Welcome to the MonsterArmy

Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki’s Carpenter places 2nd @ Morden, Manitoba, round; teammate Bob Kiniry places 4th in MX1 for the second-straight week

Sunday, June 28 - Well, the weekend certainly didn’t go as I had planned and I’m really bummed out.  After it rained all day Friday, Friday night and Saturday, the track was a mud hole.  Rory, Mandi and I spent Friday and Saturday watching it rain and did what we could to get ready indoors.  It ended up being relaxing and a well-needed break.  By Saturday evening, I was starting to have flash backs of 2007 when I blew a motor in the first moto.  They ended up calling the race that year because the track was so wet.

Sunday morning, we woke up to a blue sky and sunshine.  It was a huge relief but I knew the track was still going to be a mess the first part of the day.  After the first practice, I made the decision to race my practice bike.  I wasn’t willing to destroy my race bike knowing I needed to race it again in only six days.  The second practice was timed and after losing my mud-packed rear fender, I logged the second fastest lap time; giving me the second gate pick for the first moto.  I picked the far inside gate and ended up with about a fourth place start.  I got shuffled back to sixth after not being aggressive enough in the first few corners.  I was hesitant and thought it was going to be muddier than it actually was.  I stayed between fifth and seventh for the first half of the race.  I was making a lot of mistakes and had a hard time finding a rhythm.  At about eighteen minutes into the moto, my engine locked up and I was done.  We think a rock busted a hole in my radiator coolant line when I slid out in a corner a few laps earlier.  I lost all my coolant and destroyed my motor.  I rushed back to the trailer and started stripping my bike to swap motors.  We only had an hour and a half before we needed to line up for the second moto.  Rory, myself, my dad, along with our friends Brian and Joel, all worked non-stop and got the bike put back together just in time.  I don’t think I sat down once.

I was feeling pretty confident knowing I had a good motor and wanted redemption.  I wanted to win for the guys that worked so hard swapping my motor and knew I could.  After DNFing the first moto, I ended up with 33rd gate pick.  I knew it wasn’t going to be easy to get a good start but didn’t have much of a choice.  I put my head down and launched out of the gate.  I looked to the inside once, knowing that all the top guys would be coming in to the first corner hot.  I didn’t let off the gas and just missed getting the holeshot.  The first two laps I was in second place and was having a hard time getting comfortable with my new motor.  It made me a little nervous but by the end of the second lap, I was feeling really strong and started to close in on the leader.  Halfway through the third lap, I hit neutral on the face of a double.  I bailed off the bike, went over the handlebars and hit the ground hard.  I jumped up, got back on the bike and tried to get back into the race but my front end was too twisted.  I pulled over and kicked on my wheel and hit my handlebars, trying to straighten them out but couldn’t.  I rode over to the mechanic’s area and had Rory try kicking my front wheel but there was no hope.  With my head hanging low, I rode back to the trailer and called it a day.

I think the worst part about the weekend was not finishing the second moto.  The guys worked so hard to get my bike ready after blowing up in the first moto.  It’s certainly not the way I wanted to start my season but its racing and sometimes things go wrong. I’m trying to put the weekend behind me and focus on the next race.  Red Bud is an amazing venue and always has been one of my favorite tracks.  I’m hoping to get my career-first top-ten finish there.  I know it’s going to be tough.  The talent is deep in the 250 class but I’m confident in my bike and my fitness.  I need to ride smart and hopefully it will come to me.

I need to send out a huge “thanks” to my mechanic, Rory.  He’s been working so hard the past month getting everything ready and had a long, hard day today.  I also need to thank all of my sponsors.  They make it possible for me to do what I love to do everyday.  I feel really fortunate to be in the position that I’m in.  Even after having a rough day like today, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

Tucker.

Helmet and goggles are ready!

Saturday evening.

Moto 1.

Rory, my dad, Brian, Joel and I swapping motors.

Thomas takes charge in the XC2 class and put Monster Energy’s M-claw logo up on top of the podium; teammate Dave Snyder finishes 6th at W. Va. ski resort

Mirra’s first major contest win in some time, tops defending Dew Tour champ Dan Dhers and Monster’s Mike Spinner; Bestwick simply amazing yet again on Vert

Monster/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Weimer secures his first win of the season in an exciting second moto finish; teammate Pourcel’s 2nd increase his o/a points lead

Coppins returns to the box for second time this season; Paulin continues to push hard for title in MX2 with third overall

Coventry-born rider takes fourth win of year, as rivals fall back; Haslam storms to the podium in World Superbikes for Honda

What's up Army?!

Hope everyone is having an insane weekend!

Just wanted to remind you to check out TORC racing tomorrow (SUNDAY) on ESPN2 @ 12:30 EST!

Sit back, crack open a Monster, and enjoy some of the sickest racing you'll ever see.

Here's a taste of what you can expect:

Monster Energy team rider Danny Harf is the 2009 Liquid Force BROstock Champion!

The world's best in wake congregated at Lake Powell this past weekend for Liquid Force’s annual BROstock festival. Fueled by Monster Energy, 2009’s BROstock proved to be bigger and better then expected once again! Twenty four of the best riders including Shawn Watson, Shane Bonifay, Rusty Malinoski, Phillip Soven, and Danny Harf came for the contest, but stayed for the fun and festivities.

The weekend kicked off Friday with a progressive wakeskate demo that featured the likes of Aaron Reed, Danny Hampson, and Brian Grubb, among others. The crew took it to the backcountry, where they sessioned over rocks and natural terrain. Earlier in the day, the pro wakeboarders got a chance to get accustomed to the monsterous wake of the LF BROstock edition Supra 24’, as they had a 2 hour practice session. The night concluded with premiers of both Collin Harrington’s Box of Fun and Billabong’s Out of the Pond to a boisterous crowd watching on the 36’ screen and sound system set up in the desert!

Saturday kicked off early with the LF DJ throwing down the beats for round one of the double-up contest. Round 1 started with 24 riders riding in heats that would eventually cut the field down to 16. From round one, the format switched to head-to-head as the 16 remaining riders would battle it out to make it into the round of 8. Once in the round of 8, all riders would be getting paid. Needless to say, the competition was definitely heating up. With the Supra 24’ BROstock edition the official towboat of BROstock, all competitors were guaranteed a consistently giant wake and that lead to some serious boosting!

After a semifinals round that eliminated Ben Greenwood, Harley Clifford, Jeff Weatherall, and Shane Bonifay, the final 4 consisted of Danny Harf, Chris O’Shea, as well as Liquid Force’s own Bob Soven and James Balzer, the spoilers of the event. Balzer, know for his wakeskating prowess, was a last minute fill in for the event as another rider backed out due to injury. He continued to impress round after round and was a definite fan favorite. Bob, the 17 year old phenom was impressive all day as he was able to take down some of the industry’s best, including Rusty Malinoski and his older brother Phillip. In the finals, Balzer stomped a clean backside 540 while Bob threw down a huge toeside 900 to claim the 3rd and 2nd spots on the podium respectively. In the end, however it was Monster Energy team rider, Danny Harf who dropped a wrapped nose grab backside 720 to claim the top spot. He had consistently been landing what was considered one of the most stylish and progressive tricks all day and was rewarded heavily for it. In the process, Danny walked away $12,500 richer and put his name in the history books of BROstock, a contest that is widely becoming known for producing some of the most progressive contest riding ever!

Be sure to tune in to FUEL TV August 25th at 8:30pm to watch the BROstock show and relive all of the action!

Thanks to all 2009 BROstock sponsors including Monster Energy, Liquid Force, Supra Boats, Dragon Alliance, Alliance Wakeboard Magazine, FUEL TV, New Era Cap, and Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas. 

Watkins

Bob Soven

Danny Harf

Harley Clifford

Party Islands

Phil Soven

Shane Bonifay

Shane Bonifay

Supra BROstock Edition

BROstock Houseboats

The podium

Tune In Sunday, June 28th, 2009

9:30 am Pacific/12:30 pm Eastern on ESPN2

For more information: www.torcseries.com

Monster/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Pourcel enters the Lucas Oil AMA MX National round with the overall 250 class points lead, teammate Rattray’s 4th

The privateer is running pro MX1 class dirt bikes for the first time this year, see what he’s got versus the other Monster guys running the series up there in Canada

Goodridge, Minn. (June 24, 2009) - Monster Energy’s Tucker Hibbert heads to Canada this weekend to kick off his motocross season at the Monster Energy Motocross National in Modern, Manitoba. Shadow Valley Raceway will host the fourth round of the series and is only a short drive from Hibbert’s hometown of Goodridge, Minn. Last year, Hibbert convincingly won the event after dominating both motos in the MX2 class.

Similar to last year, Hibbert is competing as a privateer and after this week-end, he’ll return to the United States to see where he stacks up against the 250 class in the AMA Lucas Oil Motocross Championship. He plans on racing five of the remaining seven events and hopes to break the coveted top-ten for the first time.

Hibbert is known worldwide for his unparalleled snocross performances at ESPN’s Winter X Games but actually started racing motorcycles before snowmobiles. Now the 25-year-old, duel-sport athlete spends his year balancing a career racing both motorcycles and snowmobiles profession-ally. This summer marks his tenth year as a pro in both sports and he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.

Racing action at Shadow Valley Raceway begins Sunday, June 28 at noon. For more information on Hibbert and this weekend’s event, check out www.tucker-hibbert.com and www.cmrcracing.com.

Tucker Hibbert - #69

“I’m excited to get back to the races. I won both motos at Morden last year and hope to do the same this weekend. Shadow Valley Raceway is a great track and when the conditions are right, multiple lines develop which makes for intense racing.

It’s been a while since I’ve raced a national caliber motocross event but I’ve been busy with snocross, local motocross races, riding and training. I switched up my riding and training schedule this year so I’m anxious to see how it will affect my results. I had another really successful snocross season and that gives me a lot of confidence going into motocross. I feel strong mentally and know how to handle pressure. That’s a skill I think few riders have.

My goals this summer are to win this weekend in Canada and to be in the top-ten in the United States. I’m trying to keep my schedule light so I don’t get strung out. I’m racing as a privateer again so by spacing out my races, I think I can perform better. Bottom line is, if I can learn something new and have fun doing it, it will be a successful summer.”

Noteworthy: Tucker’s 25 birthday is today, June 24.Tucker just launched a blog that he’ll update during the week and while he’s at the races - www.tucker-hibbert.com/blog

Mike Spinner looked into the crowd for a familiar face.

The arena in Portland, Ore., was jammed packed for the Vans International. As Mike Spinner mounted his bike for his BMX Park run he raised his arms to the crowd and then it happened; he made eye contact with his father, Barry Spinner.

The father and son exchanged thumbs up and Mike Spinner made history.

The run produced the first ever 1080 in U.S. competition and made Spinner, already a YouTube sensation for his 720 in 2006 as a rookie at the Free Flow Tour Finals, a phenom in the sport.

But more importantly, it was the first time Barry Spinner ever had seen his son in competition. Mike Spinner said his father always was supportive of his professional career in BMX Park that he started right after high school, but when his mother, Janie Spinner, passed away, the bond between the two grew even deeper. With the crowd chanting his son’s name, tears streamed down Barry Spinner’s face.

“I think having my dad there was awesome,” Mike Spinner said. “It definitely helped when I looked at him. My dad and I always are texting each other and he is real into what I am doing, especially now that he has seen it live.”

When the Dew Tour season gets underway at the Nike 6.0 BMX Open on June 26-27 at Grant Park in Chicago with park, vert and dirt disciplines competing for a $2.5 million purse, Mike Spinner, who has been runner-up the past two seasons on tour, will headline a talent-laden field.

Like the U.S. Open, the Nike 6.0 BMX Open welcomes all challengers, which Mike Spinner, who also was fifth at the 2007 X-Games, said is the perfect setting for spirited competition.

“That’s the best part,” Spinner said. “Anyone that thinks they are good enough can come out and have a chance to win.”

Spinner will throw out the first pitch at the Cubs game today and said his popularity still comes as a surprise.

“I still don’t believe it when someone asks me for my autograph,” he said. “Every time my name gets called before I ride I still get super-duper excited.”

So what can fans expect from Spinner next week in Chicago?

He promises something new. He’s been training non stop, landing in foam pits and on soft ramps, which allows him to push the envelope when it comes to air-borne tricks and not tear up his body in the process.

“I’m going to do a 1080 turndown,” Mike Spinner said. “I think not being able to go upside down on my bike is what has been holding me back. I struggled with it but I got it down now.

“When you come out to Grant Park you’ll see me with a big smile on my face because this is what I have always wanted to do; I’m just living the dream.”

Goodridge, Minn. (June 24, 2009) - Monster Energy’s Tucker Hibbert heads to Canada this weekend to kick off his motocross season at the Monster Energy Motocross National in Modern, Manitoba. Shadow Valley Raceway will host the fourth round of the series and is only a short drive from Hibbert’s hometown of Goodridge, Minn.  Last year, Hibbert convincingly won the event after dominating both motos in the MX2 class.

Similar to last year, Hibbert is competing as a privateer and after this weekend, he’ll return to the United States to see where he stacks up against the 250 class in the AMA Lucas Oil Motocross Championship.  He plans on racing five of the remaining seven events and hopes to break the coveted top-ten for the first time.

Hibbert is known worldwide for his unparalleled snocross performances at ESPN’s Winter X Games but actually started racing motorcycles before snowmobiles.  Now the 25-year-old, duel-sport athlete spends his year balancing a career racing both motorcycles and snowmobiles professionally.  This summer marks his tenth year as a pro in both sports and he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.

Racing action at Shadow Valley Raceway begins Sunday, June 28 at noon. For more information on Hibbert and this weekend’s event, check out www.tucker-hibbert.com and www.cmrcracing.com. 

Tucker Hibbert - #69

“I’m excited to get back to the races.  I won both motos at Morden last year and hope to do the same this weekend.  Shadow Valley Raceway is a great track and when the conditions are right, multiple lines develop which makes for intense racing.

It’s been a while since I’ve raced a national caliber motocross event but I’ve been busy with snocross, local motocross races, riding and training.  I switched up my riding and training schedule this year so I’m anxious to see how it will affect my results.  I had another really successful snocross season and that gives me a lot of confidence going into motocross.  I feel strong mentally and know how to handle pressure.  That’s a skill I think few riders have.

My goals this summer are to win this weekend in Canada and to be in the top-ten in the United States.  I’m trying to keep my schedule light so I don’t get strung out.  I’m racing as a privateer again so by spacing out my races, I think I can perform better.  Bottom line is, if I can learn something new and have fun doing it, it will be a successful summer.” 

Noteworthy: Tucker’s 25 birthday is today, June 24. • Tucker just launched a blog that he’ll update during the week and while he’s at the races - www.tucker-hibbert.com/blog. 

Resources: tucker-hibbert.com • monsterenergy.com • cmrcracing.com

http://snowboardermag.com/features/guestbook-sketchy-d/

http://abc.go.com/primetime/thesuperstars/index?pn=index

Briton beats title rival Laverty after another brilliant battle,West battles to seventh, Haslam caught out by flag-to-flag rule, Hopkins forced to miss out through injury
 
LONDON (June 21, 2009) The Monster Army sampled glory once more in the World Supersport Championship this weekend as Cal Crutchlow (Yamaha #35) took his third victory of the season in yet another classic race against his main title rival Eugene Laverty.
 
Starting from second on the grid after Saturday’s wet-dry qualifying session, a disappointing start saw the Briton drop to eighth, before fighting his way quickly back to the front. The race was then split in two parts, with the red flag coming out for an oil spill when another of his title rivals, Kenan Sofuoglu, crashed out on lap nine. From the restart it was all about the battle between the two friends as Laverty took the lead from Crutchlow with four laps remaining.
 
Crutchlow wasn’t done though, and eased past his rival on the penultimate lap and held off numerous challenges from the Irishman to clinch his third win of the season.
 
The Championship leader was proud of his win, as he said: “It was great to come here to Misano and take the win. It's all credit to the team, they did a fantastic job again and we're back to winning form. Let's hope we can continue this, bring it home to Donington and take another victory.”
 
The other Monster Energy rider in the WSS class, Anthony West (Stiggy Racing Honda, #13), bounced back from his disappointing recent form with a creditable seventh place given the changeable conditions all weekend. He now sits fifth in the championship standings, with Crutchlow leading the way on 160, 14 clear of Laverty.
 
In the World Superbike class, Monster Energy’s Leon Haslam (Stiggy Racing Honda, #91) had made it as high as fourth in race one before he finally was forced to switch onto his second bike. With only six laps remaining to get the dry tyres working, Haslam limped to 12th. In race two he had to fight against electronic problems with his Honda, and in a fully dry race still managed to bring his bike home in eighth spot.
 
Haslam’s Monster Energy teammate, John Hopkins (Stiggy Racing Honda, #121), had taken part in practice on Friday and Saturday, but was suffering severe pain in his injured leg. Having missed out on Superpole, he made the decision to skip the race to prepare for the ninth round of the series, at Donington Park in the UK this coming weekend.
 
The American rider commented: “After practice I am feeling really sore. I got some painkillers before the practice session, but I think I just pushed it a bit too much. I am breaking away the scar tissue at the moment. It is just better for me to take it easy at the moment. This weekend for me was important to get the strength in my leg back up and to get ready for the next race at Donington.”
 
About Monster Energy
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it MotoGP, Superbikes, supermoto, skis, boards, snowmobiles, SX, rally, insane distance jumping, MX, off-road, trial, FMX, skate, MTB, wake, surf, snow, BMX - name it - the athletes are rockin' Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types - Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Ripper, available in the UK, Ireland, France, Monaco, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden and Spain. On the 'Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Huseman puts the M-claw logo on top of the box both Saturday and Sunday in a convincing 1-1 performance at the nation’s biggest off road venue
 
Photos courtesy of: Dave Clark at www.clarkmotorsportsimaging.net
 
CORONA, Calif., (June 22, 2009) – Monster Energy’s Rick Huseman took control of the of the 2009 Traxxas TORC Truck Series, presented by AMSOIL, premier Kuhmo Pro 4x4 points chase with convincing 1st-1st performance in Saturday and Sunday rounds this past weekend at Wisconsin’s Crandon International Raceway.
 
And putting an exclamation point on this two victories were the duelin’ Oakley Bomb Run awards he captured for putting down the fastest Pro 4x4 lap on both days. “The Monster Energy/Toyota ran well all weekend,” said Huseman. “Great racing going on in all the classes, fans looked to be having an excellent time and we’re pumped to come away with the 1-1 and increase the overall points lead, though there’s lots of racing to be run yet!”
 
As the season nears the midway point Huseman has a 29-point lead over Kyle Leduc, 149-120 for the overall Pro 4x4 TORC championships.
 
In the hotly-contested AMSOIL Pro 2WD class Monster Energy’s Jeremy McGrath, running his first-ever races at Crandon, put up respectable 4th/7th place numbers and pulled to within six points (112-106) of the overall Pro 2WD podium. And recent Monster Energy acquisition, Casey Currie, himself a former pro motocrosser, mimicked McGrath’s efforts in the Forest County Potawatomi Pro Light class with 7th/4th place efforts. Currie is just a point back of Marty Hart for 3rd place overall in the Pro Light class (103-102).
 
Finally, Monster Energy’s Johnny Greaves was only able to manage 4th and 8th place Pro 4x4 finishes on the weekend, but still held onto 3rd place in the overall standings (111 points).
 
Read more on the Monster Energy guys in the TORC/Crandon race at: http://www.torcseries.com/
 
The Monster Energy-backed racers are back in action July 11-12 at Bark River Raceway in Bark River, Mich.
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it off road, MX, rally, insane distance jumping, SX, MotoGP, road racing, supermoto, FMX, skate, MTB, rock crawling, wake, mini bikes, surf, snow, BMX – name it – the athletes are rockin’ Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types – Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Assault, Monster Khaos, Monster’s fruit juice hybrid dubbed “M-80,” the party-friendly MIXXD, the ground-breaking Java Monster premium coffee & cream drink line supercharged with our Monster Energy blend, along with the new Monster Energy “Hitman” energy shot. The Monster Energy guys running the Traxxas TORC Truck Series dig ‘em – so will you. On the ‘Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com
 

Frenchman claims another overall second place in Teutschenthal MX2
Coppins takes a third in first MX1 moto, Philippaerts keeps up the pressure
 
LONDON (June 22, 2009) Monster Energy’s potent force in the Motocross World Championship demonstrated their skills and ability in front of 35,400 fans at an overcast and occasional leaky sky at Teutschenthal for the Grand Prix of Germany. Yamaha Monster Energy MX Team’s David Philippaerts and Josh Coppins were the main protagonists in the MX1 class for the Monster Army at the ninth round of 15 in the FIM series, taking fourth and fifth positions respectively. In MX2 CLS Kawasaki’s Monster Energy rider Steven Frossard took his factory machine to the runner-up position for the third time this season.
 
The natural and fast course close to the cities of Halle and Leipzig provided an ‘old-school’ layout of open turns, banked corners and steep uphills and downhills but also incorporated some large jumps and technical sections. The hard-pack terrain benfitted from rain late Saturday afternoon and was rough and rutty throughout the dry motos on Sunday.
 
Monster Energy's defending world champion Philippaerts had a rocky weekend as he struggled to dial-in the works Yamaha for the best set-up. The world champion responded strongly from two mediocre starts to gain positions on a layout that was hard for passing and reached two fourth positions for the same overall ranking. His Yamaha Monster Energy teammate Coppins was back to form after some difficult Grands Prix events in which he has lacked his normally resilient levels of stamina. He took third (his first top three since the GP of Bulgaria) in Moto1 and took part in a dramatic tussle for fourth in Moto2 in which he passed Clement Desalle two corners from the flag.
 
“I’m pumped,” said Coppins. “That’s the first time in a while I could do two strong motos. Both of my starts were good and the only thing that I’m a little disappointed about was a bit of a lack of speed in the opening stages. Overall, though, this was much better. The result of the second moto wasn’t as good as the first but the riding was encouraging. I was more like my old self.”
 
Bad news emerged from the CAS Honda camp after Monster Energy's Billy Mackenzie was unable to negotiate the demands of the track in the first race with his torn thumb ligament. The British Champion will now undergo surgery and could miss the next three races. “We had made a decision that we would see how things were going up until the GP here in Germany and the bottom line is that I cannot ride how I want,” said Mackenzie. “There were a lot of downhills and rough parts to this track and I found that I couldn’t hold the bars properly and was losing my grip. Together with Honda we have made the decision now to have an operation. It depends if I still have any ligament in my thumb or I need a reconstruction, but I hope to be back in time for the last few races.”
 
Podium honours fell to the Monster Energy crew in the MX2 class. Steven Frossard won the first moto after Marvin Musquin crashed at mid-distance and took his second haul of 25 points this season. It was the first moto win for a Monster Army rider in the category since Zach Osborne won in Turkey. Osborne incidentally will return to GP action from his broken wrist at the next Grand Prix.
 
Frossard slipped off his Kawasaki twice in Moto2, but his ranking of fifth was enough to ensure a rostrum celebration. Former world championship leader and fellow Monster Energy rider Gautier Paulin was fourth overall.
 
“I was watching Musquin’s lines and was waiting for the last ten minutes to attack him, but he fell and then I just had to control the gap over the rest (of the field),” said Frossard. “I knew that I could win my first GP here, but unfortunately I had a bad jump from the gate. I came back to fourth but crashed and lost two places, and then crashed again. Fifth and second overall is not too bad, but I was expecting a win.”
 
In the world championship standings Philippaerts is second to Tony Cairoli and Coppins is fourth. Yamaha Monster Energy Ricci MX Team’s Davide Guarneri was sixth in Germany after two average starts, but his consistency means that he is still third overall in MX2 points. Paulin is second and 38 points from Musquin.
 
The Monster Army MXGP show moves east during the week to the Kegums circuit (new to the world championship) for the Grand Prix of Latvia, then shifts north to Uddevalla for the Swedish GP.
 
About Monster Energy
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it MotoGP, Superbikes, supermoto, skis, boards, snowmobiles, SX, rally, insane distance jumping, MX, off-road, trial, FMX, skate, MTB, wake, surf, snow, BMX - name it - the athletes are rockin' Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types - Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Ripper, available in the UK, Ireland, France, Monaco, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden and Spain. On the 'Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki’s Paul Carpenter is tops at Edmonton’s (Alberta) Castrol Raceway; teammate Bob Kiniry’s 4th
 
Photo courtesy of: James Lissimore
 
CORONA, Calif., (June 22, 2009) – Despite missing Saturday practice after a flight delay in Chicago put the Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki team into Edmonton, Alberta, late Saturday night, team leader Paul Carpenter was up for the task and stepped up his already blistering fast MX game north-of-the-border, winning the Monster Energy CMRC Canadian MX Nationals MX1 class’ overall with a rock-solid 3rd/1st performance.
 
“Always good to get that first win behind you,” said Carpenter, who made his third-straight podium of the season.
 
Carpenter’s Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki teammate Bob Kiniry ran well also, going 5th/4th for 4th overall. As it stand Carpenter’s in 3rd place overall in the MX1 class standings and Kiniry’s in 4th, with teammate Jack Carpenter in 10th place overall.
 
Read more: www.cernicskawasaki.com
 
This weekend the Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki team skips over to Manitoba for the Shadow Valley Raceway MX National in Morden. For more information on the series link to its website at: www.cmrcracing.com
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it MX, rally, insane distance jumping, SX, MotoGP, road racing, supermoto, off-road, FMX, skate, MTB, rock crawling, wake, mini bikes, surf, snow, BMX – name it – the athletes are rockin’ Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types – Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Assault, Monster Khaos, Monster’s fruit juice hybrid dubbed “M-80,” the party-friendly MIXXD, the ground-breaking Java Monster premium coffee & cream drink line supercharged with our Monster Energy blend, along with the new Monster Energy “Hitman” energy shot. The Monster Energy/Cernic’s team digs ‘em – so will you. On the ‘Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Some pics from the road with Rick Thorne!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Monster Energy’s Sabrina Jonnier (1st) and Sam Hill (2nd) @ Maribor, Slovenia’s World Cup MTB DH race
Jonnier (Maxxis) and Hill (Monster/Specialized) go 1st/2nd for the second-straight week; Monster’s Jared Graves 2nd in 4x and Branden Fairclough 5th in DH
 
CORONA, Calif., (June 22, 2009) – Monster Energy’s Sabrina Jonnier (Maxxis) furthered her claim as the women’s No. 1 downhill mountain bike racer this past weekend and Sam Hill (Monster/Specialized) again scored the runner-up spot in the men’s elite DH division at the 2009 UCI World Cup MTB championship series stop in Maribor, Slovenia.
 
In winning Jonnier still though she had something left to throw at the technical Maribor course, figuring she won with her effort at the bottom of the course. “I went too slow, I am pretty pissed off with myself,” admitted Jonnier. “It wasn't a good run. I made a mistake in the rocks, and just tried to make up for it at the bottom and go faster.”
 
Hill had to overcome a rough morning in order to reach score his podium finish: “I had a good crash in the rock garden and beat myself up pretty good,” he said. “I struggled in qualifying and then the top half of my race run was great and then I started struggling again. My body was too sore to ride 100%. Overall, I'm pretty happy to come in second.”
 
Hill continued: “I feel like the whole year has been kinda rough. I was a bit up against it in Africa with the flat pedaling stuff and I wadded it up in Andorra. The other three races I have been second at everyone, just a bit off the pace. I've been right there, just not enough for the win.”
 
Brendan Fairclough, Hill’s Monster Energy/Specialized teammate, put up his best finish of the season with a 5th in the men’s elite DH finals.
 
Also scoring a podium finish for Monster Energy was Jared Graves in the 4x class (downhill BMX). “The track was good with flat turns and there was always going to be some moments on those carrot things,” said Graves, the UCI World Cup 4x points leader. “They were pretty sketchy even in the dry. The mud is definitely what made the race interesting. It was pretty wild to race. I sort of put a bit of pressure on myself this weekend by skipping the DH to concentrate on the 4x. That's all I was thinking when I was in one of those situations, I didn't want to miss the downhill for nothing. I manned up and pulled some moves, elbows wide!”
 
For more info on the Monster Energy athletes contesting the Maribor World Cup stop, link to: http://www.uci.ch/templates/UCI/UCI5/layout.asp?MenuId=MTI1OTU&LangId=1
 
Next stop for Monster Energy’s Hill and Jonnier on the UCI World Cup downhill circuit is the July 25-26 stop at Quebec’s Mount Sainte Ann.
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it MTB, SX, rally, insane distance jumping, MX, MotoGP, road racing, supermoto, off-road, FMX, skate, rock crawling, wake, mini bikes, surf, snow, BMX – name it – the athletes are rockin’ Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types – Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Assault, Monster Khaos, Monster’s fruit juice hybrid dubbed “M-80,” the party-friendly MIXXD, the ground-breaking Java Monster premium coffee & cream drink line supercharged with our Monster Energy blend, along with the new Monster Energy “Hitman” energy shot. Sabrina Jonnier, Sam Hill, Jared Graves & Brendan Fairclough dig ‘em – so will you. On the ‘Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Hey Guys,

ESPN just did a story on camp, as well as we have a camp video up on utube
from our spring camp at Norquay.  Here are the links.

ESPN Online:
http://espn.go.com/action/news/story?id=4251734

Norquay MGT Camp:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkpLq9-7UqE

I've also attached an interview I did with this fashion magazine called
Parlour Mag ( http://parlourmagazine.com/index.php)

And in a new issue of Method Mag I made a no-cook recipe for some delicious
oat bars. Mmmmmm

Hope you are all having a good summer, I'm going to be shredding at Mt. Hood
in July for a Spare mag shoot, then my session and then Argentina with K2 &
Dakine for upcoming catalog shoots.


Leanne

   

By JAMES NOKES - sports@daily-chronicle.com

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Mike Spinner looked into the crowd for a familiar face.

The arena in Portland, Ore., was jammed packed for the Vans International. As Mike Spinner mounted his bike for his BMX Park run he raised his arms to the crowd and then it happened; he made eye contact with his father, Barry Spinner.

The father and son exchanged thumbs up and Mike Spinner made history.

The run produced the first ever 1080 in U.S. competition and made Spinner, already a YouTube sensation for his 720 in 2006 as a rookie at the Free Flow Tour Finals, a phenom in the sport.

But more importantly, it was the first time Barry Spinner ever had seen his son in competition. Mike Spinner said his father always was supportive of his professional career in BMX Park that he started right after high school, but when his mother, Janie Spinner, passed away, the bond between the two grew even deeper. With the crowd chanting his son’s name, tears streamed down Barry Spinner’s face.

“I think having my dad there was awesome,” Mike Spinner said. “It definitely helped when I looked at him. My dad and I always are texting each other and he is real into what I am doing, especially now that he has seen it live.”

When the Dew Tour season gets underway at the Nike 6.0 BMX Open on June 26-27 at Grant Park in Chicago with park, vert and dirt disciplines competing for a $2.5 million purse, Mike Spinner, who has been runner-up the past two seasons on tour, will headline a talent-laden field.

Like the U.S. Open, the Nike 6.0 BMX Open welcomes all challengers, which Mike Spinner, who also was fifth at the 2007 X-Games, said is the perfect setting for spirited competition.

“That’s the best part,” Spinner said. “Anyone that thinks they are good enough can come out and have a chance to win.”

Spinner will throw out the first pitch at the Cubs game today and said his popularity still comes as a surprise.

“I still don’t believe it when someone asks me for my autograph,” he said. “Every time my name gets called before I ride I still get super-duper excited.”

So what can fans expect from Spinner next week in Chicago?

He promises something new. He’s been training non stop, landing in foam pits and on soft ramps, which allows him to push the envelope when it comes to air-borne tricks and not tear up his body in the process.

“I’m going to do a 1080 turndown,” Mike Spinner said. “I think not being able to go upside down on my bike is what has been holding me back. I struggled with it but I got it down now.

“When you come out to Grant Park you’ll see me with a big smile on my face because this is what I have always wanted to do; I’m just living the dream.”

Racer X just posted a video of Tucker Hibbert online. Check it out and spread the word!

http://www.racerxonline.com/

Greg Lutzka TV is now LIVE!

Join now for your chance to win a Monster Energy Fridge and a year supply of Monster Energy Drink!

Date: 6/16/09
 
The world's best in wake congregated at Lake Powell this past weekend for Liquid Force’s annual BROstock festival.  Fueled by Monster Energy, 2009’s BROstock proved to be bigger and better then expected once again!  Twenty four of the best riders including Shawn Watson, Shane Bonifay, Rusty Malinoski, Phillip Soven, and Danny Harf came for the contest, but stayed for the fun and festivities.
 
The weekend kicked off Friday with a progressive wakeskate demo that featured the likes of Aaron Reed, Danny Hampson, and Brian Grubb, among others.  The crew took it to the backcountry, where they sessioned over rocks and natural terrain.  Earlier in the day, the pro wakeboarders got a chance to get accustomed to the monsterous wake of the LF BROstock edition Supra 24’, as they had a 2 hour practice session.   The night concluded with premiers of both Collin Harrington’s Box of Fun and Billabong’s Out of the Pond to a boisterous crowd watching on the 36’ screen and sound system set up in the desert!   
 
Saturday kicked off early with the LF DJ throwing down the beats for round one of the double-up contest.  Round 1 started with 24 riders riding in heats that would eventually cut the field down to 16.  From round one, the format switched to head-to-head as the 16 remaining riders would battle it out to make it into the round of 8.  Once in the round of 8, all riders would be getting paid.  Needless to say, the competition was definitely heating up.  With the Supra 24’ BROstock edition the official towboat of BROstock, all competitors were guaranteed a consistently giant wake and that lead to some serious boosting!
 
After a semifinals round that eliminated Ben Greenwood, Harley Clifford, Jeff Weatherall, and Shane Bonifay, the final 4 consisted of Danny Harf, Chris O’Shea, as well as Liquid Force’s own Bob Soven and James Balzer, the spoilers of the event.  Balzer, know for his wakeskating prowess, was a last minute fill in for the event as another rider backed out due to injury.  He continued to impress round after round and was a definite fan favorite.  Bob, the 17 year old phenom was impressive all day as he was able to take down some of the industry’s best, including Rusty Malinoski and his older brother Phillip.  In the finals, Balzer stomped a clean backside 540 while Bob threw down a huge toeside 900 to claim the 3rd and 2nd spots on the podium respectively. In the end, however it was Monster Energy team rider, Danny Harf who dropped a wrapped nose grab backside 720 to claim the top spot.  He had consistently been landing what was considered one of the most stylish and progressive tricks all day and was rewarded heavily for it.  In the process, Danny walked away $12,500 richer and put his name in the history books of BROstock, a contest that is widely becoming known for producing some of the most progressive contest riding ever!  
 
Be sure to tune in to FUEL TV August 25th at 8:30pm to watch the BROstock show and relive all of the action!
 
Thanks to all 2009 BROstock sponsors including Monster Energy, Liquid Force, Supra Boats, Dragon Alliance, Alliance Wakeboard Magazine, FUEL TV, New Era Cap, and Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.
 
For additional information, be sure to head on over to www.liquidforce.com/brostock09.htm  
 
About Liquid Force
Founded in 1995, Liquid Force quickly became the leader in wakeboard products and apparel.  Liquid Force is dedicated to relentless innovation, progressive design, maximum functionality and unparalleled quality.  As part of the Motion Water Sports family, Liquid Force owns Straight Line Ropes and Handles.  Supported by a superior team of athletes, Liquid Force events include world famous BROstock and Maven Sessions.
 
364 2nd Street, Suite 7 Encinitas, CA 92024 PH: 760 943 8364 FX: 760 943 8972
 
WWW.LIQUIDFORCE.COM

Full Results
Place            Name
1st             Danny Harf
2nd             Bob Soven
3rd             James Balzer
4th             Chris O’Shea
5th             Shane Bonifay
5th             Harley Clifford
7th             Ben Greenwood
7th             Jeff Weatherall

We need your help!

Step 1:   Go to  www.surfingthemag.com
 
Step 2 : Go to "News" on the home page
 
Step 3:  Go to " Gromsearch Video Elections "  Vote for Colin Moran!!!

The M-claw logo should rock the Pro 2 & Pro 4x4 division podiums as Wisconsin local Johnny Greaves leads the Monster assault at the legendary Crandon track

Photos courtesy of: Dave Clark at www.clarkmotorsportsimaging.net

CORONA, Calif., (June 18, 2009) – Monster Energy off road racers are going to get a big dose of  ‘Whoaa!’ this weekend, namely Crandon International Raceway first-timer Jeremy McGrath (Monster/Toyota), when the gate drops, so to speak, on the off road Mecca’s famous “Land Rush Start” and the king of supercross finds himself battling side-by-each for the first turn with the rest of the 15-truck PRO2WD field at rounds five and six of the 2009 Traxxas TORC Truck Series, presented by AMSOIL.

“I’ve heard a bit about it from the other drivers, seen it on TV of course and honestly can’t wait to get after it,” said McGrath, who should draw some added fans from the region that followed him during his 1990s run of supercross wins at the nearby Minneapolis Metrodome. “(I’m) hoping it’ll be a bit less painful to have a truck door up against mine versus a set of handlebars stuck in my ribs (laughter).”

While McGrath (currently 3^rd overall in his PRO2WD Toyota) will no doubt draw some additional fans to the already popular facility dubbed off road racing’s “Big House,” it’ll be local Wisconsinite Johnny Greaves(Monster/Toyota/Potawatomi), running 2^nd overall in the PRO 4x4 Truck standings, that’ll fill the most seats. A two-time winner of the Crandon “Brush Run” (Crandon’s 1.25-mile short course race, which’ll be run this weekend), Greaves hopes to re-create his recent top-of-the-box efforts from 2003 and ’06.

“Nothing like coming home to race Crandon,” said Greaves. “This’ll be a great chance for me to make up some points on Rick.”

The “Rick” Greaves speaks of is Monster Energy’s Rick Huseman (Monster/Toyota). Huseman has dominated the opening California and Texas rounds of the PRO 4x4 class, winning three races in four rounds and leading Greaves by 15 points (99-77). In addition, Huseman is the leading driver the Oakley Bomb Run Award for the fastest lap time of the race.

The Monster Energy-backed racers contesting the Traxxas TORC Truck Series will be in action this weekend at Crandon International Raceway in Crandon, Wis. (June 20-21). For more information on the series check out its website at: www.torcseries.com

Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it off road, MX, rally, insane distance jumping, SX, MotoGP, road racing, supermoto, FMX, skate, MTB, rock crawling, wake, mini bikes, surf, snow, BMX – name it – the athletes are rockin’ Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types – Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Assault, Monster Khaos, Monster’s fruit juice hybrid dubbed “M-80,” the party-friendly MIXXD, the ground-breaking Java Monster premium coffee & cream drink line supercharged with our Monster Energy blend, along with the new Monster Energy “Hitman” energy shot. The Monster Energy guys running the Traxxas TORC Truck Series dig ‘em – so will you. On the ‘Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Over looking the back drop of Calgary’s downtown, Wild Rose MX Park was ready for a important day of racing. The weather was amazing and the riders were ready to battle again. Wild Rose MX Park is possibly one of the most air time tracks on the circuit but that wasn’t slowing the racers down one bit.

MX2 – Canidae Motorsports/Monster Energy rider Dean Wilson did it again. Even with not the best starts, Wilson went 1 and 1 in his motos. Two rounds in a row local boy Wilson is showing the rest of the racers that he is serious.
Leading Edge Kawasaki riders Teddy Maier and Nick Evennou both put themselves on the podium with 2nd place finishes. Maier finished 5th with a 2 and 9 and Evennou finished 3rd with a 7 and 2. With Dean Wilson only racing  one more round, Teddy finds himself firmly atop of the standings in 2nd, 9 points ahead of last years MX2 Champion Eric Nye.

MX1 – Paul Carpenter aboard his Monster Energy Cernic’s Kawasaki had another consistent finish in Calgary. Finishing 2nd and 3rd with a 3rd overall. Putting him in third place with 22 points behind the leader Colton Facciotti. Bobby Kiniry and Jake Carpenter are both doing well sitting in 5th and 6th in the points standing. Jack Carpenter may be the biggest surprise of the series and he is showing that he has what it takes to finish at the top. "I'm happy with my ride so far," commented Jack.  "This is my first full season so we weren't exactly sure what to expect and we've been able to make things happen.  I'm feeling comfortable on the bike and looking forward to improving each race." 

Calgary was a hot and fast day of racing. The Championship is now on and many racers are gunning for a title.
Next stop Castrol Raceway, Edmonton, Alberta June 21
Check out the Monster Energy MotoVision http://motovision.streamcanada.com/default.html

JUNE 18-21

Sponsored by 2nd Wind Sports, IPS Skate Shop, The Slider Project, Inept Films, Monster Energy Drink, Slingshot, Liquid Force, Naish, and a bunch of our team riders who rip on rails every day.
This is the kiteboarding event of the year where pros and amateurs bro down, throw down, and party down for four days in the Hood. An event you won't want to miss as a rider or a spectator.


The Hood River SLIDER JAM

2009 Events Schedule

THURSDAY : DAY ONE
2pm - IPS “GAME OF SKATE” @ IPS Skate Shop
    - Hosted by IPS Skate Shop
    - The Game of SKATE is based on the basketball Game of HORSE. The first letter is "S", the second letter is "K", and so on, until "S-K-A-T-E" is spelled out, and that person is out of the game. If anyone misses, they get a letter, and so on. Registration at 2pm, Event starts at 3pm.

8pm – “RIDER APPRECIATION PARTY” @ Brian’s Pourhouse
    - Hosted by 2nd Wind Sports/Naish Kiteboarding/IPS Skate Shop
    - Slider Jam/Gorge Freeride Event Kickoff party to show our local love and appreciation for the travelling Pro kiters and skaters who are in Hood River specifically for these events. Great opportunity for riders and locals to hang out and have fun

FRIDAY : DAY TWO
All Day – “GORGE FREERIDE EVENT” @ HR Sandbar
    - Hosted by The Slider Project/2nd Wind Sports
    - All Day Photo and Video Shoot Freeride Event for Pro Kiteboarders only to ride on the newly created Slider Project Funboxes, Rails and Sliders. Handpicked photographers and videographers only on the immediate event premises and for pro level riders only on the water and sandbar obstacles. Not for newbie’s or pro-wannabees!

All Night – “HR SLIDER JAM PARTY” @ HR Sandbar
    - Hosted by 2nd Wind Sports/Waterplay KiteBoard School/Slingshot/IPS Skate/The Slider Project/Monster Energy
    - 1 big assed dump truck load of snow, one big rail, one big box, DJ, Live music by The Surf Vipers, The Machine Party Tent, Tons of Free Shwag and a Rail Jam Competition to never be forgotten.
This is an all-night sandbar party hosted by 2nd Wind Sports and IPS Skate shop to help kick off our summer season of riding and sliding on wind, water, snow and pavement. Pro team guest appearances from DC, Grenade, IPS, Monster, Rossignol, Atomic, Surface and Line.


SATURDAY : DAY THREE
All Day – “CGKA KITE DEMO DAY” @ HR Sandbar

All Night – 2nd Wind “SUMMER SOLSTICE" Kite Movie Premiere Party w/ Live Music @ The River City Saloon
    - Hosted by Ben Wilson/2nd Wind Sports/Slingshot
    - World Movie Premiere Party for Ben Wilson’s new movie “COMING TOGETHER”. Live music all night with” THE HOLIDAY FRIENDS" preceding movie premiere.

Shwag and Prizes provided by Slingshot and Hyperflex .
$5cover/$10cover+raffle (fundraiser event for The Slider Project)

SUNDAY : DAY FOUR
All Day – No Wind Alternate Day “DEMO DAY/GORGE FREERIDE ”
 
 

 

 



 

Defending Dew Tour champs Jamie Bestwick (BMX Vert), Cameron White (BMX Dirt) & BMX Park runner-up Mike Spinner headline the ’09 Monster BMX crew!

Corey Floyd and Ryan Abbatoye are dominating the WORCS’ Pro 2 division, ranked 1st & 2nd, respectively, in o/a points; Dietrich’s 3rd in Pro AA o/a points

Monster/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Pourcel is tops in the 250 class and Makita/Suzuki’s Reed wins the 450 class to open the annual MX event

Bring the Noize 2009, Bend Oregon, Truck Stop Skatepark from Good Guys In Black on Vimeo.

Italian exclaims “Mamma Mia!” as he takes his 99th career win; Bradley Smith picks up valuable points in 125cc title chase



LONDON (June 15th, 2009) Monster Energy’s Valentino Rossi produced the 99th and possibly the best win yet of a stellar career after a sensational battle in the backyard of his Spanish teammate Jorge Lorenzo in Barcelona on Sunday. In searing temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF), the Yamaha pair set an even hotter pace that left the rest of the field trailing and set up the first true head-to-head between the Italian sorcerer and his Spanish apprentice.
 
The battle went all the way to the final corner of the final lap of Sunday’s final race, but it began Saturday in the single qualifying session when Lorenzo snatched pole position from Rossi by just 0.013 seconds. “If I’d have gone to the toilet before the session I would have been on pole!” quipped Rossi afterwards.
 
Lorenzo and Rossi held their 1-2 positions into the first corner and the double 250cc World Champion (Lorenzo) led the way for the opening three laps before the 125cc, 250cc and six-time MotoGP champ Rossi flexed his muscles with a strong pass on the brakes into turn one. The Monster Energy rider then showed plenty of fizz with a string of fast laps, but Lorenzo also had power to burn and he refused to lie down.
 
Seeing that he couldn’t escape his stubborn teammate, on lap 13 Rossi allowed the youngster to take a turn at the front, studying his strengths and weaknesses in an examination befitting of his nickname The Doctor. It proved to be a crucial strategy because on the final lap he needed every inch of track as the pair swapped positions in breathtaking style. Holding the advantage through the final series of fast right-handers, Lorenzo kept a defensive line and was sure the victory was his. However, one last lunge from Rossi at impossible speed across the apex of the final bend gave the youngster no option but to concede defeat.
 
With Lorenzo wearing the colours of recently crowned European soccer champions FC Barcelona and a crowd of 88,000 that would regularly fill the team’s famous Nou Camp stadium in the centre of the city, it was testament to Rossi’s global popularity that it was his name they sang on a memorable podium.
 
“As we say in Italy, ‘Mamma Mia!’” laughed Rossi after the race. “I think I can honestly say that this was one of the best and hardest wins of my career. Maybe Laguna last year was more important but this was a great, great victory because it went to the very last corner and it’s a long time since that has happened. I have dreamed about that move for the last two weeks and today it worked and I am so happy to have this 99th win. Now I am going to go to sleep for quite a long time because I need to recover from this excitement!”
 
Unfortunately there was less excitement in the Monster Energy Yamaha Tech 3 team garage today, where Colin Edwards (#5) struggled to seventh place after suffering front-end grip problems in the scorching heat. His teammate James Toseland (#52) was even more disappointed, having qualified in his best grid position of the season so far in ninth place only to wheelie on the line and be passed by virtually the whole field. The British rider showed his trademark determination to fight back to 13th, but it was a frustrating end to an otherwise encouraging weekend.
 
“I'm really disappointed because I went into the race with high expectations after my best qualifying of the year but I made a bad mistake off the line and gave myself a mountain to climb,” reflected Toseland. “The engine just bogged and I lost a load of time and had no chance of getting it back because everybody was doing similar times ahead of me. But I'll pick myself up and be ready to give it my all again for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team in Assen.”
 
Monster Energy’s 125cc riders also found the going tough in the early Spanish summer heat, in particular Danny Webb (DeGraaf Aprilia #99), who broke his finger in practice on Friday and was forced to pull out of the race at the midway stage despite lapping as high as fifth in the early laps. Fellow Briton and Monster Energy rider Bradley Smith (Bancaja Aspar Aprilia #38) went into the race as the championship leader, a position he surrendered to teammate Julian Simon after finishing eighth today as the Spaniard secured fourth.
 
“We have worked a lot over the weekend and improved with every session in terms of times and feeling, but we didn’t have the pace to run with the front group,” said Smith. “In the middle of the race I made a mistake and lost the chasing group, which were after the podium. Now I can look forward to Assen, where we have another chance to fight for the win.” Smith’s title hopes were boosted by the fact that Simon had looked set to win the race until the final lap, when he mistakenly crossed the line with his arms aloft thinking the race was over, when another lap remained!
 
MotoGP’s Monster Army now head to the ‘Cathedral’ of motorcycle racing in Europe – the famous TT circuit at Assen, Holland – on its traditional date of the last Saturday in June with Valentino Rossi in a three-way tie for the championship lead with Lorenzo and Casey Stoner, all of them on 106 points and with two wins apiece. 
 
About Monster Energy
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it MotoGP, Superbikes, supermoto, skis, boards, snowmobiles, SX, rally, insane distance jumping, MX, off-road, trial, FMX, skate, MTB, wake, surf, snow, BMX - name it - the athletes are rockin' Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types - Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Ripper, available in the UK, Ireland, France, Monaco, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden and Spain. Valentino Rossi digs ‘em. So will you. On the 'Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Monster/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Pourcel takes over the 250 class points lead with an impressive 1st-1st finish in Mt. Morris, Pa., Monster/Kawi’s Dietrich 6th on 450s

 

CORONA, Calif., (June 15, 2009) – Monster Energy/Kawasaki’s Christophe Pourcel backed up his 2009 Monster Energy Supercross ESX title and Vegas East/West Shoot Out championship by taking over the Lucas Oil AMA MX Nationals’ 250 class points lead from rival Ryan Dungey with an impressive 1st-1st two moto finish this past weekend at High Point Raceway in Mt. Morris, Pa.

“I liked supercross a lot and I felt like today was like that. I just got into a rhythm,” said Pourcel, who now leads Dungey by two points, 177-175 after four rounds of 250 class outdoor racing. “I went to my doctor and she told me I have a lot of problems (internally) and it's not going to get better since I was paralyzed. It's not easy to ride like that but I just have to keep doing my best.”

Also putting his Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki KX250F in the 250 class’ top five was former FIM MX2 class World Champ, Tyla Rattray (4th). With the effort Rattray moved to within four points of the overall 250 class podium, now trailing Trey Canard (for 3rd) 139-135.

In the 450 class at High Point Monster Energy was led by Ricky Dietrich (Monster Energy/Kawasaki) placed 6th overall with two solid top ten moto finishes (8th-9th). A premier global off road racer as well, Dietrich then jetted from Pennsylvania to Washington where he finished 7th in the World Off Roach Championship (WORCS) round in Toutle. Also making the top ten in the 450 class was Boost Mobile/ampm/Monster Energy/Troy-JLaw Racing’s Nick Wey who placed 7th.
For more information on Monster Energy/Kawasaki and Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki MX racing, link to www.kawasaki.com
 
The Monster Energy-backed MX racers contesting the Lucas Oil AMA MX Nationals have this weekend off, then return to action the following week for the Lakewood (Colo.) MX National. For more information of the series link to its website at: www.mxnationals.com
 
Monster Energy supports the sport. Be it MX, rally, insane distance jumping, SX, MotoGP, road racing, supermoto, off-road, FMX, skate, MTB, rock crawling, wake, mini bikes, surf, snow, BMX – name it – the athletes are rockin’ Monster Energy more than anything these days. Check out all the types – Original Monster Energy, Monster Lo-Carb, Monster Assault, Monster Khaos, Monster’s fruit juice hybrid dubbed “M-80,” the party-friendly MIXXD, the ground-breaking Java Monster premium coffee & cream drink line supercharged with our Monster Energy blend, along with the new Monster Energy “Hitman” energy shot. The Monster Energy guys running the Lucas Oil AMA MX Nationals dig ‘em – so will you. On the ‘Net at www.monsterarmy.com and www.monsterenergy.com

Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki’s Paul Carpenter scores another podium (3rd), teammates Bob Kiniry (5th) & Jack Carpenter (6th) also run well

Please click on the link below and scroll half way down.  APBA news Chris MacClugage is rider of the week.
 
http://www.apbaracing.com/

Guest host Chris Cote is in the studio with O’Neill team rider and pro surfer, Cory Lopez. Plus, the Metal Mulisha’s very own, Ryan Hagy and Jeff “Ox” Kargola hit the Habit. Also, we get to hang out with the CEO of O’Neill, Lost, Metal Mulisha and Rusty; Toby Bost is here along with Lost Clothing Marketing Director, Ryan Divel.  And just in time for the summer, Amanda Champagne and her models bring some fresh fashion to the set.

Jeff “Ox” Kargola’s sponsors include: Osiris, Metal Mulisha, Lost Clothing/Surfboards/Energy Drinks and Boost Mobile.

Ryan Hagy’s sponsors include: Metal Mulisha, Dragon Optical, Osiris Shoes, AlpineStars, Lost, RockStar Energy Drink.

Cory Lopez’s sponsors include: DVS, Anarchy, O’Neill, Placebo, Monster Energy and Freestyle Traction.

Greg Lutzka TV is now LIVE!

Join now for your chance to win a Monster Energy Fridge and a year supply of Monster Energy Drink!

Tyson Bowerbank has been on a contest rampage the past couple of years,his bag of tricks has grown even if he hasnt. Tyson had front and bs 5-0s, and front and bs feebles down the handrail. Then he went and killed the pyramid with tre flip, hard flip, bs heel, fs flip, nollie big spin, nollie big heel, varial flip, and fs big spin!!! He wasnt done yet; he kick flipped, fs flipped, and bs heeled the stair set tooyeah he won, in case you were wondering. Derek Rivera qualified from back in the open round to get 2nd place and got the New Era Originator of the Day award with a tre flip lip slide and other amazing trickshe gets a ton of New Era gear for that. Last years winner, Christian Sereika got 3rd with the best style of the day. He boosted a bs heel down the set, and had a smooth bs tail down the handrail, and fs blunt down the hubba, among other tricks.

Top 3:

1. Tyson Bowerbank
2. Derek Rivera
3. Christian Sereika

Chris devoured the competition at rounds 5 and 6 of the National APBA Tour in Myrtle Beach SC 

Monster/Kawasaki’s Ricky Dietrich, one of the world’s best off road racers, will run the High Point MX National in Pa., then jet to Wash. for a WORCS race!

Hello everybody hope all is well I am on my tour called "Bring The Noize" I created and Monster Energy & Boost Mobile is sponsoring my vision also my band Good Guys In Black is playing, I host, ride, and run the tour if you want to check the schedule go to my www.rickthorne.tv and GGIB is www.myspace.com/goodguysinblack
 
PLUS check out the Podcast "ESPN ACTION SPORTS" I host for ESPN you can SUBSCRIBE for FREE:
 
http://sports.espn.go.com/espnradio/podcast/archive?id=2604930

http://snowboardermag.com/features/guestbook-iikka-backstrom




ENJOY!!!!
~MA.

Monster’s superstar 4x racer takes it to the world’s elite competition yet again on the UCI World Cup MTB circuit, increasing his o/a points lead to 210

Jonnier (Maxxis) dominates the women’s class, winning by nine seconds and Hill (Monster/Specialized) lands back on the podium in the men’s class

Hill (Monster/Specialized) donates his one-off gear he wore during his 2nd place run at Ft. William (Scotland) last week to a highly worthy cause

Monster Energy/Cernic’s/Kawasaki’s Paul Carpenter, the ’07 Canadian MX Nationals champ, opens the season with a podium in B.C.

Philippaerts on third rostrum in a row to keep up the pressure in MX1; Larrieu takes memorable maiden podium in home MX2 event

Thomas overcomes a poor start and rallies his Yamaha YZ WR250F to a podium finish; teammate Dave Snyder adds a 7th place finish at the Milfield, Ohio, GNCC

Newly called up Ricky Dietrich is impressive in 5th place 450 class finish for Monster Energy/Kawasaki; Monster/PC/Kawi’s Pourcel locks down 2nd on 250s

Monster Energy/Attack/Kawasaki’s Mercado battles rival Parker with Kawasaki getting the upper hand vs. Honda in  a classic duel between up-and-coming racers

Monster Energy/Attack/Kawasaki’s Hayden goes 2-11 in the doubleheader, moves up to 13th overall in the SportBike standings; Jamie Hacking places 8th & 9th

6/8/2009 – 8:00pm et/pt in Meet & Brotatoes (Premiere)
6/10/2009 – 1:00pm et (10:00am pt)
6/11/2009 – 9:30pm et (6:30pm pt)
6/13/2009 – 12:00pm et (9:00am pt)
6/14/2009 – 7:00pm et (4:00pm pt)
7/2/2009 – 3:30pm et (12:30pm pt)
7/9/2009 – 6:00pm et (3:00pm pt)
7/15/2009 – 1:00am et (10:00pm pt)
7/17/2009 – 8:30pm et/pt in Skate @ 8

Riders in attendance on the tour:

Geoff Rowley
Mark Appleyard
Rune Glifberg
Lance Mountain
David Gonzalez
Luan Oliveira
Louie Lopez
Curren Caples

Check out the Feast Tour 2008 teaser here

Original music by Piers Baron

Photos by John Bradford

HD Exclusive Trailer #2 In Theaters June 12th

Monster’s 250 class racers, led by Hangtown winner Pourcel, carry the M-claw MX flag into Texas; Monster’s RV & Ferry replaced by Dietrich & Jesseman

Monster Energy/Cernic’s Kawasaki’s Paul Carpenter looks to regain the Monster Energy Canadian MX Nationals title he won back in ’07, joined by pal Bob Kiniry

Briton takes another podium in hard-fought Miller battle; Difficult weekend for Haslam with 10th place finish

The much anticipated Feet on Fire went off with a bang. 


With the secret location set, the date starting to filter out and the excitement building for over 3 weeks. It was time for the 2009 Feet on Fire! The day was May 26 2009 and the secret location was Clear Lake, Orlando FL.


The Feet on Fire event is in it's 5th year. The organizers, Daniel Watkins and  Danno the Mano say "This is with out a doubt the event of the year".

The "Who's Who" of wakebaording started to gather at around 10 o'clock to draw names out of the hat to determine the head to head shoot outs and put their best toe forward to take the coveted Feet on Fire crown for 2009.


The Second round of action saw former Feet on Fire champions Shawn Watson and Zane shwank draw battle. As it turned out Watson was the victor in that one. He followed his momentum all the way into the finals. 


The final saw a repeat of the 2005 Feet on Fire finals with Parks Bonifay and Shawn Watson. With legs like jello and feet on fire it was Monster Athlete Shawn Watson who stole the show. Taking the hand crafted trophy and the pride to be named the first ever 2 time Feet on Fire Champion. 


The day also saw Crazy Kelman Ritchie thrilling the crowd by lighting the waters of clear lake on fire while barefooting right though the middle.


The day of action went of with out a hitch thanks to the help from the most versatile boat in the industry, the Tige RZ2. 


Thanks to Tige, Monster, Chiplote, Kyle for the ever so famous leader board and the fans who made the event what it is today.

Check in at alliancewake.com and fuel TV for footage and action in the up coming weeks.

Monster Energy’s European star here stateside on the AMA Superbike Series takes a few minutes to get the Monster Army up-to-speed on the U.S. road racing scene

http://espn.go.com/action/gallery?id=4168735

Monster’s highly-visible street skater from Ohio co-writes the film, stars in it AND cut the damn check to help fund the thing! Hits theaters next weekend – June 12th

Greg Lutzka TV is now LIVE!

Join now for your chance to win a Monster Energy Fridge and a year supply of Monster Energy Drink!

Action sports great Shaun Palmer bests triathlete Kevin Barda and skier Jake Novotny; Dirt Rider’s Jimmy Lewis’ No. 1 in the media class

Fort Worth, Tex. – Fans packed the shores of Texas MasterCraft today for the final rounds of the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour stop in Fort Worth, Tex. Riders in the Pro Men, Women and Jr. Pro Men divisions, threwdown their best runs of the contest to try to win the first Tour stop of the 2009 season.
 
The one reoccurring theme throughout this weekend’s contest in the Pro Men’s division was upsets created by rookie riders, and today was no different. Harley Clifford of Thornlands, Australia, shocked everyone in Fort Worth today, when the 15-year-old rookie was called to the top of the Pro Men’s podium. Clifford, posting a 94.75 in his final run, beat out Olivier Derome, Aaron Rathy and two-time wakeboard world champion, Andrew Adkison for the top spot.
 
“I’m just stoked… there are no other words,” said Clifford. “Making it to the Finals was huge for me, but winning my first U.S. Pro Tour stop is just unreal.”
 
As unreal as it may seem to Clifford, the rookie rider now sits at the top of the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour standings list, making him the top-seeded rider in the next contest.
 
Incidentally, another rookie rider, England’s Nick Davies, claimed the ROCKSTAR Best Trick Award with his massive Toe-9 off of the U.S. Air Force kicker. The Award is a $1,000 cash prize.
 
Continuing her success from 2008, England’s Nicola Butler took first-place today in the Pro Women’s division Finals. Butler, 17, who captured the win in Fort Worth last year, faced off in a stacked six-woman Final. Former wakeboard world champ Amber Wing and four-time X Games gold medalist Dallas Friday rounded out the women’s podium, respectively.
 
The top amateur riders in the Jr. Pro Men’s division hit the water today for their four-man Final. The heat was tight between most of the riders, but Bob Soven (Longwood, Fla.) stood out from the competition to take the first Tour stop win of the season with nearly a 15-point differential from his next closest competitor. Phillip Alsinger, Mitch Langfield and Steel Lafferty rounded the Final, respectively. 
 
The MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour will make its next stop of the season in Pleasant Prairie, Wis., on June 19-21.
 
For results, standings, photos, videos, athlete bios and more, visit www.allisports.com.
 
The MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour is a three-day-long carnival of water-sports action. But not all of the action takes place on the water. On land, fans will experience tons of great food and music; athlete autograph signings; chances to win freebies; and shopping at the most cutting-edge stores for water-sports equipment including boats, wakeboards, wakeskates, sunglasses and the latest in wakeboarding and surfing fashions.
 
The MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour is organized by World Sports & Marketing of Orlando, Fla. The Pro Tour has the support of the following sponsors: MasterCraft, Rockstar Energy Drink, Mona Vie, the U.S. Air Force, Indmar, Billabong, Hyperlite, CWB, Ronix, Liquid Force, Gator Boards, Oakley, Ride the Wake, FUEL TV and Allisports.com.
 
MasterCraft is the exclusive tow boat for the Pro Wakeboard Tour, as it has been since the tour’s wakeboarding events began in 1992. Indmar Marine engines will provide the power for MasterCraft’s X Series line of competition tow boats.
 
ROCKSTAR is the world's most powerful energy drink. Enhanced with the potent herbal blend of Guarana, Ginkgo, Ginseng and Milk Thistle, ROCKSTAR is formulated to provide an incredible energy boost for those who lead active and exhausting lifestyles - from athletes to rock stars.ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK is available in eleven amazing flavors: Original, Sugar Free, Zero Carb, Juiced Mango Orange Passion Fruit, Juiced Guava, Juiced Pomegranate, Tropical Punched, Punched Citrus, Roasted Mocha, Roasted Latte, and Roasted Light Vanilla. ROCKSTAR ENERGY SHOTS are available in Wild Berry and Tropical Punch flavors.ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK is available at convenience and grocery retail outlets across the United States, Canada, Australia, Austria, Belgium, France, Ireland, New Zealand, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Spain, The Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, and throughout the United Kingdom.
 
Media Partners
To catch all the high-flying, rail-sliding, water-sports action of the King of Wake series, tune in to FUEL TV – the official television partner of the King of Wake. WakeBoarding, published by Bonnier Corp., is the official magazine of the King of Wake series. Read about all things wakeboarding, with expert coverage of professional instruction, gear, boats and news.
 
King of Wake
Viewed as the world’s elite pro wakeboarding circuit, the King of Wake series has attracted the sport’s top athletes from throughout the globe. With more than $300,000 in prize money over the eight-event season, athletes compete during the course of the year to be named the “King of Wake” – an award based on points accumulated at each stop of the series. Events include the Wake Games, the WWA Wakeboard National Championships, the WWA Wakeboard World Championships and all five stops on the Pro Wakeboard Tour. The King of Wake is organized by World Sports & Marketing – the leading wake events producer since 1988.
 
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports
Alli, the Alliance of Action Sports, is a global business that encompasses national and international action sports tours and events, multimedia production, and a consumer facing lifestyle brand.  The Alliance includes: the Dew Tour, Winter Dew Tour, China Invitational, Maloof Money Cup, AMA Motocross Championship, King of Wake series, and the Free Flow Tour; Alli Productions, which creates original content, produces and presents content with partners, and distributes Alli content through a variety of channels. Alli is owned by NBC Sports and MTV Networks and represents a network of athletes, fans, brands and properties. Its mission is to facilitate the momentous growth of action sports, through competition and lifestyle, for a new generation of fans and athletes. The Alli properties are home to more than 550,000 spectators each year and broadcasts more than 150 hours of original content in 100 countries and 280 million homes worldwide. More information can be found at www.allisports.com.
 
SUNDAY, MAY 31 – PWT FINAL RESULTS:
 
Pro Men: Finals – Heat 1
1. Harley Clifford              AUS        94.75
2. Aaron Rathy                   CDN        89.50
3. Andrew Adkison           USA        79.25
4. Olivier Derome               CDN        76.50
 
Pro Women: Finals – Heat 1
1. Nicola Butler                 UK           98.50
2. Amber Wing                   AUS        84.75
3. Dallas Friday                  USA        79.00
4. Raimi Merritt                   USA        72.25
5. Meagan Ethell                USA        60.50
6. Raequel Hoffman           USA        55.00
 
Jr. Pro Men: Finals – Heat 1
1. Bob Soven                       USA        96.50
2. Phillip Aslinger              USA        81.75
3. Mitch Langfield             AUS        81.50
4. Steel Lafferty                  USA        80.25
 
Pro Men: Semifinals – Heat 1
1. Andrew Adkison           USA        89.75
2. Olivier Derome             CDN        82.75
3. Adam Errington             SCT         79.75
4. Nick Davies                    GBR         75.00
5. Rusty Malinoski            CDN        72.75
 
Pro Men: Semifinals – Heat 2
1. Harley Clifford              AUS        90.25
2. Aaron Rathy                  CDN        89.25
3. Phillip Soven                  USA        86.00
4. Kyle Alberts                   USA        68.75
5. Austin Hair                     USA        65.75
 
Jr. Pro Men: Semifinals – Heat 1
1. Steel Lafferty                USA        90.00
2. Phillip Aslinger            USA        88.50
3. Jarrod Askew                 AUS        84.50
4. Danny Burnstein           USA        73.25
5. Johnny Tobaben           USA        63.75
 
Jr. Pro Men: Semifinals – Heat 2
1. Bob Soven                       USA        93.75
2. Mitch Langfield            AUS        92.75
3. Raphael Derome             CDN        83.50
4. Daniel Powers                USA        70.00
5. Pierce Homsey               USA        46.50
 
Pro Men: Quarterfinals – Heat 1
1. Aaron Rathy                  CDN        98.00
2. Olivier Derome             CDN        88.25
3. Dean Smith                     AUS        81.75
4. Danny Thollander         USA        72.00
 
Pro Men: Quarterfinals – Heat 2
1. Andrew Adkison           USA        96.00
2. Austin Hair                    USA        86.25
3. Danny Harf                     USA        83.25
4. Bryan Hutton                 USA        74.50
 
Pro Men: Quarterfinals – Heat 3
1. Adam Errington            SCT        97.75
2. Kyle Alberts                  USA        86.50
3. Josh Palma                      USA        82.75
4. Dylan Miller                    CDN        53.75
 
Pro Men: Quarterfinals – Heat 4
1. Harley Clifford              AUS        94.25
2. Rusty Malinoski           CDN        89.00
3. Trevor Hansen               USA        86.75
4. Jimmy LaRiche               USA        70.00
 
Pro Men: Quarterfinals – Heat 5
1. Phillip Soven                 USA        96.25
2. Nick Davies                   GBR        87.00
3. Tino Santori                    USA        82.75
4. Kirby Liesmann              USA        74.00

Check out the Official Trailer of Street Dreams:

Here's your chance to vote for the 2009 WPS SURFING ALL STARS. Some Monster Army General's made the list so make sure to support the Army by voting for Corey Lopez, Bobby Martinez, Dane Reynolds, and Yadin Nicol.

Make sure to vote by June 15th!


http://www.worldprosurfers.com/vote/

Rossi claims 3rd in flag-to-flag race, with Edwards and Toseland 6th and 7th; Bradley Smith battles hard to win in wet and take championship lead in 125cc

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Pourcel wins 250 class @ Hangtown; Monster/Kawi’s Villopoto, who won the 450s last week, is out with an injury

World Champion claims first win of the season in British scorcher, Frossard and Paulin podium in MX2 to keep up the pressure

Austin Vicente

SPORT: Surf
LOCATION: Haleiwa, HI

CHECK OUT HIS PROFILE


Why do you surf?

I surf because it’s the most fun thing to do in the world and you just can forget about all your problems and it’s healthy for you.


Why live in Hawaii?

There are some of the best waves in the world and its warm water and sick barrels


Why Monster Energy drinks as a sponsor?

Because monsters taste’s good and gets you amped. Plus sick clothing


Why girls?

Ha-ha, because there sexy


Why travel to surf insane waves and perfect rights?

Because surfing good waves is very fun and you get to meet new people and learn about a new culture


Why crush the lip so much?

Because it’s a good surfing move


Why airs?

You feel like you can fly and it feels very good to land one


Why use wax?

So you don't slip off your board


Why use a pad on the tail?

More grip to do tail throws and land moves easier


Why have three fins?

For more stability while you’re surfing


Why win contests?

You feel very good and you need to win contests to become a pro surfer


Why get sponsored?

It helps me to travel and compete in contests and get clothing


Why surf with buddies?

You can push each other to do better than the other person and you have someone to talk to in the water


Why have fears?

No fears, Ha-ha

Why listen to music?

Gets me amped and sounds good


Why eat?

If I don't eat I will die


Why text?

I don't text


Why sleep?

To get rejuvenated for the next day
 

Why have goals?

So I have something to look forward to accomplishing


Why Bother?

So I don't end up working at McDonalds and its fun.

Monster Army:  Ryan, congratulations on the recent success in first round of the 2009 outdoor motocross national at Glen Helen.  There are many parts to this story that make the event a huge deal right now in the moto community.  Let’s rap about a few of those topics and let me know your thoughts on it all. How did it all pan out with you now that the event is over?

Ryan Villopoto:  You know I have been very fortunate with my career ever since I turned pro.  I always knew in the back of my mind as a kid racing the amateur nationals that I had the talent and desire to win races.  It never really all came together until I turned pro, and to be honest, I feel like I have already achieved more then I ever thought possible.  I can into Glen Helen, my race in the premier class with that same approach I have always used.  I did my homework, got as prepared as I thought I could be, and I gave it my all.  I never gave up and things fell into place for me.  I think athletes, for the most part, make their own luck and I just gave it my all and came away from the weekend with the perfect score.  I could not be any happier then I am right now. 


MA:  Did the track design fit your style of riding at that event?

Ryan: Glen Helen is always a very tough track.  Everyone knows what to expect from the weekend before the race begins. I, like many of the other pros, did a lot of testing for the event at Glen Helen.  I do like tracks that are more on the rough side and feel like my training over the past years and prepared me well for humidity on the East Coast and the roughness of the tracks on the West Coast. 


MA:  Describe your style of riding as you see it?

Ryan: I like to think of myself as someone who rides with a controlled aggression.  I like to be right on the fine line and test myself when I need to.  I will do what I need to to win the event but know the long term vision of the title is more important.  I will take a 2nd or 3rd place finish if it is the smart thing to do at the time, but I will try and win every moto just so that my competitors know that for me, the race does not end till the checkered flag is out. 


MA:  Tell us about how your 2009 Supercross season went for you?

Ryan: I felt like I could have done better.  I was healthy, my bike was one of the best on the track, and I have a great support system set up behind me.  I know it was going to be a battle each weekend with Chad and James.  I also knew there was no real pressure on me since this was my first year in the class with them.  I would have liked to been on the podium more in the early part of the season but sometimes things happen.  My illness in the middle of the season made me sit out for awhile and I think some people wrote me off after that.  When I won a few mains at the end of the year after I came back to racing, I was wishing there was more Supercross in the season.  But at the same time, I was also looking forward to the outdoor series.  I love the outdoors!


MA:  How did motocross become a passion for you?

Ryan: I just started riding at a very young age.  My dad raced motocross and for me it was something I always looked forward to.  As time went on I knew it was something that came natural to me.  Still to this day, ever after all the years of riding, I still look forward to riding the next day when I go to bed at night. 


MA: What do you like better, the time racing as an amateur or the time racing as a pro?

Ryan: That is an easy one.  I think every racer would answer this question the same way.  The time you spend at the races as an amateur is the best time in life.  At the time it seems like a job, but it is a lot of fun and you are always with your buddies goofing off after the races and at night at the tracks.  As a pro, knowing the time, effort, and amount of money people are investing in you to win, you definitely are reminded that it is truly a job! 


MA:  What else do you do besides riding for fun?

Ryan: I have a few guns and like to hunt a little.   It is tough with the schedule we have with the amount of racing and testing us riders do.  A big treat was going to Africa a few years ago and being able to do a little hunting.  I also like to fish.  It was something that I took up as a kid and was able to do on the down time at some of the amateur nationals.   


MA:  Are you going to be able to take part in the Summer X-Games and try and win a gold medal?

Ryan: That would be fun but we will have to see how the outdoor series is going when X-Games rolls around.  That might be a better question for you to ask Mike Fisher, the Kawasaki Team Manager. 


MA: Where would you say is heaven for a motocrosser?

Ryan: You might think this is funny, but I would have to say home.  I know that you were looking for a track location or something but being on the road so much, it is always nice to take advantage of spending time at home.  I love it there.  


MA:  What does the future hold for Ryan Villopoto?

Ryan:  I am not sure.  I know that things can turn in a second and with a sport like motocross I am taking nothing for granted.  I am going to continue to ride hard, ride smart, and give it my all every time on the track.  I know that the career of a motocross racer is short, well usually, and so I do not want to leave anything on the table after I am done racing.  I know that there are always a lot of talented kids coming in the pros every year and the number of jobs out there is small.  I hope the future continues with the way the past and present has gone for me by no one can predict what will happen till it is happening.  I hope that I am able to learn each and every day I am on bike and am able to add it to my knowledge base for future championship titles. 


MA:  What is the name of the trick you are going to invent someday going to be called?

Ryan: The trick?  I am not sure about that one.  I am a racer in my heart and maybe I can come up with some type of deal like McGrath did with his Nac-Nac.  Maybe in time I will be able to come up with something flashy and exciting win I win a race over the finish line jump.  Maybe something along the lines of the “Nac-Nac” & “Can-Can”.  I will say “Ryanizer”. 


MA:  What are you goals for the 2010 season?

Ryan: I want to continue to improve and make my sponsors feel like I am going everything I can for them.  I want to win both Championships and keep my streak alive on the Des Nations team.  I want to be able to have as much face time as I can with the fans and give everyone the best show possible that spends money on a ticket. Oh, and I also want to stay healthy!