Blog

Amanda rides again boys and girls!

2009-11-12T20:41:44Z

Hi Friends,

Sorry ... it's been a while since I wrote a blog. But I have a great excuse. I'm ill. I'm having withdrawals. Does anyone know when the Anaheim 1 Supercross is???

But I found a great fix! Yeah. I went riding! Courtesy of Kawasaki! It was fun! And, it was the first time I've ridden in over two years!

(Side note to Kawasaki - can I have three brand new KLX 110s in my garage soon? I gotta' get my riding jones on now. You've got me addicted!)

Two years?!?! Two years?!?! Really? No! It can't be true! Say it isn't true!

Well boys and girls, the scary fact is - it's true. Sad, but-oh-so-true. Miss Amanda Woods has not been on a motorcycle in 2 years!! And I work at Supercross.com?!?! Unacceptable!

Believe me I was shocked too. I was talking with PR Guru Jan P. from Kawasaki about "last year's KLX 110 ride day", and about how I rode and crashed, and had my hand ran over (by a man who is still out on the loose!) ... and Jan quickly corrected me by saying "Uhhhh .... Amanda, that was TWO years ago!" Wow - I couldn't believe it! Time sure flies! Two years!

But, we got that fixed, as I got my riding fix. I can't believe it - I want to start riding at least once a week. Kawasaki - see above - I'm begging! : )

Anyway, I was so excited to get out there again and try out the new Kawasaki 2010 KLX110s! They actually have two models now - the new one is the "L" model ... a bit bigger, with a clutch.

But first things first before I actually rode - I caught up with all my friends at Kawi and got to hear their thoughts on the bike. You can see what some of them had to say right here with our infamous video, which even shows me riding if you'd like! : ) I have to say thank you to Greg and Russ for being such good sports on our attempts at humor. You rocked!

After catching up for a bit, I geared up and jumped on the 'Cadillac' of 110s! I rode the regular KLX 110 - four speeds, no clutch, electric start, smooth as butter man! It was freakin' awesome!

I have to admit - I was a little intimidated. The track was real supercross. Fast guys were on the track. It was really tight - you even have to duck to avoid hitting your head on some of the trees!

After not riding for two years, this bike sure made it easy! Anyone, and I mean anyone, would have a blast on this bike, from little kids to grown ups - this bike is fun and easy to ride! If you can get a chance to jump on one, do it!

I tell you one thing, after riding that bike, I won't be letting it be another two years before I ride again! No way! Nope! Ain't gonna' happen!

A

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FIM Off Road Awards, 2009, Italy

2009-10-15T05:12:24Z

It was in the pits at the Motocross of Nations, Saturday night. But it's really hard to call this celebration anything 'in the pits' ... as you'll see in the photos & video - it was quite a nice set up to present all the awards at a race!

For us at Supercross.com, of course the main focus was on the top MX riders that our site normally covers, including World MX2 Motocross Champion Marvin Musquin, World MX1 Motocross Champion Tony Cairoli, and Women's World Motocross Champion Stephanie Laier.

And, one of our own, former AMA Supercross and Motocross Champion Rick Johnson received an award - a lifetime acheivement award for his contributions to the sport, and also on behalf of the 1986 Motocross des Nations 'Dream Team' of RJ, David Bailey, and Johnny O'Mara - all former AMA Supercross and Motocross Champions as well.

There was an aspect of the FIM Off Road Awards that certainly was a surprise to me .... on Tuesday afternoon I was notified I was going to be co-host of the Awards! I was both happy to do it, excited, ... but also a bit nervous, since I had no preparation.

Let's start now with the actual awards that were given out:

Motocross

MX1 World Champion – Antonio Cairoli

MX2 World Champion – Marvin Musquin

MX3 World Champion – Pierre Alexandre Renet

Women’s World Champion – Stephanie Laier

Veterans’ World Cup Winner – Mats Nilsson

125cc Junior World Champion – Eli Tomac

85cc Junior World Champion – Jay Wilson

Veteran's World Cup Winner – Mats Nilsson

'Jan De Groot' Award – Ken Roczen

MX1 Manufacturer World Champion - Yamaha

MX2 Manufacturer World Champion - KTM

MX3 Manufacturer World Champion - Honda

MX1 Winning Team – Yamaha Red Bull De Carli

MX2 Winning Team – Red Bull KTM Factory Racing

MX3 Winning Team – Team Honda

Motocross MX1/MX2 Best Organizer – Bulgaria, Sevlievo

Motocross MX3 Best Organizer – Bulgaria, Troyan

Motocross Best Infrastructure Special Award – Benelux, Lierop

Motocross MX1/MX2 Best Cooperation – Belgium, Lommel

Motocross MX1/MX2 Development – Czech Republic, Loket

Motocross MX3 Best Cooperation – Czech Republic, Holice

Special Awards

Lifetime Career Award – 'The Dream Team' of Ricky Johnson, Johnny O'Mara, David Bailey

Lifetime Career Award – Georges Jobe

Journalist of the year – Harald Englert (Speedweek)

Photographer of the year – Nuno Laranjeira (Freelance)

Website of the year – MX Large owned by Geoff Meyer

I'll let Mr. Daniele Rizzi, Press Officer of Youthstream, explain the evening in more detail. Thanks Daniele!

The prize giving for the Motocross Champions of 2009 turned out to be a show within the show of the entire weekend of the biggest MX of the year, The Red Bull Motocross of Nations, as the invited guests enjoyed the festive celebration & gala dinner at the end of a great day of qualifying and racing.

The proceedings started off at 6:30pm, with the prize giving in Franciacorta's paddock, where a massive crowd was offered the FIM Awards Show for the first time. For all the fans attending it was their only time to see their Champions walk up a stage in glamorous style, and receive an award in a completely different context than the Grand Prix paddocks or tracks.

MX1 Motocross World Champion Cairoli opened up the proceedings by offering his shirt and helmet to Dr. Rocco Crimi, Italian Secretary of Sport - the gift was collected on his behalf by Italian Senator Mr. Giovanni Torri, to Mr. Svilen Neykov, the Bulgarian Minister of Sports, and to Mr. Mareks Seglins, the Latvian Minister of Justice.

FIM President Mr. Vito Ippolito, Youthstream President Mr. Giuseppe Luongo and FIM/CMS President Dr. Wolfgang Srb presented the medals and plates to the awarded personalities on the stage, with thrilling video clips being run in between each group of awarded personalities.

After the prize giving was completed, Youthstream's guests moved to the VIP area for the gala dinner, where the participants could eat the best specialties of European cuisine prepared by the professional chefs of the Pit Lounge Restaurant. (It was awesome!)

During the dinner several surprise gifts were handed out. Dr. Srb received a special book of the Italian Senate by Senator Torri. Mr. Luongo received a unique painting by Rob Kinsey featuring a scene of the Maggiora MXoN in 1986 - the likes of the last lap Johnson/Bailey parade of the final heat. Ricky Johnson himself helped in presenting the masterpiece.

Before the night finished, a special cake was handed to former AMA Supercross and Motocross Racer, Motocross and Trophee des Nations winner, and MXGP competitor Danny 'Magoo' Chandler, who turned 50 on Monday, October 5.

The video is approx. 15 minutes

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Click on the thumbnail to view the larger images.

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p.s. To see the Feature article on the 2008 FIM Off Road Awards from Monte Carlo, you can visit this link

p.p.s. To join the Supercross.com Community and Message Boards, you can sign up here!

Going to Italy for Motocross of Nations

2009-09-28T13:39:00Z

The entire world of off-road motorcycle racing will focus this weekend on Italy. Specifically Brescia, for the 2009 version of the Motocross of Nations. It's the first time the ' Nations ' will be held in Italy since 1986.

And I'm lucky to be going to Italy! It's nation against nation to see who reigns supreme for world motocross bragging rights! Team USA, with members Ivan Tedesco, Ryan Dungey, and Jake Weimer, are the defending champions, having won last year's event in England.

The buzz is in the air. Already. You can feel it. The anticipation is high right now, and it's only Monday! By next Sunday night, we'll know who will be champions!

But right now, all bets are off. There are a lot of teams that can come away with this win! Let's review some of the top teams for 2009:

Team USA: 250 West Supercross Champ, and 250 National Motocross Champ Ryan Dungey, 2-time 250 West Supercross Champion, and 250 National Championship winner Ivan Tedesco, and multi-time 250 Supercross and Motocross event winner Jake Weimer.

Team France: MXGP rider Nic Aubin, newly crowned MX2 World Motocross Champion Marvin Musquin, and multi-time Grand Prix winner Gautier Paulin.

Team Belgium: One of the hottest riders on the planet, Clement Desalle, MXGP rider Joel Roelants, and multi-time World Motocross Champion Steve Ramon.

Host nation Team Italy: Three-time World Motocross Champion, and the new MX1 World Motocross Champion - Tony Cairoli, MXGP rider Davide Guarneri, and 2008 World Motocross Champion David Philippaerts.

Team Australia: Multi-time Supercross Champion, and newly crowned AMA Motocross Champion Chad Reed, Brett Metcalfe, and Michael Byrne.

And Team Germany: Multi-time GP winner Max Nagl, another new name and sensation in World Motocross, Ken Roczen - the youngest Grand Prix motocross winner in history, earlier this year at age 15, and Marcus Schiffer.

And those are just the teams off the top of my head that will battle for the win! There are going to be 37 teams total competing in Italy this weekend!

We should have great coverage of the event here at Supercross.com, starting Thursday night. See you in Italia! I can't wait!

A

To see the rider profiles of the USA riders, you can visit this link

To see some of the riders profiles from Europe, visit this link

Track - Autodromo Di Franciacorta, City - Brescia
Check weather near Brescia
Check hotels in/near Brescia
Map of Brescia

AMA / MX Sports Motocross Awards Banquet 2009

2009-09-11T19:37:29Z

The three big champions of AMA Professional Motocross racing in 2009 were of course, Chad Reed in the 450 MX class, Ryan Dungey in the 250 MX class, and Ashley Fiolek in the Women's MX.

The last motocross race of the 2009 professional AMA season sure wrapped up with a bang! The race was at Delmont (Steel City Raceway) and we had Thomas Hahn winning his first ever 450 overall, Ryan Dungey clinching the 250 championship in the very last moto, and Ashely Fiolek taking her second straight womens championship!

But the next day (Sunday) was even better! It was the Celebration to acknowledge all the champions and others from the series. Not only riders, but teams, managers, organizers, and a lot of others that worked so hard this season on making the year run smooth and successful. And it also gave everyone a chance to let their hair down and party!

MXSports put on the banquet - it was at the historic Grand Concourse building in downtown Pittsburg - right on the water. Very pretty!

Before I forget, here are some of the other awards given out Sunday evening:

Team Manager of the Year: Roger DeCoster

Doug Henry Award: Ivan Tedesco

Motocross Team of the Year: Warthog Racing Academy

Event of the Year: RedBud

Transport Driver of the Year: Andy Holl (Honda Red Bull Racing)

ATV Rookie of the Year: Thomas Brown

ATV Manufacturers Cup: American Suzuki

Below you'll see the photos we took at the event.

During the evening, along with the winners of the awards, I was able to listen to people like Roger De Coster, John Ayers, Jason Weigandt, Davey & Carrie Coombs, Roy Janson, and others. They spoke about the season and gave thanks to everyone who contributed in making it a great year.

I got a chance to speak to Roger De Coster and Broc Glover later on, it was great! You know (and I heard this one at the banquet) between the three of us we have 5 World Motocross titles, 6 AMA National Motocross Championships, and whole bunch of big-time race wins! : )

Man ... I could listen to them talk about the history of MX for hours! The stuff they have seen and been through - it's amazing! It was neat to hear them talk about different times and 'experiences' in traveling and races in (former) Czechoslovakia and Russia. And that's just the beginning!

One Big topic of conversation for the night was MXoN - Motocross of Nations. It will be in Italy early next month. There will be two American 'rookies' at this event, and it has a lot of people excited - Jake Weimer and Ryan Dungey (along with team-mate Ivan Tedesco).

Jake is really excited to be representing the USA at MXoN in Italy. As I mentioned, he's never been ... he is a little bit nervous, but super confident at the same time. He knows Ryan, him and Ivan will take home that Chamberlain trophy! Gotta' love that confidence!

The evening ended with little bar-hopping session. Now I don't want to name any names .... but let's just say about half the people on hand slept right thru their wake up calls the next morning, and missed their flights home. Oh wait ... I guess I can name at least one person that happened to - me! Ooops!

A

p.s. Cheers to a great year everyone! And next year I'll book a later flight! : )

Click on the thumbnail to view the larger image:

1. The Champ giving his acceptance speech.
2. I got the pleasure to meet Carrie Jo Coombs. Very smart, and very sweet.
3. Davey Coombs talking to the crowd about the season and what his plans are for next year.
4. Two very wise men in our sport. Rodger De Coster and Broc Glover.
5. Roger on stage talking about his two champions. What a proud team manager he must be!
6. Ryan Dungey, our 2009 250 MX champ!
7. Had to get a pic with the Champ, and miss Erin Normoyle, Miss Motocross '09 .... wait a second .... who is that making the funny face in the back!?!? We see you John Perry! : )
8. Ashley Fiolek is such a great sport. Hurt and still in great spirits!
9. From left to right; Mark Valtrex (R. Dungey's awesome mechanic), Brandon with MXSports, me and my new buddy from RacerX films .... fun group!
10. Trophies looked great this year.
11. Mr. Roy Janson, VP AMA Pro Racing.
12. The two Announcers of the awards did a great job! Rob Buydos and Jason Weigandt.
13. John Ayers giving much thanks for a successful year .
14. WMA = Miki Keller.
15. Womans MX really caused a stir this year. These ladies kill it! That's Sherri Cruse with the mike.
16. Nick McCabe from MXSports
17. The TV coverage was so nice to have this year. Speaking is Scott Mac from Lucas.
18. Sara Price
19. Do you think Chad carried that onto the airplane? Probably had to purchase another seat!
20. What a line up! Ivan Tedesco, Andrew Short, Chad Reed.

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Some new things well done in 2009

2009-09-05T01:37:29Z

Hey - wanted to share with you some things that I think have really been improved, and are very well done for us media-types.

I'm going to talk about MXSports. They've done three things this year that as far as I know, no one else has ever done in our sport.

And it helps us to help spread the word about the sport, do a better job of promoting it, and hopefully it gives you more information that you might of known about.

First - this is the first year that anyone, and in this case, it's MXSports, has sent to the media a fantastic quality Video News Release of their events. Just like the big-time, ball and stick sports do!

The videos are very well done, and, in improving with technology, the quality of the video is really great.

Second - they send out a tremendous amount of data that helps people like us (media) to share with you, and help tell a better story about the event.

It's very informative! Who's won at the track being used that weekend before? Who's been a first time winner there? Which brand has won the most races there?

We feel our job is to get the word out about the races as best as we can. And what does that do? Hopefully it makes you want to get out to the races and watch! Buy a program! Get a t-shirt! And then maybe go out and buy a new bike during the week!

Here's a perfect example - look at this page:
http://www.supercross.com/race-results/ama-motocross/1941-round-9-ama-motocross-series-new-berlin-ny-august-15-2009

Towards the bottom, you'll see all the statistical information provided to us by MXSports. And then look at the video - great production, great quality. Tells the story in a 'news' fashion .... again, just like big time professional sports do.

And the third thing - every Friday, before the day of the race, they've assembled various teams together to come into their Media Center just to interview with the media. The riders aren't there to do anything else. It's really nice. A lot of times, when you want to talk to a rider about something, they are just too busy, or on their way somewhere, or have another responsibility. This is a time specially set aside for the media, which helps us to help you.

We think it's a win-win-win, and we'd like to acknowledge somebody and something when it's well done.

Well done!

A

Amanda previews the 2009 Motocross of Nations (and video)

2009-08-27T23:18:15Z

My last big 'adventure' was X Games 15 in Los Angeles. My next big 'adventure' will be the Motocross of Nations in Italy. I can't wait .... I'll be leaving in less than five weeks for Europe!

Last year, I was lucky to be able to help with doing TV work for the Youthstream organization with about half of the Motocross Grand Prix events, and the Motocross of Nations. It was truly a dream come true, and a lifetime of experiences - all packed into a few months. In total, I made 22 trips back and forth to various countries. I went to Holland, Belgium, Germany, the Czech Republic, France, South Africa, Sweden, Monaco, England, Spain ... and a couple of them more than once.

One thing really sticks out in my mind though, and that is the Motocross of Nations. It's unique - like no other motocross race in the world during the year. There is no big prize money to win. No real individual honors. It's probably not in any riders' contracts' that they must race in it. But anyone with a heart, if chosen, would race. Why? To be the best! Ideally it is the three best riders from each country, competing as a team - for your country!

The real prize? It's called 'The Chamberlain Trophy'. It's a massive, not overly attractive trophy .... but if you are in to moto, it's the most attractive trophy in the world : )

This year's edition of the Motocross of Nations is in Italy. (And yes, you can include me in the group of people that wishes the name would be changed back to Motocross des Nations!). Guess when the Motocross of Nations was last held in Italy? Did you guess the year I was born? Then you'd be correct! 1986! And guess who was the promoter of that event? Did you guess the President of Youthstream? Then you'd be correct! Mr. Giuseppe Luongo! (Giuseppe and Youthstream are the current promoter of both the World Motocross Championship series, and the Motocross of Nations.) Hey Giuseppe - when did you start putting on these races - when you were about 16 years old??? : ) 1986? I can't believe it! You were just a kid!

And guess who won that Motocross des Nations in 1986 in Italy? Did you guess the USA? You'd be correct! It was the 'Dream Team' of David Bailey, Ricky Johnson, and Johnny O'Mara.

I have not been to Europe at all this year. But I can tell you - I am very excited to be going back. It's the frickin' Motocross des .... errrrrr ....... Motocross of Nations! I can't wait!

But there is more to it than that. I'm happy that I'll be able to see a lot of my friends and former co-workers, some that I have not seen since Motocross of Nations in England last year.

I'm also happy because I will have three jobs for this year's Motocross of Nations. Two are my 'normal' jobs of interviewing for Supercross.com's short video news updates, and doing my blog of what my experiences there are like .... But I'll have a new job too - I'll be taking photos!

I think this year's Motocross of Nations could be one of the best races yet. There are so many talented teams ... I think you will see the winner come from one of these countries ... although there is a reason they do line up and race - to find out who the best is!

Germany has names like Max Nagl and Ken Roczen ... Belgium has 'sensation' Clement Desalle. Look at the 'home' team, Italy: they are stacked with former (and maybe brand new!) Motocross World Champion Tony Cairoli. How about Australia? Chad Reed and Brett Metcalfe are racing almost every week in the AMA National Motocross Championshp series ..... France has a strong team that includes potential 2009 MX2 World Motocross Champion Marvin Musquin ..... and let's not forget the defending champions - Team USA, which will be Ivan Tedesco, Ryan Dungey, & Jake Weimer, managed by Mr. Roger De Coster.

It's going to be quite a battle for that Chamberlain Trophy!

In the video here, you'll see some of my fondest memories of recent Motocross of Nations, and some of the people that made them special to me.

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And here, courtesy of Youthstream, is the 1986 Italian Motocross des Nations team's comments regarding the upcoming Motocross of Nations returning to their home country the weekend of October 3 & 4. The riders? Michele Rinaldi, Corrado Maddii and Massimo Contini.

Rinaldi rode in the 250cc class, Maddii the 500cc machine, and Contini the 125. They finished third on the podium behind USA and Great Britain.

Was it a honor for you to race in that Motocross des Nations in your home country in 1986?

RINALDI: I felt honored and proud to race an event where I was representing my country, the event was very important for me, and I was hoping to be called by the Federation to join the team. I realized it was one of those races where I had to perform well not for myself but for the others, in this case I had to do it for Italy!

MADDII: It has always been an honor. Ours is an individual sport, so when you are capable of racing in a team "for real" it's fantastic. Being a rider and representing my country is a honor and a privilege.

CONTINI: Sure that was a honor, we know that motocross is an individual sport, but racing for your country at the Motocross of Nations adds that extra bit which makes it unique. You feel a real team spirit, or at least that was what I felt. It was also an occasion to race against the fastest riders in the world, such as the Americans.

What do you remember most of that race at the Maggiora circuit?

RINALDI: Of course I remember all of it, the Nations in Italy was one of the most important races in the history of the event. Back then the track at Maggiora was one of the most beautiful and spectacular tracks we had in Italy. It was also good for the spectators, they had a great view of the track. The event was very competitive - Italy got a good result while the USA got an extraordinary win and destroyed the opposition. It was a good race for the public for sure. It was good for Team USA and Team Italy as well. What a great event it was!

MADDII: The crowd. There were so many people, maybe the venue was not the biggest on earth but really, it was so packed, it was impossible to move around. We could not even see the grandstands or any other area, everything was just covered with people.

CONTINI: The Americans, Bailey, O’Mara and Johnson did impress me. I was looking at O’Mara especially, we were racing in the same class (125cc) and I noticed I was not so far from him in the qualifying, our lap times were not very different on Saturday.

The race was another story, it was tough. I also remember the venue was packed, I had never seen that many people at a motocross race and I remember their support, in my second heat the fans were supporting me and that was fantastic.

Which was the Nation to beat in 1986?

RINALDI: America was the nation to beat, they had the best riders, the strongest team, their point of view on motocross was more technical and different from ours then. The idea of beating them was actually taboo for us – and I think also for the other Europeans. Making a team of three good riders in America was a lot easier than doing it in Italy. Most Italian riders were almost at my level, and that was not the level of O’Mara, Bailey and Johnson.

MADDII: I remember the Americans being the guys to beat, their riding style was so different, so particular, at that time it was even more impressive. It was news. I remember Johnny O’Mara on-board the 125, he was just a rocket, he was too fast. I was there to race, but I enjoyed watching them ride.

CONTINI: America was one, but not the only one. Belgium, Holland, Great Britain, many nations were strong, not only America. Though the Americans were the news, their riding style was different, they were coming from far away, I think they had something special which made us think "We cannot beat them".

Were you happy with the result you got?

RINALDI: That was a great result, we made it to third on the podium, we did not win motos, but being at Maggiora, on our home soil, the value of the result was twice as much.

MADDII: In those years a podium was a top result. The Federation was happy, our goal was the podium, and we made it. It was a good race for us, one of the best results ever for Italy in the Nations.

CONTINI: A podium is always a podium, and it is a good result. It was not possible to do better, I think we all did our best and we did the job. With so many strong nations taking part in the event the competition was stiff, it was extremely difficult to be on the podium, and this adds value to our result.

How was the team spirit in 1986? Did you team up alright with the other riders?

RINALDI: It was always good. When we gathered to race the Nations the spirit was always good. At that time it was me, Maddii and Contini, but I think it was going to be good even with other riders. Everyone was determined to race well for the country.

MADDII: I never had any issues with the other riders, even though we were racing in the same class and fighting. Sure, when we were on the bike we fought tooth and nail, but once we were off the bike there was a good relationship. This is motocross. This was the only occasion for a rider, who normally races individually even though he is part of a racing team, to feel an actual team spirit. Normally in the races a rider’s intention is finishing ahead of everyone else, but in this race the team comes first.

CONTINI: I think the team spirit helped to get the podium, and also the opportunity of representing your country gave us a further boost. I have always had good relations with Maddii and Rinaldi, I mean, we were not friends because we were rivals during the Motocross Championship season, but we could get along well with each other.

Do you think Italy this year can win in 2009? If not, which position do you think Italy can get in 2009?

RINALDI: The result will depend on the track’s characteristics. For sure it is not a typical Italian track with many elevation changes and hard pack. In this type of race the Italians will have no particular advantages, but we have three very strong riders. I think they can get a good result but this will depend also on how the riders will face the event, because it is not sure that everyone comes to the event with the same mentality.

MADDII: I am Italian, and as every Italian - I hope for our national team to take the win in Franciacorta. Honestly, I believe Italy can surely take a podium finish, but America is still the team to beat. Looking back at 2007 and 2008, America absolutely dominated, they were impressive.

CONTINI: Well, winning is always difficult, but it is always possible as well. The team can surely make it to the podium, and has some chances of victory, we just have to wait and see what the others will do too!

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And then, from Geoff Meyer of MXLarge, here is an interview with the track designer for this year's Motocross of Nations event, Greg Atkins.

The circuit for this year’s Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations will be once again well prepared. Just as in recent years the layout will favor great racing and this year’s circuit, set for Italy on October 3 & 4 is looking to not only bring great racing, but also perfect viewing for the large crowd expected.

Youthstream track director Greg Atkins is in charge of making sure we have a special circuit, and he gave me the feeling he is right on track.

Q: Greg, can you give us some information about what the circuit will be like?

Atkins: Okay, basically for the Red Bull FIM Motocross of Nations this year the circuit is in a road racing complex. It's a small modern facility, many permanent structures that will be used for the event. The area is very tidy, the circuit will have a full arena effect, with natural grandstanding, and those banks are about 25 to 30 meters high, also a good angle to sit on for everyone. You will be able to see the whole race from one spot. Spectators will be around the outside of the circuit, similar to Matterly Basin. We have set up a lot of elevation for the crowd, so viewing will be perfect.

Q: How is the dirt, will it be typical Italian hard pack, or American style?

Atkins: The dirt is a loamy texture, but we have also transported around 400,000 cubic meters of soil into the area, to try and give us a good elevation. The first stage is completed, the second stage was started a few weeks ago and we are prepping the soil. The soil will be worked on half a meter deep. As I mentioned the soil will be loamy, mixed with wood chips and we will also have a sand section. It won't be hard pack at all, only the jump bases will be a little hard obviously.

Q: What else can we expect?

Atkins: It will have one or two off chamber corners, some bowl corners, some really good air-time table tops, some technical sections, but it will also favor the European guys. We will also have the waves and other regular stuff. It won't favor any nation at all - it will be good for everyone.

Q: How about if it rains?

Atkins: It will have water system fitted if it is dry and the circuit is elevated, so if it rains it will all drain away. The guy who is running the event is clued up, he has a huge machinery company, so he has everything you need to make this area of the event work. We also have big pits (holes) to hold a lot of water if it rains a lot, good draining for sure.

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OK, .... that's all for now. I expect to see you all there! The race track is:
Autodromo di Franciacorta "Daniel Bonara", Località Bargnana; 25030 Castrezzato; Brescia, Italy

Be there!

A

The Chamberlain Trophy

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Amanda's moto overview of ESPN's X Games 15

2009-08-05T19:22:45Z

The Supercross.com team headed to Los Angeles for the phenomenon that is ESPN’s X Games 15 this past week. I'm lucky, in that I have the freedom to run around and try to cover whatever I deem most important for Supercross.com's fans. Was I able to cover everything? No - it's just about impossible! It's that big of an event! And it's held at two different venues - The Home Depot Center, and The Staples Center - sometimes with events going on simultaneously!

Let me tell you - the X Games literally took over LA! It was amazing to see how many people this phenomenal media & entertainment adventure, along with all the competition & athletes, brings into the city!

And speaking of people, the amount of talent that is in one venue at one time is a crazy to thing about! Not only are the X Games competing athletes themselves in town, but so are lots of others, including surfers, snowboarders, wake boarders, motor sports guys … and all kinds of celebrities, stars, and other athletes. They all have a blast watching the X Games live, and are truly in awe of the competitors and what they do!

X Games disciplines this year focused on Skate, BMX, Rally, Freestyle, Step-up, Supercross, Supermoto, Best whip, and maybe a couple others. And every athlete involved focused on their chance at X Games GOLD!

The action kicked off on Thursday at the Staples Center. There we saw some of the top names in the Moto world compete in Step-up and Best Whip. It was great to see Jeremy MC McGrath, and the GOAT, Ricky Carmichael, along side each other competing yet again in Step-up. And seeing Josh Grant (Supercross winner in Anaheim earlier this year) compete in his first Best Whip competition.

Let me say right here … we have five pages of stuff you’ll want to look at too. On the photo pages, you'll see all the name you love - McGrath, Carmichael, Stewart, Pastrana, Windham, Grant, Hansen, Fiolek, and more!

ALL the results from everything X Games is here at this link

All of our feature photos from Day 1 are here

All of our feature photos from Day 2 are here

All of our feature photos from Day 3 are here

All of our feature photos from Day 4 are here

Friday was a big day at X Games 15! “Best trick” is one of the most highly anticipated events for us moto enthusiasts. Athletes plan all year long to go into this competition with logic defying tricks, mixed with a little insanity. Speaking of insanity …

Every year Mr. Travis Pastrana comes into X Games with the intent to push the envelope. And this year he was going to do it with a trick that no one has tried before: A Flip, spin variation. It was named (by Travis himself!) The 720 Corkscrew.

Unfortunately the trick wasn’t a success and Travis fell 40 ft from the air and required medical attention. It was not pretty. But it was Travis!

Quote from Travis “We are already flipping and spinning, so the next step is combining the two. The last six months I have put a huge focus on this. However, in the last 20 or 30 that I’ve tried to do I’ve just lost the trick. I over-rotated the flip. I had so much flip that when it came time to spin I had to stop because of the momentum and landed on my side.”

Maybe he will try it again next year???

Kyle Loza ended up taking the Gold with his incredible trick. On top of that, Kyle made X Games history by taking the first ever third straight Best Trick WIN!

Saturday brought a lot more Moto action to X Games with Supermoto, Super X and Freestyle, all taking place at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.

The action started with the highly anticipated Supermoto final. Mark Burkhart (the 2007 Gold medalist) came into the event as the favorite, but ended up taking second to European Supermoto racer, Ivan Lazzarinini, who almost raced a flawless race.

Super X (Supercross) was next and after finding out James Stewart wasn’t going to be competing due to an injured shoulder during Supermoto practice, the rider everyone felt was the guy to beat was Josh Grant, of the Joe Gibbs Yamaha racing team.

In the first heat Josh had bike troubles and had to bail off his bike while it was in the air. He landed straight on his feet and collapsed like a rag doll. When he was able to move he crawled to the side of the track, … but it was clear to everyone something was severely wrong with his feet.

Right now, we know that JG is in two soft casts and seeing one of the best foot and ankle doctors available. He will be out for the rest of the Outdoor MX season and Motocross of Nations. Get Well soon JG!

As the gate dropped for the 20 lap Supercross Main Event, the 12 riders gave it all they had! Jeremy McGrath almost grabbed the hole shot and found himself in second place a few laps in! Kevin Windham was the early leader, and Josh Hansen in the top five.

Half way into the race Hansen looked like he had the track down like clockwork and was gaining time on everyone! After his second hard attempt attacking Kevin Windham, he passed Windham for the lead! Josh ended up winning by eight seconds, and he took home his second X Games Gold medal in a row in Supercrossl! What’s up Josh?!?!? : )

Josh said right after his victory “This is really just a dream come true. I can’t thank Mitch Payton enough for this.”

The last discipline of the day was Freestyle, The top four contestants all had a couple of slip ups, so whoever was going to take the win was going to earn it by doing something special. Fan favorite Nate Adams had an embarrassing spill on his first run by crashing right off the entrance ramp. It seemed all the competitors were pretty nervous. However “Twitch” felt confident about his chances. He started off fairly strong with a 43, but made a couple small mistakes in his second run and scored a 38. Luckily, Stenberg was the most consistent rider, which gathered him a Silver medal. But the ‘sickest’ guy out there and the Gold Medal winner for 2009? Blake Williams!

Sunday was Rally cars! And what a great competition to watch! Cars flying in the air, parts flying off, and Travis Pastrana! Travis is undoubtedly the crowd favorite – almost anywhere he goes! In the X Games Rally car 2009, he ended up taking second after a crash in the last turn. TP was still was a great sport and high-fived the winning driver – Kenny Brack from Sweden!

I sure hope you got a chance to watch some or all of the X Games live on ESPN!

And I’m already looking forward to X Games 16 in 2010!

A

p.s. Don’t forget – here’s five more sections of stuff from X Games you’ll want to see – especially the photos!

ALL the results from everything X Games is here at this link

All of our feature photos from Day 1 are here

All of our feature photos from Day 2 are here

All of our feature photos from Day 3 are here

All of our feature photos from Day 4 are here

And you can follow major news on Supercros.com via Twitter - http://twitter.com/supercross.com

Here is the the 'track' before the Freestyle Motocross at The Home Depot Center

DC Shoes was nice enough to let me into their hospitality area to watch the Freestyle Motocross!

Supercross and Motocross are not a sport for everyone

2009-07-09T22:06:30Z

"If it were easy to race motocross and supercross, everyone would do it."

"You gotta' be tough to race dirt bikes."

"Chicks dig scars ... and I got a ton of them."

"That race was like going 12 rounds with Lennox Lewis."

All of us that follow supercross and motocross have heard sayings like the ones above. Either from the top pros we follow, or your neighbor down the street that's revving his bike as loud as possible after washing it and replacing the air filter.

How tough is it to really race supercross and motocross? From the perspective of a novice to the sport, they are probably thinking "It can't be that hard - they just sit on the motorcycle and ride." But for those of us that ride, and race, we know how brutal it is ... how hard it is. Heck, I get arm pump sometimes after 2 laps on a mini!

And think of the professional riders. It's probably off-the-charts for them. Not only it is their job, they are truly fighting for positions. Have you ever been behind a 450f, getting a face full of dirt? Even with a chest protector on, it's like bullets hitting you straight on.

There is a pressure for top professional riders to perform. The pressure comes from within - they can put it on themselves. But it also comes from wanting to perform for their teams, their sponsors, their friends, and their families - they don't want to let any of them down.

Of course, as those of us that ride now, there is a physical factor for the pros. 35 minutes is a long time for working at maximum physical exertion. And what happens when you get tired? You start to make mistakes! Your brain knows it! And that leads to mental factor. You have to be tough mentally too. Racing at the top level is just as much mental as it is physical!

As I look at the current AMA Motocross season so far at the halfway point, I see a trend that disturbs me. The almost week in-week out schedule that the current pros have, starting with the first weekend in January, could be a source of some of the plague of injuries.

The list of riders out right now, or riders with at least some physical ailment is alarming. And costly.

Ryan Villopoto - out with knee injury/surgery. He certainly was a top contender for the 450 Motocross Championship.

Mike Alessi - out with a different type of knee injury/surgery. He was a contender for the 450 Motocross Championship.

Chad Reed - current 450 Motocross points leader - dealing with some sort of stomach ailment.

Trey Canard - 2008 AMA 250 East Lites Supercross Champion - out with a broken arm.

Tyla Rattray - 2008 MX2 World Motocross Champion - out with a broken thumb.

Christophe Pourcel - current 250 Motocross points leader - dealing with stomach ailments as well.

Tim Ferry - Factory Monster Kawasaki - in and out of the series because of various injuries.

Broc Hepler - factory Yamaha - out for the season with a concussion suffered back in May.

And these are only some of the top riders that I've listed above, and that I'm fully aware of. I'm sure that there are other riders out there that have similar issues. And I would almost guarantee that just about every rider is riding with soreness, bumps, bruises, cuts, and other various 'ailments'.

I talked with a few of the older, retired top professional supercross and motocross champions, and 7-time AMA Champion Rick Johnson summed it up best:

"We used to have off and on weeks. Maybe we'd race two or three weeks in a row, then have a week or two off. We'd have some years where maybe we'd have 24 'important' races to do in a calendar year. And we'd have an 'off-season' to recoup physically and mentally. Same for the motocross Grand Prix series. In today's era, a lot of the guys are racing year round. It's not healthy.

I think Jeremy McGrath was the first to realize both the body and mind need a rest. He went to supercross-only. That's smart on him! I think James Stewart is doing a smart thing by taking some time off now as well. It's just a simple fact - you can't continue to beat yourself up all year long, and expect to always perform at peak performance. Look at other sports - they have off-seasons.

Today's riders, and yesterday's riders, are always riding with bumps and bruises. It's the usual suspects that get injured - ankles, knees, shoulders, fingers, hands, wrists. We really needed to have those off weekends to recover. Today, there really isn't any time off. It's a brutal, brutal sport. Look at any of the top guys - they are lucky if they reach the ten year mark in performing at the very top level. Most careers are much shorter.

When you ride and practice and race week-in and week-out, and you have those small injuries, it start to play on both your riding style (because you'll adjust depending on what's hurting) and it also starts to play mind games with you (Will I be able to perform how I want to this weekend???)."

It seems that this season has been as tough as any. "Tough" being the key word! : )

But of course, let's balance this theme. We still have a tremendously competitive series in the USA, and the GP's are in full swing also. It's exciting and entertaining. I think in all four major classes (250 and 450 in both AMA Nationals and MXGP) we will end up with four brand new class champions! Not bad! And we have tons of newcomers coming up - which is exciting to see too. Which one will someday rise to the level of a James Stewart or Chad Reed? We'll see!

I did ask some others in the industry what their thoughts are on 2009 MX so far ...

Nate Adams - X Games Gold Medalist - I think the outdoor season in AMA MX is the most exciting it has been in years. I Tivo'd the Colorado round and have been watching it over n' over! Those guys were swappin' postions till the very last lap, and we just haven't been seeing enough of that lately. Soooo many top guys can run the pace right now. Look at Dungey and Pourcel sometimes - they can't even get through the field if they get a bad start! It's sweet! The 250 class is especially exciting. Without Stewart in the 450s, that's seemed to keep the battles up front closer as well. Huge respect to all those dudes though in both classes, bad dudes for sure!

Michael Sleeter - 450 privateer - I think the new one day program and much better TV package has been a great step in making the program not drag out so long. The racing has been great and the drama has been high, so all in all how could it be any better?

Ryan Fedorow - MX Trainer - I think the AMA National Motocross Series has provided a great opportunity for the underdogs to make a name for themselves. On the other hand, the plague of injuries for the favs is a bummer for the fans, and our industry. The fans want to see their fav rider winning and they pay to see a good show.

Andy Donahue - Shock Doctor - What may have started out to be a run away season that may not have played out very unpredictable, now has amounted to a battle each and every week. Both classes each week could be anyone's game. Saturday races, amazing venues and a STACKED field. I think we are going to have one of the best surprising seasons we've seen since before Ricky Carmichael went out with his knee injury when he was on Honda.

Tyla Rattray - Team Pro Circuit racer, 2008 World MX2 Motocross Champion - The season and tracks have been good. The organizers do an awesome job on the tracks! I injured my thumb at the last race so I probably have to miss the next two rounds. But I'll be back soon!

Donny Emler, Jr. - FMF Racing - I think this season has been great for spectators, great racing a lot of different winners and championships up for grabs. Unfortunately injuries are a part of motocross and it's never fun to watch people get hurt but this is shaping up to come down to the wire!

Mike Metzger - The Godfather of Freestyle Motocross - With Ryan Villopoto out with an injury the 450 Motocross championship title could become anyone's. With the riders pushing themselves and their machines to a level most have never ridden, there may not be anyone left at the last round! Believe me, every top racer is on the ragged edge week in and week out. It's a race pace they know will put them in the hospital with any small mistake. There is nothing more hardcore than MOTO-CROSS!

Denny Stephenson - Former Arenacross Champion, Representative of Connexions - This has definitely been a strange year for injuries. Supercross is notorious for being injury filled but this year we saw a long relatively healthy season of racing. But now the Motocross season has lost a number of riders to injuries. I think it looks even more dramatic losing three title contenders in Villopoto, Alessi and Canard. At the end of the day, the bikes of today are incredibly powerful machines and they can put you on your butt quickly whether it be SX or MX. 2009 we just happened to see it happen more in the outdoors. Next year? Who knows?

Malcolm McCassy - Personality, FMF, Ethika and NOHo - This has been one of the most exciting, and unpredictable starts to a season I've seen in while. I hate to see any of the riders get hurt, but it is motocross, one of the most physically demanding sports in the world. Props to every racer out there, because to me I can't pull out one rider that isn't putting his blood, sweat, & tears into every moto. It was great to see Ivan Tedesco get his win at Thunder Valley, with Andrew Short following. I love Reedy racing outdoors too! I was so stoked when I got a phone call with the good news Josh Grant won Red Bud! Grant is such a cool kid, he reminds me a lot of one of close friends, and favorite riders - Jeremy McGrath. Motocross fans are getting a big treat right now, talent is all-time, and I personally look forward to every race.

Casey Johnson - Former Motocross & Supercross, currently a Rider Trainer - If you've ever thrown your leg over a dirtbike then you know the thrill and adrenaline you get from riding. It's all fun until you crash and get injured but hey that's the risk riders are willing to take. Take for example this years outdoor season with the two top 450 guys getting hurt while they were leading the ama outdoor series. Getting injured is something that happens to everyone who rides and it's not a matter of if you crash it's when.With Villipoto and alessi out it has opened the door for some riders like Ivan (hot sauce) Tedesco and Andrew (Mr. Consistency) Short to step up and make this a 3 way battle with the yellow 22 bike we all know as Chad Reed. The racing has been great and if Josh Grant can keep it on two wheels every weekend expect him to be stealing alot more overalls as well. As for now we will just have to sit back and watch to see who will take home the 450 AMA Lucas oils National Motocross Championship. Who do you think will win?

Travis Clarke - Sports Management/Athlete Representation - It seems like the year of the Red Plate Curse, as whoever has been leading the Championship standings has gotten hurt. Very different from last year, where James Stewart dominated every round. It's made for some much better racing since you never know who is going to win!

Ryan Dungey - Factory Suzuki rider, contented in the 250 Motocross class, and 2009 West Coast Supercross Champion - I think that this year the 250 class is stacked with talent. It's great to have though cause it makes good racing and it makes you want it that much more. I think it makes you stay on top of your game because at any moment there's someone right there waiting for you to make a mistake. With each year the pace gets faster and you don't have time to take a breather, so its intense and makes for good racing!

A

My Trip to Joe Gibbs Racing!

2009-07-01T22:08:37Z

Lucky me, I got to go visit the Joe Gibbs Racing facility in North Carolina. As you probably know, Joe Gibbs is an incredibly well-respected man in America, because of his success in so many areas of life and sport and business. He's coached NFL Superbowl winning teams, started successful NASCAR teams, has tremendous relationships in business .... and two seasons ago, along with son Coy, started his foray into the world of supercross and motocross.

Their race shop is known in motorcycling. Known for being the biggest and the best!

I was lucky enough to be invited for a visit, and, it also coincided with top supercross / motocross rider Josh Grant's birthday!

Here we go!

Denny Hamlin's race car being worked on in the Joe Gibbs race shop.

Coy Gibbs shows us how to fix a NASCAR frame after a little race rubbing!

Think this shop can be any cleaner? It is immaculate!
Oh .. wait ... I think a see some a speck of dust! Somebody get a broom! : )

I'd love to walk into this race shop everyday! And ..... mmmmmmm .... M & Ms!

FMF was kind enough to send JG (Josh Grant) this awesome Happy Birthday Banner as a surprise!
Josh was so pumped & his step dad almost cried when we opened it up. (I actually saw a tear!)
FMF - you rock!

Josh tries to re-enact his Anahiem 1 Supercross win pose!
Behind him was the limo that took all of us to Red Rock, a very popular restaurant in the NASCAR / JGR MX town!

I wonder what this bad boy cost!?!?!

The Life (and house) of a NASCAR Driver! So many houses in this area are incedibly beautiful!

Josh was shocked at all the birthday plans his friends came up with! He was thumbs up all night!
From the left; Rico, JG and me

An inside peek of what the NASCAR drivers race in. Can't be claustrophobic in this sport!

Here is a shot of Kyle new car. All stripped down and ready for some mechanic lovin'!

Joey sits right here! Pretty cool!

Me & Cody Cooper. Can you tell I'm the one on the right? : )
Cody is team-mates with Josh on the Joe Gibbs racing team.
Cody celebrated Josh's birthday with us. Fun fact, not only are Josh and Cody team-mate, they are very close friends!

Wouldn't you love your accomplishments to be displayed like this?

Almost done with body work. Close to be brought to the track! NASCAR is very fascinating.

Ummm .... where are the wheels?!

Big enough?

FMF, Skull Candy, Ethika and Metel Mulisha sent Josh some fun Birthday presents!

All dressed up and ready to go! Happy 23rd birthday Josh Grant!
Left to right; Me, JG, Tyler (long time friend) Frobe (step dad) "Turtle", Rico

Ron From The Red Rock gifts a bottle of Crystal to every NASCAR driver after a win.
One of the perks of being on the Joe Gibbs Race Team: After winning the Anahiem 1 Supercross
Ron had a botlte waiting for JG. And he had it ready as we walked in!
Silly Supercross / Motocross racer didnt know what to do with it ... JG opened up the bottle,
shook it and sprayed it all over his friends and family! Great!
The staff at the restaurant wasn't quite sure what to do either : )

L - R: Alex (JGs best friend & mechanic) JG, "Turtle", Tyler, Frobe, me

All-in-all, my trip to North Carolina was an A+! I got to celebrate my friend's birthday ... do some sight seeing,
and take a tour of the world famous Joe Gibbs Race shop! Thank you to everyone who made my trip possible!

Now when can I come back and take a NASCAR rig out?!?

A

PS: I'd like to wish a very special Birthday to my dear friend Bonee T! Hope this year is the best one yet girl! I love you!

If you Twitter and like a little comedy ... follow BonBon at http://twitter.com/BoneeBelle79

Behind the Scenes with Travis Pastrana & Nitro Circus!

2009-06-17T08:00:00Z

Behind the scene's with Travis Pastrana's Nitro Circus

On Monday night I got a call from my friend Malcolm McCassy. He said "Hey I'm leaving around 4am tomorrow with my girlfriend and Rico to head to Lake Havasu. Nitrro Circus is filming and I need to hook everyone up with some Ethika Underwear. Wanna come?"

It took me a whole two seconds before I responded with a "HECK YEAH DUDE!!" I knew right away this trip was going to be fun. I mean what more can you ask for during the middle of the week for fun? Great friends, road trip, Havasu and NITRO CIRCUS! So I quickly packed up a couple outfits, grabbed some sun-block and a swimsuit .... slept for about 20 minutes, woke up at 3 am, then drove over to my friend Rico's house, dragged him out of bed, and said "Let's Go!"

We blasted the music as loud as we could, and we were on our way! With big smiles on our faces.

Those smiles didn't last long though - BOOM - we hit a big nail in the road at high speed and my tire went flat..... and my tire started going flat! OH MAN .... What do we do? I want to go to Havasu ... I want to see Nitro Circus!

Rico saved the day with a bottle of Fix a Flat! YESSsssssssssss! On the road again we go!!!!

We made it to Havasu in less then 4 hours. Rico was a speed racer! After arriving at the hotel and meeting up with Malcolm and his awesome girlfriend Christine we put on our swim suits and went on the hunt to find the Nitro Circus crew. We couldn't wait to see what crazy stunts they had in store for the show!

After what felt like an hour we finally walked upon the set of where the guys were filming! They were out on a boat and we were stuck on the beach! Hmmmmmmmmmmm ...... what do we do now? AH HA! I got it! I picked up the phone and called my friend Brandy Leach who works at Eliminator Boats. With in one hour Brandy 'Hooked a Sista'' up with a 29 Foot Deck Boat fully loaded! She even had her friend Ross there to drive us around. I couldn't help but think I needed to wake up from a dream. Nitro Circus, great friends, Havasu, and an amazing Eliminator DECK BOAT! SCORE. Of course after talking to Brandy I insisted she join us, ... how could she resist? She hoped in her car and began making the 4 hour drive asap! I couldn't wait to see her!

While waiting for Ross and our PIMP Daddy Eliminator Boat, we stepped into the Turtle to take a picture.

Malcolm had some time to get his Ethika Underwear out and pic out the best ones for each guy. Just in time too, 'cuz guess who showed up as we were hanging out? The whole Cast and Crew. It was lunch time!

After their lunch break we all hoped in the boats, and Travis Pastrana took a look at the Eliminator and was already thinking things up in his head that he could do with such a fast boat. I was scared to ask what he was planning!

We take off and begin to head to the location where they are shooting. And once the boat hit about 50 mph TP looks at me then gets up and JUMPS OUT! Yup! Right off the side!!! I looked at Ross, who was driving the boat, and he didn't know what to think! He probably thought "Who are these kids? They are nuts!"

LOL ... after picking up our MAN OVERBOARD we were back in action, headed to see what kind of shanegins these guys were up to. I would have never guessed what i saw next! The biggest Slip 'n Slide u can imagine covered in soap and KY jelly. At the end of the Slip 'n Slid was a ramp that would launch them into the water!

They suited up with helmets and funny outfits, grabbed a floaty of some sort and got in line and ready to hit the Slip 'n Slide.

You may be thinking "Slip 'n Slide? That's not so crazy!" I certainly thought all these guys were pretty much crazh, and I thought "this was NITRO CIRCUS!?!"

But please forgive me, ... I failed to mention a small detail, Each Cast member had to lay down at the beginning of the slide, Grap onto a bungy cord ... and hold on for deal life - because a big ol' boat would now be launching them into the Lake. (Ha ha ha!)

Watching them was so much fun. And the tricks and outfits they wore were very funny as well. You are going to have to watch Nitro Circus all of next season, because I'm not sure when the Havasu episode will air.

After a long day of shooting, and a hard day of watching them as I worked on my tan and photography skills, I called over X Games Front flip tryer-outer and Downhill Pro Mountain Biker Jim DeChamp to the boat and asked for a Sea Doo ride! I put a life jacket on, jumped on the the back and held on for dear life. I had no idea what would come next!

As the three boats already out on the lake that were filled with Nitro Circus Cast & Crew were heading back to home base, Jim and I sped up. To try and keep up! Getting right up next to the boats we started jumping the wakes, and we were getting some good air!

Now what I thought was a little dangerous yet extremely fun, Jim probably thought was boring. He is after all a cast member to the Craziest stunt show on TV! Almost like clockwork he tells me to hold on tight as we pin it up to the other boats, which are side by side, and going fast. We speed up past them, flip a U turn and head straight towards them - like a game of chicken! I screamed and tried to not close my eyes! WTF was he doing!???! Just as I thought I made the worst decision even in my life by jumping on the back of that Sea Doo (and starting saying my prayers), we squeeze right in-between the two on-coming boats and jump the biggest wake of the day! We GOT SOOOOO HIGH!

I wanted to smack Jim in the head for not warning me we were playing Chicken, .... but I didn't. Instead, I thanked him and wanted to do it again!!!! The whole cast were cheering us on and clapping, saying "OMG, that was big!" I hope they got a good shot of it on camera!

I got back to home base (The Turtle) just in time to meet up with Brandy, and gave her a big hug to thank her and her company for bringing out an Elimnator Boat for us!

The next day, the stunts for the Nitro Circus show with Travis Pastrana and crew got even bigger and better. (Although Im not allowed to tell you about them, but the pictures might give you a little clue. Maybe!)

I'd like to thank Nitro Circus for letting us come hang out .... Eliminator Boats for the awesome ride and for pulling around the Nitro guys all week ..... Ethika Underwear, ..... and Malcolm and Rico for talking me into coming along. What a great mid-week adventure!

A

You figure it out!

Travis Pastrana - man overboard!