Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Notes and Stats:
FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Only a day remains until the gate drops on the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, with the FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento. The world’s best riders and teams have spent countless hours over the past two weeks, testing and dialing in their bikes for the toughest championship on the planet.

Over the course of 12 weekends this summer, riders in the premier 450 Class and highly-competitive 250 Class will do battle for 24 motos. Additionally, the world’s fastest women riders will go head-to-head for eight rounds in the Women’s Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

With a season-ending injury to reigning 450 Class Champion Ryan Villopoto, who rides for Monster Energy Kawasaki, the premier division title is up for grabs this summer. Additionally, injured TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray Honda rider Chad Reed leaves one less title contender in the field.

In their absence, Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey and new Team Yoshimura Suzuki rider, James Stewart, assume the lead roles in the division. These two former champions know what it takes to win a title in the world’s most prestigious motocross championship, but they will be challenged by a talented field of former race winners and competitors eager to leave their mark on the series.

450 Class

Monster Energy Kawasaki
With Villopoto on the sidelines, former World Motocross MX2 Champion, Tyla Rattray, will make the move into the 450 Class after three seasons in the 250 Class. Rattray is no stranger to winning in Lucas Oil Motocross and will look to take advantage of his valuable experience to become an instant challenger in the premier class.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity to ride for Monster Energy Kawasaki in the 450 Class,” said Rattray. “I wanted to ride the KX450F outdoors and feel really comfortable on it already.”

Jake Weimer’s first season in the 450 Class in 2011 is sure to pay big dividends in his sophomore campaign. Unlike last season when he entered the championship coming off an injury, Weimer is at full-strength this summer and is prepared to take his shot at the title.

“I’m looking forward to Hangtown,” said Weimer. “I finished the Supercross season strong and look forward to being on the podium (at the Nationals) as well. The goal is to be there every weekend and battle up front.”

Red Bull KTM
This season, the Austrian-based KTM team signed 2010 Champion Ryan Dungey. The relationship has proven to be a fruitful one so far, with Dungey grabbing four victories in the AMA Supercross Championship. KTM’s success at the Nationals has been limited, having never won an overall, but Dungey has the tools to bring the brand into the forefront of the premier class and add to the history he’s already made for the team this season.

“I’m looking forward to getting the (motocross) season started,” said Dungey. “I’m in a good place on the new KTM, and the team and I have laid down a lot of laps in recent weeks testing. It’s great to be back working with Roger (DeCoster) again. I have total confidence in the team he has assembled and the new KTM 450SX-F as we prepare for the season opener this weekend at Hangtown.”

Team Yoshimura Suzuki
James Stewart’s move to Suzuki has been the biggest news coming into the 2012 season, and will likely remain the most prominent storyline throughout the season. Stewart has not raced full time in Lucas Oil Motocross since his championship-winning season in 2008, when he joined Ricky Carmichael as the only other rider in history to amass a perfect season, winning all 24 motos. What the effect of Stewart’s time away from the series will have on his speed and stamina remains to be seen, but with such impressive accolades, he is widely considered to be a title threat.

“I’m really looking forward to joining the team,” said Stewart. “I’m very excited. I love the bike. Ever since I rode it from day one, I knew it was a great opportunity for me to come out and showcase my talent.”

Brett Metcalfe will compete alongside Stewart at the Suzuki rig. Following a breakthrough motocross season one year ago in which he was able to grab his first career victory on U.S. soil, Metcalfe is poised to be one of the biggest threats to Dungey and Stewart. While he experienced some ups and downs during the AMA Supercross season, Metcalfe is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to race the Nationals and potentially even learn from his successful new teammate.

Team Honda Muscle Milk
American Honda’s efforts in the 450 Class this season will be anchored by Justin Brayton, who has already established a breakthrough season thanks to a strong effort in the AMA Supercross Championship. With Trey Canard out for the year with an injury, Brayton has stepped up and now enters Lucas Oil Motocross with a lot of momentum. Brayton is a former moto winner in the 450 Class, and will look to grab that elusive first career win this summer.

Tommy Hahn will step in as a substitute for the 2012 season. Like Brayton, Hahn has tasted victory in the 450 Class, coincidentally taking the overall win at the very same race that Brayton won his lone moto, back at Steel City during the 2009 championship. Hahn has been recovering from a broken leg for most of 2012, but he’s ready to get back out on the track and take advantage of the opportunity before him.

Toyota/Yamaha/JGRMX
Davi Millsaps is coming off the best AMA Supercross season of his career, finishing second in the championship, and now he enters Lucas Oil Motocross with considerable momentum and confidence. The Joe Gibbs Racing team hasn’t seen the success it had hoped for in 2012, but Millsaps has proven to be a bright spot. JGRMX is entering its fifth season at the Nationals and Millsaps will look to add to the team’s one overall victory over that span.

Joe Gibbs Racing announced just prior to the season that Kyle Regal will campaign the summer as its second rider. Regal has proven to be an impressive motocross rider over the past few seasons, with overall podium finishes to his credit. Now, with the best opportunity of his young career ahead of him, Regal will look to build on that success.

MotoConcepts Suzuki
Mike Alessi has been one of Lucas Oil Motocross’ most consistent threats since his runner-up finish in the 2007 premier class championship. This year, Alessi enters the Nationals aboard the same bike on which he achieved some of his greatest success – a Suzuki. Alessi will campaign the summer for the well-respected MotoConcepts team and while he may not be riding a factory bike, he is sure to be a regular at the front of the field.

Team Chaparral Honda
After a year away from the brand he has identified with for most of his 450 Class career, veteran rider Andrew Short is back aboard a Honda for the 2012 season. Short is the lone rider for the new LMc Racing team run by a couple of the sport’s most prominent figures – Larry Brooks and Jeremy McGrath. Short has already given the team a taste of victory in 2012, grabbing his first career AMA Supercross victory just about a month ago. As arguably the most consistent rider in the premier class over the past five seasons, Short will be looking to give his team even more success this summer.

Jeff Ward Racing Kawasaki
Former champion Jeff Ward has also ventured down the path of team ownership this season. Experienced riders Josh Grant and Kyle Chisholm will lead the way for the up-and-coming team, and both riders look to be challengers in the 450 Class this season. Grant is a former overall winner in the premier class and has also had some strong rides aboard his JWR machine during the AMA Supercross season. As for Chisholm, he has been a fixture in the top 10 in the 450 Class for the past few seasons and will be looking to take a step forward this summer.

250 Class

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki
Dean Wilson enters the 2012 season as the first rider in four years to defend his 250 Class title. While he is entering the Nationals on the mend with a lingering shoulder injury, Wilson is not going to let it slow him down or prevent him to wearing the coveted No. 1 plate all season long. As the champion, all eyes will be on Wilson throughout the season as a very talented field of riders look to unseat him from his position atop the 250 Class.

“I can’t wait to get out there,” said Wilson. “I’m confident in myself and my team and we’re ready to rock the number one.”

Last season, Blake Baggett was one of the 250 Class’ breakthrough stars, garnering more overall wins than any other rider in Lucas Oil Motocross, in either division. While consistency ultimately hindered Baggett’s chance at the title, he has a full year of experience under his belt and will likely be one of his teammate’s most formidable challengers this season.

“I’ve been counting down to Hangtown for a while now,” said Baggett. “(Motocross) is where I strive, so my expectations are to be on the box and take it from there.”

In one of the most interesting moves of the season, former 250 Class champion Ivan Tedesco is making his return to the division. The 2005 title winner has not competed full time at the Nationals since the 2009 season, when he broke through for his first career win in the 450 Class. He sees the chance to race for the very same team he won his championship with as an opportunity too good to pass up and will no doubt be a rider many will have their eyes on this summer.

GEICO Honda
Perhaps no team in the series has more momentum coming into the 2012 season than GEICO Honda. After sweeping the AMA Supercross Lites Regional titles this season, the team has two of the 250 Class’ hottest riders in Justin Barcia and Eli Tomac, and it is ready for the Nationals.

Barcia is entering his final season in the division and while his success in Lucas Oil Motocross has been mixed, he has shown tremendous growth this year. He gained valuable experience as a part-time competitor in the 450 Class last season and will no doubt look to use it to his advantage this summer.

“I’m looking forward to it definitely,” said Barcia. “I’m glad to be completely healthy going into (the) motocross season because that hasn’t happened in a while. Myself and the rest of the team had such a good year in Supercross and we want to be able to back it up during the (Nationals). We want to show everyone that we’re all-around riders.”

Tomac knows how to win in Lucas Oil Motocross, making history two seasons ago by becoming the first rider in history to win his professional debut. While he didn’t have the season he had hoped for last summer, Tomac has also shown considerable growth as a rider.

“I’m very much looking forward to Hangtown,” said Tomac. “I got a win there in 2010 in my first race as a pro. Last year wasn’t as good, but it was still a fourth-place finish. I think after the success the team had in Supercross, we’re all going to be dialed in right from the start. It’s going to be a really fun (motocross) season.”

Justin Bogle burst onto the Lucas Oil Motocross scene in the late stages of the 2011 season. While 2012 will officially be his rookie season, Bogle has already gone head-to-head against the best riders in the 250 Class and believes he can challenge for the podium consistently.

Wil Hahn rounds out a talented group of riders at GEICO Honda. While he has had to battle through some injuries this season, Hahn is back at full health and ready take on the Nationals with a team that is on the rise.

Red Bull KTM
The world-champion tandem of Marvin Musquin and Ken Roczen make KTM a major threat this season in the 250 Class. Between them, this duo has captured the last three World Motocross MX2 Championships and both riders are looking to achieve the same success on U.S. soil.

Musquin enters his second Lucas Oil Motocross season and prior to an injury last summer, he looked to be a contender. While he doesn’t have as much experience as he would have hoped coming into a second season, Musquin knows how to run at the front of the field.

“There are a lot of good riders here in the U.S., so I don’t expect the 250 Class Championship to be at all easy,” said Musquin. “However, I’ve had a lot of success racing motocross home in Europe and won two world titles prior to coming to America last year, so I will draw on that experience to perform my best each week.”

As the youngest rider in all of the series, Roczen will generate a lot of attention. He has shown incredible speed for such a young age, but he has never gone head-to-head with the world’s best 250 Class riders in Lucas Oil Motocross. His rookie season will be one to watch as he aims to claim a World Championship and National Championship, back-to-back.

“I’m super excited for the motocross season,” said Roczen. “I think this will be my series to shine in because I love (the) racing. The longer, sweeping tracks are more my style and I love going fast. Supercross has tight tracks with big jumps, whereas motocross tracks are longer and faster. After winning the World Championship in Europe last year, I made the move to America to race fulltime so this will be my first season racing motocross in the U.S. I’m really excited and think I will do well in the 250 Class.”

Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki
So far, the 2012 season has shown a surge in competitiveness for the Rockstar Suzuki team. With perennial front-runner Blake Wharton leading the way, this team is looking for big things this summer.

Wharton missed the 2011 season due to injury, but the year off has proven to be beneficial. Wharton took a win during the AMA Supercross season and is no doubt looking for similar success at the Nationals.

Veteran Martin Davalos picked up the pace towards the end of his AMA Supercross campaign and is looking to carry it into a strong summer. While he’s still searching for his first career win, Davalos knows better than anyone on the team how to run up front and will look to show that.

Following a rookie season where he learned the highs and lows of the sport, sophomore rider Jason Anderson possesses a much greater confidence this season, and it’s showed. Anderson is looking to turn some heads in 2012 and could be one of the riders to watch this season.

Hunter Hewitt has also experienced some strong results this season, taking advantage of the experience and success of his teammates to improve his confidence as well. He’s in the midst of one of his best years and hopes it will continue into the summer.

Star/Valli Yamaha
Veteran rider Kyle Cunningham will carry the flag for the Star/Valli Yamaha team in the 250 Class this summer. Cunningham grabbed solid results last season and while he hasn’t had the season he’d hoped for to this point in 2012, he’ll look to turn things around at the Nationals.

Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda
The Troy Lee Designs team has been hit hard by injuries coming into the 2012 season and as a result, will enlist the services of veteran rider Billy Laninovich to get the ball rolling this summer. Laninovich has the experience to run up front and will look to carry the flag high for the team.

WMX Class

The Women’s Motocross Championship is shaping up to once again be a showdown between rivals Ashley Fiolek and Jessica Patterson. Fiolek captured her third title in four years last summer and will carry the No. 1 plate for Team Honda Muscle Milk. Fiolek, no doubt, has what it takes to win, but she will be forced to defend her crown against a determined Patterson, who joins the Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki team this season.

Also looking to challenge this duo is fellow veteran Tarah Gieger, who will once again compete for Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda, along with Team Honda Muscle Milk’s newest rider Sayaka Kaneshiro. Additionally, stalwarts like Mariana Balbi, Jacqueline Strong and Vicki Golden will also be in the mix.

Television coverage for Saturday’s FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic begins with the return of live coverage of the opening motos for both the 450 and 250 Classes on FUEL TV as well as online at AlliSports.com, beginning at 4 p.m. EST. Final moto coverage of both classes can be seen via same-day coverage on NBC Sports Network at 12:30 a.m. EST.

Tickets for all 12 rounds of the 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship can be found at www.allisports.com.

For additional information please visit AlliSports.com/motocross also, “like” the American Motocross Facebook page, “follow” @AmericanMX on Twitter and Instagram for exclusive content and information on the latest Lucas Oil Motocross news and developments.

For media information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please contact MX Sports Pro Racing via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. The industry leader in off road powersport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators. Visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Alli Sports
Alli Sports, is an action sports lifestyle brand whose mission is to connect fans with athletes and brands through best in class events, media, and authentic branded products. Alli Sports includes: the Dew Tour, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship and the Red Bull Signature Series; Alli Media, which creates, produces, and distributes original content; Alli RideShop, an online retailer carrying top skate and BMX consumer products; and Alli MotoShop an online retailer carrying top moto consumer products. Alli Sports is owned by NBC Sports. More information can be found at www.allisports.com.

AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing sanctioning body in the United States, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. From its Daytona Beach headquarters, the organization sanctions professional motorcycle racing competition, which includes, AMA Pro Motocross, AMA Pro Road Racing, and AMA Pro Flat Track. Visit www.amaproracing.com.

NBC Sports Group
When the Comcast-NBCUniversal transaction was completed in January of 2011, the broad reach and storied history of NBC Sports united with Comcast’s 24/7 ability to super-serve fans to create the NBC Sports Group. The new sports media company consists of an array of broadcast television, cable television and digital sports assets, including NBC Sports Olympics, Golf Channel, Versus, 11 SportNets (regional sports networks) and their respective websites. Together, the new combined assets of the NBC Sports Group possess an unparalleled collection of television rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the Olympics, NFL, NHL, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, USGA, IndyCar, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, Wimbledon, French Open, Tour de France and Kentucky Derby.

FUEL TV
FUEL TV is the only cable and satellite television network that features the exciting world of adrenaline and thrill-seeking sports including UFC, surfing, motocross, snowboarding and more. This new generation of sports provides a rich landscape of some of the most vibrant and action-packed television entertainment in the world. With more hours of UFC coverage than any other network, FUEL TV is the place to be for live fights, weigh-ins, prelims, pre- and post-fight coverage, specials and events you won’t see anywhere else. See why adrenaline sports fans call FUEL TV the channel they never turn off. FUEL TV, part of FOX Sports Media Group, was launched July 1, 2003 and is seen in more than 36 million U.S. homes and can be accessed by broadband, mobile devices and other digital platforms such as iTunes®. FUEL TV programming is available in more than 50 countries around the world with 24/7 channels operating in Australia and Europe. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4 FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.

Lucas Oil Products
Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, lubricants and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, lubricants and problem-solving performance additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry. Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the “Official Motor Oil of the Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

Article source: http://www.racerxonline.com/2012/05/17/hangtown-notes-package

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing
Series Statistical Report

FMF Hangtown Motocross Classic
Prairie City OHV Park – Rancho Cordova, Calif., May 19

• Hangtown enters its 44^th year as a motocross national. It is the oldest race on the schedule.
• A total of seven different countries will be represented on the starting gate across both the 250 and 450 Classes on Saturday afternoon.
• James Stewart has competed in just one Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship race since winning the 450 Class title in 2008 – the 2010 Unadilla National.
• Ryan Dungey will look to give KTM its first overall win in the 450 Class this season.
• Stewart and Dungey will each look to become the first multiple title winner since Ricky Carmichael, who retired following the 2007 season.
• Ivan Tedesco won the 2005 championship in the 250 Class for Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki. Six seasons later, he returns to the division as a member of the same team. Tedesco has not competed in the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship full time since the 2009 season.
• Dean Wilson is the first 250 Class Champion to defend his title since Ryan Villopoto in 2008.
• At 18 years of age, Ken Roczen is the youngest rider in the series.

450 Class Stats

• The first Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship race was held at Hangtown on April 8, 1974, with Bill Grossi winning on a Honda.
• This will be the 39^th time the gate will drop for the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship at Hangtown.
• Hangtown wins by brand:

Honda: 16
Kawasaki: 8
Suzuki: 6
Yamaha: 6
Can-Am: 1
Husqvarna: 1

• Last win at Hangtown by brand:

Honda: 2011
Kawasaki: 2010
Suzuki: 2009
Yamaha: 2000

• First time winners at Hangtown: Mike Alessi – 2009 (Suzuki); James Stewart Jr. – 2006 (Kawasaki); David Vuillemin – 2000 (Yamaha); Kevin Windham – 1999 (Honda); Rick Johnson – 1992 (Yamaha); John Dowd – 1991 (Honda); Jeff Stanton – 1989 (Honda); Alan King – 1984 (Honda); Kent Howerton – 1980 (Suzuki); Marty Smith – 1977 (Honda); Bill Grossi – 1974 (Honda).
• Ricky Carmichael is the winningest rider at Hangtown with five victories.
• James Stewart earned his first 450 Class victory at Hangtown in 2006.
• Yamaha has not won at Hangtown since 2000 when David Vuillemin earned his inaugural 450 Class victory.
• Chad Reed ended a six-year drought for Honda at Hangtown last season.
• From 2002 to 2008, only two riders won at Hangtown: Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart. Carmichael captured four straight victories from 2002-2005. Since then, only two additional riders have won: Mike Alessi and Chad Reed.
• Mike Alessi’s first-career victory in both the 250 Class and 450 Class came at Hangtown.

250 Class Stats

• The first Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship 250 Class race was held April 8, 1974, with Marty Smith winning on a Honda.
• This will be the 39^th time the gate will drop for a Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship 250 Class race at Hangtown.
• Hangtown wins by brand:

Kawasaki: 11
Suzuki: 11
Honda: 8
Yamaha: 5
KTM: 3

• Last win by brand at Hangtown:

Kawasaki: 2011
Honda: 2010
KTM: 2006
Suzuki: 1994
Yamaha: 1991

• First time winners at Glen Helen: Blake Baggett – 2011 (Kawasaki); Eli Tomac – 2010 (Honda); Christophe Pourcel – 2009 (Kawasaki); Mike Alessi – 2006 (KTM); Damon Huffman – 1994 (Suzuki); Jeremy McGrath – 1993 (Honda); Steve Lamson – 1992 (Honda); Doug Henry – 1991 (Yamaha); Brian Myerscough – 1979 (Suzuki); Bob Hannah – 1976 (Yamaha); and Marty Smith – 1974 (Honda).
• Steve Lamson and Mark Barnett are the winningest 250 Class riders at Hangtown with four wins apiece. Barnett won his four races consecutively.
• For the last three seasons, the Hangtown was the site of its winner’s first career win – Blake Baggett, Eli Tomac and Christophe Pourcel.
• Eli Tomac made history in 2010 by becoming the first rider in history to win his professional debut.
• Jeremy McGrath earned his first professional motocross victory at Hangtown in 1993.
• Yamaha and Suzuki have gone winless at Hangtown for a combined 31 years. Damon Huffman gave Suzuki its last Hangtown win in 1994. Doug Henry won for Yamaha in 1991.

Past Winners

HANGTOWN MOTOCROSS CLASSIC
Rancho Cordova, Calif.

450 Class
Date / Winner / Hometown / Machine
May 21, 2011 / Chad Reed, Australia / Honda
May 22, 2010 / Chad Reed, Australia / Kawasaki
May 30, 2009 / Mike Alessi, Victorville, CA / Suzuki
June 1, 2008 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 20, 2007 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Suzuki
May 21, 2006 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 22, 2005 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Suzuki
May 16, 2004 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Honda
May 18, 2003 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Honda
May 19, 2002 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Honda
May 20, 2001 / Sebastien Tortelli, France / Honda
May 21, 2000 / David Vuillemin, France / Yamaha
May 16, 1999 / Kevin Windham, Ethel, LA / Honda
May 17, 1998 / Jeremy McGrath, Menifee, CA / Yamaha
May 4, 1997 / Greg Albertyn, South Africa / Suzuki
May 5, 1996 / Jeremy McGrath, Menifee, CA / Honda
May 7, 1995 / Mike Kiedrowski, Canyon Country, CA / Kawasaki
May 1, 1994 / Mike Kiedrowski, Canyon Country, CA / Kawasaki
June 20, 1993 / Mike Kiedrowski, Canyon Country, CA / Kawasaki
June 14, 1992 / Damon Bradshaw, Mooresville, NC / Yamaha
March 24, 1991 / John Dowd, Chicopee, MA / Honda
April 1, 1990 / Jeff Ward, San Juan Capistrano, CA / Kawasaki
April 23, 1989 / Jeff Stanton, Sherwood, MI / Honda
March 27, 1988 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Honda
March 22, 1987 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Honda
April 6, 1986 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Honda
March 31, 1985 / Jeff Ward, Mission Viejo, CA / Kawasaki
April 8, 1984 / Alan King, Troy, MI / Honda
March 27, 1983 / Bob Hannah, Carson City, NV / Honda
March 28, 1982 / Rick Johnson, El Cajon, CA / Yamaha
March 29, 1981 / Kent Howerton, San Antonio, TX / Suzuki
March 23, 1980 / Kent Howerton, San Antonio, TX / Suzuki
March 25, 1979 / Bob Hannah, Carson City, NV / Yamaha
April 9, 1978 / Bob Hannah, Carson City, NV / Yamaha
April 10, 1977 / Marty Smith, San Diego, CA / Honda
April 4, 1976 / Jim Ellis, East Hampton, CT / Can-Am
April 6, 1975 / Kent Howerton, San Antonio, TX / Husqvarna
April 8, 1974 / Bill Grossi, Santa Cruz, CA / Honda

250 Class
Date / Winner, Hometown / Machine
May 21, 2011 / Blake Baggett, Cortez, Colo. / Kawasaki
May 22, 2010 / Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo. / Honda
May 30, 2009 / Christophe Pourcel, France / Kawasaki
June 1, 2008 / Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, WA / Kawasaki
May 20, 2007 / Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, WA / Kawasaki
May 21, 2006 / Mike Alessi, Victorville, CA / KTM
May 22, 2005 / Grant Langston, South Africa / Kawasaki
May 16, 2004 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 18, 2003 / Ryan Hughes, Temecula, CA / KTM
May 19, 2002 / James Stewart, Haines City, FL / Kawasaki
May 20, 2001 / Grant Langston, South Africa / KTM
May 21, 2000 / Steve Lamson, Murrieta, CA / Honda
May 16, 1999 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Kawasaki
May 17, 1998 / Steve Lamson, Riverside, CA / Honda
May 4, 1997 / Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL / Kawasaki
May 5, 1996 / Steve Lamson, Pollock Pines, CA / Honda
May 7, 1995 / Ryan Hughes, Escondido, CA / Kawasaki
May 1, 1994 / Damon Huffman, Saugus, CA / Suzuki
June 20, 1993 / Jeremy McGrath, Murrieta, CA / Honda
June 14, 1992 / Steve Lamson, Pollock Pines, CA / Honda
March 24, 1991 / Doug Henry, Fairfield, CT / Yamaha
April 1, 1990 / Guy Cooper, Stillwater, OK / Suzuki
April 23, 1989 / Damon Bradshaw, Charlotte, NC / Yamaha
March 28, 1988 / Guy Cooper, Stillwater, OK / Suzuki
March 22, 1987 / George Holland, Kerman, CA / Suzuki
April 6, 1986 / Erik Kehoe, Granada Hills, CA / Suzuki
March 31, 1985 / Ron Lechien, El Cajon, CA / Honda
April 8, 1984 / Jeff Ward, Mission Viejo, CA / Kawasaki
March 27, 1983 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 28, 1982 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 29, 1981 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 23, 1980 / Mark Barnett, Bridgeview, IL / Suzuki
March 25, 1979 / Brian Myerscough, Calimesa, CA / Suzuki
April 9, 1978 / Broc Glover, El Cajon, CA / Yamaha
April 10, 1977 / Danny LaPorte, Yucca Valley, CA / Suzuki
April 4, 1976 / Bob Hannah, Whittier, CA / Yamaha
April 6, 1975 / Tim Hart, Torrance, CA / Yamaha
April 8, 1974 / Marty Smith, San Diego, CA / Honda

500cc Motocross
Date / Winner, Hometown / Machine
March 31, 1985 / Broc Glover, El Cajon, CA / Yamaha
April 8, 1984 / David Bailey, Axton, VA / Honda
March 27, 1983 / Danny Chandler, Foresthill, CA / Honda

2011 Final Stats

450 Class Point Standings – After 12 of 12 rounds
1. Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki – 526
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki – 514
3. Chad Reed, Kurri Kurri, Australia, Honda – 429
4. Brett Metcalfe, Mannum, Australia, Suzuki – 374
5. Mike Alessi, Victorville, Calif., KTM – 304
6. Jake Weimer, Rupert, Idaho, Kawasaki – 271
7. Justin Brayton, Fort Dodge, Iowa, Yamaha – 218
8. Andrew Short, Colorado Springs, Colo., KTM – 196
9. Kevin Windham, Baton Rouge, La., Honda – 193
10. Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha – 173

Overall Wins
Chad Reed – 4
Ryan Dungey – 4
Ryan Villopoto – 3
Brett Metcalfe – 1

Moto Wins
Ryan Villopoto – 10
Chad Reed – 7
Ryan Dungey – 6
Justin Barcia – 1

Overall Wins by Brand
Suzuki – 5
Honda – 4
Kawasaki – 3

Laps Led (total)
Ryan Villopoto – 144
Ryan Dungey – 92
Chad Reed – 75
Justin Barcia – 37
Mike Alessi – 15
Christian Craig – 10
Davi Millsaps – 6
Kevin Windham – 6
Total: 369

Holeshot Winners (total)
Ryan Villopoto – 5
Ryan Dungey – 4
Chad Reed – 4
Mike Alessi – 3
Christian Craig – 2
Jake Weimer – 2
Justin Barcia – 1
Justin Brayton – 1
Brett Metcalfe – 1
Kevin Windham – 1

250 Class Point Standings – After 12 of 12 rounds
1. Dean Wilson, Glasgow, Scotland, Kawasaki – 538
2. Tyla Rattray, Durban, South Africa, Kawasaki – 472
3. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki – 469
4. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda – 314
5. Kyle Cunningham, Aledo, Texas, Yamaha – 311
6. Gareth Swanepoel, Johannesburg, South Africa, Yamaha – 300
7. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki – 253
8. Alex Martin, Millville, Minn., Honda – 213
9. Martin Davalos, Quito, Ecuador, Suzuki – 213
10. Darryn Durham, Butler, Pa., Honda – 195

Overall Wins
Blake Baggett – 5
Tyla Rattray – 4
Dean Wilson – 3

Moto Wins
Dean Wilson – 11
Blake Baggett – 8
Tyla Rattray – 4
Gareth Swanepoel – 1

Overall Wins by Brand
Kawasaki – 12

Laps Led (total)
Dean Wilson – 150
Blake Baggett – 79
Tyla Rattray – 66
Justin Barcia – 24
Gareth Swanepoel – 13
Darryn Durham – 11
Justin Bogle – 10
Ryan Sipes – 9
Eli Tomac – 9
Alex Martin – 3
Jimmy DeCotis – 2
Kyle Cunningham – 1
Nico Izzi – 1
Total: 363

Holeshot Winners (total)
Justin Barcia – 7
Dean Wilson – 4
Kyle Cunningham – 2
Jimmy DeCotis – 2
Tyla Rattray – 2
Gannon Audette – 1
Blake Baggett – 1
Justin Bogle – 1
Wil Hahn – 1
Marvin Musquin – 1
Malcolm Stewart – 1
Gareth Swanepoel – 1

For media information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please contact MX Sports Pro Racing via email at media@mxsportsproracing.com.

Article source: http://www.racerxonline.com/2012/05/17/statistical-report-hangtown

Thursday, 17 May 2012 15:27

The Honda World Motocross team is looking forward to this weekend’s Grand Prix in Beto Carrero, Brazil with riders Rui Gonçalves and Evgeny Bobryshev feeling stronger while recovering from their ailments for round five of the MX1 World Championship.

The event this weekend is particularly special for the Honda World Motocross squad, as the Grand Prix is sponsored by Honda Brazil and the team has extra support from the many fans attending the sell-out race. After a tough Mexican Grand Prix last week in which Bobryshev sat out of proceedings while Gonçalves sustained a hand injury to add to the damaged tendon in his groin, results were not as the team had hoped for heading into the overseas races.

However, with some time travelling and resting this week, both riders are extra motivated with Bobryshev hungry to get back on his bike and Gonçalves, who celebrates his 27th birthday today, is keen to put in a strong performance in front of the fans whose native language is also the same as his (Portuguese).

It won’t be easy for either rider as Bobryshev, who still has a swollen thumb from a crash earlier in the year, has had little time on the bike in the past few months and is unsure of what to expect this weekend after the Bronchitis he suffered in Mexico left him with no energy, breathing difficulties and vertigo while riding the bike. Gonçalves also has a swollen thumb on the right hand and after some light training this week he is sure his leg is still problematic, but as always the Honda duo will be putting the best possible performance together aboard their factory Dunlop-shod CRF 450R machines to get their championship challenges back on track before heading home to Europe.

Rui Gonçalves #999, “I am looking forward to this weekend but it’s frustrating that I am not perfectly fit. I did some running this week and my leg is still painful, so it is not healed yet. My thumb is recovering too, but it is still a bit swollen and it is quite painful, so it’s going to be hard work again this weekend. We need to do what we can with what we have and mentally I feel good; I think it’s important to stay positive to do the best job possible. It’s been good this week to be together with the team and have some time talking before the weekend, as it brings a really nice feeling. The track looks really good, as it has been well prepared with grass around it, and everything is ready for a good race. There will be lots of fans there and they speak the same language as me pretty much, so it’s nice to be in Brazil and be able to chat to the people here. While I’m not putting a huge expectation in for the races, we will do what we can and then head back to Europe to get my injuries healed up.”

Evgeny Bobryshev #777, “For sure I feel much better than in Mexico with the Bronchitis. I feel better in myself, and I have some energy. I want to ride now; I missed the racing and I’ve had so little time on the bike that I just want things to get back to how they should be. We will see how it goes as although I am getting healthy, I’m still struggling a little bit with the lungs and I won’t know until I’m on the bike where we are at with my fitness. It won’t be easy, as I haven’t ridden much, but we will start slowly to get used to the bike again and progress from there throughout Saturday. My thumb is not perfect, but it is much better, as I can ride without painkillers now. The track looks good with the jumps and it has been well prepared, so I hope I can bring some good points back home.”

Lorenzo Resta: Honda World Motocross Team Manager, “We are really impressed with the level of the track and facilities in Beto Carrero. It’s almost like a stadium with where the people can sit and see most of the track. Honda Brazil has given us such a warm welcome with a special box for us to work from and it’s almost like another home GP with their support, Rui speaking the language so well and our chief mechanic Marcus is Brazilian. We are really happy and the facilities here are at World Championship level, not like we saw last week. The situation with the riders is a little bit better than it was in Mexico. Rui still has some problems with his thumb, but it’s his birthday today, so it could be a special weekend for him and we hope he gives himself a gift with a good result. Bobby is also much better than in Mexico, as he has no fever and is feeling good. The altitude was also a problem for him, and we are at sea level here with the temperature a little lower, which should help him, although it will be quite difficult for him to do the races with so little time on the bike.”

Article source: http://www.supercross.com/press-release/honda-world-motocross-team-closer-to-full-strength-in-brazil

By MichaelAntonovich
Thu, May 17 2012 2:09 pm | Comments

After a fractured neck halted his Supercross season, Tyla Rattray’s focus was turned to the very distant outdoors series. While Rattray worked himself back into race shape aboard his familiar Pro Circuit Kawasaki KXF250, Ryan Villopoto was sidelined with a knee injury that would park the defending champion for the summer. Monster Energy searched for a suitable replacement to the fill the vacant role, and after weeks of speculation announced that Tyla Rattray would make the jump to the 450 class for the summer.

How was the recovery process after you crash in Oakland?

After Oakland, I had to take three months off to let my neck heal up. I have been riding for a few weeks now, and everything has been going good. I got the ride with Kawasaki in the 450 class, which I had been hoping for.

Do you feel like more of a 450 rider because you are a bigger rider and older?

Yeah, definitely. I raced it at the Motocross of Nations a couple of times and really enjoy riding the bike. It has a lot of power and with me being a bigger guy it suits me more. I am looking forward to getting out there because I have never done a full season on the 450.

Though the initial plans called for Rattray to ride a Pro Circuit 450 during the summer, his plans were altered after Ryan Villopoto’s season ending injury. He will now ride for Monster Energy Kawasaki’s factory effort.

The end of your recovery and Ryan’s injury happened at around the same time. How long was it before you were approached by Kawasaki to ride for them?

I think it had obviously been negotiated for quite a while, but only got the go ahead the day before it was announced. I am really pumped about it because I think it is a great opportunity for me to step up to the factory team and ride Ryan’s bike. It has won a lot of championships and races, so I know what it is capable of. It is just a matter of me putting in testing time and getting it how I like it. The most important thing is getting out there, because I know my fitness is good.

It took three months for Rattray to heal the neck injury he suffered in late January at the Oakland round of the Supercross season.

There was talk that you would contest the Nationals aboard a Pro Circuit 450. How close to a reality was that?

I was going to. I told Mitch that I would have liked to race a 450 outdoors, if it was for him or if it was for Kawasaki. I am just happy that this opportunity came around. Obviously, it is not a Pro Circuit 450; it is a factory Kawasaki. It is kind of a bummer to leave Mitch, because he has been so good to me over the years, along with everyone at the team, but they can see it is a great opportunity for me. I can’t thank them enough for letting me do this.

Even though you are coming of injury, you stayed in shape and look fast aboard the bike. What do you set for expectations?

I just want to go there and try to get good starts. I was still working hard with the injury that I had, and with my neck I could still cycle, run, and do my gym work. Going into Hangtown, I just want to do well and get out of there safe. That is going to be my plan; go there, get good starts, race as hard as I can whether it is for the win or third place. I’d like to be up front and racing for the win, but I have only been riding for a short amount of time. As the season goes I will get better and better with more saddle time. I’m looking forward to getting back to racing again. It has been a long layoff since January for me, a good four months that I have missed racing.

With a limited amount of time to aclimate himself to Ryan Villopoto’s machine, Rattray will line up for the first time in the 450 class at Hangtown.

This will be your third year on the National circuit. Are there tracks that you favor more than others?

I like tracks like Texas and Budds Creek. All the hot races, those are the ones I’m really looking forward to. I have been working hard in my offseason, you could call it, and am looking forward to getting on those rough tracks. Kawi has a great bike and they have won so many races, so if I get out the gate I don’t see why I can’t win.

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Article source: http://motocross.transworld.net/1000129846/features/catching-up-with-tyla-rattray-2/

Tigole wrote:

about 32 minutes ago

I’m an IT9 fan just as much as anyone, but boy that guy has luck with rides. He’s been on PC, Factory Makita Suz, Factory Redbull Honda, HH Kawi and now back to the premier PC team.

Only one could wish of having all those rides in their career.

Report

Article source: http://www.racerxonline.com/2012/05/17/official-pr-pro-circuit-signs-tedesco

Murrieta, CA – JDR/J-Star/KTM rider Matt Moss will have to sit out the opening round of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship after undergoing a small surgery earlier this week.

Moss was slated to compete in the 250 Motocross class on his first year aboard the KTM 250 SX-F in the U.S. Moss underwent a procedure to remove calcium lumps from his side area which required a few stitches and a small recovery time. He should know more information on his return next week. Please visit www.ktmusa.com for regular updates on his status.

Article source: http://www.racerxonline.com/2012/05/17/matt-moss-out-for-hangtown

By MichaelAntonovich
Wed, May 16 2012 5:23 pm | Comments

With only days until the kickoff of the 2012 outdoor Nationals, teams are wrapping up their final preseason testing for Saturday’s Hangtown opener. Randy Roberts headed out to Lake Elsinore Motosports Park to catch James Stewart, Martin Davalos, Gareth Swanepoel, Malcolm Stewart, Jake Canada, Tommy Hahn, and Weston Peick for this raw edit.

CATEGORIZED: Motocross, News, Videos
TAGS: gareth swanepoel, jake canada, james stewart, lake elsinore, malcolm stewart, martin davalos, randy roberts, tommy hahn, Weston Peick

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Article source: http://motocross.transworld.net/1000129831/news/lake-elsinore-may-16th-raw-edit/

Wednesday, 16 May 2012 17:25

It’s a new season but the same mindset for GEICO Honda riders Justin Barcia, Eli Tomac, Justin Bogle and Wil Hahn as they head west for the start of the Lucas Oil AMA Motorcross Championships this Saturday at the historic Hangtown Nationals.

The team is trading in the fireworks and bright lights of Supercross for Motocross’ grueling afternoons under the sun, and SX Lites West champion Tomac says he can’t wait to get started.

“I very much looking forward to Hangtown,” Tomac said. “I got a win there in 2010 in my first race as a pro. Last year wasn’t as good, but it was still a fourth place finish. I think after the success the team had in Supercross, we’re all going to be dialed in right from the start. It’s going to be a really fun outdoor season.”

SX Lites East Champion Barcia said he’s itching to tackle the 12-race motocross season at 100 percent health for the first time in two years.

“I’m looking forward to it definitely,” Barcia said. “I’m glad to be completely healthy going into a Motocross season because that hasn’t happened in a while. Myself and the rest of the team had such a good year in Supercross and we want to be able to back it up during the outdoor season. We want to show everyone that we’re all-around riders.”

For Hahn and Bogle, the new season means they can put the ups and downs of their individual indoor campaigns aside and get a fresh start.

“It’s nice to have a clean slate,” said Hahn, who reached the podium in the SX finale. “I’ve got some momentum on my side right now. I feel good after doing the three rounds on the 450 in Supercross and the final two rounds on my 250. I’m just looking to continue the progress I’ve been making every day on the track. Right now I’m enjoying things more than I ever have. It’s a good feeling and I want to keep moving with it.”

Bogle said he’s excited to get back to the part of the sport he loves most.

“It’s a chance to turn things around,” Bogle said. “I’m ready to get out there, ride hard and get good finishes. I like motocross more than Supercross, so I’ve been having a lot more fun in training during the week.”

Hahn said the team practices preparing for outdoor season have been intense, but fun.

“For the past few weeks, we’ve been really working well as a team,” Hahn said. “The four of us have been real tight with everything. We’ve all put in a lot of work to get the bikes and ourselves ready to race. We’ve been pushing each other on and off the track. We’ve got two champions in Justin and Eli, and Bogle is awesome in the outdoors. It’s great to push each other so intensely but still have friendly moments when we’re done.”

Practice for the Hangtown National gets under way at 8:30 a.m. PDT on Saturday with Opening ceremonies slated for 12:40 p.m. FUEL TV will air the first motos starting at 4 p.m. EDT and the NBC Sports Network will air the second motos starting Sunday at 12:30 a.m. EDT.

Article source: http://www.supercross.com/press-release/led-by-duo-of-sx-champions-geico-honda-team-ready-for-outdoor-action

By MichaelAntonovich
Wed, May 16 2012 12:43 pm | Comments

After a career that included stints at Factory Connection Honda, Factory KTM, and Factory Kawasaki, Billy Laninovich disappeared from the sport in the summer of 2009. A failed attempt to restart his career in Europe brought him back to the US, but Laninovich distanced himself from the sport and took a job in the construction trade. When talk swirled in Southern California over the winter that he would return to racing at Anaheim One, it was considered an unconfirmed rumor until a Honda with a variation of his tradition “32″ wheeled onto the line. With the Supercross season complete, he will spend the first five Nationals aboard a Troy lee Designs/Lucas Oil/Honda.

How did your ride with Troy Lee come about?

They called me a few races after Christian got hurt and asked me to fill in, but I didn’t want to do it. I wanted to do my own deal and didn’t want to leave my team. I really wanted to do it on my own so everyone couldn’t say I did it on a factory bike. All the riders got hurt at Salt Lake City and they needed a rider badly, and I wanted to better myself for next year. I got the opportunity to ride the bike in Las Vegas and was hoping to do better, but we struggled and had bad luck in the first main event. I got taken out and bent the shifter and the shift shaft, so I had to come in. I won the LCQ but got a bad start in the Shootout. There were so many fast guys. Baggett was right there in front of me, and so was Cunningham and Bogle. There were a lot of really good guys back there. It was disappointing but I am looking forward to the Outdoors coming up.

How long did you have on the bike before Las Vegas?

I had three days. We rode Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and spent two days at the Honda track and rode at Ronnie Faisst’s speed and style track.

Where did you go when you fell of the radar?

In 2009, I broke my collarbone in Las Vegas while riding for Factory Kawasaki, and I started working for my ex-girlfriend’s Dad, because he owned a construction company. I was an estimator and I did that for a year and a half. I tried to go back to Europe and race the GP for Aprilla, but I ended up crashing and fractured the C3 in my neck. I didn’t have a bike or anything, so right after I came home from Europe I wasn’t happy and started training. I traded a guy seven lessons for a 2003 KX 250 two stroke, and that was the only bike I had. About four months before Supercross, the Miller family bought me a KX 450 to ride. I was riding that when Mike Craig called me and said he wanted to start a race team. He was the only one that believed in me at the time and I said yeah. We started riding December 17^th and right after that, he was let go and they kept me.

When you were injured, did you ever doubt riding again?

I was over it. I had a lot of injuries in my career and the economy was going down, so the pay wasn’t as good and I didn’t think it was worth it at the time to race for that amount of money. I regret it now, but it is all in God’s timing. Then I wanted to race, and I remember I had a picture on my computer at the office of me racing. I just wanted to get back on the track so badly. It took a year and a half before I was racing again.

Is the pace faster now than when you quit?

It is. I think I am pretty much the same speed as I was before I quit, and these kids are on a whole new level with the aggression and everything. It was hard to adapt, and I expected to come out and be a top-10 rider, but I had a rude awakening at A1. I was going to the gym, but Supercross shape is completely different. It took me four races to get up to speed.

Your deal with TLD will run through the first five Nationals, correct.

Yeah, we plan on doing five outdoors and the X Games Best Whip, if we can get into that. They needed rider and I asked them a favor to be able to ride the Supecross track next year so I have a track to ride and suspension or help in any way that they can. Hopefully next year I can be a satellite TLD rider.

This isn’t a “one and done” season?

No, I’ll be back and way more prepared next year.

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Article source: http://motocross.transworld.net/1000129810/features/catching-up-with-billy-laninovich-2/

Team Honda Muscle Milk announces Tommy Hahn for the
2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship

Torrance, CA: American Honda announces today that Tommy Hahn will be filling in for Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Trey Canard throughout the entire 2012 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship series. Hahn will join Justin Brayton aboard a factory CRF450R for all 12 rounds of the nationals.

“For Honda to pick me is an amazing opportunity,” said Hahn. “It is a confidence booster knowing I have such great support from Team Honda Muscle Milk.”

“We have known Tommy for a very long time, and we are excited to have him back on the team for the 2012 Motocross series,” said Team Manager Erik Kehoe. “He is naturally talented and we believe he possesses all the tools needed to run at the front of the pack.”

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and MUVs in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing, and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

Article source: http://www.racerxonline.com/2012/05/16/going-red-tommy-hahn-signs-with-honda