From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA Pro Racing and Daytona International Speedway Officials to Meet

Pickerington, Ohio (April 12, 2004) — Officials from AMA Pro Racing and Daytona International Speedway are scheduled to meet this week to discuss AMA-sanctioned motorcycle racing at the race track. Issues related to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as the track’s upcoming renovation project are agenda items to be discussed during the meeting.

AMA Pro Racing Vice President, Director of Communications Kerry Graeber confirmed that Daytona remains an essential part of the championship. “There is so much history and importance surrounding Daytona,” says Graeber. “We’re looking forward to sitting down with Daytona’s leadership to map out the future of AMA motorcycle racing at the facility.”

Motorcycles have raced at Daytona International Speedway since 1961. The Daytona 200 by Arai is the cornerstone of motorcycle racing activities occurring each March. In addition to the AMA-sanctioned road races held at the facility, AMA Pro Racing sanctions a supercross race that’s part of the AMA Supercross Series as well as an AMA Flat Track Championship event at nearby Municipal Stadium. All of the races are held during Daytona’s “Bike Week” which draws thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country. The 2004 event drew the largest crowds in recent years to view motorcycle racing at the facility.

Graeber stated that the major motorcycle manufacturers view Daytona as the premier event on the championship calendar. “Winning at Daytona is a tremendous accomplishment for any individual and, to a large extent, defines him as racer,” said Graeber. “Plus, when you consider the amount of effort put forth by the manufacturers in promoting their success at Daytona through advertising and marketing support, it’s obvious how important this single event is in everyone’s mind.”