Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Lewis Hamilton apologizes for joking insinuation of racism after Monaco GP penalty

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Lewis Hamilton at the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton may be best known for his racing, but in the wake of a controversial performance at the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, it was another race card he played altogether.

The young Brit was called in to speak with the race stewards regarding an incident with Williams rookie Pastor Maldonado. Towards the end of the grand prix, Hamilton collided with Maldonado and the latter was taken out of the race. The stewards deemed Hamilton at fault and handed him a 20-second time penalty (the post-race equivalent to a drive-through), though with Adrian Sutil finishing far behind him a lap down, the penalty affects neither Hamilton's sixth-place finish nor his position in the championship standings.

Speaking with the BBC after the stewards' decision, the McLaren driver jokingly channeled Sacha Baron Cohen's character Ali G and mused that the stewards were picking on him because he's black. Realizing the joke could be misconstrued and taken seriously, Hamilton doubled back and apologized to the stewards for his remarks.

The Maldonado incident was one of several that marred Hamilton's performance this weekend. After being docked several positions on the starting grid due to an illegal qualifying maneuver, Hamilton started in ninth place. Around halfway through the race, he tried to overtake longtime rival, Felipe Massa, but ended up colliding with the Ferrari that crashed out mere seconds later. The stewards had faulted a frustrated Hamilton for that incident as well and handed him a mid-race drive-through penalty.

Lewis Hamilton apologizes for joking insinuation of racism after Monaco GP penalty originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RON LECHIEN JOHNNY OMARA GUY COOPER

Past Champs Reed & Dungey Lead Lucas Oil AMA Pro MX Championship Field

Past Champs Reed & Dungey Lead Lucas Oil AMA Pro MX Championship Field
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Baggett and Patterson Hold Early Advantage in 250 and WMX Classes - Lucas Oil Motocross Championship Press Release

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (May 24, 2011) - A huge crowd welcomed the world's best riders to Hangtown last weekend to kick off the 2011 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. This Saturday, the series heads to Texas for the second round of the season, celebrating Memorial Day Weekend with the Rockstar Energy Freestone National in Wortham.

After a day full of tightly-contested action in California, TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray Racing's Chad Reed, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Blake Baggett, and DNA Shred Stix/Star Racing Yamaha's Jessica Patterson all walked away with the victories in the three classes of competition. Each rider currently sits atop the championship standings and holds the early advantage in the quest for the coveted title in the 450 Class, 250 Class and WMX Class.

Reed battled head-to-head with reigning 450 Class Champion, Ryan Dungey, throughout the final moto of the day in Hangtown, ultimately outrunning his Rockstar/Makita Suzuki-mounted rival to give him his second consecutive win at the legendary facility. While both he and Dungey posted identical moto scores at the opening round, Reed's Moto 2 win secured the tie-breaker for the overall victory, giving him a slight edge over Dungey coming into Freestone despite amassing the same amount of points.

The competition in the 250 Class at the opening round was as competitive as expected. A handful of riders took their chance at the front of the field throughout both motos, but in the end, Baggett's relentless determination helped him go 2-1 for the day and secure his first career victory in the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. The Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team swept the overall podium at Hangtown and now heads to Freestone, where its riders accomplished the same feat one year ago.

With the stranglehold on the Motorcycle-Superstore.com Women's Motocross Championship since the 2008 season, Patterson and American Honda's Ashley Fiolek are expected to go bar-to-bar throughout the 2011 championship. At Hangtown, that's exactly what happened. A strong opening moto by Patterson put the pressure on Fiolek in Moto 2, and the former two-time champion responded in the early stages by fending off her counterpart. However, a persistent Patterson made the pass on Fiolek and eventually moved into the lead to secure the win and set the tone for this rivalry to continue for the rest of the summer.

Freestone Raceway is one of the most challenging tracks on the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship schedule. Track promoter Tony Miller has always tested the fastest riders on the planet with a diverse mix of speed and technicality, and this year won't be any different. The track's trademark sand whoops known as the 12-pack will be a focal point for fans and riders alike, while the sprawling layout will allow for close competition amongst all the riders.

Last season at Freestone, Dungey bounced back from a tough start to his rookie campaign in the 450 Class and swept the day's motos to grab his first career win on the big bikes, setting the tone for his championship run. In the 250 Class, then-rookie Dean Wilson looked to have his inaugural professional victory well within reach, only to lose the overall in the final 1,000 feet after a miscalculation as to which riders were his closest competitors. The error subsequently handed the win over to Christophe Pourcel. The racing in the WMX Class was a showcase for Patterson, who dominated en route to a sweep of the day's motos and her second overall win of that season.

The on-track action for the Rockstar Energy Freestone National begins this Saturday at 8:30 a.m. CST with practice and qualifying. Opening ceremonies begin at 12:30 p.m. CST with motos kicking off at 1 p.m. CST.

Previous Round Results and Current Standings

Rockstar Energy Hangtown National
Prairie City SVRA - Rancho Cordova, Calif.
May 21, 2011
Round 1 of 12

450 Class (Moto Finish)
1. Chad Reed, Australia, Honda (2-1)
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki (1-2)
3. Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki (3-3)
4. Kevin Windham, Centreville, Miss., Honda (6-4)
5. Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Suzuki (5-5)
6. Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha (4-7)
7. Tommy Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Yamaha (8-8)
8. Christophe Pourcel, France, Yamaha (7-11)
9. Ricky Dietrich, Menifee, Calif., Yamaha (11-9)
10. Christian Craig, Hemet, Calif., Honda (14-10)

450 Class Championship Standings
1. Chad Reed, Australia, Honda - 47
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki - 47
3. Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki - 40
4. Kevin Windham, Centreville, Miss., Honda - 33
5. Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Suzuki - 32
6. Davi Millsaps, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha - 32
7. Tommy Hahn, Decatur, Texas, Yamaha - 26
8. Christophe Pourcel, France, Yamaha - 24
9. Ricky Dietrich, Menifee, Calif., Yamaha - 22
10. Christian Craig, Hemet, Calif., Honda - 18
11. Michael Byrne, Australia., Suzuki - 18

250 Class (Moto Finish)
1. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki (2-1)
2. Dean Wilson, Scotland, Kawasaki (1-3)
3. Tyla Rattray, South Africa, Kawasaki (5-2)
4. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda (3-4)
5. Marvin Musquin, France, KTM (4-6)
6. Gareth Swanepoel, South Africa, Yamaha (9-5)
7. Kyle Cunningham, Aledo, Texas, Yamaha (8-8)
8. Darryn Durham, Butler, Pa., Honda (10-9)
9. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki (13-7)
10. Cole Seely, Newbury Park, Calif., Honda (7-13)

250 Class Championship Standings
1. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki - 47
2. Dean Wilson, Scotland, Kawasaki - 45
3. Tyla Rattray, South Africa, Kawasaki - 38
4. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda - 38
5. Marvin Musquin, France, KTM - 33
6. Gareth Swanepoel, South Africa, Yamaha - 28
7. Kyle Cunningham, Aledo, Texas, Yamaha - 26
8. Darryn Durham, Butler, Pa., Honda - 23
9. Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., Kawasaki - 22
10. Cole Seely, Newbury Park, Calif., Honda - 22

WMX Class (Moto Finish)
1. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (1-1)
2. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda (2-2)
3. Steffi Laier, Germany, KTM (3-3)
4. Tarah Gieger, Puerto Rico., Honda (4-7)
5. Jacqueline Strong, Sedona, Ariz., KTM (7-5)
6. Tatum Sik, Temecula, Calif., Yamaha (8-6)
7. Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Yamaha (13-4)
8. Kasie Creson, Byron, Calif., Honda (10-8)
9. Sayaka Kaneshiro, Japan, Suzuki (9-10)
10. Elizabeth Bash, Riverside, Calif., KTM (14-9)

WMX Class Standings
1. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha - 50
2. Ashley Fiolek, St. Augustine, Fla., Honda - 44
3. Steffi Laier, Germany, KTM - 40
4. Tarah Gieger, Puerto Rico., Honda - 32
5. Jacqueline Strong, Sedona, Ariz., KTM - 30
6. Tatum Sik, Temecula, Calif., Yamaha - 28
7. Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Yamaha - 26
8. Kasie Creson, Byron, Calif., Honda - 24
9. Sayaka Kaneshiro, Japan, Suzuki - 23
10. Elizabeth Bash, Riverside, Calif., KTM - 19

Tickets for the upcoming Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship are on sale now at www.allisports.com. Special discounts and incentives are available for advance ticket purchasers.

For more information on the 2011 tour, please log on to www.allisports.com/motocross.

MX Sports Pro Racing
MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world's most prestigious motocross series - the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship. 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, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand. The Alliance includes: the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship, the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, King of Wake series, and the Gatorade Free Flow Tour. Alli TV Productions creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. Visit www.allisports.com.

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 AMA Pro Motocross Championship." Visit www.LucasOil.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.
 



Jimmie Johnson Elizabeth Morgenthau BAM Racing

Legend Doug Henry to Compete at the Extremity Games 6

Legend Doug Henry to Compete at the Extremity Games 6
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Extremity Games - Millington, MI News Release

Torrington, Conn. -- Doug Henry will be competing at this year's Extremity Games 6 Motocross being held at Baja Acres in Millington, MI on May 28, 2011. Doug is a 4 time AMA Champion as well as a 4 time X Games medal winner.

doug henry, dirt rider magazine, news release, extremity games, game 6, motocross, baja acres, ama champion, x games, metal winner, yamaha, planet fitness, monster energy


With the help of his main sponsors Yamaha, Planet Fitness, and Monster Eneregy, Doug will return to motocross racing at the Extremity Games event taking place this Memorial Day Weekend.

"This will be my first time racing competitively in motocross since my crash in 2007. I'm really looking forward to this event, but mostly for the chance just to hang out and ride with all of the other incredible athletes. It is going to be a great weekend at the Extremity Games." said Doug discussing his thoughts on the Extremity Games.

To find out more on Extremity Games, please visit www.extremitygames.com or www.bajaacres.com/events/extremity-games-baja-blast.

About the Extremity Games:
Extremity Games, organized by Athletes with Disabilities Network, is an extreme sports event including competitions, instructional clinics and exhibitions for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference. Organized to raise awareness of the abilities of athletes with limb loss or limb difference to compete in extreme sports, Extremity Games allows participants to demonstrate skill, persistence and passion while competing for cash and other prizes. You can brace a limb, replace a limb, but There is No Replacement for the Competitive Spirit(tm). For more information, visit www.extremitygames.com.
 



Hylton Motorsports James Hylton Mark Simo

2011 Charlotte Race Weeks Events Guide

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Ryan Newman RBR-Renault McLaren-Mercedes

Monday, May 30, 2011

Ferrari Racing Days at Laguna Seca: Corse Clienti returns to Monterey (w/VIDEO)

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Ferrari 599XX at Laguna Seca
Ferrari 599XX at Laguna Seca - Click above for high-res image gallery

The last time Ferrari's exclusive Corse Clienti program made an appearance at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca was back in 2008. At the time, the FXX was the only race car in the Corse Clienti stable, but the 599XX joined the party for the program's return to Monterey this year.

A trio of FXXs and no less than seven 599XXs-almost a quarter of the total produced by Ferrari -took to the track last weekend, their high-revving 6.0L V12s echoing throughout the surrounding hills.

If you didn't make it to Laguna Seca to see the Corse Clienti race cars in action, no worries. We've got a huge gallery of photos below as well as a video of the cars in action after the jump.

Continue reading Ferrari Racing Days at Laguna Seca: Corse Clienti returns to Monterey (w/VIDEO)

Ferrari Racing Days at Laguna Seca: Corse Clienti returns to Monterey (w/VIDEO) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 May 2011 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Roush Fenway Racing Carl Edwards Kenneth Wood

Raikkonen In Too Big Of A Hurry

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Robert Yates Racing Ricky Rudd Bill Saunders

Robert Kubica not expected to return to F1 before season's end

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Robert Kubica

If you've been counting down the days until Robert Kubica returns to the Formula One grid, you may want to stop counting for now. The latest reports suggest that the Polish driver is not likely to return before the end of the season, if at all.

Kubica, for those who may not recall, suffered a terrible accident during the off-season while contesting a rally in Italy some four months ago. His car was impaled by a dislodged guardrail and Kubica sustained extensive injuries to his right-side limbs. Now released from hospital and recovering at home, Kubica's boss - Lotus Renault GP chief Gerard Lopez - reportedly says it is not likely the star driver will be back by season's end.

Renault may give Kubica the opportunity to test drive during a Friday test session on a grand prix weekend at some point, but that should not, Lopez warns, indicate that he'd be ready to relieve Nick Heidfeld and take on a full race. Whether Kubica ever gets back into racing form remains to be seen - his doctors are reserving judgment until the summer - but we wish him the best for a suitably speedy recovery.

Robert Kubica not expected to return to F1 before season's end originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 May 2011 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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STEPHANE RONCADA KYLE LEWIS ERNESTO FONSECA

2011 Charlotte Race Weeks Events Guide

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NICK WEY SEAN HAMBLIN MATT WALKER

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Audi dismisses F1 as "irrelevant"

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Audi R18 TDI
Audi R18 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Though rumors persist that one of the Volkswagen Group's brands could make the jump into Formula 1, Audi is adamant that it won't be the one to do so. According to the company's motorsport boss, F1 bears "no relevance to the road."

The German automaker most prominently races Le Mans Prototypes, like the new R18 TDI pictured above. Is that really so different from F1? Audi points out that over the course of a 24-hour race like Le Mans, just one of its cars covers more distance than an entire F1 season, its average speeds are 20 mph higher than in F1 and they use 42 percent less fuel in the process.

Audi has a strong racing pedigree that extends even beyond Le Mans, staking its name in rallying and touring cars, as well. Audi has brought many of its technologies from its motorsport program to its road cars, but according to this report, Audi sees little connection between grand prix racing and the development of its volume products. Hat tip to xcatchmyshadowx!

Audi dismisses F1 as "irrelevant" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 May 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rubens Barrichello Kamui Kobayashi Vitaly Petrov

Yamaha celebrates milestone at Bikers’ Classics

Yamaha celebrates milestone at Bikers’ Classics
Yamaha celebrates milestone at Bikers' Classics - Sport Rider Magazine
As part of Yamaha's 50th Anniversary Grand Prix racing celebration, the Yamaha Classic Racing Team and a unique collection of 14 Yamaha Grand Prix Racing machines will be at the Bikers' Classics event at the famous Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium

The 2011 edition of the ‘Bikers’ Classics’ event will take place from 1st-3rd July at the famous Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium and Yamaha will be there to take and enjoy another proud step in celebration of their 50th year of Grand Prix racing.

The Yamaha Classic Racing Team will appear in all its glory with 21 fantastic historic Yamaha racing machines from 50cc up to 750cc two-strokes, that will be steered on the hallowed curves by former GP stars like Steve Baker, Rod Gould, Phil Read, Giacomo Agostini, Johnny Cecotto and Chas Mortimer, to name but a few. Besides Yamaha’s ‘official’ classic line-up there will be plenty of other vintage Yamahas posing in the paddocks and active on the track as numerous teams and privateers have signed up to join the classic parades.

Apart from the action on the asphalt, Yamaha are organising a Yamaha Racing Exposition at the circuit in cooperation with DGSport. This anniversary Exposition will contain a unique collection of 14 Yamaha Grand Prix Racing machines representing Yamaha’s heritage built up over 50 years of Grand Prix competition. The bikes, all original and in mint condition, have been sourced from: Communication Plaza (Yamaha’s Iwata-based corporate exhibition facilities) Yamaha Motor Racing Srl and Ferry Brouwer’s Yamaha Classic Racing Team roster. Besides the motorcycles there are also historic items, memorabilia, photographs and videos to mark 50 years of history. The exposition will take place in the ‘Eau Rouge’ building, located at the bottom of the Eau Rouge corner, and entrance is free for Bikers’ Classics paddock ticket holders.

The Expo will be open from Friday 1st July to Sunday 3rd July. For opening hours and more information please visit www.yamaha-racing.com. At the Expo voluntary donations will be collected to donate to Japanese Red Cross Society (50%) and Riders for Health (50%). The Bikers’ Classics Expo will be the second of a series that can be found on yamaha-racing.com.

For more information on the Bikers’ Classics, please visit the website www.bikersclassics.be


Photo Gallery: Yamaha celebrates milestone at Bikers' Classics - Sport Rider Magazine


KEVIN WINDHAM RYAN VILLIPOTO RICKY CARMICHAEL

The Weekly Dirt: March 30, 2011

The Weekly Dirt: March 30, 2011
The Weekly Dirt: March 30, 2011 - Dirt Rider Magazine
The place to go for the nitty-gritty on the off-road scene

Welcome to The Weekly Dirt. This week I shot the Steele Creek GNCC in Morganton, North Carolina where Josh Strang got his first win of the year at the expense of Charlie Mullins. This race was one of the best I've seen in a while and it boiled down to one of strangest finishes ever.


Photo Gallery: The Weekly Dirt: March 30, 2011 - Dirt Rider Magazine


Andy Hillenburg Fast Track Racing Enterprises Frank Kimmel

Ford Mustang dragster mule caught brandishing gargantuan hood scoop

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spy shots ford mustang drag racer
Spy Shots: Ford Mustang Drag Racer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Our spy photographers have trained their expensive camera lenses on something very interesting. Caught running around one of Ford's private test tracks, this Mustang is clearly set to live life a quarter mile at a time. Out back sits a pair of massive Hoosier slicks, while up front, a set of skinny Hoosiers are tucked under the fenders. Oh right, we're not sure if you noticed, but there's a massive hood scoop planted on the front of this pony car.

What's going on under the hood? We don't know. The front-end (minus the scoop) is from a GT500, while the rear end is standard Mustang GT attire. That scoop, however, looks like it was pulled off a Donzi 22 Shelby GT speedboat. Actually, scratch that... it looks even bigger. Check out this possible next-generation Mustang Cobra Jet by clicking through the gallery below.

Ford Mustang dragster mule caught brandishing gargantuan hood scoop originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 May 2011 15:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kurt Busch Carl Edwards Kyle Busch

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Hamilton angered by Toro Rosso

Lewis Hamilton urges stewards in Monaco to keep an eye on Toro Rosso drivers after accusing them of holding him up in Spain.

TURBO REIF BOB HANNAH ROGER DECOSTER

Honda Tops Hangtown

Honda Tops Hangtown
podium, ama pro motocross championship, wma, women's motocross championship, mx, honda, chad reed, trey canard, honda squad, windham, twotwo motorsports, class championship, eli tomac, dirt rider magazine, news release

American Honda News Release

Torrance, CA: The Honda Red Riders took on round one of the 2011 AMA Pro Motocross Championship and WMA Women's Motocross Championship over the weekend at the Hangtown Motocross National held in Sacramento, CA, and Honda newcomer Chad Reed dominated the 450 Class, taking the overall victory on his Honda CRF450R.

With American Honda Racing's Trey Canard and Josh Grant unable to compete at the opening round due to injuries they sustained during the Supercross season, veteran Honda racer Kevin Windham made his return to the factory Honda squad aboard an American Honda Racing-prepared CRF450R. Making a strong impression at his Motocross season debut with the team, Windham catapulted out of the start gate in moto one, grabbing the holeshot and maintaining the lead for six laps-much to the delight of the crowd. As the race went on, Windham relinquished several spots before finishing moto one in sixth position. The likeable Honda racer made up a few spots in moto two, finishing in fourth place to earn fourth overall.

"I had very little time to prepare for outdoors because I was off the bike while I waited for some internal bleeding to stop after my crash at the final race of the Supercross season," said Windham. "However, I feel like today went really well and I'm happy with fourth overall. We came out here pretty much still a work in progress and just gave it our all. I'm happy about getting the holeshot in the first moto and that I held it for six laps. I know I have the bike to win and pretty soon I'll get the legs to be able to hold onto the lead."

Reed put in a dominating performance aboard his TwoTwo Motorsports factory-Honda-prepared CRF450R, finishing runner-up in the opening moto and taking the moto two win for the overall opening round victory. "I had so much fun out there today," said Reed. "The last time I was really good outdoors and won the title I had this same feeling. I really want to thank American Honda for their support and for giving me a factory race bike. I plan to ride the wheels off this thing all season long and do my best to win the championship."

In the 250 Class Championship, defending Hangtown event champ Eli Tomac raced his GEICO Honda CRF250R to third in moto one and secured fourth spot in moto two for fourth overall. Teammate Justin Barcia charged hard after getting a midpack start in moto one to finish the opening race in sixth place. Barcia blitzed the moto two start, grabbing the holeshot. Unfortunately, he crashed out of the race while leading, which gave him 13th place for the weekend. Honda privateer Darryn Durham went 10-9 for eighth overall, while Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/Honda's Cole Seely went 7-13 to finish 10th overall.

In the Women's Motocross Championship, American Honda Racing's Ashley Fiolek grabbed great starts with her Honda CRF250R in both motos and finished each race in the runner-up spot for second overall. Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/Honda's Tarah Gieger went 4-7 for fourth overall, while fellow Honda rider Kasie Creson finished eighth overall.

250 Class Overall Results
1. Blake Baggett 2-1
2. Dean Wilson 1-3
3. Tyla Rattray 5-2
4. Eli Tomac (Honda) 3-4
5. Marvin Musquin 4-6
6. Gareth Swanepoel 9-5
7. Kyle Cunningham 8-8
8. Darryn Durham (Honda) 10-9
9. Broc Tickle 13-7
10. Cole Seely (Honda) 7-13

250 Class Championship Points (after 1 of 13 rounds)
1. Blake Baggett 47
2. Dean Wilson 45
3. Tyla Rattray 38
4. Eli Tomac 38
5. Marvin Musquin 33
6. Gareth Swanepoel 28
7. Kyle Cunningham 26
8. Darryn Durham 23
9. Broc Tickle 22
10. Cole Seely 22

450 Class Overall Results
1. Chad Reed (Honda) 2-1

2. Ryan Dungey 1-2
3. Ryan Villopoto 3-3
4. Kevin Windham (Honda) 6-4
5. Brett Metcalfe 5-5
6. Davi Millsaps 4-7
7. Tommy Hahn 8-8
8. Christophe Pourcel 7-11
9. Ricky Dietrich 11-9
10. Christian Craig (Honda) 14-10

450 Class Championship Points (after 1 of 13 rounds)
1. Chad Reed 47

2. Ryan Dungey 47
3. Ryan Villopoto 40
4. Kevin Windham 33
5. Brett Metcalfe 32
6. Davi Millsaps 32
7. Tommy Hahn 26
8. Christophe Pourcel 24
9. Ricky Dietrich 22
10. Christian Craig 18

WMA Overall Results
1. Jessica Patterson 1-1
2. Ashley Fiolek (Honda) 2-2
3. Stephanie Laier 3-3
4. Tarah Gieger (Honda) 4-7
5. Jacqueline Strong 7-5
6. Tatum Sik 8-6
7. Mariana Balbi 13-4
8. Kasie Creson (Honda) 10-8
9. Sayaka Kaneshiro 9-10
10. Elizabeth Bash 14-9

WMA Championship Points (after round 1 of 8)
1. Jessica Patterson 50
2. Ashley Fiolek 44
3. Stephanie Laier 40
4. Tarah Gieger 32
5. Jacqueline Strong 30
6. Tatum Sik 28
7. Mariana Balbi 26
8. Kasie Creson 24
9. Sayaka Kaneshiro 23
10. Elizabeth Bash 19

For more information, contact American Honda Motor *** Inc. (310) 783-3745.

About Honda
American Honda Motor *** Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft 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 powersports.honda.com.

(c)2011 American Honda Motor *** Inc. All Rights Reserved.



JEFF GIBSON BROC HEPLER ERIC SORBY

Blackstone Tek/BST Factory | Black Gold

Blackstone Tek/BST Factory | Black Gold
Blackstone Tek/BST Factory - Sport Rider Magazine
Inside the BlackStone Tek/BST factory where the world’s only race and road-legal carbon fiber wheels are made.

Johannesburg, South Africa, is a city built on gold, where the world’s largest deposits of that precious metal were discovered in 1878 in the mile-high Witwatersrand reef. But today, there’s another kind of precious substance produced there by BlackStone Tek/BST. Founders Gary Turner and Ms. Terry Annecke mine the black gold represented by their company’s exquisite carbon fiber wheels, whose lightweight yet strong design can be found in both racing and street applications. These are the only carbon wheels in the world that are homologated for street use on motorcycles, approved by Germany’s tough TV standards, which includes checking for durability and protection against degradation by road salt or ultraviolet exposure. Since the company began production in 2002, more than 10,000 BST carbon wheels have been built. Fitted with CNC-machined billet aluminum hubs via a patented process in its purpose-built 4900-square-meter factory by a 30-person workforce, BST’s products are sold all over the world, with a pair of carbon wheels fitted with standard bearings retailing for $3750 per front and rear, or $4000 per set with ceramic bearings. But the firm’s race-quality wheels are now also used by a steadily increasing number of discerning motorcycle racing teams.


Photo Gallery: Blackstone Tek/BST Factory - Sport Rider Magazine

Photo Gallery: Blackstone Tek/BST Factory - Sport Rider Magazine


Michael Schumacher Rubens Barrichello Kamui Kobayashi

Reports suggest no Bahrain GP this year ? but not for the right reason

Still, I’ll take it. Report from Monaco, including via the Telegraph, are that the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix will stay postponed, aka cancelled, this season. The reason? Nothing highly ethical, moral, social or political. It’s just that the Formula 1 calendar is too crowded to fit it in during the last weeks of the season. [...]

Michael Waltrip Racing P.J. Jones Teresa Earnhardt

Friday, May 27, 2011

F1 Rocks� The Afterparty to electrify Valencia

The paddock may be a hive of activity with preparations for this weekend's Monaco round, but there's also news regarding another one of the calendar's glamorous waterside events. F1 Rocks� have announced they are to host two nights of their F1 Rocks� The Afterparty during next month's 2011 FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX OF EUROPE, which takes place in Valencia from June 24-26.

F1 Rocks� will kick off the weekend with at a star-packed concert headlined by mega producer David Guetta at the Spanish city's Agora (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) on the Friday night. Then following the on-track action on both Saturday and Sunday, the exclusive F1 Rocks� The Afterparty will be held at L'umbracle Terraza, also at the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Legendary DJ Seb Fontaine will provide the soundtrack.

MICHAEL BYRNE NICK WEY SEAN HAMBLIN

Audi highlights the rigors of Le Mans in animated short

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A Day in the Life of an Audi Driver
A Day in the Life of an Audi Driver - Click above to watch the video after the jump

They don't call it endurance racing for nothing. And the strain is placed not only on the car, but on the driver, as well. That's all very well and fine to know in theory, but to highlight the rigors of racing around the clock at Le Mans, Audi has produced this stunning animated short.

The two-and-a-half-minute film called A Day in the Life of an Audi Driver features the team's star driver, Alan McNish, and will be shown during the high-profile soccer match this weekend at Wembley Stadium between Barcelona and Manchester United, a team which Audi sponsors. It will also play in 3D for moviegoers going to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in the UK, and will spearhead a newspaper ad campaign as well as dedicated apps for various smartphone platforms.

Fortunately, we don't have to wait for all that to watch the clip ourselves. All you have to do is follow the jump and click play, where you'll also find details of the campaign in the full press release.

Continue reading Audi highlights the rigors of Le Mans in animated short

Audi highlights the rigors of Le Mans in animated short originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 May 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Raynard McGlynn McGlynn Racing Derrike Cope

Indy tipping contest scores

In another lean week top scorers, two names shot ahead from the pack to challenge the leaders - @tailzer and @harleymac1. Pulling off an impressive Brit-centric Minella to gain 6 points, @tailzer took second place in the overall standings. Well done sir! @harleymac1 also made impressive gains with his 6 point Minella.
Honorable mention goes to [...]

Karun Chandhok Lucas di Grassi Jarno Trulli

Black GP1 Exhaust Systems by Jardine Performance Products

Black GP1 Exhaust Systems by Jardine Performance Products
Black GP1 Exhaust Systems by Jardine Performance Products - Sport Rider Magazine
Black GP1 exhaust systems from Jardine Performance Products are available now through most major distributors and dealers.

* Black GP1 exhaust systems from Jardine Performance Products are available now through most major distributors and dealers.
* These black GP1 pipes are ceramic-coated stainless steel slip-ons; some models come with quiet inserts or mufflers.
* The black GP1 exhausts are compatible with a variety of Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha and Buell motorcycles - see the table below for a full list.


Photo Gallery: Black GP1 Exhaust Systems by Jardine Performance Products - Sport Rider Magazine


Frank Kimmel Bryan Mullet CJM Racing

Thursday, May 26, 2011

The NASCAR Week That Was: May 15-21

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DAMON HUFFMAN STEPHANE RONCADA KYLE LEWIS

The NASCAR Week That Was: May 15-21

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RICKY CARMICHAEL ANDREW SHORT DAVI MILLSAPS

2011 Spanish Grand Prix goes down as a game of leap frog [spoilers]

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2011 Spanish Grand Prix
2011 Spanish Grand Prix - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ferrari. McLaren. Renault. Williams. The past few decades of Formula One racing have seen each of these teams at the top of their game, claiming championships and dispatching the others along the way. But after watching Brawn GP - having started out as the humble BAR-Honda team and emerging as Mercedes' own factory squad - claim the titles just a couple of years ago, are the years of domination behind us? Or was Brawn's victory merely a hiccup before things return to "normal"? Will Red Bull's championship prove another exception, or will the Anglo-Austrian team emerge as the new force to be reckoned with?

It may take another year or two to watch the pattern unfold, but after winning both titles last year, Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull have come back strong in 2011. The team has converted pole position to the checkered flag at every race but one so far this season. Would this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix further gird Vettel and Red Bull in the defense of their titles, or would a new challenger draw blood around the corners and down the straights of Barcelona? Continue reading for a recap of today's action.

Continue reading 2011 Spanish Grand Prix goes down as a game of leap frog [spoilers]

2011 Spanish Grand Prix goes down as a game of leap frog [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 May 2011 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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James Rocco J D Gibbs Jay Frye

FIA post-qualifying press conference - Spain

Drivers: 1 - Mark Webber (Red Bull); 2 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull), 3 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren)

Q: Mark, it is not your team-mate for once. Your first pole of the season and your first since Belgium 2010. How did you do that?
Mark Webber: Well it was a good session. I think it was pretty clear going into qualifying we might have had a bit

Joe Custer Haas CNC Racing johnny Sauter

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Bahrain. No comment.

Make up your own minds… This is The Financial Times.

Ferrari Mercedes GP Renault

Busch ticketed for doing 128 in a 45 mph zone

Kyle Busch's need for speed evidently extends beyond the race track.

Aric Almirola Riley-D\\\\\\\'Hondt Motorsports KEVIN WINDHAM

2011 USGP At Glen Helen Race Results

2011 USGP At Glen Helen Race Results
2011 USGP At Glen Helen Race Results - Dirt Rider Magazine
The World Battles In Southern California

Rockstar Energy Suzuki's Clement Desalle and Red Bull Teka KTM's Ken Roczen took the overall victories today at the United States Grand Prix, back at Glen Helen race way for the second consecutive year since re-establishing the international race last year. The morning was cold with a steady light rain, but the sun came out to watch the racing. The First MX2 moto was raced on a slippery, muddy track, but by the time the 250F racers were done the track conditions look perfect.


Photo Gallery: 2011 USGP At Glen Helen Race Results - Dirt Rider Magazine

Photo Gallery: 2011 USGP At Glen Helen Race Results - Dirt Rider Magazine


Joe Gibbs Racing Aric Almirola Riley-D\\\\\\\'Hondt Motorsports

Groupon discovers F1, 55% off Monaco

Formula 1 friends in Dubai, did you grab your Groupon yesterday? The Web?s headquarters for daily deals did it again Thursday, saving F1 fans an amazing 6280 AED towards a voucher for four days and nights at the fabulous Fairmont Hotel, with VIP access to the grandest view of ?THE? Hairpin (with party) during this [...]

MICHAEL BYRNE NICK WEY SEAN HAMBLIN

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

What Does a Record TTXGP Lap at Infineon Look Like?

The 2011 TTXGP season-opener at Infineon Raceway got off to a less than enthralling start, with only four bikes showing up for racing on Saturday, and three bikes remaining for Sunday’s race. Nevertheless, the event was the first time we’ve gotten to see the Brammo Empulse RR in its race livery, and taking some laps in public. Though the racing wasn’t close, the shining star during the weekend was Steve Atlas taking the Brammo Empulse ...

Force India-Mercedes Williams-Cosworth BMW Sauber-Ferrari

Zero Motorcycles Announces 2011 Product Line with Comprehensive Upgrades

Zero Motorcycles Announces 2011 Product Line with Comprehensive Upgrades
Zero Motorcycles Announces 2011 Product Line with Comprehensive Upgrades - Dirt Rider Magazine
Highly Refined New Motorcycles, A Solid Business Strategy, Support and Availability in March

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (February 8, 2011) - Zero Motorcycles today announced its highly anticipated 2011 product line alongside a strategy for continued leadership of the global electric motorcycle industry. The only company to offer a complete lineup, Zero Motorcycles has made sweeping technical improvements as well as added a contemporary new look to each of its four models, including a complete overhaul of the Zero S and the Zero DS. Every model is now 'quick-charge' capable using an optional upgrade that allows the motorcycles to charge nearly twice as fast. In addition, for the first time on an electric motorcycle, riders can now take advantage of J1772 public charging stations by using an optional accessory. This offers riders greater mobility by giving them access to a rapidly growing network of charge stations. The entire lineup is equipped with upgraded suspension systems, a more intelligent and rugged Z-Force powertrain, more precise charge indicators, new higher performance brakes and industry-standard component features to provide owners with more aftermarket options. Other highlights to the product line include street legal configurations of the dirt bikes and a new maintenance free belt drive for the street and dual sport models.


Photo Gallery: Zero Motorcycles Announces 2011 Product Line with Comprehensive Upgrades - Dirt Rider Magazine


Pedro de la Rosa Jaime Alguersuari Heikki Kovalainen

Photo Gallery: Sandlapper National Enduro

Photo Gallery: Sandlapper National Enduro
Photo Gallery: Sandlapper National Enduro - Dirt Rider Magazine
Dirt Rider visits the opening round of the Rekluse/AMA National Enduro Series in South Carolina.

Russell Bobbitt kicked off the 2011 Rekluse/AMA National Enduro Series with a dominate win in South Carolina over the weekend. The FMF/KTM rider won four of the six special tests and finished the race with a 48-second margin over runner-up Brad Bakken. It was a welcomed return to form for Bobbitt, a three-time national enduro champ, who claimed only one win all last year.


Photo Gallery: Photo Gallery: Sandlapper National Enduro - Dirt Rider Magazine


Penske Racing Kurt Busch James Finch

Hangtown National Photo Gallery

Hangtown National Photo Gallery
Hangtown National Photo Gallery - Dirt Rider Magazine
Top Shots from the AMA Pro Motocross kickoff!

When the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship kicked off this past weekend with the Hangtown National near Sacramento, California, the only thing that anyone knew for certain was that it was going to be a battle. Both the 250 and 450 classes were packed with talent, and several speedy newcomers and a few last-minute no-shows made for some unpredictable twists to the first round of the series. Dirt Rider was on hand to catch the action, which included a dominant performance by the Pro Circuit Kawasaki squad, an impressive ride by a hard-charging Chad Reed and a great battle in the women's class. Feast your eyes on the following collection of shots from the race, and stay tuned to Dirt Rider magazine for some serious factory bike eye candy from the 2011 Nationals.


Photo Gallery: Hangtown National Photo Gallery - Dirt Rider Magazine

Photo Gallery: Hangtown National Photo Gallery - Dirt Rider Magazine


GUY COOPER Jimmie Johnson Jeff Burton

Monday, May 23, 2011

World Superbikes To Race In Russia From 2012

The importance of opening up new markets for motorcycle racing has been one of the biggest topics of conversation in both the World Superbike and MotoGP paddocks for the last couple of years. From racing's traditional base in Europe - and especially Southern Europe - both WSBK and MotoGP have been looking eastwards, both to Eastern Europe and Asia. 

Russia has been one country that both series have been eyeing up with interest, given the potential size of the TV market there. But it is the World Superbike series which has been the first to break into the Russian market, with Infront Motor Sports today announcing that the company has today signed a deal with Yakhnich Motorsports to promote the WSBK series in Russia, as well as organize a Russian round of WSBK from 2012 onwards. The circuit is yet to be decided upon - the press release speaks merely of several circuits currently being assessed as to their suitability, before applying for FIM homologation.

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Rubens Barrichello Kamui Kobayashi Vitaly Petrov

My Driver Doesn?t Know My Name

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JASON THOMAS DAMON BRADSHAW RYAN HUGHES

Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak SE to be launched at Quail Motorcycle Gathering

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Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak SE
Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak SE - Click above to enlarge

Ducati is planning to unveil a new special edition version of the company's Multistrada at this year's Quail Motorcycle Gathering. Officially branded the Multistrada 1200 Pikes Peak Special Edition, the bike is designed to pay homage to Greg Tracy's win astride a Ducati mount at the 2010 hill climb and comes slathered in a host of drool-worthy goodies. Those include a Ducati Corse paint scheme and black-anodized passenger foot pegs with a matching engine cover. The Italian bike maker also threw in a set of unique wheels with red pin striping to boot.

The Multistrada 1200 Pikes Peak SE ships with a Termignoni silencer and a low windscreen in addition to the standard stock pieces. The parts are EU approved and hewn from carbon fiber to keep weight as low as possible. In addition, a CF front mud guard is part of the package as is a special seat with red stitching. Otherwise, the special-edition bike is mechanically stock.

The Quail Motorcycle Gathering kicks off on May 14. Hit the jump for the full press releases.

Continue reading Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak SE to be launched at Quail Motorcycle Gathering

Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak SE to be launched at Quail Motorcycle Gathering originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Adrian Sutil Michael Schumacher Rubens Barrichello

Best Abdominal Training Belt

A few months ago I started lifting weights and working out again, to try to cut down on my size and reduce my drag. Now I’m looking at buying an abdominal training belt to help strengthen my core, as it is crucial to have a strong core to support you on almost every exercise. I’m [...]

JUSTIN BUCKELEW SEBASTIAN TORTELLI TURBO REIF

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Fernando Alonso to stay at Ferrari until 2016

Fernando Alonso will remain at Ferrari until at least the end of 2016 after renewing his technical and racing deal, it was revealed on Thursday. Alonso joined the Italian team in 2010 after stints with Renault and McLaren, and over his 23 Grands Prix with Ferrari has taken five wins, 11 podiums and 293 world championship points.

�I am very happy to have reached this agreement,� said the 29 year-old. �I immediately felt comfortable within Ferrari and now it feels to me like a second family. I have the utmost faith in the men and women who work in Maranello and

Roush Fenway Racing Robby Gordon Robby Gordon Motorsports

Hamlin has successful knee surgery

Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) announced Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Toyota in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, had successful surgery to repair the ACL in his left knee this morning. The surgery was performed by Dr. Patrick Connor with OrthoCarolina. Hamlin injured the knee in January prior to the start of the 2010 [...]

Lotus-Cosworth HRT-Cosworth Virgin-Cosworth

2011 MotoGP Le Mans Sunday Round Up: Impetuosity, Or How The Best Passes Are Saved Until The Last Lap

There has been much lamenting of late that the MotoGP paddock has been full of talk and not much action. There have been plenty of complaints about the dangerous riding of certain riders, and not much evidence to back the accusations up with. Well, that certainly changed at Le Mans.

But before we get to the controversy - and there was plenty of it, and this time, it was real, not artificially stirred up by the media (mea culpa) - it behooves us to talk about the race. For there was a lot of interesting data that got buried under the polemic, which may prove key for the rest of the season.

The winner was entirely predictable, though the difficulty Casey Stoner had in securing the win, at least for the first third of the race, was rather less expected. Stoner, he said, had had about as near a perfect weekend as it was possible to have, blitzing every session and going on to win the race by an obscene amount - though obviously assisted by the removal of Dani Pedrosa and Marco Simoncelli from the proceedings. The Casey Stoner we saw at Le Mans this weekend was the Casey Stoner that most pundits had backed at the start of the year, after he had dominated much of preseason testing. With the 2011 Ohlins forks now working for him, Stoner looks like being a very hard rider to catch.

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Bill Saunders Hall of Fame Racing Tony Raines

2011 MotoGP Le Mans Sunday Round Up: Impetuosity, Or How The Best Passes Are Saved Until The Last Lap

There has been much lamenting of late that the MotoGP paddock has been full of talk and not much action. There have been plenty of complaints about the dangerous riding of certain riders, and not much evidence to back the accusations up with. Well, that certainly changed at Le Mans.

But before we get to the controversy - and there was plenty of it, and this time, it was real, not artificially stirred up by the media (mea culpa) - it behooves us to talk about the race. For there was a lot of interesting data that got buried under the polemic, which may prove key for the rest of the season.

The winner was entirely predictable, though the difficulty Casey Stoner had in securing the win, at least for the first third of the race, was rather less expected. Stoner, he said, had had about as near a perfect weekend as it was possible to have, blitzing every session and going on to win the race by an obscene amount - though obviously assisted by the removal of Dani Pedrosa and Marco Simoncelli from the proceedings. The Casey Stoner we saw at Le Mans this weekend was the Casey Stoner that most pundits had backed at the start of the year, after he had dominated much of preseason testing. With the 2011 Ohlins forks now working for him, Stoner looks like being a very hard rider to catch.

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Tony Raines Georgetta Roush Roush Fenway Racing