The NEWS

I am pretty lucky Kerri came with me because we pushed the bike building to the very last minute, so getting to Friday Night practice was a rush. The drive to the track from James' is only about 40min so I started it and about 15min out I gave the wheel over to Kerri so I could get my riding gear on. We pulled up to the door of the building I unloaded the bike, warmed it up, and was out on the track. It was nice to have the practice night for both James and myself to just kinda get another run down of the bike before heading to Daytona.

Saturday morning rolled around and it was time to get up bright and early to work the oh so exciting go karts. Steve had one of the biggest turn outs for Karts and Bikes so that made for a very long day. For how many karts where there it went fairly smooth, not to many fights, and only got called a jacka$$ once so it wasn't so bad. After the karts run I go wide open to get everything unloaded and ready to go, I always try to save a pit spot for the whole OWB Crew. Steve Nace wanted to try something different with the track this weekend so after the karts ran there was a real nice wide grove so he decided to try and keep that instead of digging it up.

Everything was going pretty smooth for me. The bike was working well, I was feeling pretty good everything was just good that night. The only problem I had was I couldn't get off the line. You would have thought I was Davis "Whisky Throttle" Fisher (He is a kid in Oregon I help out and he can ride the wheels off a Dirt Tracker but cannot start to save his life ha-ha.) It was a problem all night, hopefully I got all the bad starts out for the whole year because I sure got a lot of them.

The racing all night was really great and a lot of fun. I had a really fun heat race with Hayden Gillim, he got the hole shot and I was right there behind him. It was 8 laps so for 16 turns I had my front wheel as far down his bike as possible. He has come a long way as a rider over the years. When I first started riding big bikes with him he was pretty easy to move. Now it is very hard to move him, it takes a little more contact than just rubbing to move him. By the end of the heat I couldn't get him to move but I did cover the left side of his bike with rubber.

Another great race was the main on the TT. I got a third in this one but it was behind Hayden and Frankie Lee. It was great to see FLG up at the front too. It was a fun one, there was a train about 5 of us and FLG would go into the tight TT corners and basically stop then take off real fast. It was a bit scary for me because I would have to stop and I would see a line of guys coming getting ready to nail me, FLG would take off at just the right moment and I felt like I was dodging a bullet.

After the night was over I totaled up a win, a second, and two thirds. The race that I won was a good one for me, I like the slick stuff other than it's basically impossible to pass. I did get the hole shot in one race and was able to set the pace. I was able to pull a little bit of a gap and run some clean laps so it was a lot of fun.

The next race isn't for another two weeks then it will be off to Daytona. I still have some stuff to get done before then so I better get to working I guess.

Flint MI Indoor Ice Race - 28 Jan 2012
Since the I.C.E. race scheduled to be held at Glen Falls NY was cancelled due to the ice-making compressors breakdown, that made it possible for me to stay home and race in the Flint IMA Indoor Ice Race. Their format is a little different. The nice thing is you get to ride a little bit more in this race. Instead of racing in two Heats, you get to race in five Heats at least once. The local crowd gets hyped up, making it quite entertaining.

I was able to have a good night by winning all five of my Heats, and pull a hole shot, to win the Main Event. Henry Wiles, Tom McGrane, Chaz Springsteen, Doug Beattie, and Doug Lawrence, to name a few, were also racing there. It was a lot of fun for sure. The best part is that we got to ride outdoors on one of our Michigan Lakes the next day. Beattie (brother of Steve Beattie), Lawrence, Craig Pickett and Brian Smith ripped it up hard core on the ice. I had a blast riding with these guys.

Johnstown PA - I.C.E. Championships - 4 Feb 2012
Johnstown PA. was the final round of the Indoor Ice Racing Championship for 2012. It was a short series this year but next year it is supposed to be longer. I started the night off with winning Heat 1, had a tough battle in the 2nd Heat, but was able to pull it off. The ice was wearing fast so the track had to be shrunk way, way down, making it quite challenging in the Main Event for everyone. I pulled the hole shot and won the Main Event. It made for a perfect season for me... I did not lose a single Heat or Main. This was the second year I was able to do that, winning the Championship for the 4th time.

I want to thank all my supporters, especially Montgomeryville Cycle Center in Pennsylvania, Craig Pickett, Kold Kutter and EBC Brakes, and all those who helped me in this series this year.

I am now getting ready, and looking forward to the first "Bike Week" Flattrack race on March 9th in Savannah GA.

Thanks for all the support. Jammin' Jared Mees
www.jaredmees.comwww.jaredmees.com, Facebook with Jared.

We received an overload of press from A&J Racing this week and I thought I'd make it easy on everybody and put them all together. They are announcing 3 great sponsors for the year so check it out and support those who support us! On to the release

A&J racing is excited to announce that they will be continuing their casual clothing deal with Hostility Clothing for the 2012 AMA Pro Flat Track Harley-Davidson Insurance Grand National Championship, Presented by Motorcycle-Superstore.com. This will be marking the second year with Hostility for A&J racing who started their first year with Jimmy Wood in 2011. Hostility this year will support the entire team backing Jimmy Wood #37 and Mike Rush #54 in the AMA Pro Harley-Davidson Insurance Expert Class. As well Alex Wood #67E in the AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com Pro Singles class.

Hostility Clothing
Hostility Clothing founded in 2005 as a core lifestyle brand for the action sports enthusiast. From the track, to the ring, the water or the music scene Hostility supports all who chose to live an extreme lifestyle. From T-shirts, hats, hoodies, to shorts, socks, belts and more, the Hostility line is quickly gaining popularity in the extreme action sports movement. The signature H has become a symbol of pride for all the athletes that rock our gear. Hostility Clothing carries a full line of:

• Mens tee's
• Womens tee's
• Youth tee's
• Hoodies
• Swimwear
• Fightwear
• Socks
• Belts
• Hats
• Beanies
• Pants
• Decals

And much more to come! Check them out online at www.hostilityclothing.com.

A&J racing is excited to be continuing with Hostility Clothing and would like to thank everyone at Hostility Clothing for their hard work and support. Check www.hostilityclothing.com for continued race reports and pictures on our season, they are true race fans.

Motion Pro Tools and Cables
Motion Pro is dedicated to producing the most versatile, unique and durable products for professional and home use. Motion Pro tools are designed to be simple to use, yet durable enough to withstand the harshest conditions. One of their goals is to offer tools of convenience, tools they feel make difficult or time-consuming jobs much easier. Motion Pro offers tools for changing tires to synchronizing carburetors to changing your oil. Many top racers and mechanics rely on Motion Pro tools and controls. A well-prepared vehicle, using the right tools, will ensure you come out ahead in the long run. Do it right the first time with Motion Pro Tools. For more info on Motion Pro Tools and Cables check them out on the web at, www.motionpro.com.

A&J would like to extend its gratitude to Motion Pro for offering their continued support in our racing program and look forward to our season debut at Daytona International Speedway.

PMP Sprockets
A&J racing is very proud to announce that they will also be continuing their relationship with PMP Sprockets for the 2012 AMA Pro Flat Track Harley-Davidson Insurance Grand National Championship, Presented by Motorcycle-Superstore.com. This will be the second year that PMP Sprockets will be joining forces with team A&J Racing. PMP will be backing Jimmy Wood #37 and Mike Rush #54 in the AMA Pro Harley-Davidson Insurance Expert Class. As well Alex Wood #67E in the AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com Pro Singles class. All three riders are currently preparing for the opening rounds of their classes at Daytona International Speedway, and have comfort knowing they will be prepared with the best sprockets around.

PMP Sprockets is family owned and operated, located in Wylie, Texas USA. Their mission is to provide the highest quality, American made motorcycle and ATV sprockets, at an unbeatable price. They are dedicated to supplying their customers with the most precision machined off-road and streetbike sprockets and the best customer service in the industry. Each sprocket is machined one at a time, allowing them to specialize in custom sprockets with teeth and chain sizes, as well with applications and colors you wont find anywhere else. PMP uses aero-space quality 7075-T6 plate aluminum alloy, CNC machined from start to finish to ensure sprocket concentricity, sprocket life maximization and chain stretch minimization. Finally PMP Uses CAD/CAM technology to lighten all of their rear sprockets and they offer in house color and HardKoat anodizing for maximum turn around time. Most orders are shipped the next business day, for more information go check out their website www.pmpsprockets.com.

A big thank you is due to PMP Sprockets from all of us at A&J Racing, we are proud to have PMP as part of our racing efforts for 2012

For more information on A&J racing, go check out our fan page, www.facebook.com/aandjracing. Be sure to follow each racer throughout the season on twitter @awood67 @jimmywood37 @Mrush54

January 30, 2012 - Paducah, KY
We know you've been anxiously awaiting this very moment, you've probably been checking the internet every day. Well, HERE IT IS !!!!! The 2012 AMA Racing All Star National Flat Track series schedule. We will be coming to a track near you. Promoted by Steve Nace Racing Promotions.

Once again, Round 1 of the AMA Racing sanctioned All Star National Flat Track Series will kick off on the revered half mile of Oglethorpe Speedway Park in Savannah, GA on March 9th to signal the start of Daytona Bike Week 2012. Then round 2 of the series will move South to Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, FL on March 11th.

May 19th Round 3 of the series will return to Little Rock, AR; home of Paul Covert's Crooked Creek Raceway. Previous winners on this red clay short track include Chris Carr and J.D. Beach. Paul's race always includes a "Bag Full of Money" Dash for Cash. Can J.D. make it two in a row in 2012?

Round 4 of the All Star Series, scheduled for June 2nd, will move to a new venue for 2012. The Calumet County Speedway in Chilton, WI will host the second short track of the season. This race will be in conjunction with the Dairyland Classic to be run on June 1st at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, WI.

Round 5 will take the All Star National Flat Track Series to Peoria Speedway in Peoria, IL on June 15th as we return to one of last year's most competitive tracks. This will kick off another double header race weekend that will end up at the beautiful grounds of the Peoria Motorcycle Club's famous TT track on June 17th.

Once again the 4th of July will be celebrated in Frederick, MD on the limestone half mile; site of the Al Wilcox Memorial 90th Annual Barbara Fritchie Classic. Two days later, on July 6th, the All Star National Flat Track Series returns to Winchester Speedway in Winchester, WV just down the road from the GNC Hagerstown half mile scheduled to be run on July 7th.

Another new track for 2012 will take the series to picturesque Billings, MT on July 21st to run on the totally resurfaced short track located on the grounds of the Billings Motorcycle Club.

Round 10 will be back in Peoria, IL for the second time in 2012 at the always exciting Peoria Speedway short track. This race will take place on Friday Aug. 10th leading up to the AMA Pro GNC Peoria TT event on Aug. 12th.

This year the AMA sanctioned All Star National Flat Track Series will finish up in the Northeast on two tracks new to the series. On Sept. 28th Trail-way Speedway in Hanover, PA will host the first race of the weekend on their historic short track. Then we will finish out the 2012 season with over $25,000 available to the racers on the limestone half mile at the York County Fairgrounds in York, PA. This race will run in conjunction with the Harley Davidson Factory Open House and the York Fall Motorcycle Rally.

The AMA sanctioned All Star National Flat Track Series was formed in 2010 to take the place of the AMA Hot Shoe Series when it was discontinued. Our goal is to provide AMA Pro & Expert racers venues to race at during the off weekends and in conjunction with AMA Pro Racing Grand National Championship Flat Track Series. As well as bringing the sport of Flat Track Motorcycle Racing to new venues and potentially new fans across the US.

2012 American All Star National Flat Track Series Schedule
Steve Nace Racing Promotions

March 9th Oglethorpe Speedway Park- Savannah, GA; Half Mile
March 11th Volusia Speedway Park- Barberville, FL; Half Mile
May 19th Crooked Creek Speedway- Little Rock, AR; Short Track
June 2nd Calumet County Speedway- Chilton, WI; Short Track
June 15th Peoria Speedway- Peoria, IL; Short Track
June 17th Peoria Motorcycle Club- Peoria, IL; TT
July 4th Al Wilcox Memorial- Frederick, MD; Half Mile
July 6th Winchester Speedway- Winchester, VA; Half Mile
July 21st Billings Motorcycle Club- Billings, MT; Short Track
Aug. 10th Peoria Speedway- Peoria, IL; Short Track
Sept. 28th Trail-way Speedway- Hanover, PA; Short Track
Sept. 29th York Fairgrounds- York, PA; Half Mile

www.stevenaceracing.com (270)442-7532 snace@apex.net

JARED MEES I.C.E. CHAMPIONSHIPS - Rounds 3, 4.Loveland CO - 13 January 2012
I almost was unable to make this race due to the weather. Thursday night, into Friday morning we had a lot of snow. I was flying out on Friday morning for a Friday night race, cutting it close. My Friday morning flight out of Flint MI was cancelled. I called around, trying to get out of there, but the earliest the airline could was that day about 6 PM, way too late. Since I was getting refunded for my ticket, I jumped on "Cheap Tickets" and found one that went out later but was out of Detroit. I booked that and was on my way. I got there with no trouble and it worked out well because the races' announcer as well as the referee were on that same flight, so I was able to hitch a ride with them to the Budweiser Events Center.

I won both of my Heats and hole-shotted the Main Event, running my own race. With that, I won the 3rd round. I flew out on the red eye first thing in the morning, and went back home to go riding on the ice outdoors. That was a lot of fun... as there has not been much ice this winter and we haven't been able to get out there much.

Bloomington IL - 21 Jan 2012
For the race in Bloomington I was able to leave from home that same morning. This is always our biggest I.C.E. event, spectator-wise and riders-wise. The pit area has always been way over-packed, but this year the arena got us a good pit area, which gave us more space and was much nicer.

I drew two pole positions for my Heats, which was the first time this year I got the pole. I hole-shotted both, winning both of my Heats, setting the fast time to put me on pole for the Main. I grabbed the start and set sail. After three hard laps I cruised it home for the win.

We have one more race to go since the one to be held at Glens Fall NY was cancelled because the compressors broke down and they were unable to make ice. Instead, I am going to race the local indoor race in Flint MI this weekend for the Boulis Racing Group. Next weekend, on February 4th, is the last I.C.E. race, in Johnstown PA. The following weekend after that is the AMA Ice Race Grand Championships at Potters Lake MI, an outdoor race. That should be a lot of fun, if your anywhere close to the state of Michigan, come out and see for yourselves!

Thanks for all the support. Jammin' Jared Mees

AMA GNC Grand National Flat Track racer Chad Cose has taken on the task to field his own team for the 2012 AMA Grand National Flat Track race season. The official team name will be C.R.C Racing and will compete in both the twins and singles classes. This will be Cose's 4th season as a Grand National rider and is currently ranked 18th in the country among the top riders in the sport. When asked about opting to field a new team Cose had this to say. " I am very excited about doing my own deal this year. With the way the economy has been the last few years there isn't much money out there and that means teams have little to no budget to go racing. Teams are cutting back and most guys out there are paying to get on a bike. I felt it would be beneficial to myself as well my sponsors to start C.R.C Racing and build it for years to come. I have had many great supporters through the years and plan to bring all my resources together to make it happen".

Cose has had great success through the amateur and pro-am ranks bringing in 6 AMA amateur national titles, a pro sport AMA national title and a second place AMA basic expert twins national title. He has come off his best season to date finishing 18th overall in the AMA championship standings but coming up short of the results he set out to accomplish. " I didn't have the best season in 2011 but im taking the highs and lows to gain knowledge to put forth to the 2012 season. Starting my own team will allow me to have a lot more input in the way I want my bikes and actually what bikes ill be on in general. I will be running honda 450s in the singles class and Kawasaki 650s in the twins class". Having a team also allows me to understand the business and marketing standpoint of racing better which will only help my career".

The AMA Grand National Flat Track schedule consists of 19 races covering each coast of the country and many places in between. The season kicks off in Daytona beach Florida for its traditional double header march 15th & march 16th. The conclusion of the series will be in Pomona, California October 13th. To become a partner or follow the progress of C.R.C Racing and Chad Cose you can find news, updates and race results on the sources below. " I would also like to thank all the great people on board C.R.C Racing for the 2012 season".

ChadCose.com
Follow Chad Cose on Twitter
or look me up on Facebook

2012 Sponsors:
C.R.C Racing, VC Graphix, American Supercamp, Oakland H-D, Saddlemen, Amped Apparel, Bell Helmets, G2 ergonomics, Eddie & Jodi Mulder, Arlen Ness, Digger Helm, Fightfordirttrack.com Oneal, Spider Grips, Team slideways, Top One Oil, Lightshoe, Utopia Optics, Race Image, Motion Pro, Web Cams, A&A Racing, CP Pistons

FFDT: Well Chad, you're back on the West Coast after spending quite a bit of time on the East Coast. How was that?
CC: It was really good, I did a lot of lounging and recovering. I had surgery in October and took the off-season to recover. It was nice, but now that I'm back home it's time to start getting everything together for 2012. I'm excited about that, a lot of things are changing this year. I think that we are really going to be ready for Daytona in 2012.

FFDT: 2011 just was not your season. You showed some flashed of brilliance, but luck really never was heading your way. What kind of changes did you make in your program?
CC: I've always been somebody who believes that luck is only what you make of it. There is no good luck or bad luck, you just make your own luck. The first 3 years of my Expert career has been a lot about my work ethic. I think the biggest thing going into 2012 is to focus on working a lot harder, just doing whatever I need to do to prepare before the races so when I get to the track I know for sure that I have everything I need to put me up front. The biggest thing that is changing is that I'm doing everything on my own this year. I'm pulling all of my resources together to get my own program going. Right now it is just me and my dad and my personal sponsors that I've accumulated over the years. With what we have going, I think I can be top 5, even podium hopefully this year.

FFDT: FFDT: What are you riding this year? Let's start with the singles series.
CC:I've got my 450 Honda that I rode last year. We're putting another one together also. As far as that goes, I feel like I am a good singles rider, it's just getting the finishes that I want. Like you said, I've shown flashes at times of what I can do. I just have to focus now on putting everything together. I think I've only shown a tiny bit of what I can do, so I'm really excited for this season to show what I can do. I'll have two good singles bikes, we are changing a few things on those that I think will really help us progress.

FFDT: The big news with your program is in the twins series. For the last couple of years you have rode KTM's and Suzuki's for the Water's Autobody Racing Team, what is your approach to the twin's series now?
CC: That was the tough part of my off season. In past years I always knew what was going to happen. I've never had to do too much from a manager or team owner's stand point, but I weighed all of my options and thought it was a better option to go out on my own than to pay to ride for somebody or to be on a team this year. I really can't thank Dave and Rhonda Waters enough for all of the help the last two seasons. The entire Waters'Autobody Racing team was amazing and really great to work with. I wouldn't have been out there if it wasn't for them. We still have a great relationship even though we've parted ways. For 2012 I'll be on my own Kawasaki 650's for the twin's races. I have all of my personal sponsors backing it, and I've put together most of the budget myself. It's good to know that the bike that I'm going to be on has been proven as a good bike. I bought Jimmy Wood's bike from last year and he was impressive on it. I'm excited because it's all on me now. He has shown people what that bike can do, and it's good. All I can do at this point is match his results and hopefully better those results a little bit. I just can't wait for this season.

FFDT: Like you said, you're riding a proven bike. What about your motor program?
CC: We are still working on a few things in the motor department. I'm getting one of Jimmy's motors from last year, and that one will probably be our half-mile motor. From there we are focusing on getting somebody to build our other motor into a rocket for the miles, but I can't really say right now who will be doing the work. I just don't have everything set in stone yet. No matter what, we should have our mile motor by Springfield.

FFDT: We have a great schedule for 2012. Are there any events in particular that you are looking forward to?
CC: On the singles side of things, I feel like I'm one of the most under acheived riders out there. I've fast qualified and things like that, so I know I have the speed, I just have to put it all together. I'm really excited for all of the singles races. The Springfield Short Track and TT, I've done well there a couple of times so I'm looking forward to that. For the twins I'm not sure yet. We are still up the air with our mile motor, so I'm not thinking about the mile's a whole lot right now. I'm looking forward to riding this new kawi on the clay half miles though, I've seen this bike work very well on those types of tracks.

FFDT: Well Chad, thanks for taking the time to talk with us. If people want to follow your progress, how can they do that?
CC: It's no problem to keep track of me. I'm working on getting my website updated, right now it's about a year old. it's www.chadcose.com , you can find me on Facebook and I'm new to the Twitter thing, but you can Follow me on Twitter

FFDT: I guess we'll see you in Daytona!
CC: Sure thing, look for the number 49 bike!

The 3rd installment of The Draft focuses on a new team that made a splash in the 2011 season, A&J Racing. We pitted the cousins Jimmy and Alex Wood against each Sunday? Which should be a favorite of any dirttracker, it would have to be Forest Gump

What is a talent you wish you had?

AW: I wish I was fluent in a few languages

JW: I've always wanted to play the drums

What is one thing you always take with you when you travel?

AW: My phone charger, I hate it when I forget that!

JW: My head, if it weren't hooked to my shoulders I'd forget it too

When was the first time you were on a motorcycle?

AW: I was 3 years old in the lot next to my house, pw 50 with pops holding the rear fender.

JW: I rode an old pink PW 50 around a couple of times when I was 6 out behind my parents' house. I ended up crashing into the fence. Oh and I busted the fence, by the way.

What is one sport you would never try?

AW: There's nothing I wouldn't try once.

JW: Boxing or anything where somebody's trying to him me in the face. Our clothing sponsor Hostility http://hostilityclothing.com/ is big in MMA. I hope they don't get any ideas!

What sports, besides racing, are you good at?

AW: Love surfing, golf, cycling, fitness, fishing, racquetball. You can say I'm kind of a jack of all trades and master at none.

JW: I grew up playing soccer and was pretty good at it.

What is your favorite racing memory?

AW: Maybe my first win as a Pro Sport coming off a bad injury, Springfeild ST. I almost quit racing and that was my first race back, meant a lot to me.

JW: Mikey Rush and I rode double on a 450 during intermission at Perris (CA) shorttrack one night and were only a couple tenths off of what we did by ourselves and I was on the back. It was awesome and we still have people asking us about it and people trying to get to do it again.

What is the hardest thing about Dirttrack as a sport?

AW: Hardest thing about Dirt Track is bike setup. I suck at it, Jimmy Wood works on my bikes.

JW: How deep the competition is.

What is your favorite store to shop in?

AW: Motorcycle shops who help support our Riders in Dirt Track.

JW: Harbor Freight!

What was your favorite subject in school?

AW: Well, grade school wise, writing and history. Right now I am taking a Marketing promotion and sports advertising class that is hands down the best class I've taken.

JW: I was really good in math.

What is your favorite meal?

AW: Moms fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken, nothing better

JW: I love me some Mexican food.

Who was your childhood hero?

AW: Ricky Graham or Bubba Shobert

JW: Jeff Johnson. He was #37 before me and won everything in Cali when I was coming up. Awesome guy too.

Who is in your regular crew/entourage?

AW: Jimmy Wood, Aaron Colton, Mike Rush, Chris Canepa, Rodney Spencer, Mikey Avila, Chris Tice, Steve Hill. I am super close to those guys, they are my extended family.

JW: Haha I don't have much of an entourage but Steve Hill AKA Driver has been with me at damn near every race since I was 16. He's a great friend and awesome guy. Some people even thought he was my dad this year.

What is your funniest story from the races?

AW: I have had so many I can't even recollect. Most I can't say, haha

JW: Well,the really funny ones I can't tell you but we do tend to get a bit carried away with playing jokes on each other.

What is the best thing about being a racer?

AW: The love and respect from your fellow racers.

JW: All the great people you get to meet!

Would you rather have an on-track rival you get along with or would you rather just hate them?

AW: In my opinion, just leave it all on the track no matter what.

JW: I'd rather have a rival I like because they are bound to beat you sometime and nobody likes to lose to someone they hate.

What is something people would be suprised to know about you?

AW: I hitch hiked Central America for 40 days top to bottom.

JW: Nothing. What you see is what you get.

Who is your favorite person to follow on Twitter?

AW: http://www.twitter.com/lancearmstrong or http://www.twitter.com/kellyslater

JW: http://www.twitter.com/danieltosh

Any words to live by:

AW: "Work Hard, Play Hard, No Regrets."

JW: "No regrets"

What is your guilty pleasure?

AW: IPA Beer is just too tasty sometimes

JW: Ice Cream

Your're in charge of the AMA. What do you do?

AW: Concentrate on Marketing, on getting the riders some material to sell themselves with. The biggest problem with our sport is that we are a hard sell to companies, because of the lack of coverage. That is the biggest issue, I guess one day wouldn't be enough, but I would start with perfecting a TV program and better social media marketing/advertising program. We need to have a platform to show ourselves on.

JW: Just one word. TV! TV!! TV!!!

While we have a countdown going for Daytona, until then, get your racer fix on twitter by following Jimmy Wood on twitter, http://www.twitter.com/JimmyWood37 Alex Wood http://www.twitter.com/AWood67 the newest member of A& J, Mikey Rush http://www.twitter.com/Rush54 mainly because the competition between the riders is pretty hilarious, Alex has a headstart on Jimmy but Jimmy is catching on pretty quick.

If you're on facebook, make sure you like A&J Racing as well.

Briar Bauman is what many are saying is the next Dirt Track Prodigy. He burst on the scene by taking the Horizon Award in 2010, then after finally turning 16 mid season, he joined the Pro Singles ranks and reeled off a few wins in the class. He's moving up to the Expert class and has just signed on to ride for a very strong team for 2012. Here's what he had to say.

FFDT: Big news today huh?

BB: Yep!

FFDT: Well, what is that big news?

BB: Well, I was talking to Ronnie Brown about what I wanted to do for the upcoming year and him being a pretty good mentor he was leading me toward the USC Kawasaki Racing Team. I didn't think I would get the chance to even talk to the guys let alone ride for them but I had seen the bike that JD Beach was racing at the top level and the bike looked awesome, so I decided to give Gerry Booher at USC Kawasaki a call and he was more than willing to work with me and figure out a way for me to be able to ride the Kawasaki 650 and then before I knew it, he was putting things together for me to ride a Kawasaki 450 too, the 2012 and a 2011 that they have. Woody Kyle and Ronnie Brown will be doing the motors on the 450's and James Hart will be doing the twins, so it will be really good.

FFDT: How did you decide between staying in the Pro Singles class for a full season or making the move to Expert?

BB: I went in over half way through the series because of my late birthday, but even then, I still managed to win a couple of races. I knew to progress I was going to have to be racing with the faster guys. I need to be where I will be chasing guys and that's in the Expert class. For sure there are some fast guys coming into the Pro Singles class like Ryan Wells, but, I just didn't feel like I would be getting that extra push to try harder like I would in the Expert class. I talked to Ronnie and he didn't care. He just works on the bike and he left it up to me, so I said, "Let's do it." From there he said that we'd just go find a twin to ride and figure the program out.

FFDT: Since you are going Expert for next year, where you able to reserve your beloved number 10?

BB: I was. I sent the application in, and I just wasn't sure about numbers. You know how it is, you send it in and for me, it just doesn't seem complete yet because I still have to run that letter. I did get the 10Z though, so that is what we're rolling. Baby steps you know.

FFDT: My good friend Johnny Lewis has the Grand National number 10 locked down right now. With your ability and potential, it's no doubt that you'll probably make a main this year and secure a national number for next year. Going into 2013 have you even started thinking about numbers?

BB: A lot of people have asked me about that since Johnny has it, but I run the number 10 because of Doug Chandler. Johnny told me I could buy it from him, but it would be a steep price! I'll just see what numbers are available, see what Johnny wants me to pay him for it when things actually happen and I make a main event.

FFDT: Oh yeah, Johnny took that 10 on purpose so you'd have to pay up. He's been watching you!

BB: Yeah, he told me he didn't want to run the 21 because of that short guy who wears the number 9 right now (laughs). He just didn't want that back. He saw me riding at amateur nationals and thought it'd be a good idea to keep it from a kid. (laughs)

FFDT: I know it's a new track on our schedule, but did you ever have the chance to ride Daytona as an amateur at all? How are you preparing for it?

BB: I've never been there but I've watched a lot of videos, done a little research, just trying to check it out. Basically all I've ever heard from anybody is that it's like riding on the moon because there is nothing on earth like that place. It will be a different experience for me, and it's going to take a lot of work to figure it out.

FFDT: Are you nervous about a track like Daytona being your first race, or do you just handle it like it's any other race?

BB: I think I can handle it just like any other race. It's going to be a huge step up from the Pro Singles class. Those guys all want the same thing as I do, and now, they want it twice as bad. It's going to be a lot tougher to ride like I did last year during this season.

FFDT: Well, the good thing about Daytona is it seems to bring the wild card riders out. Lots of people have made their first ever national there. What would it be like if you came into Daytona and were just right up front from the start?

BB: Well, not just for me, but for anybody, being up front in a Grand National would have to be the best feeling in the world. If it happens, that would be amazing, but hey, if I do have an extra special day in Daytona, maybe I can have one really soon after that way no one can say it was a fluke or something like that.

FFDT: The schedule has been released, it's not final yet, but as it sits now, what races are you looking the most forward to?

BB: Peoria for sure for the singles. Last year just kind of robbed me. We had so many ups and downs through the day, then ended with a huge down note, and I just want to prove to myself that I'm able to run there pretty decent and maybe even leave there with a top 5 or top 10, just have a good day there to erase the bad memories that I have there.

FFDT: What about the twins races?

BB: I'm going to have to go with Lima on that one.

FFDT: I knew it!

BB: Yeah, it's a deep cushion and I'm just ready for it. People talk about Springfield (mile) but for me, Lima is where it's at. There's so much hype there and I just love a deep cushion where you can hold it wide open!

FFDT: How much experience do you have on a twin?

BB: I have nothing on a twin. I'm supposed to go to Illinois when it warms up and test a little bit. We want to test a little bit, see what Woody Kyle and James Hart have come up with. I just want to see what I can do on one, hopefully I can put it into a main event!

FFDT: Are you doing any racing outside of the national series?

BB: Oh yeah. There's a lot of local racing around my house. I just want to be comfortable on the bike. There's a lot of short tracks for me to ride.

FFDT: How happy are you that you are going to continue working with Ronnie Brown? He's been behind you for so long now.

BB: That was one of my biggest concerns about this year. I just didn't know what he would be doing or could do. There are a lot of things that Ronnie brings to the table that I've never seen anybody else be able to do and it gives me so much confidence when I go up to the line. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to have that, and Ronnie was a key part in making this deal happen. Whether the bike is working good or not, he knows what to do and knows that we can win. When I found out that Gerry was going to let Ronnie build the bikes and stuff, that was one of the best feelings I've had. I get to start a new program, turn a new page and still make sure that Ronnie is right there with me.

FFDT: Obviously you're a West Coast guy, are you going to go back and forth all year or try to find a spot to settle down in the Midwest so it's easier for you to get to the races?

BB: I'm going to be going back and forth this year mainly because of school. I'm really focused on school this year and I need to get everything lined out there. When summer rolls around I might try to find a base but because of the way the schedule is laid out right now, there are big gaps between nationals until the summer. Maybe I can make my base at your house with Luke-dog and Frankie Lee. I know I'll have to sleep on the couch, but that's ok.

FFDT: I think that might work out. Maybe Luke won't run away from you like he does on Frankie Lee.

BB: Yeah, I'll carry a lot of treats with me and I'm pretty playful, although, I'm not sure just how playful he is. I think he'll like me enough that he won't run away though.

FFDT: With you going Expert, do you think we'll see any changes to your dad's incredible mustache?

BB: No. He'll still have that squirrel perched on his lip. You can spot that thing at every national! He did say he was thinking about tuning it up, maybe putting a little curl in it, kind of switch it up for Daytona. He might show up with a whole new deal just so everybody isn't ready for it. We'll find out in a couple of months.

FFDT: What about your other sponsors? I know you recently signed a gear deal. Who else is helping you out?

BB: After I won a few of those races last year, it was so cool because so many sponsors really stepped up to help out. Tom Seymour at Saddlemen Seats really wants to be a part of the twins program, Rod Lake Racing of course is all for it and will be with us and Fly Racing stepped up, gave me quite a few sets of gear and they are helping to really build a strong base in my racing program. We're set to go and hopefully we don't have to dig into our pockets too deep.

FFDT: Well, best of luck in 2012 and we know you'll be exciting to watch!

BB: Thanks so much Tyler for taking the time to do this, I'm really looking forward to the season!

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 22, 2011) – Motorcycle-Superstore.com, the nation’s leading online motorcycle gear, parts and accessories retailer and title sponsor of the AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com Pro Singles division of AMA Pro Flat Track is proud to announce a $50,000 contingency program for Pro Singles riders that wear a Motorcycle-Superstore.com-branded Bell helmet during the 2012 season. This special helmet will only be available through Motorcycle-Superstore.com and riders must also register at www.motorcycle-superstore.com/rider-support to be eligible for the awards.

"Flat track represents the grass roots of motorcycle racing - one of the oldest forms of motorcycle racing there is - and one of the most exciting! That's why we feel so strongly about supporting the series with a $25,000 rider's points fund and now, a $50,000 contingency program for those athletes that fly our colors," claims Erick Barney, VP Marketing for Motorcycle-Superstore.com. "This program provides the racers with another opportunity to earn some money to offset their race expenses."

The contingency program’s payout schedule for each race will pay down to 8th place as follows:
1st - $600. 2nd - $500. 3rd - $400. 4th - $300. 5th - $250. 6th - $200. 7th - $150. 8th - $100. Between all successful sponsored riders, a total payout of $50,000 is possible for the season. With a 20 race season held at tracks scattered across the country, this $50,000 Rider Support Program helps put some money back into the racer's pockets.

It is easy to apply for this program – simply complete the application available through the link provided below, and our sports marketing representative will be in touch with you. The opening rounds at the DAYTONA Flat Track will be here before we know it, so… let’s go racing! Apply online at: www.motorcycle-superstore.com/rider-support.

About Motorcycle-Superstore.com:
Motorcycle-Superstore.com is the leading online retailer in the motorcycle and powersports industry. Serving motorcycle riders for over 12 years, Motorcycle-Superstore.com specializes in selling motorcycle and powersports helmets, riding apparel, accessories and parts at the lowest prices possible. Internet Retailer magazine has ranked Motorcycle Superstore in the top 10 of all sporting goods sites and in the top 200 of all e-commerce sites. Powered by a dedicated staff of motorcycle enthusiasts, Motorcycle-Superstore.com continues to impress customers by constantly raising its online shopping standards. Visit www.motorcycle-superstore.com.

Coming off of 2010 with some great finishes and strong showings, we thought we had turned the corner and momentum was on our side. However, 2011 did not turn out to be the year the Project K Racing/Waters Autobody Racing team had hoped to have. Many things contributed to a less than stellar season and it was time for the team owners, Dave & Rhonda Waters, to reevaluate where things were going and what changes needed to happen to go forward into 2012.

One thing that was agreed upon after the final race in Pomona was to park the Suzuki's. The Suzuki's had become a distraction and had taken away the focus from our original goal. That goal being, to put another brand on the box of the highly dominated GNC Twins class and our weapon of choice was the KTM 950/990's with their dependable and reputable LC8 power plants. The final California race was less than kind to our riders and equipment and it was time to get back on track.

Many other dynamics played into the decisions but one thing had been plaguing the team since the start. The LC8 motors had more than enough power but getting it to the ground and through the corners was always a huge issue. The bikes loved cushions tracks and hauled on big miles but on hard packed 1/2 miles the handling flaws became more prevalent. Back to square one, get some fresh ideas and start over with the basics. Many great builders had tried to help but one in particular stood out. While in Sacramento, Marty Lewis from Lazer Racing struck up a conversation with Dave regarding the problems that the riders had been experiencing. Numerous conversations later, it was determined that a new chassis would be built by Lewis from San Leandro, California.

We have a great crew and some even better sponsors but we struggled with set up and needed to make some serious changes. We needed a person willing to do the homework necessary to work with the new chassis design and power plant combination. One name kept coming back into the conversation and after discussing at length our mission, it was decided to that Mike Boughner of Boughner Racing, located in Tawas City, Michigan would be our guy for suspension.

Boughner had this to say regarding the collaboration on the team, "I'm sure I can be an asset to your program and would look forward to the challenges of working with your KTM's."

But certainly the most exciting change has to do with the core of the team. We are extremely proud to have Steve Murray joining us to be Jeremy Higgins team mate in 2012. "Murrdizzle" as he is affectionately known on the circuit, has the experience needed to give the Waters Autobody Racing team important feedback required to make things happen. Steve, like his teammate Jeremy, is very hands on and both riders opinions will be paramount to take us to the next level of competition. Murray 26, originally from Grand Blanc, Michigan, was a regular on the circuit with the renowned Michigan Mafia crew. He currently resides in Kansas City, Missouri and has an Associates Degree in Website Design from ITT Tech & a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Cleary University. Steve has fielded his own race program with success but Waters Autobody Racing feels we can give both riders the support and opportunities to achieve the results they desire with this team and with the addition of our new sponsors.

Steve Murray: "I'm really excited to be joining the Waters Auto Body Racing team for the 2012 Season and riding their KTM Twins and having Jeremy Higgins as my teammate. I'd like to thank Dave and Rhonda Waters and all of the team's sponsors for the opportunity. Developing the KTM's will be a task but I'm confident that Jeremy and I can get Dave and crew the appropriate feedback to be contending for podium positions."

We are pleased to have Steve Murray and both Lazer Racing & Boughner Racing on board for 2012 and are excited about the possibilities that they both have to offer. We would also like to thank our existing sponsors that are back on board for the 2012 season. Bell Helmets, Arlen Ness, Motion Pro, Saddlemen, Silkolene Oils, Vortex, K&N Filters, Durelle Racing Wheels, Rekluse Clutches, Spider Grips, RLJ Race Engines, RK Excel, Leo Vince Pipes, D&$38;D Power Sports, Matto Cycle, Power Sports Institute & Hollink Honda. A special thank you to the following individuals for the support over the past seasons, Jack & Michelle Higgins, Chad & Norm Cose, Steve Fortunato, RJ Overholt, Guy Ruger, Brian Schultz, Yve & Will, Mike Owen, Staci & Jenna Waters, Mia & Chew, the AMA crew, KaTeM and various other families and riders of the Western New York race circuit. In the spirit of the upcoming holiday and race season, we feel truly blessed to have such a wonderful program and many exceptional people contributing and are looking forward to a great 2012.