Global Rallycross Announces New Class

LOS ANGELES, CA – May 6, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Global Rallycross (GRC) is pleased to announce GRC Lites, a new rallycross class that will support the series’ wildly popular Supercars class at all US races in 2013.

“We want to provide a place for our next generation of star drivers,” said GRC Founder Chip Pankow . “The GRC Lites class is the perfect training ground for any driver who wants to get started in rallycross and it will provide them exposure to all of our fans.”

GRC Lites is a tightly controlled “spec” class, designed with an emphasis on driver skill. Built by top rallycross preparer OlsbergsMSE, Lites produce just over half the power of the top Supercar vehicles and are designed to be more manageable for developing star drivers.

Global Rallycross Supercar driver and reigning champion, Tanner Foust , has tested the GRC Lites car and commented, “The GRC Lites cars are a great addition to the Global Rallycross lineup. They’re challenging to drive yet incredibly capable cars that will carry as much speed as the supercars through some corners and the additional races on the track during the race day will certainly add to the entertainment factor for the fans.”

“The racing is going to be close, since all cars conform to the same specification, and driving talent will be the deciding factor in these races,” said OlsbergsMSE CEO Andreas Eriksson , who worked with GRC to develop the class. “There is no better place than GRC Lites competitions to learn the sport.”

GRC Lites cars are purpose-built racers that are fast, nimble, and exciting to watch. They are all-wheel drive and capable of handling the jumps, door-to-door combat and surface changes of a typical rallycross course. The class will run as a support series on the same courses as the Supercars at all US GRC events, with the Last Chance Qualifiers and Finals expected to run immediately before the main Supercar races.

“GRC Lites continues the growth of Global Rallycross and will provide the perfect venue for drivers to hone their rallycross skills in front of our thousands of spectators,” said GRC CEO Colin Dyne .

At the conclusion of the 2013 season, the GRC Lites series champion will be awarded a drive in an OlsbergsMSE Ford Fiesta ST Supercar and the top three finishers in the championship will receive a Supercar test with OlsbergsMSE.

Rallycross is a blend of circuit racing, off-road racing and rally competition. It promises intense, crowd-pleasing action in a fan-friendly track environment. As many as 10 drivers line up to start at once, piloting high-horsepower compact cars through race traffic over a challenging short course that features jumps, unbanked turns and changing track and surface conditions that can include dirt, gravel, and wet and dry tarmac.

GRC introduced the sport to the United States with the first event held at X Games in 2010. For the past two years, the series has been limited to top-spec Supercars, which are production-based, turbocharged, all-wheel drive vehicles that produce 600 horsepower and go 0-60 in two seconds. The OlsbergsMSE GRC Lites are the only other vehicles homologated for GRC competition.

Technical partners include AEM (electronics and engine controls), Motegi Racing (wheels), Mountune (engine), Avitas Motorsport (chassis and bodywork), Sadev (transmission and driveline components) and OlsbergsMSE.

Vehicle specifications
Engine	2.4 Liter Duratech built by Mountune/Olsbergs
Crankshaft	Forged steel
Pistons	Forged
Camshafts	Mountune/Olsbergs design and manufacture
Engine Management	AEM Infinity
Horsepower (bhp)	310
Torque (lb ft)	220
Transmission	Sadev BV5 4×4 Central Transaxle sequential
Gears	6 forward, 1 reverse
Driveshaft	Sadev
Propshaft	Sadev
Maximum torque (lb ft)	660
Brakes	Alcon 4-piston calipers with 330mm discs f + r
Handbrake	Sadev WRC version
Dampers	Ohlins TTX44 twin tube with Progressive Damping System
Wheels	Motegi Racing forged lightweight rallycross

 

About Global Rallycross

Global Rallycross combines the best aspects of circuit racing, off-road racing and rally competition to deliver intense action in a fan-friendly environment.  Global Rallycross pits production-based, small cars against each other for door-to-door racing featuring elements such as dirt, asphalt and jumps.  Drivers progress through a series of heat races to advance into a final race, where winner takes all.

About OlsbergsMSE

Olsbergs Motorsports Evolution is a leading automotive innovation company based in Nynashmn, Sweden, with operations in Huntington Beach, California. Led by Swedish rallycross champion Andreas Eriksson , OlsbergsMSE is recognized as one of the top rallycross outfits in the world. A respected front-running team in Europe, OMSE burst onto the United States competition circuit five years ago with its powerful, 600 horsepower rallycross Ford Fiestas and continues to revolutionize the sport with its aggressive technological advancement and professional operations. Fielding top drivers including Tanner Foust , Brian Deegan and Marcus Gronholm , the team has won the 2011 and 2012 Global Rallycross Championships since the sport of rallycross came to the United States and has finished in the top ranks at X Games every year since OlsbergsMSE debuted there in 2009.

Media Contact

For more information on Global Rallycross, please log on to www.global-rallycross.com. For all media requests, please contact Kate Osborne kosborne@global-rallycross.com. Check out Global Rallycross at facebook.com/globalrallycross and on twitter: @globalrallyx

 

SOURCE: Global Rallycross

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Arctiva’s Levi LaVallee Collects Two Gold Medals at Aspen X Games

ASPEN, CO – January 28, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Arctiva’s Levi LaVallee competed in two events over the weekend at the X Games in Aspen, Colo., earning gold medals in both the Snowmobile Freestyle and Snowmobile Speed and Style events. LaVallee looked poised to earn another two medals, but an injury to a muscle in his back kept him out of competition in the Snocross and Best Trick events.

Levi LaVallee

LaVallee started the weekend on a great note when he earned the first gold medal of the 2013 X Games in the Snowmobile Freestyle event on Thursday night. He then went on to dominate the competition in Speed and Style, which took place on Saturday, taking home another gold medal.

Levi LaVallee

LaVallee’s teammate and ISOC Pro Lite rider Jake Scott was able to qualify for the Snocross event on Saturday, eventually earning seventh in the final. Arctiva’s Johan Lidman also qualified for the Snocross final, finishing 10th.

Jake Scott

The second Winter X Games event will take place in Tignes, France starting March 20. The next ISOC Snocross round on the schedule will be held from February 1-2 in Deadwood, S.D.

About Arctiva

Dedicated to the sport of snowmobiling, Arctiva has invested countless hours to deliver premier performance outerwear and layering garments specifically for the snowmobile enthusiast. All Arctiva products use top quality materials and construction. That, coupled with innovative designing, makes for the most technical snowmobiling gear you can buy. So whether your ideal day is hauling the sleds north to your favorite trails, meeting up with the crew in the backcountry, or beating your best lap time at the snocross track, we’ve got you covered.

About Parts Unlimited

Parts Unlimited is the world’s largest distributor of aftermarket accessories in the powersports industry and is owned by LeMans Corporation headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin. Parts Unlimited sells to over 12,000 dealerships world wide and continues to expand its market penetration with its sister companies, Parts Canada, Parts Europe and Drag Specialties.

Parts Unlimited continues to promote racing through its campaign WE SUPPORT THE SPORT®, helping to drive consumers to dealerships, while entertaining its dealers through hospitalities at the events it sponsors.

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Polaris Snocross & Snowmobile Freestyle Star Levi Lavallee is Featured on X Games List of 50 Most Influential People in Action Sports

MEDINA, MN – January 4, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Polaris snocross racer and snowmobile freestyle star Levi LaVallee has been named one of the 50 Most Influential People in Action Sports on the ESPN X Games website. This puts him in the company of legendary action sports stars such as surfing champion Kelly Slater and motorsports star Travis Pastrana.

The honor comes just three weeks before LaVallee competes on his Team LaVallee Polaris IQ^® Race Sled in the 2013 X Games in Aspen, Colorado. LaVallee has won seven X Games medals in multiple snowmobile disciplines, including snocross racing, Speed & Style, Best Trick, Hillcross, Knock Out and freestyle.

LaVallee was listed as number 19 among the 50 top influencers honored on the X Games website (xgames.espn.go.com). The top three influencers listed were legendary surfing champion Kelly Slater (No. 1), motocross freestyle star Travis Pastrana (No. 2) and snowboard champion and Olympic gold medalist Shaun White (No. 3).

In the 2009 Winter X Games Snowmobile Best Trick competition, LaVallee cemented his place in action sports history by becoming the first person ever to attempt a double backflip on a snowmobile. He completed the two revolutions but was bucked off the seat of the sled upon landing.

He put his name into the action sports record book on New Year’s Eve 2011 when he soared across the San Diego Bay on a Polaris snowmobile and set a motorsports distance jump record of 412 feet.

Along with competing in the X Games, LaVallee is concentrating this winter on the ISOC Pro-class points race, where he is currently in the top 10. He won the circuit’s Pro Stock points championship in the 2008-2009 season, when he also finished third in Pro Open points and was named ISOC “Woody’s Racer of the Year.”

LaVallee has complemented his competition success with highly successful marketing of his personal brand, his sponsors and the race team he owns with Glenn Kafka, who is also LaVallee’s crew chief. LaVallee is extremely active on a variety of social media and was voted ISOC Fan Favorite of the Year in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Levi LaVallee Named Action Sports Influencer, cont.

The ISOC season resumes with Jan. 4-5 racing at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota.

About Polaris

Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry with annual 2011 sales of $2.7 billion. Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles (ORVs), including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER^® side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles and on-road electric/hybrid powered vehicles.

Polaris is among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles and has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with the Victory and Indian motorcycle brands. Additionally, Polaris continues to invest in the global on-road small electric/hybrid vehicle industry with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) and Goupil Industrie SA, and internally developed vehicles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.

Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII”, and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.

Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicles accessories is available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime at www.polaris.com.

 

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Pro Circuit Invading X Games LA 2012

CORONA, CA – June 27, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Pro Circuit riders are making final preparations to compete at X Games 2012, which will be held June 28 through July 1 at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. Fan favorites like Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Nate Adams, Blake “Bilko” Williams, Carey Hart, Todd Potter, and Josh Hansen will throw it down for four days in eight different events, and will go to battle in an attempt to bring home some coveted X Games hardware. Pro Circuit will be represented in every moto event, and will be updating live from the event via the Pro Circuit Twitter and Facebook.

Moto Event Schedule & Pro Circuit Rider Lineup
X Games Los Angeles 2012
June 28 through July 1

Thursday, June 28
Event: Moto X Freestyle Final
Time: 6:30pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9pm-11pm (ET) ESPN2, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Nate Adams
• Taka Higashino
• Adam Jones
• Todd Potter
• Blake “Bilko” Williams

Friday, June 29
Event: Moto X Best Whip
Time: 6:45pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Josh Hansen
• Billy Laninovich
• Todd Potter
• Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg
• Jarryd McNeil

Event: Moto X Step Up Final
Time: 7:15pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Brian Deegan
• Todd Potter

Event: Moto X Best Trick Final
Time: 8:15pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Taka Higashino
• Jackson Strong

Saturday, June 30
Event: Women’s Moto X Racing
Time: Round 1 @ 5:00pm (PT), Finals @ 6:00pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: Round 1 8:00pm (ET) WatchESPN; Final 9:00pm (ET) ESPN, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Tarah Geiger
• Sara Price
• Meghan Rutledge

Event: Moto X Speed & Style Final
Time: 6:30pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Nate Adams
• Ronnie Faisst
• Carey Hart
• Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg

Sunday, July 1
Event: Moto X Enduro X – Men’s Round 1
Time: 7:30pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN2, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Kendall Norman

Event: Moto X Enduro X – Women’s Final
Time: 8:30pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info: 9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN2, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Tarah Geiger

Event:Moto X Enduro X – Men’s Final
Time:8:45pm (PT)
Location: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
TV Info:9:00pm-12:00am (ET) ESPN2, WatchESPN, ESPN3D
Pro Circuit Riders:

• Kendall Norman

Please visit www.procircuit.com for more information on Pro Circuit products, and check out our Facebook and Twitter for the most up-to-date information on all things Pro Circuit.

About Pro Circuit
Based in Corona, Calif., Pro Circuit Products, Inc. is a leader in off-road motorcycle and ATV exhausts and aftermarket performance parts. Started in 1978, Pro Circuit is the go to shop for recreational riders and professionals for everything from suspension work to complete engine packages, and everything in between.

Created by former desert racer Mitch Payton, Pro Circuit proves its products and services week-in and week-out through its tagline “We Race.” Every product that dons the Pro Circuit stamp stems from the legendary Pro Circuit race team. A staple in the professional paddock, Pro Circuit Racing has earned 28 AMA championships and more than 200 race wins in more than 30 years of competition.

Liability
All products manufactured and/or distributed by Pro Circuit Products, Inc. are offered and designed for use with standard machines. Pro Circuit Products, Inc. makes no claims as to the products effectiveness on modified machines. Pro Circuit Products, Inc. is the sole determiner of abuse, misuse, installation errors and modifications. We assume no liability for any errors in listings, specifications, part numbers, prices or model applications. Pro Circuit Products, Inc. reserves the right to change specifications, product descriptions, product quality, pricing and model applications at any time without prior oral or written notice and without further obligation.

Adding new components to your motorcycle (especially to the engine, suspension or braking system) may radically alter the acceleration, deceleration, handling and braking characteristics of your motorcycle.  Ensure that all parts are installed and properly torqued per the instructions supplied with the part or to the motorcycle manufacturer’s original specifications. Test the motorcycle with the new part(s) on level ground, at low speed, without any other vehicles or obstacles nearby, to ensure that it is working properly. Periodically recheck, adjust or replace the parts as may be necessary depending upon the terrain, use, mileage and rider input. Consult the instructions supplied with the part, or the motorcycle manufacturer’s original specifications for further details. The failure to properly install, maintain, or familiarize yourself with the new part’s use, and proper operation, may result in damage to the motorcycle, and/or a loss of control, resulting in serious injury or death. Buyers assume all risk for any and all damage caused to themselves, a third party and/or property by virtue of failure of these products. By installing and/or using a Pro Circuit Products, Inc. product, you hereby accept and understand these stated terms and conditions.

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Team WMR/Nihilo Concepts Rider Rory Mead Invited to Race X-Games!

STUART, FL – June 19, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Team WMR/Nihilo Concepts KTM Off-Road XC-1 rider Rory Mead has been given the opportunity to race X-Games Enduro-X 2012! The event will take place at the Los Angeles Staple Center on Sunday, July 1st. Rory is the sole GNCC XC-1 rider invited to this prestigious event. Rory’s extensive background of off-road racing and his amazing technical skills will help him succeed on the demanding X-Games course. The event will be broadcasted live on ESPN2 on Sunday night.

“I’m really excited and honored to be a part of X-Games and represent WMR KTM and the GNCC’s. Hopefully I can adapt to the different style of racing, and put in a solid result. It is a great opportunity for Team WMR KTM Off-Road and I’m happy just to be invited to such an amazing event” says Mead.

The whole WMR  KTM Off-Road team is very excited about this opportunity for Rory and for our team. The crew will be driving straight from the Snowshoe GNCC in West Virginia to California in time to prepare his KTM 300XC for the event. Then after the event, drive straight to Ohio for the John Penton GNCC Race, definitely a busy 3 weeks for team WMR!

WMR Off-Road team is supported by WMR Competition Performance, Nihilo Concepts, Clockwork, FMF, KTM, KTM Powerparts, KTM Powerwear, Spectro Oils, Ride PG, Dunlop Tires, WP Suspension USA, Maxxis Tires, FLY Racing, G2 Photos, GET Ignitions, P3, Rekluse, Motion Pro, Renthal, TM Designworks, Straightshot Filters, Motoconcepts, ODI Grips, Pit Posse, Champion Tool Storage, Unabiker, Dubya Wheels, Ride Engineering, Tire Balls, and G2 Ergonomics.

For further team information, visit our official websites at:
www.wmr1.com
www.nihiloconcepts.com
www.wmroffroad.com

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Vogue Magazine Features Ashley Fiolek in Their April 2012 Issue

TORRANCE, CA – March 23, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – In what can be viewed as a timely boost to the sport of Women’s Motocross, Team Honda’s Ashley Fiolek is the focus of a feature article in the April 2012 issue of Vogue magazine. Vogue magazine focuses on the world of entertainment and fashion with 12 issues published each year, and over 1.2 million copies in circulation monthly. The four-page feature gives an inside look at how Fiolek has not only overcome her disability in a high-speed sport that puts a premium on the sense of hearing, but also being a female who has earned numerous accolades on and off the track in a male-dominated sport.

Fiolek, a three-time Women’s Motocross Champion and two-time X-Games gold medalist, made history by becoming the first female to sign a contract with the American Honda Racing factory team in 2009. In addition to her impressive run of race wins, she has also continued to help bring attention to women’s motocross and has become a positive role model for young girls everywhere.

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

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Exclusive Red Bull Action Sports Programming Premieres on YouTube Channels

SANTA MONICA, CA – January 17, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Today four new original episodic series, including “Livin’ Louie Vito,” “Bobby’s Life,” “Chasing Summer” and “Who is J.O.B. 2.0,” make their debut on “The Red Bull Channel” on YouTube (www.youtube.com/redbull) at 10 a.m. PT and will be followed by nine others in the coming months. Each series will chronicle the competition and daily lives of the world’s best action sports athletes including urban mountain biker and YouTube celebrity, Danny MacAskill, snowboarding pro Louie Vito, action sports phenom Travis Pastrana, big wave surfer Jamie O’Brien and professional skateboarder, Ryan Sheckler.

The exclusive programming can be found on The Red Bull Channel on YouTube under “Featured Playlists” by title, with new 6 to 15 minute episodes airing consistently throughout the year. Additionally, the Red Bull Channel will also be a destination for previously aired episodes of popular series beginning with the first episode of “Drake’s Passage” today, which is a six-episode original travel series that will continue to air every Thursday at 10 a.m. PST that showcases iconic cities around the world through the eyes of freestyle motocross legend, Drake McElroy.

For tune-in reminders for new episodes and updates on new series premieres, viewers can subscribe to The Red Bull Channel or follow the series’ cast members on Twitter.

Red Bull Channel programming set to premiere this winter and spring includes:

• “Livin’ Louie Vito” follows professional snowboarder and action sports celebrity Louie Vito as he competes in all of 2012′s major tour stops including the Olympic Trials, X Games and Dew Tour.
  •  Tune In: January 17 – Watch Episode 1
  •  18 episodes, airing every other Wednesday at 10 a.m. PST
  •  @louievito

• “Bobby’s Life” goes deep into the snow with skier Bobby Brown, ESPY nominee for best male action sports athlete and multiple gold medalist at Winter X Games, from the back country to competing at X Games, where he leads a new generation of freestyle skiing.
  • Tune In: January 17 – Watch Episode 1
  • 18 episodes, airing every Monday at 10 a.m. PST
  • @Bobby_Brown1

• “Who is J.O.B. 2.0″ is an online episodic sequel to the DVD film “Who is J.O.B.” which will use innovative camera systems and techniques to capture pro surfer Jamie O’Brien in a way it’s never been seen before.
  • Tune In: January 17 – Watch Episode 1
  • 18 episodes, airing every other Friday at 10 a.m. PST
  • @whoisjob

• “Chasing Summer”examines Kendall Norman, a six-time Baja 1000 champion, and his racing partner, Quinn Cody, as they travel the rugged terrain between San Diego and Baja with only a backpack and a few pesos, in their quest to clear their minds before racing the 2011 Baja 1000.
  • Tune In: January 17  - Watch Episode 1
  • 12 episodes, airing every every other Tuesday at 10 a.m. PST
  • @Kendall_Norman

• “Title in Development: Ryan Sheckler” will be a 20-episode series featuring pro skateboarder and celebrity, Ryan Sheckler.
  • Release date: February
  • @RyanSheckler

• “Title in Development: Travis Pastrana” follows super athlete (and super human) Travis Pastrana as he works to reclaim his status as Mr. Action Sports following the injury he sustained at X Games 17, including getting back into rally car racing, NASCAR, and motorcycles and also his return to the Nitro Circus live tour and premiere of Nitro 3D in theaters.
  • Release date: March
  • @TravisPastrana

• “Wizard of Aus” showcases Australian native and one of the world’s top BMX riders, Corey Bohan, as he mingles in the Hollywood scene, travels the world with his friends and rides in his sport’s top competitions.
  • Release date: March
  • @Corey_Bohan

Red Bull Media House is a global media company that produces and distributes compelling sports, culture and lifestyle programming across multiple platforms. To date, nearly 300 million views have been generated from Red Bull content, making Red Bull Media House one of the top 5 content producers on YouTube in Sports globally.

www.redbullmediahouse.com

SOURCE: Red Bull Media House

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Jackson Strong Moto X Best Trick First Ever Front Flip Gold Medal X Games 17 2011

X Games – July 29, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -

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Polecat! The rebirth of X Games Step Up Legend Tommy Clowers

Former top pro MXer makes a buck at FMX shows these days,
decides to take another shot at the sport he owned – Step Up!

CORONA, CA – July 28, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – You gotta hand it to the X Games – they’ve tried some pretty crazy stuff over the years. From modified shovel racing to sky surfing, they haven’t been afraid to throw stuff up against the wall and see what sticks.

More than a decade ago, back in 2000, somebody came up with the idea to, more or less, high jump on motorcycles. A vertical dirt take-off ramp was carved into the face of a massive dirt pile landing area and makeshift upright tower structures were arranged on either side of the take-off – with a bar set across the top, spanning the entire width of the jump and able to be raised to some impressive heights. X Games would call the then new event “Step Up” after the MX and FMX-style jump on tracks or, more accurately, occurring in natural MX freeriding settings at places like Ocotillo Wells (Calif.), Beaumont (Texas) and Cainville (Utah).

During that first year a former pro motocrosser-turned-FMXer, Tommy “Tom Cat” Clowers, stood out amongst the rest of the field in Step Up’s inaugural run at the X Games. The San Diegan would ‘step up’ and dominate the sport for the next four years, winning three consecutive times from 2000 to ’02 and again in ’05. Compact in stature and explosive as a grenade, Clowers parlayed his formidable pro motocross skills into volatile starts off the line and styled whips at the peak of his flight – the result of which in that first year in 2000 was a jump of 35 feet, straight up, a record that still stands to this day.

Approaching his 39th birthday and admittedly well beyond his productive racing years, Clowers formed TNT Action Sports with fellow MX/FMXer Jeff “Full Tilt” Tilton a decade ago and have been producing and starring in freestyle shows, the most recent running for a month at the California State Fairgrounds in Sacramento.

Clowers recently got the itch to see if you could still sail a dirt bike some 40 feet off an arena floor, again – straight up – in a comeback of sorts at X Games 17. Clowers contacted Monster Energy and the dirt bike-friendly beverage company was quick to come on board with Clowers’ Step Up program for X17. Check it out.

Monster Energy: Yeah, Tommy. Great to see your name back associated with the X Games. Get the Monster Army caught up on what you’ve been up to lately.

Tommy Clowers: I’ve been doing some ramp-to-ramp shows for, shoot, like nine years now. We’re at the California State Fair right now in Sacramento, 18 days long and three shows a day – 3, 5 and 7 p.m. It’s one of the biggest fairs going so it’s pretty cool.

Monster Energy: Tilton still got the best whip in the business?

Tommy Clowers: Ah, he’s not riding anymore. Just on the other side of things I guess – the business side.

Monster Energy: Right on. What else have you been doing? We stalked you on your Facebook page and it looks like you’ve got a wife and kids and all that.

Tommy Clowers: I got married in 2005 to my wife Melissa and we’ve got two kids, our daughter Avery who’s four-years old and a son, Cole, who’s two-years old.

Monster Energy: You been riding much MX anymore … have to get a real job or anything?

Tommy Clowers: Not yet (laughing about the ‘real job’ comment). Still riding and running the shows. We’ve been doing a lot of stuff with the military, this safety project called Semper Ride. Kind of a cool little safety movie we put together. Doing some schools and ride days with the Marines, stuff like that. Spread the word of safety a bit for the guys that just came back and bought bikes. Doing some local motocross training, place where I’m at riding a bunch – Barona Oaks (Calif.).

Tommy Clowers

Monster Energy: So what motivated you to get back into the X Games?

Tommy Clowers: I guess when you haven’t been in it for a couple years … I just got the itch to come back and see what I could do. And it’s a good opportunity to keep yourself relevant. So, yeah, it’s a big deal to get back in it nowadays. Before there was just a handful of riders and we kind of did everything. Now there’s so many riders that a lot don’t even get invited.

Monster Energy: People think of Step Up and they think of Tommy Clowers. That said, and given that you’ve been out of it for several years now, what’s different with the event since you first won in 2000 than what fans are going to see this Thursday night?

Tommy Clowers: There’s not a whole lot different, really. I think the heights are similar. But people do take it a lot more serious now than we did when it first started. Guys are gearing their bikes for Step Up, where before we’d get done with Freestyle and would be like ‘OK, let’s go do Step Up’ – and not do a thing to our bikes. But we were still getting the same heights, so I don’t know if all that mechanical set up is even working (laughter). I guess the biggest change is the advent of the 450s. They come off the line so strong – everybody this year will be on a 450.

Monster Energy: How is that for a two-stroke guy such as yourself?

Tommy Clowers: For me it’s a little tough, as well as for the guys that ride two-strokes all the time for ramp-to-ramp. I’m not that comfortable jumping on a 450 for Step Up, but I think you’ve got to be on one to compete.

Monster Energy: You still ride a two-stroke for motocross?

Tommy Clowers: Yeah, I do. That’s what I’m on most of the time and, to be honest, I like two-strokes a lot. You have to ride ‘em and you get a good workout on them. Four-strokes you can get a bit lazy on them. They’re fun to ride, and they’re definitely better on tracks where you can go faster, but I mean anymore I’m out there to get a workout and I’m not trying to set the fastest times anymore.

Monster Energy: What do you think it was, Tommy, that made you so untouchable in the sport from 2000 to 2005?

Tommy Clowers: I honestly think it was my motocross background more than anything. There were a few guys that had some pro level motocross experience, but most of the guys didn’t. So just coming off the line and being able to come off smooth – on a two-stroke – that’s what it was all about. A 450 coming off the line is not nearly as difficult as a two-stroke – you just crack it and ride away. Not getting wheel spin, getting a good drive and being able to control the bike – and land from 30 feet in the air on a two-stroke was key. My days of riding motocross, and riding spots like Palm Avenue (famous SoCal cliff jumping spot) – places like that where I rode for fun as a kid growing up is similar to what you’d do on the X Games Step Up.

Monster Energy: Have you done anything to prepare for this Thursday at the Staples Center … carved out a step up jump anywhere, started doing push-ups, things like that?

Tommy Clowers: Pala (Raceway, Calif.) had one built and I hit that a bit, see how the 450 felt. But I’ve been up here (Sacramento) for the last three weeks and haven’t been able practice step up at all. Obligations!

Monster Energy: Yeah, buddy. Gotta make the doughnuts.

Tommy Clowers: Yeah, for sure. It’s kind of a bummer that everything falls on the same month, but that’s just how it is and I’ll do the best I can with it.

Monster Energy: Mat Buyten broke up your lock on the X Games gold in 2004, then you came back and won again in 2005 – with 2008 being the last year you competed. Buyten and Renner have been the guys to beat more recently. Do you feel those two are the guys you’re going to have to go through in order to snare a medal?

Tommy Clowers: Definitely. They’re both really good at it. Also, don’t overlook Myles Richmond. He’s got the potential to be in there as well, along with Todd Potter and (Brian) Deegan – both of those guys are hit-or-miss. Bottom line is I think everyone in there has the potential to win and that’s what’s cool about it. It’s definitely not one of those events where you know the outcome before the event starts.

Monster Energy: What height do you think will put you in the medals?

Tommy Clowers: I’m hoping we can get over 35 feet – the record I set in 2000. I know we can for sure jump higher than that, I mean we saw that with (Ricky) Carmichael. But even getting to that height you’ve still got to get over that pole. So it’s not a matter of getting the height sometimes as much as it is just finessing it over that pole, and how the lip forms. A good lip that packs in hard and doesn’t deteriorate will make for a good contest.

Monster Energy: As an athlete you’ve got a bitchin’ go anywhere, do anything – watch anything X Games credential. Outside Step Up what other sports do you like to check out at X?

Tommy Clowers: All the moto stuff, obviously. I also like the BMX Park stuff a lot. To me that stuff’s amazing how their timing is, how they take off on the lips – steep take-offs and landings. Very technical what they pull in the air, and to land so smoothly is pretty amazing.

Monster Energy: Right on. Good to have you on board with the Monster Army for X 17, Tommy!

Tommy Clowers: Yeah, I’m stoked to be able represent Monster at this. They’ve become a great brand over the years and I’m pumped to be rockin’ the ‘M’ for X Games!

About Monster Energy
Monster Energy is an undisputed leader in action sports. Unlike most companies who rely on spending their money on various forms of advertisement, Monster lets its athletes, fans, and tremendous support from the entire industry do the talking. The passion from these individuals, and Monster’s commitment to the entire action sports community, provides more than any ad in a magazine, on the radio, or on TV ever could.

Action sports are all about progression, and the X Games is the stage where that progression is on full display for the entire world to see. With some of the most prolific riders and drivers to ever step foot into competition, the Monster Army is ready to attack eight events across the motorcycle and rally disciplines. Monster Energy will not only makes its presence felt on the X Games podium, it will bring global recognition to the most innovative and fearless athletes on the planet.

In short, Monster Energy is taking X Games by storm, leaving no stone unturned in establishing itself as the premier energy drink of the new generation. Monster talks the walk, and walks the walk and there won’t be any doubt once the festivities are over.

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Darryl Atkins Joins JT Racing USA

Seven-time motocross champ heads up global sales for renowned gear company

LOS ANGELES, CA – June 20, 2011 – Motor Sports Newswire) – JT Racing USA is pleased to announce the addition of former World Motocross and AMA Supermoto racer Darryl Atkins to its sales team. Atkins, a seven-time New Zealand motocross champion, multi time AMA Supermoto event winner and ESPN X Games competitor, will fill the Global Sales Manager position at JT Racing and report directly to VP of Sales, Daniel Sandstedt.

New Zealand motocross champion and accomplished supermoto racer Darryl Atkins joins JT Racing USA.

“I’m very excited to be on the JT Racing team,” says Atkins. “I was immediately enthused when I learned of JT’s return, however, what really sold me on this position is all of what JT has in store for the future. I’m well aware of JT Racing’s preeminent standing within the industry back in the 70′s and 80′s, and I’m proud to be playing an intricate role in the brand’s resurrection.”

Atkins was one of the very first riders from “down under” to achieve big-time motocross success on the world stage, but he had his promising career derailed by a near-fatal car accident in 1994. After sustaining severe trauma to his right arm, Atkins’ doctors decided to amputate, but changed their minds just in the nick of time. They opted to try out an experimental surgical method involving a nerve transplant, and though the surgery was successful, doctors told Atkins he’d never be able to lift more than three or four pounds with his right arm. Against all odds, Atkins fervently rehabbed his arm, and two years later miraculously earned World Motocross Championship points.

After discovering Supermoto competition in 2004, Atkins went on to top-level racing success there, finishing second in the 2005 AMA Supermoto Unlimited championship, and garnering a sixth-place at the 2006 ESPN X-Games. Soon after, Atkins was elevated to the role of team manager for Aprilia’s Supermoto factory team from 2006 through 2008. He concluded his final year of Supermoto racing with a total of six race wins, and lost the overall 2008 championship by a single controversial point. Now retired from racing, Atkins works for a select handful of companies, including Asterisk and M2R helmets.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Darryl on the JT Racing team,” says Sandstedt, “even as he continues to work with such esteemed companies as Asterisk and M2R, who were very generous to allow him to work with us. Darryl’s knowledge of the industry and his impeccable relationships within it will help us immeasurably, and we’re glad to have him aboard.”

ABOUT JT RACING USA
Launched by John and Rita Gregory in the late 1960′s, JT Racing ruled the motocross world for decades. It was the gear of choice for racing legends like Smith, Hannah, Johnson, Lechien and Bailey. For 2011, JT Racing returns to the sport it helped build with an innovative line of motocross gear: pants, gloves, jersey and a trick new helmet not only reminiscent of the ground-breaking ALS-2 of the early 1980’s, but one that will make you rethink helmet technology entirely. With many past champions – Glover, LaPorte, Lechien and Hansen – developing, testing and promoting the new line of gear, JT Racing is poised to unleash the style and innovation that will once again become the gold standard in motocross. JT Racing USA – History. Innovation. And heart.

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