dirt Bike Show is KTM’s core market, so it’s important for us to put on a dominant display” comments Ross Walker, Marketing Co-ordinator at KTM UK. “We brought both the MX2 World Championship and E2 Enduro World Championship winning bikes and allowed visitors to climb all over them – they couldn’t believe their luck.”

KTM-owned Husaberg also had a significant presence at the show.

“Husaberg’s new 390 and 570 models have created a huge amount of interest and the show is a fantastic opportunity for active off-road riders to see the newly developed range in full.”

The organisers pulled out all the stops to ensure that this year’s show was a success and to ensure a firm foundation for the next decade. In addition to a new virtual race paddock there were many interactive features, including the Vertical Trix wheelie machine, a climbing wall and race simulator. Live entertainment by the Xtreme Trials team and Bolddog Lings Minibike Freestyle in the Arena was complemented by Danny Butler’s mountain bike trials display in Hall 1 and the Dirt Bike Dancers in Hall 2.

“Ten years on and the Dirt Bike Show is stronger than ever and that’s because it’s organised by people from within the industry who understand what their customers want,” states Show Organisers’ Joanne Watson.

Stars shone at the Show too, including Shaun Simpson, Steven Sword, Dave Thorpe and even twice World Superbike Champion Troy Corser.

Check out more photos from the Show HERE!

The 2010 Dirt Bike show is provisionally booked to run from 4th – 7th November.  For more information visit www.dirtbikeshow.co.uk.

2010 US KTM Off-Road Factory Team Announced
(Story Latest Update: November 10, 2009)

KTM Motorsports announce the 2010 KTM Off-Road Factory Racing Team riders for the National Enduro, GNCC, Hare and Hound, WORCS and EnduroCross Series.

Beginning with the National Enduro Series, KTM is pleased to welcome back three-time National Enduro Champion Russell Bobbitt. As the current National Enduro Champion and a member of the 2009 ISDE Junior Trophy Team Bobbitt knows what it takes to win a championship. "A great bike is definitely key to winning championships. I know I have the best bike when I line up at the start of the race on my KTM. They provide the bike and I provide the rest. I am excited to return to the team and defend my championship plate," commented the champ.

For the Grand National Cross-Country (GNCC) Series KTM will continue to support New York's Nathan Kanney in the XC1 class. He will be joined by Cory Buttrick who will make the move from the XC2 class to the highly competitive XC1 class. "I am excited to move up to the premiere class. There were many races last year where Kailub (Russell) and I ran up front with the XC1 riders. I definitely feel like I have a chance to succeed in this class and can't wait for the season to start," stated Buttrick. Kailub Russell will return to defend his XC2 title and will be joined by newcomer Steward Baylor. Russell won 8 of 13 GNCC's last season and wrapped up the championship three rounds early. Baylor has been an up and coming racer in the amateur ranks and at fifteen years-old is ready to step up to the XC2 class.

In the Hare and Hound (H&H) Series KTM will continue to support the 2007 H&H Champion David Pearson and this season's 3rd place finisher and ISDE Junior Trophy Team member David Kamo. Pearson struggled in the 2009 season with injury and a few crash related DNFs at the end of the season and looks to turn his luck around for the 2010 season. Kamo, a consistent podium finisher, is focusing on stepping up to the top step of the box in the 2010 season in an effort to bring home his first championship.

Current WORCS Champion Mike Brown returns to orange for another year to defend his WORCS title as well as compete in the EnduroCross Series alongside the newly crowned EnduroCross Champion Red Bull/KTM rider Taddy Blazusiak. Both champions are setting their goals high for the 2010 season and want nothing more than to keep that number one plate on the front of their bike. "I worked hard for the WORCS Championship and it means a lot to me. I can't thank my team enough for their support in the series and I want to show my gratitude by properly defending my title for the 2010 season," remarked Brown. Also joining Mike Brown on the WORCS team will be 2007 WORCS Champion and multi-time ISDE Top American rider Kurt Caselli. "I am looking forward to returning to the WORCS events and racing near my home on the west coast again," commented Caselli.

"We have a great line up of riders and expect good results for the 2010 season. We are happy to have riders defending number one plates and hope to make a repeat of that success for next season," remarked KTM Factory Off-Road Team Manager Antti Kallonen.

TEKA GROUP'S POSITIVE 2009 MOTOCROSS CAMPAIGN
(Story Latest Update: November 06, 2009)

The Teka Group's involvement with both the Teka Suzuki World MX1 and Teka Suzuki Europe World MX2 teams has allowed the Belgian and German efforts respectively to shine throughout the 2009 FIM Motocross World Championship and in total, RM-Z technology was able to celebrate three victories and accumulate 13 podium appearances in both classes of the 15 Grand Prix series.

Although injury niggles for Ken De Dycker and a fractured neck for Steve Ramon prevented the Teka Suzuki WMX1 squad from earnestly challenging for the MX1 crown, the Belgian duo were able to pick up nine trophies between them and keep the Teka-emblazoned RM-Z450 at the front of the field in the premier class. The emergence of 15-year-old German star Ken Roczen belied all expectations and the teenager helped establish the credentials of the Teka Suzuki Europe World MX2 set-up at the highest level by rising to fifth in the final MX2 standings despite missing the first four rounds until he had reached his 15th birthday.

Among several memorable occasions, the main highlights of the year for the Teka Suzuki collective were the home victories recorded by Roczen at Teutschenthal and De Dycker at Lommel. Teka were prevalent in their presence around the periphery of Grand Prix circuits and also in the creation of the Teka Station hospitality unit.

Roczen will be braced for his first full term in 2010 and enters the campaign as a championship contender thanks to his four podiums from 11 rounds and 21 top-10 finishes from 22 motos. He will be joined by promising Swiss talent Arnaud Tonus. Ramon will aim to capture the team's second MX1 crown in what will be his fifth season in Suzuki colours and he is joined by another Belgian, Clement Desalle, who, with two wins from a privateer team in 2009, was very much the new stylish star of the category.

"It has been another positive year for the Teka Group in their association with both the Teka Suzuki World MX1 and Teka Suzuki Europe World MX2 teams," commented Teka Group CEO Marcus Bau. "It is exciting for us to be involved in Grand Prix motocross and this was seen clearly in the amazing season had by Ken Roczen, who exploded onto the scene at 15 years old in a way that no-one could have imagined. To see his development with his style and the results was very special and the German Grand Prix was an undoubted highlight.

"I want to give thanks to the staff of both teams who pushed very hard for success all the way through 2009," Mr Bau added. "Our MX1 victories in Belgium and Holland were proud moments and the emergence of the MX2 team was a pleasure to watch. We increased our presence at the world championship with the Teka Station and overall we hope for more exhilarating moments in 2010."

Simpson undergoes routine operation
(Story Latest Update: November 04, 2009)

Successful shoulder surgery for Shaun

Red Bull KTM factory rider Shaun Simpson has successfully undergone a routine operation to repair a damaged shoulder ligament in preparation for his assault on the 2010 FIM MX2 Motocross World Championship. The twenty-one year old Scott who has missed most of this season due to injury, underwent the simple procedure in Belgium late last week to attend to a potential weakness that dates back to 2006.

Doctor Claes, who was one of the specialists that Stefan Everts referred to during his riding career, carried out the surgery having previously repaired Shaun's collarbone mid way through 2008. The operation was undertaken to tighten up the ligament in Simpson's left shoulder in order to prevent the risk of the joint becoming dislocated in the future, as a result of previous damage caused to this area of Shaun's body.

With no further riding planned until early next year, the young Scot took the opportunity ahead of his winter training schedule, to attend to this potential problem in readiness for a proper title campaign in 2010. Shaun will wear a sling to protect the joint for the next couple of weeks before resuming light duties and then moving on to complete his full off season programme.

Simpson will still attend the Dirt Bike Show at Stoneleigh Park this coming Friday, where he will be available on the KTM stand to sign autographs (with his right hand) and talk to the public. Shaun will then return to his native Scotland to spend some well-earned time with family and friends, before his punishing schedule resumes once again.

Speaking about the operation Shaun stated, " I have dislocated my left shoulder a couple of times in the past and was always aware that it was a potential area of weakness going forward. When I had my collarbone plated in 2008, I should have had the ligament done then. However I decided not to as I wanted to ride at a British round the following weekend, which I duly won and which helped me win the title that year."

"I did think about having my shoulder done when I broke my leg earlier in the year, but with being on crutches I would have been totally immobilised. When I got off the crutches I was too focussed on riding again to even consider having it done then."

Simpson ended by saying, "Having finished racing for the year, and having recently completed testing ahead of next season, now seemed like the perfect time to have the operation. I want to go into next year 100% fit and not worrying about any areas of weakness, so I am glad I have had it done now. The timing means that I will not miss any of my winter training and that I can be fit and ready to go all out for the MX2 World title in 2010."

Monster Energy Kawasaki Signs Chad Reed
(Story Latest Update: November 02, 2009)

Monster Energy Kawasaki has signed four-time AMA Champion Chad Reed to compete in the AMA Supercross and AMA Motocross championships.

Reed joins Ryan Villopoto on Kawasaki's factory team with both riders racing the Kawasaki KX450F.

Reed returns to a green bike after having ridden for the Kawasaki European Factory Team in 2001 where he won the Dutch Grand Prix. In the eight years since, the 27-year-old rider has amassed an impressive resume including an AMA Supercross Lites East Coast crown (2002), two AMA Supercross titles (2004, '08), and most recently the 2009 AMA Motocross championship. During that time he has won 38 times in AMA Supercross competition, five overall AMA National Motocross events, and he has earned an impressive 105 AMA Supercross podium finishes.

"Chad is going to bring a lot to our team," said Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Manager Mike Fisher.

"He has proven to be the most consistent rider this decade and his record speaks for itself. We have high expectations for both Chad and Ryan and I know they are going to do their best to meet them."

"The Kawasaki KX450F is a great bike," said Reed. "I have already had a chance to ride and race it. I'm really impressed."

Reed is currently leading the Monster Energy Super X, an Australian Supercross Series championship.

Yamaha Major Sponsor of British Supercross Series
(Story Latest Update: October 15, 2009)

Yamaha UK will be front and centre when the British Supercross Championships bursts into life at the NEC in November.
 
In addition to their financial support Yamaha UK's Steve Dixon's UTAG Yamaha team will be fielding a powerhouse team as a serious effort to clinch the SX1 and SX2 Future West ACU British Supercross Championships. The rapidly approaching Championship, which kicks of at the NEC on Saturday, November 28th and repeats the following Saturday evening, December 5th will run alongside the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter show.
 
American ZACH OSBORNE and Canadian KYLE BEATON will be leading the charge for the British based factory backed Yamaha team. Beaton, who just won the Montreal SX2 class in front of 50,000 Canadian fans is on a roll and out to prove himself after an injury earlier in the year dashed his chances of a Canadian outdoor title. Former GP winner Osborne who entered the British Supercross Championship at Liverpool last year after missing the first round at Sheffield will be riding the whole series this year. Osborne also has something to prove after an injury in the GP of Portugal took him out of action earlier in the year.
 
Osborne and Beaton will be lining up against some serious competition including defending SX1 and SX2 champ, KTM's MIKE BROWN and of course newly signed KTM US factory star MIKE ALESSI. Alessi, arguably one of the fastest racers in the world will be out to reposition himself as top dog after an injury riddled season robbed him of the US outdoor title. Brown will be equally determined to retain his British SX1 and SX2 titles.

The best of home grown British talent will be out to win in all classes. The British Pro Open class which is open to British-based riders only will give the fans an extra action-packed Pro class plus the best of the best in British Schoolboy, Youth, Amateur and Quad classes. None of the British riders seem more ready to beat the yanks than Carl Nunn. Nunn, the defending British Open Supercross champ who proved that he can run with and beat the best by winning against Brown at Liverpool last year and by recently winning the Red Bull Pro Nationals MX1 Championship. However, a recent leg injury will severely set back Nunn’s chances this year.

Runner-up to Nunn last year, PAR Homes and Ulster's own Gordon Crockard will be back to contest the series along with DB Racing's British based South African Neville Bradshaw. Bradshaw who recently claimed the Red Bull Pro Nationals MX2 title will be back to further add to the mix. LPE Kawasaki will also be fielding an impressive team with Elliot Banks Brown and Kristian Whatley and possibly an as yet unconfirmed offshore rider. This year's series will also get a first time look at the latest crop of Canadian young guns including Spencer Knowles from Vancouver and Manitoba's Ryan Millar. Both Millar and Knowles are products of the Canadian Arena-cross Championships that has produced some great riders over the last 20 years.
 
There seems to be some confusion regarding tickets for the NEC. Just to clarify the Supercross events are ticketed separately from the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter show and can be bought through The Ticket Factory box office on 0844 338 8000.

FUTURE WEST ACU BRITISH SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP:

Round 1 NEC Birmingham - Carole Nash International Motorcycle Show - Saturday, November 28th - Tickets: 0844 338 8000

Round 2 NEC Birmingham - Carole Nash International Motorcycle Show - Saturday, December 5th  - Tickets: 0844 338 8000

Round 3 Liverpool Echo Arena - Saturday January 23, 2010 - Tickets: 0844 800 4000
 
Round 4 The O2 Arena, London -  Saturday January 30, 2010 Tickets: 0871 984 0002

This year's Future West ACU/FIM British Supercross Championship in the following classes:
SX1
SX2
British Open Pro
Clubman Open
Clubman Lights
Youth Lights
Supermini
Small Wheel
65cc
Autos
Quads Open
 
All classes will run at all four rounds.

Coppins enjoys mixed weather at Mettet Proximus Superbiker
(Story Latest Update: October 15, 2009)

Motocross GP star, Joshua Coppins traded his regular THOR racing gear for a set of leathers to take part in the Proximus Superbiker in Mettet, Belgium over the weekend. The 32-year-old Kiwi has become a regular at the Supermoto event that pits the world’s best Motocross racers against an elite world class Supermoto field.

After qualifying 7th in the ‘Starbiker’ class, Coppins got off to a good start in Moto 1 but crashed and had to start from last as he worked his way back up to 12th.

A lesser start in Moto 2 saw ‘Lizzard’ start just inside the top ten but he soon found his rhythm and joined a train of riders fighting for a podium spot. Included in the battle were, Jeff Ward, Stefan Everts, Micky Dymond and Cedric Melotte. Coppins finished on the back end of the train for a respectable 7th place.

In the Super final which combines the top finishing Supermoto stars with MX stars from the Starbiker, Coppins gated 14th and had blinding start which saw him in 4th position from the get go. A few mistakes on the slippery Mettet course relegated the New Zealander down to 10th which was a podium finish in the Starbiker classification with Bartolini and Pichon finishing ahead of Coppins.

“This was my first time riding in the wet at Mettet and it was fun but at the same time it was tough,” commented Coppins after another enjoyable ride. "The weekend started off dry  then wet, then it dried out then it was wet again so really mixed conditions. It was a little bit more like Motocross and we came prepared which helped as well."

Race results:

STARBIKER: RACE 1
1 PICHON MICKAEL
2 BOLLEY FREDERIC
3 WARD JEFF
4 BARTOLINI ANDREA
5 EVERTS STEFAN
6 MELOTTE CEDRIC
7 JADOUL DIDIER
8 ATKINS DARRYL
9 DYMOND MICKY
10 LONBOIS VINCENT
11 SIMEON XAVIER
12 COPPINS JOSHUA
13 FORET FABIEN
14 TRACCAN THIERRY
15 BREUGELMANS SVEN

RACE 2
1 PICHON MICKAEL
2 BARTOLINI ANDREA
3 WARD JEFF
4 MELOTTE CEDRIC
5 EVERTS STEFAN
6 DYMOND MICKY
7 COPPINS JOSHUA
8 BOLLEY FREDERIC
9 BREUGELMANS SVEN
10 JADOUL DIDIER
11 SIMEON XAVIER
12 LONBOIS VINCENT
13 TRACCAN THIERRY
14 FORET FABIEN

Superbike Final:
1  LAZZARINI IVAN
2  DELEPINE GERALD
3  BARTOLINI ANDREA
4  PICHON MICKAEL
5  BURKHART MARK
6  CHAMBON BORIS
7  KUENZEL JUERGEN
8  VERSCHEURE THOMAS
9  BIDART SYLVAIN
10  COPPINS JOSHUA
11  FLANDIN GUILLAUME
12  FEBVRE ROMAIN
13  FILLMORE CHRISTOPHER
14  GODFROID THIERRY
15  BAUMANN SIMON

TANEL LEOK FUNDRAISER A ROARING SUCCESS
(Story Latest Update: October 14, 2009)

Tanel Leok can look a bit forbidding, of that there is no doubt. The Estonian strongman is quiet and introverted, and on a race weekend he is a picture of serious concentration. To the casual observer he may seem curt and it may appear that the softest part his personality is the enamel on his teeth, but appearances sometimes beg to deceive. Those that know him well, can attest to the fact that Tanel's lion heart is 99.9% pure gold, and that his outward veneer is more linked to shyness than anything else. With this is in mind, it is not surprising that the Estonian Express hatched a very unusual plan to commemorate the first anniversary of his wedding to Karoliina.

As one of the world's top exponents inn motocross racing, Tanel has been on the receiving side of some of the sport's bounty over the years. This time, though, he was going to do something great and grand to give something back to sportsmen less fortunate than himself. Together with his buddy Martin Arumae, a compact steering committee was formed, and the "Tanel Leok and friends" charity event took shape. The idea was to present a day of racing fun, in an unusual format, and the objective was to raise funds for young sports people who have been disabled in the pursuit of their passion. Tanel has first hand knowledge of the impact that such a debilitating injury can have on a sportsman and his family. His uncle Avo was paralysed in a racing accident a few years ago, but his indomitable spirit kept him going, and to this day Avo is still involved in the sport that he loves, training some of the Baltic's finest up and coming riders.

Mindful of his lofty goals, Tanel put his natural reticence aside and canvassed his fellow world championship riders like a seasoned politician to collect a treasure trove of memorabilia, including racing shirts, helmets, and books. With this in hand, the event took shape in a hurry, and so it came to pass that on 11 October 2009, near the Estonian capital Tallinn, a goodly crowd assembled to form part of this historic event. The Northern winter had already bared its teeth, and there was a decided nip in the air, but the collective teeth chattering only added more rhythm to the event.

The cream of Estonia's riders, along with Latvian Matiss Karro, did their all to entertain the crowd. The racing was fun and interesting, for sure, but on this day, the focus was elsewhere. For once, the racers focused on something beyond their passion for the sport, and the fans responded in kind. When the last car had left the parking lot and the takings were tallied up, the event had raised more then EUR13,000 for its worthy cause.

The Estonian Express watched over all of this, with that enigmatic half smile he exhibits when he is truly happy. He felt the need to give something back, and his fellow countrymen responded in no uncertain fashion. Thus ended arguably one of the most memorable wedding anniversaries in recent memory.

And Mrs Leok?? She received a belated call to enquire what her wish for an anniversary present would be. Hubby's efforts had been enough reward for her, however, and a nationally televised event sure beats forgetting about your wedding anniversary.

WESTON BEACH RACE CANCELLED AFTER MAJOR CRASH
(Story Latest Update: October 15, 2009)

NO RE-RUN FOR THE WESTON BEACH RACE

Following on from the red flag incident in the solo race of Sunday's Weston Beach Race we unfortunately must announce that the race at present cannot be rescheduled. After two days of meetings with the North Somerset Council and the emergency services, while RHL Activities and their contractors were able to go ahead with a rerun of the solo race for this Sunday (18th October), it has been concluded that the full complement of local medical and emergency services cannot be put in place in the time available.

RHL Activities would like to clarify that the solo race could not be restarted last Sunday as the emergency services weren't able to regroup their ambulance services within reasonable time. With 17 riders being transported to hospitals around the area, combined with the additional stress created by civil emergencies (car crashes etc.) elsewhere, a safe restart of the solo event was not possible. We would like to reassure the public that more than adequate medical services were on site at the event and in fact this year we invested in engaging doctors as well as paramedics on our front line of medical cover.

Gareth Hockey, RHL Activities: "We have spent the last two days in intense meetings with the local authority and medical services to try and rescue the solo race for this weekend. It is clear now that this will not be possible - the requirements on organisers and authorities are now much more stringent than they were in 2002 when we managed to reschedule that year's race.

"We hope to be able to issue further information on the status of this year's solo race within the next week. Like many, we have been deeply upset by the injuries and trauma the riders suffered in the accident on Sunday, and particularly to the young rider still in ICU - our thoughts are still very much with him and his family at this terrible time as we wait and hope for an encouraging report on his condition."

INCIDENT UPDATE: WESTON BEACH RACE (October 12)
A collision between competitors in yesterday's main solo event at the Weston Beach Race caused the race to be halted, as onsite medical teams dealt with a number of riders injured in the incident.

Event medical teams transported 17 riders to hospitals in Weston-super-Mare and Bristol, where they received further treatment for their injuries.

One rider sustained more severe head and leg injuries in the incident and was transferred to Frenchay hospital in Bristol, where he is currently under observation in the Frenchay Hospital ITU.

Contrary to recent reports, it has been confirmed that injuries were confined to competitors in the race, and no spectators were involved or injured in the incident.

"Our thoughts are with the riders who were injured in yesterday's Beach Race incident and we wish them all a full and speedy recovery," said Gareth Hockey from event organisers, RHL Activities.

Updated information on the condition of the riders injured in yesterday's incident at the Weston Beach Race will be posted on the official event web site at www.wbruk.com as and when it becomes available.

The 27th running of the Weston Beach Race was cancelled today, following a major incident on the main straight involving more than a dozen riders.

A collision within the main pack, as the competitors headed away from the start and up the main straight, led to a chain of events that resulted in a number of riders falling from their machines.

The onsite medical teams were quick to respond to the incident and treated a number of riders on track before transferring them to hospital. In response to the incident the race was immediately halted, to allow the medical services continued safe access to the track.

Seventeen riders were transported to hospital after the incident, where they were treated for their injuries. One rider sustained more serious injuries in the crash and was subsequently transferred to Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, where he is currently undergoing evaluation by medical staff.

With the majority of the medical teams committed to transporting the injured riders to hospital, race organisers took the decision to cancel the event in the interests of both rider and public safety.

Gareth Hockey: Director – RHL Activities Limited:
"It was immediately obvious that the crash was a serious one and that a number of the injured riders would require medical attention on the track. As a result there was no hesitation in stopping the race to allow the medical teams safe access to the injured riders. Unfortunately, one of the riders involved in the crash sustained more serious injuries. At this time we haven't received any additional information as to the extent of these injuries, but he is currently undergoing medical treatment in Bristol and we are obviously hopeful that he will make a full recovery."

HUSABERG SIGNS MIKE LAFFERTY
(Story Latest Update: October 10, 2009)

Husaberg North America, a division of KTM Motorsports, Inc. is honoured to welcome distinguished, eight-time National Enduro Champion Mike Lafferty to the Husaberg Factory Race Team for the remainder of the 2009 and 2010 season.

Lafferty, with over 20 year’s race experience, is looking forward to a new challenge and racing aboard a new team. “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 15 years of my professional race career and look forward to my new venture with Husaberg. I have enjoyed riding and learning the new bike. As Husaberg is a division of KTM, I have watched the bikes develop over the years and feel that the current bike is definitely capable of winning. I feel comfortable on the bike and look forward to a successful racing season.”

“We couldn’t have asked for a better rider to join the Husaberg Factory Team. Mike is an extremely talented rider welcomed on the track as much as he is off the track. He is great for our sport and will be a great asset to the Husaberg brand. We look forward to winning a championship with Mike,” commented Husaberg Team Manager Antti Kallonen.

Lafferty’s premier race on the Husaberg will take place October 11, 2009 in Wildwood, NJ during the Thunder at the Beach motocross race near Lafferty’s home town.

Shaun Simpson forced back to basics
(Story Latest Update: October 09, 2009)

Mobile, but mobile homeless

Red Bull KTM factory rider Shaun Simpson went back to basics at the MX of Nations, when the twenty-one year old World MX star was forced to revert to a less glamorous form of mobile accommodation. Shaun’s trusty, but not so rusty Mercedes Sprinter panel van was very much a talking point in the paddock, as it lined up against a host of sleeker and more luxurious models.

Simpson made the long trip to Italy in his “N” plate van, which dates back to 1995, after his current motorhome was repossessed as a result of the supplier / sponsor recently going into liquidation. With Shaun now having fully recovered from his horrific leg injury sustained during an early season training accident, the young Scot is now very much focussed on being ready for next year.

“We will do some final testing on the link bike before we stop riding for the year, and then I will have a few weeks off before starting my winter training programme,” Simpson explained.

Shaun continued, “My recovery has gone really well, and it has been good to get back on a bike, especially as it was earlier than I expected, even though I am not totally bike fit due to a lack of riding. I have enjoyed riding the MX1, but I am now committed to being back on the MX2 bike and doing everything possible to win the World championship next year.”

“Losing the motorhome, just about sums up this year, but hopefully there is someone out there who is prepared to help me out with the loan of a vehicle for 2010, and being a part of what I hope will be a much better season all round,” Simpson concluded.

Anyone kindly interested in supporting Shaun’s 2010 World championship title campaign please contact him by email – info@shaunsimpson.com or by calling 0161 763 6660.

2010 UK WORLD TRIAL - VIDEO COMPETITION
(Story Latest Update: October 01, 2009)

While preparations are in full swing for the highly anticipated British round of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship, which will take place in the Scottish Highlands over the weekend of 25/26/27th June next year, one role the event’s organisers have yet to fill is that of co-commentator. In a bid to uncover raw, but potentially new and exciting talent, L+M Events have come up with the idea of an X-Factor-style competition to give YOU the chance to enjoy the show from the best position possible, alongside the main presenter, as his right-hand person.
 
Yes, you read that right, you could be co-commentating at the three-day SPEA FIM Trial World Championship event next summer. All you have to do to win or to earn this priceless prize is send a thirty-second video of you delivering an off-the-cuff presentation direct to camera. It does not matter what the clip’s content is, you can simply introduce yourself or opt to impress by giving an example of your honed commentary skills. You just need to try to make an impact because there can only be one winner of this unique, ‘money-can’t-buy’ experience.
 
“This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Jake Miller from L+M Events, co-organiser of the FIM-backed outdoor trial. “We are on the look out for a fresh, enthusiastic and talented individual to join our main commentator for the duration of the weekend. We need someone who can help to relay what is happening on the various sections and entertain the crowd. Knowledge is important, but so is having the gift of the gab. It is a tough job, but we believe there is someone out there who is ready for the challenge. This is their chance.”
 
As well as being the event’s official co-commentator the winner, who will be carefully selected from all the entrants and notified of their good fortune before the end of the year, will be treated to an all expenses paid weekend, with a competition package that encompasses travel to and from the event and hotel accommodation. Everyone deserves their five minutes of fame, so why not use this opportunity to put yourself in the spotlight.
 
If the thought of commentating to a live audience fills you with fear and dread, don’t worry, as there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the World championship trial at the spectacular Nevis Range in Fort William next year. Advance tickets are currently on sale and there are some great savings to be had, including a three-day family pass that is a massive £120 cheaper than paying on the gate. The bargains do not stop there, if you buy an adult three-day pass in advance you save £25, or £20 for the two-day ticket. What is more, if you are quick you can also buy VIP car parking passes, which allow you to enjoy the same access as the riders, officials and VIP guests (like co-commentators!). The VIP passes are limited, so do not delay.
 
To submit a video, simply email it, together with your name, age, address and contact telephone number, to: info@ukworldtrial.com. Video clips must be no longer than thirty-seconds. Applicants must live in the UK and be aged 18 or over. Deadline for entries is 30th November 2009. L+M Events’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. L+M Events will cover the winner’s expenses to and from the trial and provide overnight accommodation. Other expenses incurred by the winner may be payable too, subject to prior agreement and/or L+M Events’ discretion.

Taddy Blazusiak
US Endurocross - mid-season interview
(Story Latest Update: September 22, 2009)

Looking forward with confidence…
There’s little denying that Taddy Blazusiak has taken the ’09 US Endurocross championship by storm. At the half way stage of the six-round series the KTM factory rider is almost 30 points ahead of his nearest rival. Coming back from the horrific facial injury he sustained at the second round of the ’08 series, Taddy is now performing at his best and looking forward to the second half of the US Endurocross championship...

Last year was particularly difficult following your serious facial injury, do you feel that’s 100 per cent behind you now?
Taddy: ‘At the start of ’08 I was looking to have a great season. I thought I was 100 per cent ready, and hungry to win. But my injury took a lot out of me. I really suffered a lot. I kept telling myself that I was OK, that I was getting stronger and that I was fit enough to race, but I was a long way from being where I needed to be. Now things are really good. I can feel that I am stronger and fitter than I’ve ever been. It’s taken me one year to get over my injury and it’s only now that I feel really good on a bike again. I think that’s showing in my results. The big difference is that because my fitness is good now I’m fresh all the way through my races. You make mistakes when you get tired, so being able to stay relaxed in the last laps of a race makes a big difference. I put in a lot of work before the season started, which is really paying off now.’

So far things have gone perfectly for you as far as the US Endurocross series is concerned, you must be thrilled with winning each of the opening three races?
Taddy: ‘It’s been great. My goal at the start of the season was to win the championship. To do that I need podiums at every event. Winning the first three races is a real bonus. The level of racing is extremely high so I never expected to be as successful as I’ve been. The first race was great. It was my mistake that made that final as close as it was at the finish. The second round went perfectly, and the third round was exactly what I hoped for as well. Things have really come together – my fitness, my bike, my confidence, everything.’

A lot of people were expecting yourself and Ricky Dietrich to battle it out for the ’09 title. Are you disappointed your expected number one rival has been out injured?
Taddy: ‘Injuries are a part of our sport, I guess I know that better than most. To win a championship you have to be fast, fit and healthy, which means trying to avoid injuries. I’d love to have been racing with Ricky at the second and third rounds of the series. He’ll be back for the next round, so I’m looking forward to that. My focus is winning the championship so I’m not going to take any crazy risks to win races. I have a solid championship lead, which I want to look after.’

Late October sees the start of the Indoor Enduro World Cup, have you started preparing for that yet?
Taddy: ‘Yes, I’ve been getting my bike set up in Europe for a while now. I’m really looking forward to the start of that championship. Last year I was coming back from injury and finished second. I’m looking forward to racing against the best riders in Europe, hopefully fully fit. The tracks and racing is different to in the States. I’m really looking forward to the first race in the UK.’

Finally, you have three rounds of the US Endurocross series remaining, and the chance to win $50’000 if you top the Triple Crown, what is your plan for the second half of the series?
Taddy: ‘$50’000 is a lot of money, a great bonus if I’m able to win it, but the championship is what’s really important to me. My goal is to secure the number one plate. Now I have such a good championship lead winning races gets harder because I have to think about the title. I’m going to be pushing hard at the final races, I want to win for KTM, Red Bull, and all my sponsors and fans, but the championship is the biggest prize. That’s what I’m really after.’

Round four of the US Endurocross series takes place in Columbus, Ohio on October 4.

LUCKY WESTON QUAD WINNER COLLECTS PRIZE
(Story Latest Update: September 21, 2009)

The lucky winner of last year's Weston Beach Race Quad give-away made the trip to Bristol International Airport recently to pick up his Outlaw 90 youth Quad, which was kindly donated by Polaris UK.

Jon Harmer from Polaris UK was on hand to present Gary Benham with the Outlaw 90 youth Quad, with the presentation kicking off a two-day promotional event at Bristol International Airport to publicise this year's Weston Beach Race.

Gary's name was automatically entered into the prize draw after he competed in the over 40's class at last year's Weston Beach Race. The Aldershot resident was pleasantly surprised when he received the phone call to tell him he'd won, but he insisted on calling back to check he wasn't the victim of a wind up by his mates!

"When I got the phone call from Gareth Hockey, I was convinced it was some of my mates winding me up," said Gary. "I called Gareth back to double check, and he was most insistent that I'd won, so we arranged to come down to Bristol International Airport today to pick up the quad."

"I've never won anything before, so I'm well pleased with it. My whole family are into off-road riding, and I've a young nephew who will be very keen to get his hands on the quad as soon as we get it home. The fact that Polaris also supplied a kid's helmet and body armour means he'll be able to try it for size straight away. Like I said, I've never won anything before, but I'll definitely be entering this year's competition for the Polaris Youth Ranger RZR 170. Who knows, I might be fortunate again," concluded the lucky winner.

The Polaris Outlaw 90 is designed for use by youth riders aged between 12 and 16 years and features an automatic gearbox, with a reverse gear. Like all Polaris youth vehicles, the quad comes with a kid's helmet, a two-year warranty and the all-important whippy antenna and flag.

"Polaris UK have done us proud with the competition prize," commented Gareth Hockey, Director of RHL Activities. "The Outlaw 90 is an impressive piece of kit and Gary looked made up when he saw it for the first time today. This year Polaris UK has supplied us with a Youth Ranger RZR 170 as the main prize in the Weston Beach Race competition, which we'll be launching on Monday 21st September. All the details will be on the website and, like last year, the competition will be open to everyone."

2010 TOUGH ONE EXTREME SCRAMBLE
(Story Latest Update: September 18, 2009)

WOR Events are extremely excited and proud to announce the 2010 TOUGH ONE EXTREME SCRAMBLE.

This coming event will be the sixth edition of the UK's premier off road and extreme event and for 2010 it will be round 1 of the brand new WORLD XTREME ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP!!!.

Running with a brand new format and concept, the event will return to the tried and trusted Nantmawr Quarry on Saturday, 23rd January 2010.

After a meeting of the big five players in the Extreme Enduro world in Munich recently, the new five-round series will begin with the Tough One, then move onto Hells Gate, then take in Erzberg, the Red Bull Romaniacs and then finish off with the Roof Of Africa.

More details on this Fantastic Championship will follow soon at www.wxec.info.
 
Further Details on the TOUGH ONE 2010 will be announced on October 1st 2009 including entry forms and Format details.
www.worevents.com... ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH?
 
Any potential sponsors or associates interested in supporting the 2010 Tough One are urged to contact info@worevents.com or call 07929902692 ASAP as the ball is already rolling.

THREE COUNTIES MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP RESURRECTED
(Story Latest Update: September 17, 2009)

Phil Roberts and Gareth Hockey will resurrect the popular Three Counties Winter Motocross Championship in 2009, almost ten years after the event last appeared on the calendar.

The championship, which in the 1990's was organised by Roberts, together with Kelvin Pickering and John Willis, and ran over just three rounds, was well supported and popular with local riders.

The new incarnation of the championship will run over nine rounds, and will feature three adult classes - expert, junior and novice - together with youth classes for combined 85cc machines.

The championship will run with rounds in Gloucestershire, Monmouthshire and Herefordshire, with three rounds scheduled for the popular Pontrilas track.

Registration for the whole series costs just £25, with all the registration money being ploughed back into the championship as prize money. Each individual round will cost just £35 to enter.

"The Three Counties Winter Series used to be a popular and well supported event in the 1990's, and we think the time is now right for the championship to be resurrected," declared Hockey. "We've designed the series to make it appealing to everyone in these cost conscious times, and we can guarantee some close and exciting racing in all classes. I certainly hope that, in its new nine round format, the championship will prove as popular and entertaining as it was in its original heyday."

For more information on the Three Counties Winter Championship, please contact Carly on 01873 840 640 or email info@rhlactivities.com.

BJÖRNE CARLSSON SAYS GOODBYE TO THE WEC
(Story Latest Update: September 16, 2009)

The Husaberg Factory Team bid farewell to Björne Carlsson at the final WEC round of 2009.
After 17 years of racing Husaberg on World Championship level Björne has decided to retire at the end of this season.

His biggest achievement in his career was the 1998 World Championship title in the 400 4-stroke class.

Of course it was not easy for Björne to take this decision, but he thinks that it is the right time now to take the chance to spend more time with his family. Unfortunately Björne wasn't really able to once more show his full abilities, as the season already started with an injury in the very first test of the season in Portugal. Due to this injury, and another one at the GP of Finland, he missed more than half of the races.

Even at this last GP in France his chances of going out in glory were spoiled after he came down with a heavy cold this week and was forced to retire on day 1 in the second lap. “I managed the first lap but after that it was not possible to continue,” Carlsson said. “I have been sick all week and I really wanted my end of season to finish on a high note but that has not been possible.”

Nevertheless Björne will not completely stop riding motorcycles as he still really enjoys it. His last international event will be the ISDE, where he hopes to be fit again to be able to prove that he's still not one of the old guard and make a good result for the Swedish Trophy Team as well as for himself.

After this last highlight in his career Björne will still be racing in Sweden, where the last season highlight will be the Novemberkåsan in Falun. Björne finished last year’s Novemberkåsan in second and will this year charge for victory on the new Husaberg FE 390.

Husaberg wants to say: "Tack så mycket!" to Björne and wish him all the best for his and his family’s future.

HUSABERG SIGNS BENOIT FORTUNATO FOR THE 2010 SEASON
(Story Latest Update: September 11, 2009)

The young French Enduro hopeful will join the Husaberg Factory Team and compete in the EJ class as well as in the French E2 Championship on a Husaberg FE 450.

20-year old Fortunato is part of the strong pool of young French talents in Enduro heavily supported by the French Federation. As Husaberg is well-known for putting a lot of effort into the development of young talent in the WEC, fortified by three EJ World Championship titles in four years by Joakim Ljunggren and Oriol Mena, the Husaberg team managed by Thomas Gustavsson was Benoit’s first choice.

Benoit Fortunato: “I was looking for a good team for next season because it’s going to be a decisive year in my career. I will move up to E2 in the French Championship and my goal in the WEC is definitely the EJ World title. I get a lot of support from the French Federation and I’m sure the Husaberg Team will also support me well. I tested the Husaberg bike at the WEC round in Slovakia and really liked it immediately. In addition with Oriol (Mena) and Joakim (Ljunggren) as team-mates I will have excellent training partners as well as a good benchmark for my own speed.”

Benoit Fortunato started competing in Enduro aged 16 in 2005. Already two years later, in 2007, Benoit won the French Junior Championship and finished the EJ class in the WEC in 7th position. In 2008 Benoit participated only in three WEC rounds and therefore only accomplished position eighteen in the EJ standings.

This season Benoit scored his first podiums in the WEC, five overall so far, and his first victory on day 1 at the GP of Mexico. He is sitting in third position in the championship before his home GP in France this weekend, and still has a good chance of finishing runner-up in the EJ Championship,  behind his future Husaberg team-mate Oriol Mena, who already secured this year’s EJ title at the GP of Mexico. In addition Benoit secured his second French Junior title last weekend with a convincing performance of winning both days of the final round of the French Championship.

Ken De Dycker completes Monster Energy Ricci MX team for 2010
(Story Latest Update: September 09, 2009)

Winner of 2009 MX1-GP Grand Prix events in the Netherlands and Belgium, Ken de Dycker, will steer the new YZ450F for the Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci Motocross Team in the 2010 FIM Motocross World Championship. The 25 year old Belgian will be another of Yamaha’s main threats in the MX1-GP category, along with 2008 world champion David Philippaerts in the Yamaha Monster Energy MX squad, while his team-mates in the Italian set-up, Loic Larrieu and Alessandro Lupino, will retain the crew’s links and connection with the MX2-GP class with the revised YZ250F.

De Dycker is considered a viable prospect for the 2010 title thanks to his track-record of four victories, fifteen motos triumphs, nine pole positions and nineteen podiums since 2006 and his status as a runner for the MX1-GP crown for the last two seasons. The former British and German champion will take on the responsibility of adding garlands to Yamaha’s unparalleled record of success and five titles in the six years of the MX1-GP competition. He will also share, along with Philippaerts, the on-track duty of developing the new YZ450F, only unveiled to the world yesterday (Tuesday).

Larrieu has impressed in his debut season as a world championship regular. The talented French teenager has been learning the tracks, speed and demands of the series and from a largely positive campaign can look back at his maiden podium result at Ernée and his home round as an undoubted highlight. Lupino, a Yamaha rider since making his first appearances at the highest level two years ago, was unlucky to suffer an injury for 2009 but still remains one of Italy’s bright young motocross hopes.

The Ricci team boasts MX2 Grand Prix winning experience thanks to the efforts of Andrew McFarlane, Nico Aubin and Davide Guarneri in recent seasons. Their association with YRRD, (Yamaha Rinaldi Research and Development) the technical coalition in production of race kits and further honing of race machinery between the Rinaldi Group and Yamaha Motor Europe, plays a significant role in the evolution of Yamaha’s competitive motocross output. The ongoing support of Yamaha’s motocross efforts by partner Monster Energy is also an important aspect of the 2010 programme. The American beverage company has a sizeable and visual presence in the world championship paddock thanks to the distinctive black liveries of the factory Yamaha machines.

“We are very pleased to welcome a rider of Ken’s ability to the team,” commented Team Principal Ilario Ricci. “It will be an interesting challenge for us to compete in both categories next season and also work with the two new race bikes from Yamaha and the Rinaldi Group. I am sure our alliance with Ken, the ongoing progress with Loic and the addition of Alex for 2010 mean that we will be able to enjoy yet more success.”

KTM and Jeremy van Horebeek part company by mutual agreement
(Story Latest Update: September 09, 2009)

KTM and Jeremy van Horebeek of the KTM Factory Junior Racing Team have come to a mutual agreement about terminating the young Belgian rider's participation in the factory team's junior program, effective immediately.

Van Horebeek is thus free to pursue his future career activities. The move comes just prior to the final round of the Motocross World Championships at the Motodromo Arthur Jachovicz circuit in the south of Brazil this weekend.
 
The Belgian rider was twice second and once third in MX2 World Championship races in the first half of the season. Indeed his 2-3 result in the two motos of the MX2 GP of Catalunya in Spain catapulted him to the top of the podium for his first career GP victory and his personal highlight of the current season. Van Horebeek is currently in eleventh place in the championship standings but he has been recently troubled with a niggling shoulder injury. As he is unlikely to be able to achieve his full riding potential in the final round, the KTM Factory Junior Racing Team, with the rider's consent, considered it appropriate to draw a line under his commitments before the last round.
 
"We hope that by releasing Jeremy from his contract now he will have a chance to quickly recover from his injury and can move on with planning his longer term sporting career," said KTM's Offroad Director Pit Beirer. "We at KTM wish him a speedy recovery, a return to full fitness and all the best for the future."

Supercross Champs Mike Brown and Carl Nunn to Defend British Titles!
(Story Latest Update: September 04, 2009)

Defending SX1 and SX2 champion's Mike Brown of America and Britain's own two time British Open Supercross Champion Carl Nunn will both be back to defend their respective British Supercross crowns against an onslaught of international and domestic competition. Round one of the 13th annual Future West ACU British Supercross Championship bursts into life inside the huge Hall 5 at Birmingham's NEC as part of the annual Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter show on Saturday November 28th with round two just one week later on Saturday December 5th at the same venue.
 
"Being at the NEC this year as part of the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show has opened up some unique opportunities for Supercross and the British Championship" commented Future West's Representative John Hellam. Hellam went on to say "It's been a long time since we last staged an event at the NEC and never before as part of the International Motorcycle show."
 
This will be Future West's first residency event in the UK as the track will be in for the full 10 day duration of the bike show which will include the first two rounds of the British Supercross Championship and daily Supercross demonstrations on non-race days. Dirt Wurx, Rich Winkler, will have a large canvas to perform his magic on at the NEC with twice the normal floor size and twice the amount of dirt normally used for the other British venues. The rest of Hall 5 at the NEC will be converted into an off-road zone that will include a who's who in the industry with all major sanctioning bodies, manufacturers and personalities present. Future West is in the process of organising additional optional practice evenings for riders who will be competing in the championship. The final details are still being worked out but these practice sessions will probably be held on Thursday and Friday evenings prior to the two race days.
 
From Birmingham the British Supercross Championship will move on to the Liverpool Echo Arena January 23rd before wrapping up at The O2 Arena in London on January 30th.
 
To get your tickets for this all star bike show and Supercross extravaganza call The Ticket Factory at the NEC on 0844 338 8000.
 
SUPERCROSS REGS
Sadly the little bit of summer we have had this year will soon fade into Autumn and the overworked MX jet washers of the nation will get a well deserved break from the endless toil of mud removal they have had to endure this year.
 
The good news is Supercross season is not far away and every round is indoors in the country's best venues with all the creature comforts you could wish for, all warm, dry, weatherproof and civilised, that is until the riders take to the track when all civility disappears in the serious pursuit of British Supercross Championship titles.
 
The ACU are now accepting entries for this year's Future West ACU/FIM British Supercross Championship in the following classes:
SX1
SX2
British Open Pro
Clubman Open
Clubman Lights
Youth Lights
Supermini
Small Wheel
65cc
Autos
Quads Open
 
All classes will run at all four rounds.
 
FUTURE WEST BRITISH SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
Round 1 - NEC Birmingham - Carole Nash International Motorcycle Show - Saturday, November 28th -Tickets: 0844 338 8000
Round 2 - NEC Birmingham - Carole Nash International Motorcycle Show - Saturday, December 5th
Round 3 - Liverpool Echo Arena - Saturday January 23, 2010 - Tickets: 0844 800 4000
Round 4 - The O2 Arena, London - Saturday January 30, 2010 Tickets: 0871 984 0002

Philippaerts and Paulin head Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team for 2010
(Story Latest Update: September 04, 2009)

The Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team will split its priorities to focus on a strong dual attempt for the 2010 MX1-GP and MX2-GP world championships and has enlisted the services of exciting French teenager Gautier Paulin to steer the revamped YZ250F, while continuing the excellent and successful association with 2008 MX1-GP champion David Philippaerts on the YZ450F.

Philippaerts will embark on his third year with the Italian set-up after penning an extension to his present deal. The 25-year-old Italian rode to the title in his first season with the team in 2008 and is currently in third position after totalling a victory and five podiums to-date.

Paulin, 19-years-old from Draguignan, led the early stages of the 2009 MX2-GP chase and has won two Grand Prix and taken seven podiums from the thirteen rounds run in the series. He is third in the current standings and after winning the GP of Czech Republic three weeks ago remains a possibility for the crown entering the penultimate meeting of the championship this weekend at Lierop in The Netherlands. Paulin burst on the scene with a flurry of superb wildcard rides in the 2007 campaign; the same year he won the European Championship. The Frenchman will rely on a new YZ250F with which to aim towards more chequered flags in his young career so far.

“Naturally we are pleased to be able to count on the services of a rider of David’s capability for another season and his record with the Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team speaks for itself,” commented Yamaha Motor Europe Racing Manager Laurens Klein Koerkamp. “The addition of Gautier Paulin is a great asset to the team and his speed, ability and status as one of the main contenders in MX2-GP mean that we are sure to be pushing for the top in both classes in 2010.”

“No other manufacturer has won so many premier class world titles in motocross in the past ten years as Yamaha and we have just clinched the MX1-GP manufacturer’s and rider’s standings again,” he added. “For the future, we want to continue to be the leading firm in the motocross world. Importantly, having representation in two classes under the direct wing of the Rinaldi group, means that we can continue our technical evolution at the highest level.”

“Development of the 2010 GP machines has been extremely good so far and I am confident that the work we will do over the winter for next season will mean that we retain our exceptional standards in GP racing,” commented Team Principal Michele Rinaldi. “We are pleased to welcome a rider of Gautier’s undoubted talent and determination to the team, and for us it will be interesting to compete in two classes for the first time since 2005.”

The Yamaha Monster Energy Motocross Team has an unparalleled record in the premier class of the FIM Motocross World Championship earning an amazing five crowns from the last six editions; since MX1-GP was created from the old 500cc and 250cc divisions in 2004. The YZ450F has been a protagonist and front-runner each season since the competitive introduction of the machine. Yamaha has won the Manufacturer’s standings by a hefty 68 points and has been present on every podium of the fourteen events held in 2009.

CAS HONDA COMPLETES SUCCESSFUL TRAINING SCHOOLS
(Story Latest Update: August 21 2009)

CAS Honda concluded its adult and junior training schools last week with superb results as all riders improved their skills during the days after tutoring from race team manager, Neil Prince.

The first two of the three training schools were held at the picturesque Thoresway MotoParc, in Caistor, Lincolnshire. On the opening day, riders were given the chance to familiarise themselves with the demanding track while CAS Honda team manager and training school tutor, Prince, evaluated everyone’s riding skills.

Then it was straight to work on various sections of the track, with demonstrations from the former British Champion, which gave riders something visual to aim for. Each of the participants made a huge amount progress throughout the day, and despite being absolutely worn out from Prince’s intense training programme, the group were keen to finish off with a riding session to put their new found skills to the test.

“The level of rider was quite good for day one, so we looked at all aspects of their riding technique. The biggest problem was how the riders were attacking corners and losing a lot of time, so we worked on this. We pieced together each section of the track, worked on lines and the reasons why we pick the lines, which created a massive improvement in all of the riders,” said Prince.

“Many of the riders who took part in the school compete, so we did some practice starts and looked at the machine set-up of their bikes. It was quite an intense day of riding, especially in the warm weather, but everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves,” said the CAS Honda team manager.

Day two’s group were of mixed ability and after the opening session out on track, the riders were given cone drills to help improve cornering. This was then transferred to the main track again where all of the riders practised their lines on each of the different complex Thoresway sections after more demonstrations from Prince.

“The riders on the second day needed to work much more on their cornering, so we went back to basics and worked with each person to improve this using figures of eight. We built this up to working on the track, and again improving everyone’s lines.”

“We also looked at the jumps some of the riders were struggling with and I worked with each of them to improve the areas of the track they were finding tough to get right. Again all of the riders concluded the day positively and were pleased with the progress they’d made. I’d like to say a big thanks to Mark Reville for all of his help in preparing the track perfectly for the two days,” continued Prince.

The final day was held at the popular Riverside MX track near Dartford. The group of adults and juniors were given plenty of tuition, and like the previous two days, Prince demonstrated different lines and approaches to the many jumps and corners around the  course. The riders were also taught how to improve their starts, and were offered advice on machine set-up, as well as plenty of individual coaching tailored for everyone’s personal ability.

“I’ve really enjoyed the last few days, as it’s rewarding to see the riders making improvements in their riding, and they were enjoying themselves too. The feedback has been excellent from both the adults and juniors. I hope this is something we can do again later in the year and we can further improve the riders that have been on these three days, as well as work with more riders from up and down the UK,” concluded Prince.

The feedback from some of the participants over the three days was excellent, here are some of the comments:

“I had a really enjoyable day and I learnt a fair bit. It’s obvious Neil knows his stuff and it’s quite understandable now why Bryan Mackenzie has improved so much since joining the team,” Anthony Sutton (DBR Magazine) - Day One, Thoresway MotoParc

“Thanks to the team for putting on the training days. I had a really great day and learnt loads – we all did. Neil is really good at explaining things to make it easy to learn. I will be winning some races now and a big thanks to everyone who organised the schools,” - Jon Carter - Day Two, Thoresway MotoParc

“Kyle had a very enjoyable day learning new motocross skills. Neil was very good at being able to work with all age ranges. Neil had his own bike there and being able to demonstrate his own skills really helped Kyle learn which lines to choose, his starts and cornering. Neil must have taught him something right, as Kyle got three wins at last weekend’s race meeting!” - Pippa Macgregor, parent of Kyle Macgregor aged seven – Day Three, Riverside MX.

RED BULL FIM MOTOCROSS OF NATIONS BACK IN USA IN 2010
(Story Latest Update: August 18 2009)

The FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) and Youthstream have announced that the 2010 Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations, will be run on September 25 & 26 at the Thunder Valley Motocross Park facility, just outside metro Denver, in Lakewood, Colorado.

Only three years after the amazing success of Budds Creek, Maryland, that marked the last professional motocross appearance of the legendary Ricky Carmichael, the Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations will be back in the heartland of team USA, the most successful team of the last two decades.
Over 30 countries will send their three best riders to compete for the coveted ‘Chamberlain Trophy’ – the equivalent of the ‘Olympic Gold’, as the Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations is also known as "The Olympics of Motorcycling".

2010 will mark the 64th edition of this event, and this will be the third time it’s ever been held in the USA, following this year’s Franciacorta, Italy edition.

FIM President Mr. Vito Ippolito stated: “It is positive to see the Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations coming back to the United States in 2010, Youthstream has reached an important target with this agreement. I remember the 2007 edition of the event in Budds Creek, again in America: it was my first Motocross race as the FIM President and I was impressed by the passion of a massive crowd, by the good working organisation and by the atmosphere.”

The President of Youthstream Mr. Giuseppe Luongo continued: “I am glad to hear Mr. Ippolito’s enthusiasm, our goal is to make an even better event than in Budds Creek, this is how Youthstream works, we want to make things better year by year, and I am sure the 2010 venue of the Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations, Thunder Valley Motocross in Lakewood, Colorado, has got the potential to make a superb race. I would like to thank again Mr. David Clabaugh, the owner of Thunder Valley Motocross Park, Youthstream USA General Manager Mr. Mario Marini, the FIM and the AMA. We have set an ambitious goal and we will reach it together.”

Dougie Lampkin Summer Trials School
Addingham Moorside, West Yorkshire
(Story Latest Update: August 13 2009)

Dougie Lampkin was almost back in action last weekend, when he played his usual leading role at his annual Master Class - Summer Trials School held at the famous and scenic Addingham Moorside venue. Lampkin with his injured left wrist still in a cast was joined by James Dabill, Jack Challoner, Martin Lampkin, Harry Lampkin and Woody Hole, as these elite group of instructors offered three separate days of training starting on Friday morning.

Around twenty riders each day, of varying abilities and ages joined Dougie and his guest instructors for a packed programme of trials tuition that saw the participants enjoy over four hours of riding each day.

Fantastic weather and spectacular views down over Dougie's home town of Silsden created the perfect back drop for the eleventh edition of this unique event, with the first courses being held at the same venue back in 1999. The riders who had travelled from as far afield as Dubai and Cornwall were rewarded with a much welcomed barbecue lunch kindly provided by Red Bull on each of the three days of activity.

Dougie missed part of Friday morning's session to attend an appointment back at Airedale Hospital for a check up on the broken bone in his left wrist. An x-ray and examination by the doctor confirmed that the broken bone remains in line and should now heal without the need for an operation as first diagnosed on the day of the accident.

Lampkin attended a specialist clinic earlier this week where he underwent laser treatment in an attempt to speed up the healing process. Whilst no one can be sure at this moment, the current prognosis is that hopefully the injury will be sufficiently healed for Dougie to ride at the penultimate round of the 2009 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship in Spain during the first weekend of September.

Dougie explained, "The trials school was a great success once again, the weather certainly played its part, with plenty of smiling faces at the end of every day."

"Whilst I couldn't ride, the schools were a good distraction for me and have really helped to keep me motivated despite the injury obviously being a bit of a set back."

"If they had operated on my wrist, I would have been out for at least six weeks, which would have effectively ruled me out for the rest of the season. Hopefully by leaving it in the cast and with the laser treatment it now looks more than likely I will be able to ride again come early September even if it is with a light cast," Dougie ended.

Jeremy Van Horebeek joins Kawasaki
(Story Latest Update: August 09 2009)

Team CLS Kawasaki confirm that they have reached an agreement this weekend with young promising Belgian rider Jeremy Van Horebeek.

After the confirmation of Steven Frossard for 2010, team CLS has finalised his lineup with Jeremy Van Horebeek who will race the next two seasons with the squad in the MX2 world championship. Jeremy entered the MX2 series three years ago and confirmed his potential with eighth position overall in the 2008 campaign. Winner of this year’s Catalan Grand Prix, Van Horebeek (who will turn twenty in November) has since experienced misfortune but proved his speed on a number of occasions with top five results.

Jeremy is a double MX2 Belgian champion, and has twice represented his country at the Motocross of Nations; earning podium results. Aside from Grand Prix duties Van Horebeek will appear in the Elite French Championship and selected Belgian events in 2010.

Jeremy Van Horebeek: “It’ really nice to sign with Kawasaki and CLS, and I’m looking forward to next season as I have not been so lucky this year. It’s a new challenge for me and it’s really nice to see that people have confidence in you despite an average year. To be in a factory team with all the technical support from the Japan is great, and I’ve already a good connection with the CLS representatives. I’m really happy and I’m sure that next year we’ll reach the results that we want. We speak together about our goals and although we don’t want to put any undue pressure I’ll go for a top five position in the series. I have known Steven Frossard since we raced in the French 80cc championship; I’m sure we’ll have good relationship and work together for the best.”

Steve Guttridge (Kawasaki European Race Planning Manager): ‘I’m very happy to see Jeremy joining us, he is a good young rider with great potential who will fit with the team very well and we hope to see him grow with us. CLS with be our official MX2 team next season, we want them to concentrate on this class so we can work closely on the development of the bikes; Steven and Jeremy will be our official runners for 2010.’

Jean Jacques Luisetti (CLS Team Owner): ‘I’m happy and proud to sign Jeremy, who is one of the fastest young prospects in the series. He will be a perfect team-mate for Steven, who will improve his riding on sandy tracks alongside him. Jeremy is only nineteen at the moment and already won a Grand Prix, and he represents the future for CLS with a two year contract; we all know that Steven will be forced to move in the MX1 class in 2011 and our team is now concentrated on the MX2 class as asked by Kawasaki. We’ll start working with Jeremy for next season and our common goal is a top five result. Until now we were predominantly a French team, now we go international following the request of Kawasaki Heavy Industry and we’ll continue to work with our partners to finalise our technical staff.’

Jeremy Van Horebeek profile
Birth Date: 28/11/1989
Nationality: Belgian
Height: 179 cm
Weight: 76 kg
Nickname: The Jerre
Hobbies: cycling, running
2008: 8th in the MX2 World Championship
Belgian MX2 Champion
3rd at the Motocross of Nations
2007: 18th in the MX2 World Championship
Belgian MX2 Champion
3rd at the Motocross of Nations
2006: 5th in the MX2 European Championship

LS Motors-Honda waves Desalle good-bye
(Story Latest Update: August 06 2009)

Belgian star Clément Desalle, currently fifth in the MX1 World Championship, and his team LS Motors-Honda have mutually agreed to end their relationship at the end of this season. In spite of a two-year contract that saw Desalle racing for LS Motors-Honda until the end of 2010 the rider will be released before.

The partnership between the leading privateer outfit and the ‘MX Panda’ has proven massively successful so far. From an 11th overall placing in 2008 Clément went on to guide his CRF450R to one heat win, four podiums and two pole positions in GP racing so far. The LS Motors-Honda rider is still fighting for the title in his domestic series as well and he’s also a favourite to be picked for the Belgian MX of Nations team.

Clément Desalle, rider LS Motors-Honda: ”I have to thank Steven and the LS Motors-Honda team for their trust and support. They have worked hard to provide me with the best possible equipment and create good conditions. On a personal level there is always been a good understanding between us and this has resulted in great results on the track. You will hear more about my future team and program in the next few days.”

Steven Lettani, team manager LS Motors-Honda: ”Of course we are sorry to see Desalle go, but unfortunately we couldn’t offer him the long-term career options that he is looking for. Nor could Honda. I’m convinced that Desalle from his side will go on to do amazing things. As we will from our side for the years to come. But first let’s continue to kick ass together!”

Marnicq Bervoets, sports manager LS Motors-Honda: ”First of all I want to thank Clément and his family for their professionalism and enthusiasm. They were a joy to be working with. It’s clear that the combination between Clément, the bike and the team gelled really well. Probably because we have so much in common: as a team LS Motor-Honda is young and hungry as well. We maintain a no-nonsense professionalism and give everything we got. That’s a part of the ’MX Panda’ style that will stay with us, so next year Clément will be gone but not forgotten.

Toni Cairoli and Team de Carli to ride Orange with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in 2010
(Story Latest Update: August 01 2009)

In a move that represents the apex of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team's three year development program, the team has announced that Antonio Cairoli will be riding "Orange" in the MX1 World Championship in 2010. The team has signed the Italian for the next two years.
Cairoli, who will be 25 years old in September, has been a dominant force in World Championship MX2 and as from 2009, also in MX1. Joining him in the Orange paddock facility will be his personal manager Claudio de Carli and his mechanic.
 
Apex of three year program
"This move represents the apex of our three year development program," said KTM Offroad Director Pit Beirer. "With Toni (Cairoli) joining our excellent line-up of MX1 and MX2 riders and with Stefan Everts as overall KTM Motocross Race Director, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team plans to be a dominant force in the world championship paddock. We have the talent, the expertise and experience and a proven record of great results, race wins and podiums. Thanks to our excellent technical support, our KTM bikes have been virtually unchallenged out of the gates this season and with a team structure like this, we expect to reap major rewards in the 2010 season and beyond."
 
A winner up through the ranks
Cairoli, born in Sicily in 1985 first started racing at the age of four. He is well recognised for his skill, courage and will to win. Racing since the age of six, he notched up an impressive list of youth and junior championship titles before he finally joined the big league in 2004. One year later he emerged as the sport's number one and as the youngest ever Italian world champion. Despite some injury setbacks, he has continued to enjoy dominance since then, including two MX2 world championship titles in 2005 and 2007.
 
Cairoli, Nagl and Goncalves for MX1
The Italian racer will join two proven Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders, Germany's Max Nagl and Rui Goncalves from Portugal in the team's MX1 line-up for 2010.  Both Nagl and Goncalves, who moves up from MX2 in 2010, are proven GP winners and together with Cairoli will be under the care and supervision of the new MX1 team manager Claudio de Carli.
 
Fine balance of expertise and talent
Stefan Everts will remain as the factory team's overall Race Director and will, as the MX2 team manager, also nurture the three riders - Marvin Musquin, Shaun Simpson and the talented young Dutch rider Jeffrey Herlings. Musquin, the newly crowned French National Champion has already shown how comfortable he is on the Orange racing machines in the current season while Shaun Simpson has now been given the green light by his doctors to return to riding after a serious training accident prevented him from riding for the first half of the current season. Everts, a legend in the sport and 10-times world champion and someone who is always on the lookout for new and exciting talent has already had the young Herlings in his line of vision for some time.
 
"We are very excited about the collective team we will be presenting in 2010. With the addition of Toni and Claudio (de Carli) we will be one of the best teams in the paddock and it's going to be an honour to work with every one of them," Beirer said.
 
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Structure 2010:
 
KTM Offroad Director: Pit Beirer
Overall Race Director: Stefan Everts
 
MX1
Team Manager: Claudio de Carli
Riders: Tony Cairoli, Max Nagl, Rui Goncalves
 
MX2
Team Manager: Stefan Everts
Riders: Marvin Musquin, Shaun Simpson, Jeffrey Herlings

Yamaha part ways with Cairoli and De Carli for 2010
(Story Latest Update: August 01 2009)

Yamaha Motor Europe and Yamaha Motor Italy jointly announce today that they will not be able to continue their relationship with rider Antonio Cairoli and the Yamaha Red Bull De Carli Team, current leaders of the MX1-GP Motocross World Championship, for 2010.

Yamaha will continue to give all the support needed for the remainder of this season for all parties to reach and focus on their mutual goal of capturing this year’s title.

Yamaha would like to express its utmost thanks to Claudio De Carli, his team and Antonio Cairoli whose excellent work over the last few years has led to titles across the board; not only at World Championship level but also in European Supercross and also the Italian domestic series. They will always remain a very proud part of Yamaha’s racing history and Yamaha wishes them all the best for the future.

Steven Frossard confirmed with CLS
(Story Latest Update: August 01 2009)

Steven Frossard and the team CLS are pleased to confirm that they will continue their association in the MX2 class for 2010, with the support of the Kawasaki factory.

Actually fifth in the World Championship after eleven of fifteen rounds, Steven will enter his last season in the MX2 class and will battle for the 2010 title.

Involved with the team CLS for three years now, Steven Frossard has won two heats this season and confirmed himself to be one of the main contenders of the class. His legendary determination helped him to improve his results through the years, and in 2010 the Frenchman from Lyon will battle for the title aboard a CLS Kawasaki.

“Due to the age limit fixed by Youthstream in the MX2 class, 2010 will be my last season in this class and the world title will be my main goal,” explained Steven who signed his contract after the
final round of the French Elite series.

“Several times in my career I fixed one goal for my last attempt in a class and it was successful. Since my first season in the GP’s I’ve been a member of the CLS squad, and each year we made progress together. 2009 was probably harder than expected as we made several mistakes and had some problems, but we all learned a lot and for sure we’ll be better prepared for 2010 and we’ll go for the world title. We have to work on the starts, as it’s now so important to be in the leading group in the first corner; I proved this season that I can win any duel with my rivals, but if you are mid pack at the start then it’s more complicated. We know that we’ll have stronger support from the factory next season, and that was important to finalise my decision,” continued Steven who will be fully focused on the racing during the last four GP’s.

For Jean Jacques Luisetti, the manager of the team, this signature is one important step to prepare for next season where the team aims to battle for the title.

“We knew for a long time that the higher are your expectations, the more difficult it is, and we know what we have to do to be stronger next season. Thanks to the great technical and financial support provided by Kawasaki, we already won some heats this season and next year the title will be our main goal. We’ll be the official MX2 team, with more support, and that’s already a reward for us. Now we put all our energy to be a title contender, and we are working on our organisation; our workshop in Marseille has been renewed, our base in Belgium is perfect and we’ll be focused on the MX2 class as requested both by Kawasaki and Youthstream. I’m happy and proud to have Steven with us for another year, in fact we had an option with him but it was important to be sure that he also wanted to continue with us. He has been our leader for three years, and we’ll do everything to help him to reach his goal for his last MX2 attempt. We’ll announce within a few days the identity of his team-mate, who will be also a strong rider able to win heats and Grands Prix,” revealed the manager of the French team, who will line-up two strong riders in the MX2 class.

Martin Lampkin is planning “the best trial in the World…”
(Story Latest Update: July 29 2009)

There are still ten months to go until the highly-anticipated British round of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship but that has not stopped the event’s co-director, trials legend Martin Lampkin, throwing himself into preparations to ensure he delivers the biggest and most spectacular display of trials riding ever seen on British soil. The three-day event will take place over 25/26/27th June, 2010 and will include two days of full blown World trials championship action, plus a packed opening day that will incorporate official practice, rider autograph sessions and a whole host of other unique and exclusive activities.
 
Former World champion Martin Lampkin is determined that the trials extravaganza, which is being supported by EventScotland, Highland and Island Enterprise and The Highland Council will set a new standard for the series when it lands in the Highlands next year. Martin is doing everything in his power to make it a success. “We’re planning a great weekend of family entertainment in what is one of the most picturesque and stunning spots in the World.” Said Lampkin. Nevis Range 01
 
“With the help of our funding partners, who have all been really supportive, I’m confident this round of the SPEA FIM Trial World Championship will be one to remember for both the riders and fans,” he continued. “The sections are technical and challenging, so we’re virtually guaranteed top class action, and the venue is on another level altogether when you compare it to somewhere like Hawkstone Park in 2007, simply because of the natural terrain and scenery – it offers so much more than just a traditional trial.”
 
It sounds great Martin, are you offering discounts to people that book tickets in advance?
“Yes, there are some fantastic advance ticket packages that offer massive savings, so it is worth visiting the website to check them out (www.ukworldtrial.com). To give you an example, a three-day family pass, which is only available in advance, is £120 cheaper than paying at the gate. An offer than cannot be missed? Likewise if you book an adult three-day pass in advance you save £25, or £20 for the two-day ticket, which is really good value. If you are quick, you can also buy VIP car parking passes, which will allow the public to enjoy the same access as the riders, officials and VIP guests. Those passes are limited, though, so like I said – be quick.”
 
What’s included in the ticket price? I hear there is a cable car transportation system too?
“You’re right, a cable car, or mountain gondola, will take spectators from the paddock and start/finish area at 300ft to the upper group of sections at 2150ft (91m to 1,221m) in just twelve minutes, and if you book in advance you get unlimited access to the gondolas, which can accommodate up to six people in their enclosed carriages. Trust me, it’s a spectacular trip up the mountainside – kids especially will love it.”
 
So where exactly are the trial sections?
“Well, the gondola is located on the north face of Aonach Mor, the eighth highest mountain in Britain, and I can assure you, once you’re up there it’s one of the most spectacular and scenic settings for trials anywhere in the World – it’s beautiful. What’s more, there’s a restaurant and bar, a gift shop, the mountain discovery centre and a children's play park at the venue, so there’s lots to do for everyone. No one will be bored.”
 
Details of advanced ticket pricing, VIP parking, an event itinerary, travel and accommodation information plus all the latest news can be found on the official event website: www.ukworldtrial.com.

HAFREN FUN TRIAL AND HILL CLIMB
(Story Latest Update: July 29 2009)

Hafren Dirt Bike Club revived their fun trial and hill climb after a year off, and ran it as a fund-raiser for the Welsh ISDE teams. Just under 40 riders took the challenge - the weather on the day was good but the wet weather in the build-up to the event made it a bit on the challenging side for some!

The trial was won by Darren Williams, a trials rider on a trials bike which certainly made the job easier - on enduro and MX bikes they were a bit more challenging as some found out.

Runner-up and winner of the enduro class was Lee Edmondson who only just beat off Rheinallt Davies for third on number of cleans after both dropping the same number marks.

Edward Jones was crowned King of the Hill by getting to the top and making it look easy, which it certainly wasn’t! Veteran Wyn Hughes and Lee Edmondson were second and third respectively, they both came to a stop just a few metres short of the top. (Rumour has it that Wyn had been seen resting, ready for the hill climb in one of the trials sections by having a lie down!)

Most riders seemed to enjoy the laid back and friendly format of this type of event, especially the bar and hog roast afterwards.

Greg Evans Riders British Supermoto Cup
Sport City, Manchester
(Story Latest Update: July 22 2009)

Special Greg Turns Heads
Nobody knew what to expect as Greg Evans went out for his first practise and qualifying on Saturday morning. Thoughts around the paddock suggested the newcomer enduro rider wouldn’t have the pace for the front-runners in the SM Cup class.

Straight from the off Greg set fast lap after another as heads began to turn with his control and poise on the tarmac. Eventually qualifying 5th Greg had him sights set on a podium finish. The racing was very fast with the enduro star mixing it with established SM Cup runners at the front. Greg took two fourth places and a third in the final race to secure 3rd overall for the day.

After beginning to understand the levels of grip on supermoto tyres, Greg shot to the head of qualifying on Sunday and was just pipped for pole in the final minutes. The racing was again hard, fast and very exciting. Not only did Greg run with the fast boys, he was now beating them on the slippery conditions, working to his strengths. The SM Cup racing seemed to attract more interest within the paddock as the newcomer pushed hard all day pulling some moves on the outside of bends that no-one would have expected - his team had to explain there was no berm to hit, and not stop and get his time card punched ever lap (thanks DD). Three third places on Sunday and second overall showed this talented enduro rider can take his ability to another form of racing.

Greg: “I’ve had a tremendous time, the track and organisation was great. The whole atmosphere in the paddock made for a great weekend’s racing. Thanks to the whole Team Smith KTM Racing team and all in the paddock who came to say hello.”

Champagne all round.

Will Greg race supermoto again?

British Youth Motocross engines in the clear
(Story Latest Update: July 21 2009)

Following the hard work carried out by members of the ACU Motocross Committee over the last few seasons it was perturbed to see a number of posts on certain motocross forums, suggesting that there were some issues with riders in the ACU Express Insurance British Youth Motocross Championship running oversized engines. The ACU stepped in with assistance from ACU Technical Official Dave Young, and FIM/CMS Chief Technical Officer at Grands Prix, Andy Summers, to clear up the rumours.

Both Technical Officers carried out numerous engine measurements at Cusses Gorse, which hosted round five of the ACU Express insurance British Youth Motocross Championship over the weekend. Due to time constraints further engines were sealed and will be stripped for measurement at a future date. The officials were pleased to announce that none of the engines that had been stripped and measured were outside of the regulations confirming the belief of the Committee that cheating in this way is not rife throughout the paddock.

The ACU Motocross Committee works hard to ensure that there is a level playing field for all of the competitors at its events and that everyone adheres to the rules.

The sixth round of the ACU Express Insurance British Youth Motocross Championship will take place at the traditional venue of Low Gelt Farm near Brampton in Cumbria on the 29th – 30th August where the organisers will endeavour to continue the good work put in by Hucklebridge Events this weekend.

Husaberg signs new contract with Oriol Mena
(Story Latest Update: July 06 2009)

Tuesday evening Husaberg signed a new contract with it’s Spanish WEC Junior rider Oriol Mena in the context of the media launch of the 2010 models.

Mena has been dominating the WEC junior class so far by winning 8 out of 10 race days and can already clinch the EJ World Championship title at the next round in Mexico on July 17th and 18th.
If he will do so he might race the last two rounds of the WEC already in the E2 senior class to prepare for his transition next season.

In Husaberg’s long tradition of bringing young talents from junior to senior level, with Joakim Ljunggren of Sweden being the last of these examples, Husaberg is proud to announce, that Husaberg’s General Manager, Oliver Göhring, signed a new contract with Oriol Mena for the WEC senior classes Tuesday night, in the presence of the president of the Catalan Motorcycle Federation, Mr. Angel Viladoms, in front of a big media audience.

“I came into the Husaberg Factory Team this year as a junior rider, and I felt very welcome and looked after well right from the beginning. Besides the great bike this excellent team spirit was the most decisive point for me to stay with the team also for the senior classes. I’m confident that I can achieve good results in a senior class already next season, and my team mates and the huge experience of the team will help me a lot in my future development,” Oriol commented after signing the new contract.

The journalists attending this big moment for Oriol as well as for Husaberg were invited to Igualada, Spain for the media launch of Husaberg’s 2010 model generation, which adds 3 brand new models to the existing two Enduro models FE 450 and FE 570, which were presented last year at the ISDE in Serres, Greece.

Oriol took the opportunity to test not only the new Enduro and Cross-Country models, but also the breathtaking new Husaberg Supermoto model at the Parcmotor racetrack close to Igualada. He was really impressed by the new models as well as the technical updates to the existing two models, which turned the Offroad World upside-down in 2008.

FIM Anti-doping controls
MAXXIS FIM Enduro World Championship – Riihimaki (Finland)
(Story Latest Update: July 02 2009)

Anti-doping controls were carried out at the MAXXIS FIM Enduro World Championship meeting, held in Riihimaki (Finland) on June 13.

No prohibited substances or their metabolites, or markers, or the use of prohibited methods were found in the tested samples.

The riders tested were: Ivan Cervantes (Spain), Johnny Aubert (France), Mika Ahola (Finland).