This just in from Yamaha:

“Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, announced
the return of its road racing contingency support program for 2001. In addition to offering last year’s healthy endurance and sprint payouts at
national and regional club races across the country, Yamaha added AMA 250cc GP class support.

“‘Yamaha has built a strong road racing legacy over the years and we recognize that our future Champions hone their skills at both the national and regional levels,’ notes Larry Griffis, Yamaha racing director. ‘It’s important for us to support the sport by supporting Yamaha racers.’

“Yamaha YZF-R1 and R6 racers earning podium finishes in the SFX Formula USA series will see a $2000 check for first, $750 for second and $500 for third. Top Yamaha performers in selected WERA endurance classes will be rewarded with $1500, $750 and $500 respectively and regional club race winners will be $1000 richer with $500 and $350 going to second and third place finishers.

“The lightweight and sharp handling Yamaha YZF R1 and R6 out-powered the competition last year in a big way. ‘We wrote a lot of checks last year-a lot more than we expected,’ said Griffis. As a result, Griffis says he expects to see even more Yamaha YZFs on the grids–and on the podium for
2001.

“For additional information regarding program details including specific events and tracks or to get registration forms, go to the Yamaha web site at www.yamaha-motor.com.”