San Marino and Rimini MotoGP™ debrief with Masao Azuma
Bridgestone slick compounds available: Front: Soft, Medium & Hard; Rear: Soft, Medium & Hard (Asymmetric)
Bridgestone wet tyre compounds available: Hard (Main), Soft (Alternative)
Movistar Yamaha MotoGP’s Valentino Rossi won his first race of the 2014 MotoGP™ season ahead of teammate Jorge Lorenzo in second place, and Repsol Honda’s Dani Pedrosa in third.
After the first day of the race weekend was subjected to heavy rain and the coldest track temperatures yet recorded this season, conditions for the rest of the weekend were fine and Sunday experienced the warmest weather of the weekend, resulting in a peak track temperature of 37°C for the race.
Q&A with Masao Azuma – Chief Engineer, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tyre Development Department
Can you explain the situation on Friday, when Bridgestone expanded its wet tyre allocation to make more soft compound wet tyres available to each rider? Why was this decision made, and did the soft compound wet tyres bring an improvement in grip over the hard compound?
“In the past the Misano circuit in wet conditions has been very abrasive, hence our original plan to bring the hard compound wet tyre as our main specification. The last time we had such completely wet conditions at Misano was many years ago, and it seems since then the composition of the tarmac may have changed which resulted in extremely low grip levels in the wet. During the first practice session in very low temperatures, the riders said they had little feel from the front, particularly under braking, so we reacted quickly and after consultation with the FIM, decided to expand our wet tyre allocation to increase the number of soft wet tyres available to every rider from FP2.
“The riders reported that although the soft compound wet tyres did offer improved grip over the hard compound, the state of the Misano track surface in wet conditions was still extremely challenging, and this was evident in the high number of incidents across all three classes. The total number of falls on Friday in the three classes was 62; 17 of which were in the MotoGP class. However, we were able to collect some useful information about wet tyre performance on the Misano tarmac in the two sessions which will help us in our future tyre development.”
Misano was the first round this year when the opening day of action has been completely wet. How did this reduction of dry track time ultimately effect tyre choice on Sunday?
“The wet conditions on Friday certainly meant that Free Practice 3 and 4 on Saturday were very busy for our engineers, as the teams had limited dry track time to test different tyre options and find a setup to extract the best performance from the tyres. As a result, there wasn’t much experimentation in rear tyre choice among the factory Honda and Yamaha riders, and no one evaluated the hard compound rear slick on Saturday. Considering that the race had the highest track temperatures of the weekend, had there been more dry track time available it would have been interesting to see which riders would have evaluated the hard compound rear slick, as it would’ve been a worthwhile option for the race.”
In 2013 many riders selected the hard compound front slick for the race, but this year only Jorge Lorenzo selected it for the race. What has changed in a year to see such a pronounced shift in front tyre choice?
“The front tyre is so important as the rider needs to feel confident with the front end of the bike to be fast; you can put up with some sliding and movement from the rear, but at the front you need to be 100% confident in the feel provided. So in the end, front tyre choice mainly comes down to the rider’s personal preference and what works best with their setup and in this case, only Jorge felt more comfortable with the hard compound front slick this weekend. There are many reasons why the medium compound was preferred over the hard front this year; change in machine character, the tarmac is another year older, and also the lack of setup time in the dry, but in the end both the medium and hard compound front slicks were good race tyres. For Jorge, he set the third quickest lap of the race and was extremely consistent in his lap times which shows the hard compound front slick was still a good option this year.”
More, from a press release issued by Babuska Racing:
BABUSKA RACING AND FRANKIE BABUSKA REBOUND IN RACE 2 ACTION DURING THE AMA PRO ROAD RACING WEEKEND AT NJMP.
After failing to finish Race 1 held on Saturday of the Kawasaki Devils Showdown at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville NJ, held in horrible conditions due to inclement weather, Frankie Babuska as well as the weather came back on Sunday with much better results. Frankie qualified in 13th position Saturday morning before the rain started but crashed out going into turn 1 halfway through Race 1.
Frankie again lined up on the outside of Row 5 for Race 2 on Sunday, held in near perfect conditions, and battled for most of the race just outside of the top 10, finally bringing the bike home in 12th place. For the 2014 AMA Pro Racing SuperBike season, despite missing 2 rounds, Frankie was able to finish the year 13th in the points championship.
Frankie Babuska – Babuska Racing #16
“This weekend had started out pretty well until mid-day on Saturday when it started to rain. The race had been declared a “wet race” and as it started I had worked my way up to ninth before crashing out unfortunately. Sunday went much better with a dry track and ended up 12th for the AMA Pro Racing season & series finale. Jumping up to SuperBike there was a steep learning curve that I had to overcome and I found myself improving every time I went out there. Overall I am pretty happy with how this year in AMA Pro Racing ended and I’m looking forward to what next year brings. This year wouldn’t have been possible with out my sponsors and most importantly my Dad and the rest of my family who have stood by me from the beginning of my racing adventures. I have to thank my crew as well – Mark Junge, Frank Babuska, Chris Starke, Chad Hasskew & Tim Bemisderfer”
Mark Junge – MCJ Motorsports / Babuska Racing Crew Chief
“Frankie really showed progress this year after switching to the SuperBike class on the Suzuki GSX-R 1000 after the Daytona 200 as he got more and more comfortable with the larger and faster bike. Getting into the top 10 three times this year in the AMA Pro Racing SuperBike class was great and we are going to continue getting Frankie seat time by running several endurance races and the Daytona Race of Champions so that he gets experience on the banking in preparation for next season.”
Frankie Babuska would like to thank his sponsors for the 2014 season: Babuska Racing, MCJ Motorsports, Vesrah, Dunlop, Maxima Racing Oils, Arai Helmets, Vortex, Chicken Hawk Tire Warmers, Hot Bodies, Zero Gravity, Evil Powder Coating, and Hindle Exhaust Systems. Frankie and Babuska Racing are actively looking for sponsors and partners for the 2015 season – email [email protected] for further information.
More, from a press release issued by Proforma:
CONNER BLEVINS REBOUNDS FROM INJURY TO EARN POINTS IN AMA PRO SUPERSPORT RACES AT NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
Less than a week after his first podium in the AMA Pro SuperSport class at Mid-Ohio in July, Conner Blevins crashed at a regional race at Texas World Speedway and broke his left pelvis. After a month of inactivity, Conner was back on his bicycle, determined to make the 2014 AMA Pro season finale at the Kawasaki Devil’s Showdown at New Jersey Motorsports Park. Despite some lingering pain and a careful approach to both races, Conner was able to earn more points and finish ninth in SuperSport for the season.
Race One – Saturday
Saturday’s SuperSport race started in damp conditions, and continued to get wetter as the race went on. Conner was getting settled into a good wet race pace when several riders went down and the race was red-flagged just past halfway in the 16-lap event, with Conner in 29th position. “I got squeezed off at the start in the rain, and there was lots of spray,” said Conner. “Once I got going, the guys ahead of me were banging into each other, chopping each other off and crashing out. I didn’t need to be a part of that, so I just waited for things to settle down and then the red flag came out. I wasn’t going to risk re-breaking my pelvis by crashing in the rain.”
Race Two – Sunday
The Sunday weather was dry and cool for the start of the SuperSport race. Conner made a good start on his Kawasaki ZX-6R and started picking riders off as he started to feel more comfortable with the bike. “I got a decent start and just went for the inside,” Conner said. “I got past quite a few people on the first lap, then kind of sat there in 15th place. I couldn’t really catch the bikes ahead of me. My bike was great, but I was struggling a bit.”
Conner’s thoughts on the 2014 season were tinged with regret on earning virtually no points at the opening round in Daytona, then having to ride injured at both Barber Motorsports Park and the New Jersey event. “We had our highs and our lows, definitely,” commented Conner. “After Daytona, I felt pretty good about my riding, even though we had the mechanical problems. Barber wasn’t what we wanted but Mid-Ohio was really good, and Road America too.”
For the 2014 season, Conner is proud to be sponsored by Excel Machine Racing, Kawasaki USA, Dunlop Tires, M4 Exhaust, SpeedMob, Arai Helmets, Ajax Kawasaki, HT Moto, Lone Star Track Days, Moto Liberty, Ohlins Suspension and Bazzaz.
For more information, contact Conner Blevins at [email protected] or visit Conner on Facebook at www.facebook.com/conner.blevins.
More, from a press release issued by Millennium Technologies/KWR:
Kyle Wyman wins New Jersey Harley-Davidson finale, scores top ten finishes in Daytona Sportbike
MILLVILLE, N.J. (Sept. 17) — Millennium Technologies rider Kyle Wyman finished off the 2014 AMA Pro Road Racing season in style this past weekend, scoring his second official win of the year in the Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson series following a crash on Saturday.
“That was the most sore I’ve ever been without laying in a hospital bed,” Wyman said of Saturday’s wreck in Daytona Sportbike race one. “I was feeling somewhat comfortable in the rain race, tried to push to the front but unfortunately pushed too hard. I was heartbroken knowing I had crashed my Millennium Technologies Yamaha R6 for the first time this season.”
Wyman was scored with 10th place on the day, but did not receive any championship points. AMA Pro rules require that a rider finishes at least 50% of the race distance in order to score points, regardless of finishing position.
“I was pretty bummed that we didn’t score points, even though we out-lasted most of the field.” Wyman added. “It was a crazy race, and the first time I had ridden here at NJMP in the wet. Fortunately I was able to come back the next day ready to ride.”
Wyman suffered bruising of the lower back and spine area, but pushed through the morning warm-up sessions on Sunday to grid up for the 12-lap AMA Pro Harley-Davidson Series final.
After getting the holeshot, Wyman settled into a race-long battle with series regulars Steve Rapp and Shane Narbonne. With four laps remaining, a well-timed push to the front allowed Wyman to make best of lapped traffic and score his seventh AMA Pro Harley-Davidson series victory.
“It’s been such an up-and-down season for the KWR crew this year, and I’m just glad to have finished off the season on a high note,” Wyman said. “It feels great to be able to go into the offseason with good memories from the last race. I wanted to win a race with a gap, and we finally did that.”
Sunday’s dry Daytona Sportbike race two ran flag-to-flag, where Wyman finished off his season and gained a sixth top-ten finish on the year – good enough to lock in ninth overall in the championship.
“It feels great to have finished my first full season in the Daytona Sportbike series,” said Wyman, who owns and operates both teams under the KWR umbrella. “It has been a huge challenge for me and the team to take on this new venture this year, and I want to thank all of the people involved for working so hard to give me a great opportunity.
“I feel as though we accomplished some great things both on and off the track this year, gave our great sponsors like Millennium Technologies and Lucas Oil the exposure they deserve, and most of all, had fun doing it. I’m looking forward to what 2015 has in store for the new MotoAmerica series.”
In case you missed the live coverage of the AMA Pro Road Races from New Jersey Motorsports Park, you can click the links below to watch the archived videos.
To obtain the same performance services and parts that Kyle uses for your motorcycle or powersports vehicle, visit www.mt-llc.com to view Millennium Technologies products and services.
Keep up with Kyle on his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/kylewymanfans
More, from a press release issued by TOBC Racing:
TOBC Racing’s Hayden Gillim wins AMA Supersport Championship!
A short but demanding season closed out this weekend at New Jersey’s AMA Pro Roadracing Championship with a finish line moment for TOBC Racing. Amid the pressure of a close points gap and the unfavorably wet conditions at Saturday’s first round, TOBC’s Hayden Gillim expressed his trademark confidence and relaxed but determined demeanor. Gillim had set his sights on the Number 1 Title. Regarding his approach to the race and his closest competitor, Dominguez, on Saturday Gillim said, “I’d rather fight my hardest and crash away the championship than give away a race. That’s how I’d rather have it. The strategy is to win. It always is…”.
He finished first on Saturday and second on Sunday, trailing Dominguez by 0.041 seconds, but still took the AMA Pro SuperSport Championship title by a slim 2-point margin. His victory was the perfect ending to a stellar personal season and a real demonstration of TOBC’s dedication to showcasing America’s young racing talent. Reflecting on his accomplishment, Gillim said, “This is my fourth season, and I’ve come up short every year. Finally, I got it. I’ve been training harder, riding harder. I never knew what it would feel like until now.”
TOBC Racing proudly congratulates Hayden Gillim on his outstanding performance this season, as well as the rest of the TOBC team for their achievements, including:
· Curtis Murray’s 10th Place overall in the final AMA SuperSport point standings
· Christian Crosslin racing to a 10th Place finish at the NJMP Finale
· Taylor Knapp finishing top 10 in both AMA SuperBike races at NJMP and finishing the season at a respectable 12th Place in the overall points
· Veteran racer Scott Harwell’s reemergence from retirement to race in the SuperBike Class
TOBC Racing is eternally grateful to our sponsors, who were critical to the team’s success this year. Special thanks go to the unwavering support of Dunlop Tires, Ballistic Performance Components, Vortex, RS Taichi Racing Suits, Superbike Supply, and Chicken Hawk Tire Warmers. We would also like to acknowledge our talented competitors, who continuously challenge us to train harder and smarter. We had an awesome time racing the 2014 AMA Pro Series and look forward to the many changes to come. An overall win is in the crosshairs of the TOBC sights as the team prepares for the next Team Challenge Race with CCS and Virginia International Raceway. Stay tuned for some exciting TOBC Racing news from the remaining rounds in Virgina, Daytona, and Alabama.
TOBC Racing is a privately funded team focused on the support of Amateur Road Racing and the development of younger racers through the National Endurance, Team Challenge, and Sprint Series hosted by CCS, WERA, CMRA, ASRA, and now AMA Pro. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/tobc.racing or on the web at www.tobcracing.com
More, from a press release issued by RoadRace Factory:
New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, NJ
In racing seven points isn’t much. If either rider sneezes and gunks up their visor, it’s game over. There is no room for errors in this chase for the title. New Jersey Motorsports Park is the setting for the season finale and there could not have been a more picturesque setting for the showdown. Deep in the woods of Millville, New Jersey, the Thunderbolt course is a flowing 2.25 mile circuit that would decide a closely contested series. The entire Daytona Sportbike class has been in a state of flux since the season opener at Daytona International Speedway. After six rounds and five different winners, it was down to the two Yamaha riders of Jake Gagne and Jake Lewis.
Race Report
GoPro Daytona SportBike
With the paddock activities being shifted from three days to two, the buzz on Friday that is usually centered around practice and qualifying data reviews was eerily subdued. It’s impossible to describe the exact feeling on the weekend as the recently published news of the sale of the series created more conversations than the typical data and mechanical topics. Needless to say with a championship to be decided, the crew of the RoadRace Factory wasn’t wasting time on speculation and rumor. The crew rolled the bikes off the transporter and got right to business. The biggest topic of conversation in the team’s garage, was it going to rain on Saturday?
Jake Gagne and Tomas Puerta weren’t too concerned about the pending weather. Jake’s first victory came in the rain at Homestead in 2012. Tomas is very accustomed to riding in adverse conditions. The relaxed demeanor of Jake Gagne said that he wasn’t even too worried about the slim lead he had on the rest of the field. He doesn’t over-think things or get ruffled by pressure. He remained focused on doing what he set out to do all season long, which was to win races. Tomas on the other hand, had nothing to loose. In his rookie season he has had to learn patience and humility. He was determined to fight regardless of the weather and competitiveness of the class.
Saturday morning the team was greeted by a dark sky at 6 am at the track. There were thick clouds but nothing threatening. As the sun rose, it looked as if the rain may hold off for the day. The normal schedule on these two-day formats has the riders on track for Q1 first thing in the morning. Right off the bat, Jake took to the front of the field and remained near the top the entire time. Tomas was pushing hard and his times were improving lap after lap. He was running strong when the checkered flag fell on the session. Tomas was in P11. Meanwhile, Jake never put a wheel wrong and closed the session in P1. Exactly where he needed to be. His rivals on the other hand were left searching for speed as the second qualifying session was quickly approaching.
The Q2 two-minute horns go off and both riders are ready and eager to solidify the best possible grid positions. Tomas is off and turning solid laps while Jake continues to lead the field. As the clouds began to roll in and the skies darkened, both Jake and Tomas put their heads down and went wide open. In the end, Tomas would not improve his original starting position. He would begin the afternoon’s race in P12. Jake Gagne also took a hit as fellow Yamaha rider, Dane Westby was on a tear and ripped out the fastest laps of the qualifying sessions, relegating Jake to P2 for the start of the race.
Mother nature sure has a great sense of humor. She rolled into Millville just in time for the start of the Supersport race. But, when the Daytona Sportbike grid was lining up, she decided it was time for a downpour. The riders did a sighting lap and then were brought in for a grid and go start. In a scene that resembled a movie scale rain storm, the riders took their positions and waited for the flags to be dropped. Away they went in a cloud of mist. It was impossible to tell who was where and what was happening.
As they entered turn one, Jason DiSalvo was in the lead and the pack was just trying to get around the circuit without issue. However, that proved harder than expected and a red flag was thrown before the end of the first lap. A full restart was called for. Unknown to Jake, his main rival Jake Lewis’ bike had failed to restart the race. The title was Gagne’s if he could bring it home with enough points. This time, it was pole sitter Dane Westby who took the charge and flew away from the rest of the grid. Jake and Tomas were squeezed back to the middle of the pack. From Jake’s body language, it was easy to see that he didn’t want to get involved in any issues with other riders. Tomas on the other hand, was on a mission. He was passing riders with ease lap after lap and by the midway point he had passed Gagne for 6th. Unfortunately, he would highside a few laps later. He hit the ground pretty hard but was able to walk away with a sore shoulder and a desire to fight on for Sunday’s race.
Meanwhile, Jake was playing it safe. He had his plan, which was to let the riders sort themselves out throughout the laps and then push at the halfway point. That strategy worked like a charm. Gagne began turning laps that were almost a second faster than anyone else on the track. The rain was coming down harder and he was going faster. Wearing his trademark dark smoked visor in conditions that called for a clear visor with a heads up display, Jake was on the gas. He had moved into second position and was chasing down Westby at a clip that was making Scott and the crew very nervous. The entire team was nervous until the checkers were flown and Jake crossed the line in second place. He didn’t know it at the time, but he had just captured the Championship. Pulling into Victory Lane, Jake was greeted by the team and was informed that he had done it! He had just become the 2014 Daytona Sportbike Champion! Chaos and Celebrations ensued!
Congratulations and celebrations can only last so long, and seeing as how the crew of the RoadRace Factory have an illness, they almost immediately began preparing for the second race on Sunday. Jake’s bike would be cleaned and prepped while all hands were on deck to rebuild Tomas’ bike. The team would work through the night in order to get him ready for the race.
Sunday was a completely different day. The sun was out, the sky was a beautiful blue and there was a slight chill to the air. Although the championship had been won, it was still a race day so business as usual resumed when the pit was rebuilt and the bikes were rolled out. Jake was on pace to stamp his championship with a win. He took to the warm-up as if he was sending the other riders a notice. Tomas was only able to accomplish a few laps before he had to pull in to make adjustments to his rebuilt Yamaha R6. One more race to go in the season..
Under the beautiful New Jersey sun, the riders lined up for the customary grid. No grid and go today. Riders and Crew flocked on the grid for the last time, the normal hustle was still there but it seemed more relaxed. The riders were going out for their own reasons; to put all they have on the line one last time. The horn blew, the crews ran off and the riders put their visors down. Revs up, flag down and the entire class of 2014 Daytona Sportbike flew off the line. Jake got his best start since Road America. He leapt off the line and by the end of the first lap was already beginning to pull a gap. Tomas was up in the top ten fighting hard and making up positions. On the fourth lap however, he would suffer a minor braking issue and he was forced to run off the track in Turn One. He would later rejoin the race several laps down.
At the front, Jake was running a master class on racing. It was impressive that his pace never slowed and it was as if he was being chased by a pack of wolves. Head down and tucked in behind his windscreen, Jake crossed the line in P1 and stamped his championship with the most dominant victory to date.
Jake Gagne – 2014 Daytona Sportbike Champion
“What can I say, you know. I’m totally stoked for my guys and for the team. This is awesome. I mean, there’s no better way to thank your guys for their hard work than by winning the championship. We set out with one goal this season, to win races. If we did that then the championship would come. We didn’t win as many as we wanted and in the end we got the championship. I can’t thank Scotty and DA (Danny Anderson) enough for building my bike. Danny Wallker for all his help and really everyone who makes this team what it is. I’d like to thank my sponsors, Red Bull, Bell Helmets, Alpinestars. Thanks to all the fans and for everyone who’s been supporting us. This feels great!”
Tomas Puerta – Daytona Sportbike Rookie of the Year
“Yeah, this wasn’t the best weekend. I wanted to really do well this weekend. I was doing great and felt awesome on Saturday in the rain. The bike was feeling good and I was making a lot of passes. I came around the corner and the back end just stepped out and launched me highside. My shoulder is a little sore but it’s ok. Sunday I was running strong and then I went into Turn One and there were no brakes. I was able to slow it down and I ended up in the gravel. I brought it back in and the guys fixed the problem but it was too late. I wish I could’ve done better, but this class is tough and I have to do better next year. Thank you to everyone on my team, my dad and family back home. My sponsors who helped this year, Bell Helmets, Addict by Bossi, Oakley, Dainese Leathers and the entire RoadRace Factory team.”
SuperSport
For Supersport rider, Felipe MacLean, this is the last race of his full rookie season in the AMA. Having spent the 2014 season learning new tracks and adjusting to life in the paddock, he was poised for another strong run at NJMP. The pending rain wouldn’t pose too much of an issue for Felipe as he races in his home state of Florida in the rain on a much larger displacement bike.
Unfortunately for Felipe and all Supersport riders, their first Qualifying session is first thing in the morning on Saturday. Before the sun even had a chance to poke through the trees, he and his compatriots took to the track. On this particular occasion, the normal 40 rider field is swollen to a massive 54 entrants. Felipe would have to contend with a lot of local guys all vying for the same piece of track. Consistent laps put Felipe in P42 when the session was called. The hope was for an improvement in Q2.
Q2 under the threat of rain was actually much better for Felipe. This time, the track temp had come up a bit and the right compound of tire was selected and his times steadily improved. At the end of the session he had moved up to the 34th starting position. That’s a considerable increase.
Race one was set to begin with a slight mist falling. The AMA called for an assessment lap by the riders. Following that, determined the race to be a wet race. The riders now knew they were in for a challenge, as it could’ve either started pouring or continued to mist. This race would be started under a grid and go condition. As they all lined up for the start, the rain begin to move in and as the flag dropped, the field took off slowly and gingerly around the circuit.
As the rain began to fall more aggressively, it was impressive to note how few riders were being affected by the conditions. Felipe was involved in a great multi-rider battle up until a red flag was flown with about 4 laps to go. At the line, Felipe would cross in P30. In a field of 50 plus riders, most of them locals, Felipe ran well and as always, was very consistent.
Race two was a different animal. The sun was out and the track conditions were about as perfect as possible. All was set for a great race. As the track went green the massive grid sprinted down the straight and into the T1. Again, Felipe had found himself involved in a great battle with some really fast riders. Unfortunately, he encountered his first crash all season in one of the few left hand corners. That’s not how he wanted to go out, but he kept his head and was proud of what he had accomplished this year.
Felipe MacLean
“It was a great weekend for me. It was the end of the season. We came on Saturday and it was raining. I felt quite good in the rain. The field was big almost 60 riders in the pack. I was in the middle and couldn’t really improve a lot because of the rain. In the race on Sunday, unfortunately I had a bad start and I had to try to catch the other riders. I passed like eight guys trying to catch the next group. Sadly, I lowsided in the chicane but I came out in one piece, no injuries.
I’m happy, I had a great season with the team and I really enjoyed the whole year. I’m grateful for them and I had a lot of fun.”
The Final Word – Danny Walker
“What a weekend! You know we came here after burying ourselves in our BSS effort and it took a little bit to realize, ‘Holy smokes.. we have to win this thing!’ It’s been a great season and for us, we had a mission. We set out to win as many races as we could and not worry about the championship. We really wanted to show everyone what we’re capable of. We didn’t get the wins we wanted, but sometimes consistency and hardwork pay-off and Jake got the championship. I mean, Jake rode like we knew he could all season and this weekend when it mattered, he delivered. He’s top quality rider and this is proof of that.
I have to give it to my team, they literally busted their butts this season and when I threw the BSS at them in the middle of the championship run, they didn’t miss a beat. Scotty and Danny kept their eyes on Jake’s bike while Carlos and Jon worked tirelessly with Tomas to develop his machine. Thomas and Kirk for their efforts with Felipe and Logan who does everything in between. Jamie really killed it this year and when the time came to get us set for England, he stepped up and nailed it. Mick has been there all year making sure everyone is on point with travel and directing us all. Benny from Bell Helmets.. It really takes a entire team to make a championship run possible.
Our sponsors this year have all stepped up in a huge way and I’d like to thanks Red Bull, GoPro, Bell Helmets, Penske Racing, Speedmob, Quality Aerosols, Stompgrip, K&N Air Filters, Bazzaz, RK Chains, High Plains Raceway, GRP Stabilizers, Vortex, Chickhawk Tire Warmers and everyone who’s made this possible!”
More, from a press release issued by Triple Threat Racing:
Triple Threat Racing’s Tim Hunt gets his second top ten in AMA SuperSport.
Triple Threat Racing’s Tim Hunt spent half of Friday testing his Yamaha YZF-R6 at New Jersey Motorsports Park for the weekends Kawasaki Devil’s Showdown, the final round of AMA Pro Racing’s 2014 season. He felt very comfortable on the bike and was looking forward to Saturday’s qualifying and race.
On Saturday morning the weather was a bit cold. Tim went out for first practice/qualifying, and the bike was not hooking up in the current conditions. He came into the pits on a couple occasions to make changes to the setup. With the help of Brad Stokes from Ohlins USA, the bike was performing better and Tim was able to remain in the twenty-first qualifying position. “The pace was slower due to the cold conditions. I was just looking to stay in the top half of the field so I would be with the faster group in Q2,” Hunt said. The second qualifying round was shorter than the first, so Tim came out with a sense of urgency to improve his lap time and starting position. He came in after a couple of laps to make another adjustment to the suspension. Still holing the twenty first spot, he returned to the track with under four minutes left in qualifying. Running out of time, he would have only one opportunity for a flyer to improve his grid position. He completed his out lap and a second lap, but maintained the same position. The checkered flag was flown right after he passed start finish, giving him one more lap, and what a lap it was! Hunt bested his time by more than two seconds to vault him to seventh place, putting him on the third row. As rain began to fall on the track, the difficult question rose of which tires to run. The race was declared wet, and two sighting laps were run with the bikes returning to the pits afterwards. The officials then declared the race dry. Tires were changed and the bikes were gridded up. With light rain still falling and the possibility of a downpour looming the lights changed and the race was on. Tim had a fierce battle with another rider that was brought to a close by a red flag situation. “It was a good race. The conditions were sketchy but I really love to race in the wet. I wish it wasn’t cut short by a red flag, but I am glad all the riders who went down are ok”.
In Sunday’s highly contested Supersport race the conditions were much different. By the start of the race there was sunshine and warmer weather. The race kept you on the edge of your seat, with Hunt in an intense battle with three other riders for the last two positions in the top ten. On lap twelve Tim had an off track excursion but was able to keep the bike up and get back on track in thirteenth position. Hunt gave chase to try and catch the group he was battling with but four laps was just not enough time. He brought the Triple Threat Racing Yamaha YZF-R6 home just out of the top ten.
Triple Threat Racing would like to thank all of our sponsors for helping to make this such a successful weekend. MedAge, Dunlop Tires, Arai Helmets, Ohlins, Ballistik Motorcycle Apparel, GPR, Motul, Vortex, Motoheaven, Hel, Moto-D, CEPsports.com, H2Pro Hydrate, Fuel clothing, Apex Motorcycle and Race Services and TT Motosport. Hotshots by Lisa, Lisa Theobald, KCI Kevin Choate Images, Red Spade Racing, and Active Shooter Photography, Lee Fields. We would also like to thank all of the people who stopped by our pits to wish us good luck. We appreciate your love and support!
Laura Ellis – Team Owner
“It was exciting to watch Tim Hunt pump out a flyer in the last lap of Q2 and jump up on to the third row of the grid. As his sponsor and physician I am ecstatic with his ability to run with these kids half his age. Tim shows with every race the benifits of the MedAge program. I couldn’t be more thrilled with Triple Threat Racing’s performance this weekend in it’s inaugural year. Next season will be at least as spectacular as we soon release news on our 2015 plans. “
Tim Hunt – Team Rider and Owner Apex Race Services
“The team gave me a great bike and support for the final round of AMA, The Kawasaki Devil’s Showdown at New Jersey Motorsports Park. All I had to do was go out and focus on racing. I am so happy about the weekend. With a field of over 50 riders I think our top 10 finish is an example of how a small team that is experienced and professional can succeed at the pro level. Can’t thank all of our sponsors and supporters enough for all they do for us. I truly believe in all of the work and support that Dr Laura Ellis and the whole MedAge team gave me has made a big difference in my health! They keep me in peak physical condition.”
For more about team and shop happenings visit our facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/197956323580663/
Apex Race Services/TT Motosport is a Motorcycle Race and Services center based in Pompano Beach Florida.
In addition we run a full service race team complete with track services, coaching, crew chief and team support.
Take a few minutes to look over our site at www.ApexRaceServices.com for more information.
More, from a press release issued by Celtic Racing/HVMC Suzuki:
Celtic HVMC Suzuki Racing Finishes 2014 AMA Pro Racing Season With 3rd + 4th Place Overall
Celtic Hudson Valley Motorcycles Suzuki Racing had a strong 2014 season in AMA Pro Racing SuperSport, with #19 Wyatt Farris taking third place in the overall standings, and teammate #5 Corey Alexander taking fourth position. The final race weekend at New Jersey Motorsports Park saw Farris finish fourth on Saturday, and third on Sunday, with Alexander taking twenty-third on Saturday and sixth on Sunday.
Saturday’s race at NJMP was cut short due to rain which created slippery conditions and several crashes in the forty-eight rider field. The start of the race was relatively dry with damp patches around the track, but by lap eight the rain was falling and at least four riders went down as the track conditions quickly changed. Wyatt Farris had a good start on his #19 Celtic/HVMC Suzuki GSX-R 600 and was in the pack of riders chasing down the leaders most of the race. Unfortunately Farris would succumb to the changing track conditions and went down on lap eight. Corey Alexander had a good start on his #5 Celtic/HVMC Suzuki GSX-R 600, but drifted back to twenty-third position where he would finish the race after the flag waved. Alexander never felt comfortable on the bike in the damp conditions, and the shortened weekend format did not work to his benefit.
The weather for Sunday was almost perfect for racing, with all the rain and wet conditions from the previous day just a memory. Again, Farris had a good start and Alexander was close behind as the lead group pulled away from the field. Farris and Alexander would do battle for most of the race with De Keyrel and Miller Jr. in a four rider battle for third place. Farris enjoyed a race long battle with De Keyrel from flag to flag, but was able to stay in front at the checkered flag – taking third place in the championship and the final spot on the podium as well. Alexander rode well and was much more at ease, but could not find a way past Miller Jr. or De Keyrel before the checkered flag dropped and would finish sixth on Sunday, securing fourth overall in the season championship.
The 2014 season was a demonstration of consistency by Wyatt Farris, with only two finishes outside the top five, and four podium finishes as well. Wyatt Farris was pleased to finish the season in third position, and stated that “Saturday was a very interesting race with the conditions. I don’t have much experience ridding in wet weather, so I was happy to bring it home in fourth. Going into Sunday and knowing it was going to be dry, I felt we had a really good chance to be at the front. Unfortunately, my team and I made the wrong tire choice and I didn’t have the pace that the two leaders did. Even though I really wanted to try and fight for my first win, being on the box in third and ending the season third in the championship isn’t so bad. I really have to give it up to the whole Celtic/HVMC Suzuki Racing team! Barry, Richie, Will, Dustin, Chris, Mark, Tim, Spike, Skip, Pete and the rest of the boys back at Gemini worked their butts off for Corey and me all year long. Along with them, I want to thank all of our team sponsors that supported us this year, it’s a honor to work with such great companies. Last but certainly not least, I want to thank my personal sponsors and supporters, this year would not have been possible without the support from the following: Jon Block Group Sports, Cortech Leathers, Shoei Helmets, Above Category, CT Racing, Defy All Odds, Osmo Nutrition, Jason Pridmore, and my family and friends.” You can keep up with Wyatt Farris via Instagram or Twitter @wyattfarris19 or join him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wyattfarrisracing .
For Corey Alexander, the 2014 season started with three straight wins and four pole positions, and then became much more challenging for the young rider. Certainly having learned a great deal, Alexander said “I’d be lying if I thought this is how the year would’ve ended after how it started. I’m definitely disappointed to not be bringing home another championship for my team and crew. I’m even more disappointed in myself after this weekends results. For a few different reasons I lost a bit of confidence, and as well the big gap between races and the two day schedule really threw me off. We have one of the best hardest working group of guys in the paddock, and they deserved more than I was able to give them. Unfortunately that’s racing and we can only move forward. I have to give a huge thanks to the whole Celtic Hudson Valley Motorcycles Suzuki Racing team, my crew, and all of our sponsors. We were lucky enough to be out there racing, being on the best equipment as well, it’s a blessing. I’m anxious to see what next year holds, hopefully only positive things from here forward. Thanks Mark, Tim, Barry, Uncle Richie, Skip, Chris, Jason, Jon, and Pat for making this year possible! Many thanks to all of the team sponsors for their support, and my personal sponsors who helped make this season possible, including MJRS Freeman, Spidi Leathers, XPD Boots, Arai Helmets, Boxed Water Is Better, Defy All Odds Apparel, Oakley, Crossfit OSA, and Lapizta Watches.” Please follow Corey Alexander on twitter and Instagram via @corey5alexander , keep track of him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/corey5alexander , and check out his webpage – www.corey23.com – as well.
Everyone at Celtic / Hudson Valley Motorcycles Suzuki Racing would like to thank our team sponsors for all the help and support they provided over the 2014 season. These sponsors include: HVMC Racing, Suzuki, MJRS Freeman, Orient Express, Jon Block Group, Yoshimura R&D, Bazzaz, Gemini, K-Tech Suspension, Pitbull, Maxima Racing Oils, Galfer, Chicken Hawk, Motion Pro, Armour Bodies, Saddlemen, Star School, DesignStar3, Zero Gravity, Signs Ink, GB Racing, DID, and Vortex. We look forward to next season with excitement and eagerness!
CELTIC RACING
Celtic Racing was established in 2001 by Barry Gilsenan, and over the past 13 seasons has established itself as a premier privateer racing team. Celtic Racing has seen consecutive championship seasons in AMA Pro Racing SuperSport from 2012 to 2013. Development of riding talent began with two-stroke 125cc, and 250cc machines competing in professional and regional championship events. More recent Celtic Racing efforts have focused on AMA Pro Road Racing in the Daytona SportBike and SuperSport classes with Ducati, Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha four stroke motorcycles. Gilsenan’s talent for coaching racers of all ages and abilities has brought Celtic Racing worldwide attention and recognition, with many former Celtic Racing riders now competing on World Championship levels. For more information regarding Celtic/HVMC Suzuki please join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/celticracing and follow @celticracing on twitter and Instagram – we appreciate all your support!
HUDSON VALLEY MOTORCYCLES
Hudson Valley Motorcycles has been serving New York’s Hudson Valley and Westchester County as well as Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and greater New England with Ducati, Kawasaki, and Suzuki Motorcycle/ATV Sales, Parts, and Service since 1966. Established by Richard Alexander Sr, the dealership is a family run business with employees who have been part of the family for decades in some cases. With deep and long standing customer relationships around the region, Hudson Valley Motorcycles is known for outstanding customer service, in-depth product expertise, and the foremost service department for machines of all brands. Please visit www.hvmotorcycles.com, join them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/HVMotorcycles or follow them via @hvmotorcycles .
ORIENT EXPRESS
Established in 1973, Orient Express is celebrating its 41st year as a high performance motorcycle parts distributor and race shop. Orient Express offers engine and motorcycle building services, precision machine work, suspension servicing, and dyno tuning services. Orient Express has an extensive history of racing, including support of both professional and amateur race series and individuals. For more information regarding Orient Express, or to find out what Orient Express can do for your racing success, please call 800.645.6521 or 631.231.9552 (NY/International), visit http://www.orientexpress.com or join them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/OrientExpressRacing .
More, from a press release issued by Riders Discount Triumph:
Holland, Mich. – The Riders Discount Triumph team has finished off the 2014 AMA Pro Road Racing season on a high note finishing 4th in the AMA Pro Daytona Sportbike Championship and as the top Triumph team.
Riders Discount Triumph started the year off strong at the Daytona 200 sweeping the weekend with pole and taking home the coveted Daytona 200 trophy with Danny Eslick. This was an astonishing accomplishment in only their second year running their own race team.
Throughout the remainder of the season, the team was involved in heated battle for the championship between Jake Gagne and Jake Lewis landing on the podium at three of the six rounds staying within a few points out of the championship lead.
“Well that was an exciting second season for the Riders Discount Triumph team,” said Brian Gibson, Riders Discount Triumph team owner. “We came out of the gate as an underdog, then proceeded to win the Daytona 200 and ended up on the podium at least once at 3 out of 6 rounds raced this year. With that said, I can’t thank the Riders Discount Triumph crew enough. The crew assembled for this season was at the top of its game and produced a bike that week in and week out was capable of fighting for podium positions.”
With MotoAmerica taking over as the national pro level series next year, Riders Discount is highly interested in seeing what they have to offer.
“I am looking forward to the new regime MotoAmerica and hopefully we can find the funding to come back and fight again to stand on top for the 2015 championship,” Gibson went on to say.
Riders Discount would like to thank all of our sponsors: Triumph Motorcycles, Speed and Strength, Akrapovic, Attack Performance, Renthal, Andrew Swenson Design, Zero Gravity, GB Racing, Capit Performance, Motion Pro, Saddlemen, DynoJet, DrippinWet.com, Fast Frank Racing, Spiegler, Castrol, and Sharkskinz Racing Bodies.
About RidersDiscount.com:
Riders Discount (www.ridersdiscount.com) is an online retailer of quality powersports gear, apparel, and accessories. A company founded by racers, RidersDiscount.com ships equipment for every riding style to customers worldwide, backed by knowledgeable sales team and excellent customer service.
Triumph Motorcycles (www.TriumphMotorcycles.com) is the British motorcycle marque that produces a wide range of sport, cruiser, adventure and touring motorcycles. From the storied Bonneville to the class-leading Speed Triple and Daytona 675R, Triumph offers a blend of design, character and performance that result in truly distinctive motorcycles. First established in 1902 and now located in Hinckley, Leicestershire, England, Triumph has always set the pace for category-winning machines. The company is solely owned by Bloor Holdings Ltd. and its North American operations are based in Atlanta.
Danny Eslick (http://www.eslick69.com) The Ultimate experience for all fans of Danny Eslick Racing. Check back often for all the latest news, photos, videos, and rider profiles.