Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha Champ Josh Hayes “Pony’s” Up For The Heartland Westerville, Ohio – Sometimes, being a Speed King can seem a lot like being a Beauty Queen when it comes to “fulfilling your year-long duties.” But, for Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha American SuperBike Champion Josh Hayes, the duties were more like a labor of love as he made a special appearance at Yamaha dealership Iron Pony Motorsports Superstore in Westerville, Ohio, this past Saturday, to help them celebrate being named the #1 Motorcycle Dealer in the Nation. Josh was on-hand to sign autographs, give out posters, and talk with the many fans who braved the changeable April-in-Ohio weather to stop by. Also in attendance were the M-Claw-emblazoned Monster Energy Girls, who gave Josh some welcome support and Monster Energy refreshment. Currently preparing for the upcoming Dunlop Tire Test at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, Josh is more than ready for AMA Pro Racing’s “second season”, following his excellent showing at Daytona International Speedway. With the break between Daytona and the AMA Pro Race at Infineon Raceway in the wine country of Sonoma, California, on the weekend of May 13-15, it’s fair to say that Josh is raring to get back on his crossplane crankshaft-equipped Yamaha YZF-R1® and defend his American SuperBike title. “There used to be two other races in-between Daytona and Infineon, so there’s a pretty big gap in the schedule this season,” commented Hayes. “But, I’m staying in shape by polishing my tennis game, plus I get to attend fun events like this one at Iron Pony to see the fans that so faithfully support our awesome sport. I’m a very self-motivated racer, but seeing the fans definitely pumps me up.” Josh came away from Daytona with a healthy amount of valuable points, and he currently sits just 11 points shy of the championship lead. “Daytona was good for the Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha team,” added Hayes, “but I can’t wait to get to Miller for the test, then on to Infineon to keep building on those points.