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The "Rockstar Reports" Wednesday, May 16, 2007 A View From The Rear...Tales from the slow side:
My First Race in over 25 Years...
As most of you can already gather, the SSR class @ Down South MX for their 25th Anniversary was not only a great success, but a great race for the fans along the fence lines as well. As Mike had mentioned earlier, the tension at the line before the start of moto #1 was high, as all of us wanted to go out, ride hard, make a good showing for our organization, and have alot of fun! At the drop of the gate, I got sprayed fiercely by Bultaco man Jerry on the Beastly 500cc 2-stroke Honda (which I had no idea that I would enjoy so much)...Jerry you are officially "the Roost Meister", as I entered turn 1, it was a great feeling to see we were so close that you could have covered all of us with a "FEMA blue roof tarp" except for Tank (who was using a Scuba's starting line technique), and Scuba (who was anticipating Divine Intervention in order to catch up with the pack) I think he was late coming back from Church. As I apexed the tight left hander, a fellow Red Rider found its way into my path from the outside, causing me to "Brake Check" myself and loose all forward momentum. It's not a big deal, I seem to always find a way to do that... Hey Troy check the left side of your swingarm, if the marks you mentioned earlier are there, they were from me, if not then it might have been Joey's...Sorry dude(s). After that it was a tough task trying to catch up & feeling like I was all alone until I heard the rumbling of Tank's Fo-Fiddy as he passed me like I was in reverse, wait a minute, I don't have a reverse. As the moto went on saw many glimpses of lead changes between Bobby and Mike, before Troy jumped over/between them on the "Big Double". I also saw that I could make some ground up on the pack at times only to find myself getting roosted again by the Beast Bike (from quite a distance I might add). I was doing my best to catch Jerry and Chris, when I overshot the berm on turn 2, and happened to look down and see the ditch coming up awfully fast, so in an instant of quick thinking I pulled the bars hard to the right as the front wheel caught in the soft loam, and over the bars I went, landing hard enough to dislocate my right shoulder, knock the wind out of myself, and bang the back of my head so hard I saw stars for a few minutes, however I never let go of the clutch, and kept that rascally 4 stroker from stallin'!!! As I got up I tried to mount the bike from the right side (something I have difficulty doing due to short legs), and stalled the engine! (OH NO!!!) As I walked around the back of the bike to mount it from the left side (I'm getting fairly good at that), I began to sink and slide towards the ditch I tried so hard to avoid. As I slid, I let the bike dropp because the last thing I needed was to have it tumble down on top of me while lying in a ditch on the side of a MX track I had never ridden before (How could I have explained that to the wife?)...As I got back to the bike a gratious track official held the bike as I was lapped by Troy and the rest of the guys who all slowed to ask if I was okay. (You guys have real class!!! Seriously!!!) I hopped on, pulled the "hot start" lever, and kicked her over in 1 fell swoop! The engine fired right up, I jammed it into gear and took off after the pack only to get the white flag on the next lap, but I was determined to finish because I knew everyone had passed me but Scuba...The results from moto #1 were as follows: 1) Troy, 2)Mike, 3)Tank, 4)Buckshot, 5)Bobby C, 6)Joey, 7)Roost Meister, 8)Chris, 9)Gary, and 10)Scuba DNS...
During the intermission everyone walked up to me to ask what happened and if I was okay. I was feeling the pain of the shoulder injury progressively getting worse and Troy offered me some ibuprophen which seemed to help a little. (Super thanks to you dude!)
As the call came for SSR to return to staging I made the decision that I was not going to finish last overall, even if this was only my fourth time riding my new CRF, and the first time I had raced in twenty-too many years.
As it were I decided to use the starting line technique that Tank borrowed from Scuba since it led him to a 3rd place finish in moto #1(!)...I gave the rest of the class about a 2/3 of a lap head start before I remembered to pull in the "hot start" lever (which I may re-name as the "Honda Start" lever), kicked again (for the 2nd dozenth time), cranked the throttle, stuck'er in gear, popped the clutch and proudly rode a wheelie nearly the length of the starting line straightaway! As I landed from the first jump I didn't really feel any pain, during the second series of jumps I started to feel it a little more, and by the time I did my (almost-patented) "KA-DUNK" (i.e. when the back wheel lands first and the front wheel slams to the ground and makes that noise) landing before the back hairpin & small double, it felt like the shoulder came out of place again (after resetting it between motos, Major Ouch!!!) although as much as I wanted to keep a decent pace I felt that I must slow down in order not to re-injure myself. By lap #2 Tank's Honda jumped over my head, but I had a hard time reading the words on the bottom of his case saver, but I think it said something like "must beat Troy", after that I heard the unmistakeable sound of a punched out big bore Yammy 2 stroker and moved over to observe Mike's turn technique (dude you rule)! After a couple of more turns I saw another red flash go by like I was in reverse (I don't have reverse, I already checked...) and realized it must have been Troy, who shouted out something about beating Mike to keep Tank from taking 1st overall...about 1/2 a lap later came Joey, Bobby and Buck making a dual out of it and putting on a good show, then I had to move out of the way before the Roost Meister ran over me, and of course I got sprayed again (dude my helmet, goggles, chest protector & number plate are wearing your roost like a badge of honor), and then came Jerry, who gave me the Thumbs-up as he raced by, but there was no Scuba...
Once I rounded the turn after the big double, I saw the silouhette of a bike and rider standing there in Yamaha blue, my heart began to race, and the adrenaline began to flow...could it be Mike or Scuba on the side of the track? As I rounded the tight right hander before the whoops, I got a glimpse of the #187 out of the corner of my eye, and rejoiced!!! "there's that Scuba dude" I said to myself. Now for the record, I for one would never intentionally laugh at another man's misfortune, but I couldn't help beginning to chuckle and then burst into laughter, and I even heard myself yell "Whoo Hoo" right before I realize I had passed my braking spot going into the last turn as I took the white flag...
As I overshot the inside line (which was starting to work for me), I again rolled too slowly after locking up the rear brakes and sliding past my mark, I accidentally dumped the clutch and stalled the 4 stroke, and then lost my footing in the berm, and fell over on my left shoulder (whichever one of you guys made the comment about making me forget about the pain in my right shoulder by falling on my left must have jinxed me! But it didn't work as the right shoulder still hurt like hell).
I jumped up right away, fired the bike back up, and away I rode with hopes that I could at least finish the 2nd moto, even if in last place!!! The results of moto #2 were as follows: 1) Tank, 2) Mike, 3)Troy, 4)Joey (who learned to jump the big double!!!), 5)Buckshot, 6)Roost Meister, 7)Bobby C, 8)Chris, 9)Scuba, and last but not least, 10)Rockstar the "rookie"
This left the Overall Results as follows: 1)Tank, 2)Mike, 3)Troy, 4)Buckshot, 5)Joey, 6)Bobby C, 7)Roost Meister, 8)Chris, 9)Gary, and 10)Scuba!!!
In Summation, a truly great time was had by all, and anyone who missed this one, missed 1 heck of an outing...There were alot of potential SSR candidates asking questions, and are considering joining our ranks. To second Mike as he mentioned they could "feel the love" was correct! The comaradarie and fellowship can not be equalled. This is truly a great group of individuals who seem to hold each other in the highest regards without losing their competitive spirit.
Any rider 30 plus years of age who wants to race safely and competitively with others regardless of skill level (except for "Money Riders"), bike class, etc. and wants to be able to return to work and family when its all over should be ashamed of themselves for not being a part of this organization. My first experience was at the G2G thing, and that was great, but this was even better! My Helmets off to you guys (and gals) for such a warm welcome into this wonderful fraternity!
VIVA SSR!!!
My First visit to River's Edge MX, Darrow, LA. A few of the SSR guys decided to take advantage of the LL Qualifiers and get some "Quality" ride time while most of the youngsters were away... 
Although there were a few "scary fast" riders there, you could have probably counted them on 1 hand, possibly 2, which made for some interesting rides when the call(s) for "Big Bikes" rang out from the PA speakers... 
I first noticed that the track was not as groomed as it had been for the Winter Series (not that I expected it to be with what many would have anticipated to be a "small" turnout), the track was drier than I had seen it before (remember this was only my 4th trip to REMX, and there was some "pot holes" beginning to develop in some of the more popular landing spots and jump faces, but it was not anything we could not handle. I also noticed that they still had some flagmen in place, and an EMT present (a very good call). 
The crowd there was far less than what I am used to seeing, but the place was far from empty. 
Amongst the various riders that were in attendance was a strong SSR contingent.
Tank, J-bo, Joey, Bobby Billiot (& son Shane), Cluis, Telmo (the Brazillian Consulate) and myself were there for what turned out to be a great day of riding on a great afternoon in the sun (no one remembered to bring their "E-Z-Ups")... 
Tank rode fast and furious, I'm still looking for "His line", 
J-bo rode quick and showed more confidence in the track as the day wore on, 
Joey looked fast, fluid and coragious as always nearly going end to end on the big tabletop in the back,
Bobby B. looked fast and smooth, and gave me a really good roosting once I got behind him when he was chasing Tank, 
Shane B. looked like he was having a great time, and seemed to be smoother than the last time I watched him ride, 
Telmo was having a blast on his new Honda, jumping everything in sight, 
and last but certainly not least brother Cluis and I finally jumped the "Cluis jumps"(see Brady) i.e. the front double-double to tabletop and were amazed at how easy they were afterwards. 
After hearing Telmo's ranting about how he was "coming after the rest of us", I felt that I had to give him a couple of lessons and would run off and leave him a couple of times, and then catch him later and pass him twice through the whoop section!  On the last practice I led everyone out on to the track and for the first time at REMX I began to experience a form of "Total flow concentration"  that Gary Semics talks about, you see it was the first time that I have been out front with a clear track in front of me and I was able to begin to establish some rhythm to the track, as a matter of fact I rode over 3 whole laps before I was passed by anyone!  This may be the first and only time this happens, but I have to say the feeling I got was something I could easily get used to! Once I was passed some reality set in, and I started to feel how physically drained I was I had to slow way down, but still enjoyed the ride. 
Tank fell once pretty hard after they watered the track (and the jump faces),  Telmo did a nice head plant in a turn right when he was about to be passed again by the Red Rocker  , and Joey had to literally jump off of his bike to keep from running over a downed rider on a Kawasaki enduro bike who lost it over the big step up, and fell flat into the turn before the whoops,  and I had what was called "an amazing save" by a spectator  , as I went to make a pass on a slower rider over the big tabletop and got out of shape on the landing and bounced down the end front wheel first leaving black marks on my number plates from my ankles (you know where they rub the frame)! 
Overall a great day of riding and "play racing" with good friends and some constructive progress to our riding skills. A+ 
As Tank would say "More fun than us old folks should have"!!!
SSR Kicks in '06!!! 
REMX Revisited... Viva SSR,
Thanks for the kind words fellas, I am in more pain after riding Saturday nite, than I was before I rode, but with REMX being nearly empty, and a few SSR buds to "Rule the track" with, I'm glad I didn't miss the oportunity!
I was having some scheduling issues, Telmo cancelled, by bud from Land Rover "Brett" also cancelled, and my better half had to work late and run errands before getting home, and with our dog being ill, she did not want me to leave him 'till she got home, nonetheless, I finally left the house 'bout 6:00 pm, and met up with the gang @ REMX 'bout 6:45 pm. When I arrived, I saw, Cluis, J-bo (and son), Lance and his friend who wants to buy a fo-fiddy (Terry I think, I could be wrong, so don't quote me), and a few minutes later I saw Rick "the Rocket" Jarreau and son just coming off the track. I turned just in time to see the "Scoobacycle" buzz by and lookin' fast and smooth, which made my want to hurry and unload and change into my gear.
By the time I was nearly ready to ride they called for an intermission while they worked the track again.
Finally I got a chance to ride, and the track was SWEET!!! The dirt was a little drier than normal, but still very tacky in the corners, and there were only a few small ruts developing in the turns, (a plus), but also a couple of ruts developing near the bottoms of the finish line jump, and a few feet before the front double-double/table (a minus). The track was fairly open and it felt pretty safe to ride as fast or as slow (as Scooba & myself found out) as one cared to without feeling "crowded", except for a couple of kids on 85's (like the one Reeltime eluded to earlier) and a couple of kids riding 250f's (who shoulda been riding 85's) trying to win practice...
My first lap started off as a slow warm up-to survey the track conditions lap, but near the end of it I began to pick up speed, by the second lap I was thinkin' about doing the front doubles, but chose not to, allowing Motobescooba to sneak past, but by the time we came through the whoops we were side by side, and stayed that way 'till we exited the turn heading for the big table top when my fo-fiddy pulled past the buzzing 2 smoke and waved goodbye.
I got some good air, and then felt a sharp jolt as I landed, and was forced to slow my pace, 'cause it felt like the tissue was being pulled from my ribs, Scooba got by again, and I could gain ground, but could not catch him 'till he slowed down.
He was riding fast and smooth, J-bo said it may have been his new tires giving him a dose of confidence. I don't know but whatever it was, it worked. I took a few slow laps until my body started to warm up enough/adrenaline kicked in enough to dull the pain, and I picked up the pace again, only to be feel like I was kicked in the ribs when the suspension bottomed out while landing past the walk way on the finish line jump. That landing literally took my breath away, and I decided to park it for a while.
After I rested a few minutes, I got back on the bike to battle it out w/Motobeindazone, and the next thing I know we jump the step up nearly together, and he dives down way inside to take advantage going into the whoops, at which time I used the outside line to gain speed and pass him through the whoops like he had the brakes on! (lol) He then caught back up with me as I had to whoa up that fo-fiddy to take the inside line at the turn before the big table, I saw his front wheel out the corner of my left eye for a split second and I heard his engine scream (or is that buzz) in pain as he tried to come around me, I rolled the throttle on and figured I would need to keep up the speed for the table top in order not to get passed again, so in the heat of the moment I upshifted to forth and held the throttle steady and went sailing into the dark sky in a nose high "Scooba" pitched jump, only to feel like I was "slapped down like a bug" as the rear end landed just before the end of the table, and the front end came down so fast that I thought I was going to be pitched over the bars, but I saved it, I didn't see Motobe again 'till he tried to dive under me in the tight right hander before the big step-up (that most of us old dudes can't jump), but I was already on the inside, Scooba tried to make a new line through the soft dirt and proceeded to do a beautiful head plant and roll through the ditch that even I would give him style points for!!! I stopped to make sure he was okay, and he waved and gave me the thumbs up (at least I hope it was his thumb), and I got back to riding a slower and more comfortable pace until I saw Rocket man Jarreau "Reeling me in like a big fish", I figured I had better pick up the pace so I wouldn't be such an easy target. My adrenaline started to flow again and I turned it up a notch or two in order to show him that even when hurt, I can ride hard and fast (if only for a short burst)! Dude I want to thank you for pushing me, I felt exhilarated and exhausted after you got by and slowly rode out of reach!!! It was alot of fun!!!
About this time I saw MotobeSteve taking "a break", but after I stopped, I found out that he thought the bike may have been running warm 'cause he was smelling coolant. We chilled for a few watchin' Rick and Lance make a few laps, Lance was also looking good, but would only ride a couple of laps before pulling off to rest, etc.
Jarreau was makin' the table top end to end, and the doubles look easy (fast and smooth). Steve and I began to make some more laps cutting inside of each other on turns, out accelerating each other out of turns, catching or passing him across the whoops, etc. 'till I got ahead of him and his bike quit. Afterwhich, Rick, Lance and myself trying to comfort him before he had to make that long push back to the Scooba Rig. (His mobile command center).
With Scooba's engine failing to re-start after a plug change gave me a good enough reason to pack it in for the night, afterall it was now 9:47 pm and I ws in pain, Lance needed a cigarette, and Rick and co. were off in search of food, and headed in the direction of the Cracker Barrel by the outlet mall.
Overall a great night of fun riding even though I was limited in my capabilities (okay moreso than usual)...
Can't wait to heal and get back on the bike for some more SSR fun times!
SSR Kicks in '06!!!
Return To River's Edge... Hey Jon,
It was great to finally meet up and ride a few laps with another SSR brother from another mother!!!
Man when you ain't crashin' you be passin' (okay, poor attempt at humor but it almost rhymes)...
SSR members I saw in attendance were Reeltime rick "the Rocket" Jarreau #420,
Jon "Crash" Dean #188, Bobby C. #515, and myself.
Bobby has not had much time to ride the Katoom 450 lately and thought he needed to "shake some rust off", but instead, he just shook dust off the back of that bike and all over anyone else close. He was lookin' strong and riding with confidence. Rick was looking like he was comfortable enough to ride the track with his eyes closed, and I was very suprised at how well Jon rode as he was trying to keep "Rocket" Jarreau in sight. I myself have been in a bit of a slum from a confidence standpoint and it showed,  however later in the evening I would suprise myself every so often with "baby steps" of brilliance , and I began to find a "rhythm" of my own across the new "rhythm section" (which replaced the best whoops section I'd ever blitzed across)... I'm not trying to sound bitter, but if you have something that stands head and shoulders above what every other track in the area has, why take it away from your track?
As for the track, REMX always does an outstanding job of prepping the track in such a way that the obstacles seem to vary in degree of difficulty due to where they water, how much they water, where they disc deep (how deep) and where they don't. I agree that it does keep things interesting and challenging, but sometimes its overkill.  But that's just my opinion. There was a fairly large turn out (for a Wed. Night) that I've seen which made combined "big bike" practice (i.e. expert/intermediate and novice/beginner) more than a little scary at times . As a matter of fact, I was hit 3 times in the first two laps by what looked like a couple of kids "fresh off of 85's" (or super-mini's) who were flyin' on a couple of 250f's who could not account for the extra distance it takes to slow a heavier (albeit faster) bike down as they attempted to "win practice"!!!
B/T/W let me be the first to humble myself and admit that I was passed and then lapped by K-Dub also in those first couple of laps! As a matter of fact he passed me so fast coming out of a corner, I though I had missed a gear!!! 
After 9:00 pm or so, the crowd had thinned significantly, the dust settled and a more enjoyable ride was had by everyone who stayed late!
I want to send a "shout out" to all of the fellas who knew me by name and/or by number (some of which are not SSR) for the kind words of encouragement and multiple beer offers! Guys I really do appreciate the sentiment, but the "Rockstar" is still trying to loose his "spare tire" like physique, and beer is not on my menu at the present time!  However I do propose this toast; I will gladly forego my "no alcohol" diet if and/or when I ever win a moto or a 1st overall finish! At that point the "Rockstar" will be "partying like a Rockstar"! 
So Keep the encouragement coming, and I will use it as my motivation to ride smarter, harder and faster!!!
Peace Out Bruddahs and Sistahs!!! 
SSR Kicks in '06!!! Ride Report from Z-Man's MX Park, Napoleonville, LA. Yo Scuba,
No, I have not been able to find any of those fizzy things yet, but if I did, I might have led every lap pf the "B" train express!!!
Seriously though, a great ride report, great friends, great dirt (after the rain/mud) a great day!!!
B/T/W
Yesterday at H.S. with Bobby515 was horrible, it was such a stark contrast to last Sunday (which completely Rocked) !!!
Last weekend it was the best I had ever seen the dirt there (after the rain) and "very little" magic from Ricky , but this weekend it sucked! After Saturday's rain, made the track deep rutted, which bake dried to an accident waiting to happen! The best the track could muster was a one-lined hard packed groove until I started intentionally trying to make a second line (for passing/getting passed/whatever) around some of the turns and in three or four of the straightaways... :
Bobby515 looked quite at home on the track with given its condition, I could never get comfortable with. 
I saw who I thought was Steve Pearschall (KTM) #72, and he looked too fast for SSR (as usual)... 
Stu McEvoy was there sportin' his new number (#83) and is still scary fast (yu da man)!!! 
D.J. Cortez was there and makin' some hot laps on his new '07 Katoom 250 (sweet looking ride for an orange bike), he was laying it "WAY" over in the turns and it looked great!
I also saw Blake Kennedy who was going through the whoops so fast, it made me too embarrassed to continue riding... (just when I am trying to get my confidence back)... 
It was very hot and dusty (like that's a surprise), and after expelling so much energy Saturday, I just didn't have anything left for Bobby, who lapped me about every 4 to 5 laps!!!
I still say he's the odds on favorite anytime we race there!!!
Too bad I can't say you guys missed anything, but the heat (it was stifling)!!!
'Till next time keep the rubber side down boyz!!!
SSR Kicks in '06!!! The Return of "THe Rockstar" Ride Report from Hwy. 70 Motorsports, Napoleonville, LA. Hey everybody!
What a great SSR Day! Great SSR Weather! Great SSR & Ridin' and Bench Racin' (a few challenges in there as well)! It was great to see everyone again!
I hope to see everyone back at the track(s) soon!
Thanks to Tank, Motood, and Scuba for the kind words and support, and thanks to the "Terminator" for making me realize I was inflicting most of my own fatigue by not standing up! (note to self, I got alot of work to do)...
I've got to stop 'cause it it hurting me to type (yup, everything is sore)!!! Holeshot Motorsports Park, Lorranger, LA.
Rockstar's Holeshot ride report:
I got to the track right about 10:07 am, after reading that they were not going to ride until 10:00, and found small bikes were already on the track, and from the looks of a couple of big bikes in the pits, they had already been out at least once. The weather was cool, the dirt still soft and damp, and as I was already dressed to ride (save for my helmet, gloves, goggles & chest protector), I observed the P.A. announcement that Ms. Tanya would soon be by to collect entry fees for rider sign up, as no one was at the gates when I drove up. She made her rounds, I introduced myself and gladly paid my $20 bucks and signed in. Within a couple of minutes they were calling for big bikes. I went out expecting to find the same ole hard packed "blue grooved" clay with powder in the turns, but it was very refreshing to see (and feel under my tires) a track with 1.5"-3" of soft somewhat moist dirt and some muddy/slick spots under where the trees overhang the track. I found the bike sqirting around a little bit, but rode it out 'till the end of the moto. After a little rest and bench racin' with fellow SSR brethren "KP959" and "Petey Wheatstraw", I couldn't wait to ride again. I let a couple pounds of air out of the tires and I was good to go. Another great session, alot of fun ridin' with Keith!
By the next moto, they had watered the track down, only on the inside lanes (not really sure of why) but we got aout there and through a little mud, and found myself having to make emergency mid-air saves due to slick jump faces and an over zealous fo-fiddy...Still fun, particularly the latter part of the session as the ground was drying. As the day grew warmer, the ground dried out and as more riders took to the track the dust started to fly. I rode some laps with "Vintage Racer117" and had another good, but safe ride. Thanks Aaron, the old Yammie looked killer!
After what seemed like an extended rest period, they began dividing the "Big Bikes" into "slow" and "fast" categories; an idea whose time I thought had come, and I was hoping they would recognize the "Sandbaggers" who were riding with the "slow bikes" and not blending in, by clearing the big triple, clearing the finish line, and blitzing the whoops (or what is left of them). But apparently this is not what made their determination.
After even a longer rest period they called for "slow big bikes" again, and now practically everyone on a big bike was in line to ride. I went out made many more passes than I usually due in practice, albeit some were due to attrition, riders falling & stalling (hey I've been there so much I could write a book about it...lol), and just due to some slower "beginner riders". Nonetheless, CFoster, BBilliot, Stroker101, JJ179, VintageRacer117, and a few others (not in that order) and I was running in a pack of about 8 or 9 riders who were only a few bike lengths apart, and we were going through slower traffic and the dust was getting ridiculous, the next thing I know, we were all being waved off the track and when asked we were singled out and told we were "too fast" to ride with the "slow big bikes". Yea I know, I was mad at first, but I kinda got a kick out of it. I'm a true "D" rider (er' um SSR "B") and proud of it. But let's just say I was having a good day...
Later after another lengthy rest period, JoJo McCoy #179 & I went out to make some fast laps. He was pushing me and I felt great for about the 1st three and then my hands and arms started to cramp & pump up. I motioned to him I was slowing the pace, and he got by me, only to make me make another run and get past him again... (yea I know he slowed down to, but can't a fella have his glory for a minute)?
We made another lap and I had to stop and catch my breath, he patiently waited and then we went out for 1 more, then I was DONE!!!
All in all 6 "twenty minute" motos, and only three or four times having to pull off of the track to take an arm-pump break and no crashes made a "very good day"!!!
Thanks to Tank, J-bo, Cluis and Clark for coming out and giving moral support, and all the riders I swapped places with and exchanged roosts with.
Most of all thanks to the New Management Tracey and Tanya you guys are on the right track!!!
My .38
G-Dub
B/T/W now if we can just get those "faster riders" to ride in their own practice... Holeshot Motorsports Park Race Report, 4/19/07: How 2 Forths equal a Fifth, (or if what "if's" were a "Fifth")... Hey Peeps,
I must start out by saying Tracey and Tanya Mock (hereby known as MRI) have done an outstanding job of transforming what used to be (in recent years) an "okay" place to race and nearly unrideable place to practice into a place where I can't wait to race again, and look forward to my next practice with a fervour.
Let's talk about the track conditions first. They have found a way to make that red concrete into a wonderful blend of elements that is now suprisingly soft, tacky and moist (at least untill the heat began to get the most out of it). As a former touring performer and musician, I can tell you I have slept on many a beds firmer than Holeshot's new "turf"...lol. The jump faces have been reshaped into near perfection, corners rut up nicely without "overdoing it", offering multiple choices and lines to take advantage of their width. The starting straight was "DEEEP" as well, allowing the bikes to dig. Even the back stretch was pliable enough to hear some smaller cc bikes loading up a bit, taking them a longer time to rev. This along with the new corner treatments has promoted slowing the bikes down just a bit, making for what I deem "safer racing conditions". The intuitiveness on the part of whomever designed the new "double-on, drop-off" obstacle on the far side of the track from the finish line needs to be commended. Minimum effort required is rewarded with maximum thrill with a rhythmic "blip--braap" to complete the obstacle, again I feel it was put in place to slow things down. I mentioned the finish line earlier. I personally did not care for the "roller" placed in between the small table (which used to be a double back in the day) out of the last right hander and the finish line jump 'cause it kinda unsettles the suspension before the finish line jump (which has by far the steepest face on the entire track) which seems to have been shortened by about 20-30ft. possible in an attempt to take some of the "curve" out of it. I for one like it alot better now. I also like the stretch after the finish line jump where the "whoops" used to be. This stretch of track is also deep and loamy, and what's left of the whoops scrub some of the speed before making the off camber right hander and heading back under the trees. Heck, even downsiding the "double" part of the "old camelback" (which middle hump is noticeably higher) is nearly effortless thanks to its reshaping. In summary, very rideable, very, very raceable!!! I'd give it a strong "B" grade still with room for improvement.
Now I realize "transforming" might sound a bit strong considering there is a long road ahead before MRI's dreams are realized; i.e. new grandstands, upgrades to the concession & signup booths, more "Port-a-Potties", etc. but I am glad to see track conditions improved before all the "eye candy". It is easy to see the "potential" this track and grounds have. Afterall, "back in the day" it was the place to be, and I think they are getting things slowly, but progressively pointed in the right direction! It is truly hard to fathom how much progress has been made in just over a week! My hat, er' um helmet is off to all who are involved in this project!!!
Now onto what everyone who didn't go to the race wants to hear about, the race results...
SSR Class(es) were ran together, but scored separately by track officials thanks again to Tanya and Missy!
SSR "A"
Moto 1:
1)Joey "jojo179" McCoy #179 Kawasaki
2)Bobby515 "The Terminator" Carter #515 KTM
3)Nary "Naryator509" Cannon #509 Honda
4)Bobby "BBilliot" Billiot #253 Kawasaki
5)Joey "Superman" Jfaulk Faulk #467 Honda
SSR "B"
Moto 1:
1)Jon "Crash188" Dean #188 Yamaha
2)Bob "Rebel500" Calhoun #808 Honda
3)Wesley Whitfield #467 KTM
4)Gary "Rockstar38" Wilson #38 Honda
5)Tad "tadbro" Breaux #43 KTM
SSR "A"
Moto 2:
1)Bobby "Big Air" Billiot #253 Kawasaki
2)Bobby515 "The Terminator" Carter #515 KTM
3)Joey "jojo179" McCoy #179 Kawasaki
4)Joey "Superman" jfaulk Faulk #467 Honda
5)Nary "Naryator509" Cannon #509 Honda
SSR "B"
Moto2:
1)Jon "Crash188" Dean #188 Yamaha
2)Wesley Whitfield #467 KTM
3)Tad "tadbro" Breaux #43 KTM
4)Gary "Rockstar38" Wilson #38 Honda
5)Bob "Rebel500" Calhoun #808 Honda
Overall Results:
SSR "A"
1)Bobby515 "The Terminator" Carter #515 KTM (2-2)
2)Joey "jojo179" McCoy #179 Kawasaki (1-3)
3)Bobby "Big Air" Bbilliot Billiot #253 Kawasaki (4-1)
4)Nary "Naryator509" Cannon #509 Honda (3-5)
5)Joey "Superman" jfaulk Faulk #467 Honda (5-4)
SSR "B"
1)Jon "Crash188" Dean #188 Yamaha (1-1)
2)Wesley Whitfield #467 KTM (3-2)
3)Bob "Rebel500" Calhoun #808 Honda (2-5)
4)Tad "tadbro" Breaux #43 KTM (5-3)
5)Gary "Rockstar38" Wilson #38 Honda (4-4)
Now a few notes on my fellow racers...
Terminator 515, You know you're the man, always smooth, consistent, and patient like a "Bird of Prey" ready to swoop down and devour the weak...
Jojo with the Mojo, looking smooth and polished after last weekend's ride with the Rockstar prepared him for battle...
Big Air started to soar in the second moto, when he carries momentumlike that he's hard to beat...
Natural Nary fit right in with the "A" group, and is always one of the last riders to lift the throttle and brake into corners, very good ride indeed!!!
Superman, what can I say? Always quick, and fearless, will jump anything and/or anyone in a single bound!
Crash, man he told me he had slowed down, but it only made him smoother! Battlin' at the front of the pack with the "A" guys all day! Dude, I hope you're ready to move up! You are truly talented! Other than Bob's Holeshots "B" guys got nothin' for you... You dominated (again)!
Wesley you are a real "Ringer" in "B", you gave me all I could handle in moto 1, too bad I could not have made it more interesting for you in moto 2! I can't wait 'til next time...
Bob "The Holeshot" Calhoun, man what a rider, what a bike, what a guy! Thanks for lettin' me by in moto 2 (when you fell), my confidence needed it (although I would have rather earned it, but as Scuba says "a pass is still a pass")...lol
Bad Tad raced his first race with SSR and is now a proud member of the SSR "B" Fraternity! It was fun racin' with ya'...I only wish my first race would have gone so well!
When asked, Rockstar said "the Pro Works Racing, Oury Grip, Weapon MX, WoW Honda ran great and started the first moto off strong for the first couple of laps" laps before quickly fading to do battle at the back of the pack with the two newbies. "It's just a shame my emotions got the best of me while trying to shoot the holeshot in moto 2 when I popped the clutch and she stalled out...TWICE! Heck by the time I got to turn one the leaders were 1 jump from the finish line! It was all I could do to hold the "A" riders off for a lap or so before I had to slow my pace due to the heat and the fatigue; but we'll be back in the hunt next time"!!!
Spectacular moment of the day was in moto 2 when the "Naryator" attempted to tighten his front axle bolts across the finish line jump, helmet hitting the bar pad hard enough to knock goggles sideways, and managed to save it!!!
For those who came out and participated know what fun "we" had, for those that did not, you need to make it out next time.
All in all a couple of minor falls, no one hurt, racing through out the pack from front to back, J-Bo and Tank in the infield cheering us on, the crowd (including Godfadda, Moto"B"Scuba and Cluto) cheering us on as we roared past the finish line!!!
All this on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the sun that the good Lord blessed us with, and a safer track to race on!
Another Awesome SSR Day at the races!!!
Peace,
G-Dub
Sunday was a good day!
I arrived @ Holeshot about 12:15pm. There I met "Brother Jon"Crash188 Dean who was loungin' in the back of his truck waiting for the track to open up. It was such a nice day out that one did not mind waiting awhile for our turn to tear up the track. A few minutes later I was pleasantly met by the "prettier" part of M.R.I., a.k.a. Ms. Tanya, who told us it would be about an hour and a half or so before we would be able to ride. This was no biggie 'cause I had all day to ride and hang out with my SSR "Brothers". A few minutes later Drew "Yamaholic19" Rispone showed up sans wallet (but that's a story for another day). Heck, at least he didn't show up for a race without his bike (another story for another day about another fellow)...lol.
A short time later "Coach Motood" showed up flanked by the lovely Ms. Melissa. (Mike I'm glad you're over that virus or whatever that had you laying low for a couple of weeks). On a side note, I'm still coughing up chunks after that bought with Bronchitis a few weeks ago.
Before long our fearless leader "Tank858" had showed up on a street bike and talking about trying to make the big triple on it. Later Joey "jojo179" McCoy showed up, Dave "TrickasaBrick" Walters and his son (sorry I can't remember his name, who is enrolled in the H.S.M.X. program @ G2G) also showed up. That Scuba dude showed up sans motorcycle (here we go again), but in his defense "only because the mini-moto RV" may have blown a head gasket, and although Scuba does ride the guts outta that 125 two smoke, I think it would kill it permanently to ride it all the way from Slidell...lol. After missing a round of practice or so, Clark711 "The Godfather" Johnson graced us with his presence and a round of kissing the ring whilst showing off his new street cruiser (sweet ride bro'). The most shocking sight was the (flight delayed) arrival
of one beloved jumbo jet Clay-Dog "CFoster747". Once again the SSR was represented well and we were ready to take over the "slow-big bike" practice, since we are the old(relatively speaking),the slow(remember relative), and the scared (remember all relative)...
About the track conditions. My first practice out, I found the track extremely soft (I had to go back to the pits and let some air out o' me tires, 'cause me bike was a fishtailin' and tryin' to swim away from me in the soft stuff). After lowering my air pressure, I got out and tried to pick up the pace a little. I was suprised to see how deep and loamy the track was, and there were a few "suprise" mucky spots which happened to be right in front of some of the jump faces (two of which I have recently gotten over my fear of, which fear re-introduced itself to me in the midst of multiple deep rutted jump faces of the "doubles". I would try to go my usual speed (i.e. just enough to clear them on drier turf), only to find myself taking a beating by coming up short. In between the mucky spots (which did get better as the day wore on) and the long deep ruts down the straitaways (which also got a lil' better with the heat & sunshine), I found myself with a death grip on the bars which was causing my arms to pump-up much quicker than normal.
On my next ride Track conditions got a little better (i.e. the spots which were muddy were becoming tacky, but still soft), and the ruts seemed to have widened a bit which made it easier to ride on, (except for the jump faces of the doubles, which seemed to get worse as the day went on). I started to increase my speed and trying to drive out of the corners before the some of the jumps, suprised to hear my fo-fiddy bogging down in the deep terrain, finding out later that if I held my throttle steady once I go through the mire, allowing it to bog, but it would quickly grab and rush me and the bike up the jump face(s) "Scuba Style", although still coming up short on the doubles, with the front end higher upon landing, it felt more like I was "casing" them than "facing" them. Although this may all seem like simple physics now, I seem to think more of survival first, speed & distance second when it comes leaving dear "Mother Earth"...
By the time my next practice came along, the terf had become a little drier, and there were whisps of dust trailing behind the bikes while making our way around the track. By now I had started to really "make friends" with some of my troubled spots, i.e. the "drop-off" section of the "double-on-double-off", I got it down pat now, there was a big rut (which I had been using as my main line all day, yes I'm proud of myself) through the right hander before what used to be "the big table-top", finding it easier and easier to lift my leg, lay it over a bit, roll on the throttle & pop the clutch and seat bounce all the way across the table top (a very sweet feeling, and when successful I almost never felt the landing)!
During our next brake, I got some useful insight from "da Professor/Coach Motood" as we (with Ms. Melissa in tow) walked the back section of the track. He gave me some great advice about line selection, braking points, etc. Big Thanks to you Sir!
On my next practice I started to use "da Coach"'s advice right away...The terrain was now firm enough to where there was no threat of overshooting a turn, so I began trying to hold the throttle on longer, before braking harder, even trying to use "touch" when applying the rear brakes (instead of locking them up). I even began to take some of the inside ruts (like those in the first and second turns) and found that with a little practice and positive thinking, I could achieve some positive results (like staying in the rut, holding my leg out higher for clearance, and leaning the bike over a little more, and throttling out a little quicker)! In fact there was a couple of times in the turn by the woods where I began to "feel" the sensation of railing through a rut (I know I'm still slower at it than most, but it did "feel" pretty cool). It kinda felt like being shot out of a gun down the short stretch and towards the next corner. If it were not for my "whiskey throttle" adventure (try launching it "scuba style" and pinned only to have your wrist and hand cramp where you can't let off the throttle, before intentionally using body english, i.e. one foot off the peg before angling and getting airborn across the "double-on" section, seat-bouncing in an effort to correct pitch and nosing it down enough to get my foot back on the peg, pull the clutch in, and hit the brakes for an amazing save) meanwhile trying to catch "Crash188" over the double following the "Wild West Turn"; I could have made more progress instead I almost made chilli in my britches. It was one heckuva save though! I'm glad I had at least one witness to back me up (tell'em all about it yamaholic19)!!!
By the time I got my nerves up to ride once more I was physically whipped! I had been out there all day in the hot sun, and I had forgotten to pick myself up something to eat before I arrived (okay I admit I was very anxious to ride, & see the new obstacle(s) etc. and food was the last thing on my mind). Needless to say it was less than productive. However after some coaching up by "Tank" I managed to jump the two infield table-tops again (end to end) and throttle it up enough to put my front tire across the "triple" section of the old "camel back" on my last lap. I guess jumping the finish line will still have to wait till another day.
Speaking of new obstacles, that double table-toppy thing was just not working for most of us, subsequently I was told by Ms. Tanya that it would not be there next week. That is indeed a good thing!
As for my fellow SSR brothers who were out there, Jon you are looking better all the time, keep up the good work my friend. Drew (I owe, I owe, its off to holeshot I go...lol), You were riding considerably faster than what I remember from the SSR day @ Hwy. 70, looking good!
Joey smooth as ever, you and "Coach" had some good lap times goin'!
Dave you were lookin' at home out there in the soft stuff! It was good ridin' with you again!
Clay-Dog always strong, but he seems to be finding out the hard way that the old Holeshot track requires some finesse and not sheer brutality! I hope you're not feeling too sore from the get-offs there buddy!
And to Moto"B"Steve, I know you were really lookin good out there in your head, heck you're practically a legend in your own mind (kinda like "Brown")! Don't worry dude, anyone that can rascal a 125 the way you do and give some of these big bore bikes fits is still a hero in my book!
After all was said and done only a couple of minor incidents, some damage to the 747 (which by the way is being handled very professionally, kudos to both parties). The rubber stayed down most of the time, and no one (with us) got hurt. Another great SSR day in the sun with great friends at a great facility...
I also got to meet David and the great Cannonball (he even showed me his battle scars)! I even caught a glimpse of Goat tearing it up for a bit! That was way cool!
Sunday was a great day indeed!
L8,
G-Dub
P.S. Now I'm so looking forward to next weekend!
Alright, Alright, Alright...I know it's late already, so this one may not read like "War and Peace"...lol.
After a late Friday night of anxiety, tossin' & turnin' and channel flippin' (with "Direct TV-HD" I got lots of em' to flip thru), I found myself washing clothes (just tryin' to help "The Misses" out) and other chores till about 4:00 a.m. Once I got done, I finally settled in bed to snore away for a few hours since tomorrow's "Night Race" was hours away, and I had nothing specific to get up early for except to go see my buddy Mike Sharp over @ "G&C Honda of Hammond" for some last minute supplies to stick in the truck. Or so I thought...
At 7:55 I am abruptly awaken from my sleep by my lovely wife who is trying to hand me my cell phone. It was none other than Tank858 ofcourse, who wanted me to know how beautiful of a day it was and I should be "up and at'em" on such a great "SSR Race Day".
After a morning briefing by the commander in chief, I couldn't help smell the aroma of Fresh brewed Java, and decided to help myself to some in an order to pry at least one eye open so I could start my day.
A thorough case of "drag-ass" ensued. I finished a couple of other "chores" around the house, cleaned and performed some minor maintenance to the "Red-Baron", did my three "esses", took a trip to get my supplies from "G&C Honda" (of Hammond, not Shreveport, but at the rate I was moving, it might as well have been), and then over to "The Terminator's " place to pick up his race trailer, bike, & gear since he was working all day, and would be arriving late. Once I got the trailer to the house I was free to load up and then wait for my lovely wife to come home from her "hair appointment". Once home, she informs me that she has decided to take our daughter, "Bubbles" (a 4-1/2 year old Jack Russell Terrier, whom most of you guys got the chance to meet or to pet, or to be barked at) to the track with us for the duration...
After finally arriving at the track, it was after 2:30 pm, and the "SSR Pit Area" was already buzzing with excitement. Practically all of the SSR gang who had committed to racing prior was already there except for "The Terminator", who was coming by after his Patrol duty was completed, and Joey Faulk, who I also knew would be late arriving.
After sign-up, we unloaded and I began the arduous task of suiting up for practice inside of the hot trailer.
I was pleasantly suprised that MRI were only allowing about 15 big bikes on the track at once so with the SSR having 14 riders, Tanya suggested that 1 lone "Hobby Class" rider (Honda #167 I think his name was "Joey", a natural SSR-B candidate) take to the track with us. Practice was dusty and slick (you know the type of dry slick where you can't get a drive off of corners to feel safe jumping anything)? I was suprised at the conditions. I guess myself, as well as many others had become spoiled by Tracey's magic as of late. It was only later did I find out how "Murphy's Law" had been in effect all day. We've all had days like these, so I for one know what they were going through... I think MRI may have been down to "plan C" or "plan D" by the middle of practice, but God bless them, they did their best!!!
After a brief rider's meeting and invocation by "Brother Roy Jenkins", the races (finally) got underway!
The "Hobby Class" was gated with the "Senior +30" and it was interesting to see our very own "Professor Motood" battling it out with Danny Pattison (who by the way is "too fast for SSR") with Bobby "Big Air" Billiot in tow, with none other than "the Naryator" (are you sure he's SSR-B) just a notch below their pace. Bobby "The Terminator" Carter was cruising around doing "sight-laps" as he arrived too late to make practice. Bringing up the rear was the rider #167 on a "2-smoke" Honda (again "Joey" I think was his name), whereby we were able to gauge his speed as a natural fit in our "B" ranks. He gave a solid effort and never backed off no matter how far the leaders were in front of him (or catching him from the rear)...lots of heart, good goin' man!
The Dirt was better for the 1st moto than in practice, and there was alot less dust, but it was still pretty hot (temperature wise, as well as on the track)!
SSR moto 1:
1)Mike "Motood" Alf #5A Yamaha (fast and in "Total Control")
2)Bobby "Big-Air" Billiot #253 Kawasaki (always a Contender)
3)Richard "Buckshot" Vinson #59 Yamaha (carried his speed and smoothness over from Thur. practice)
4)Bobby "The Terminator" Carter #515 KTM (patient, deadly, assassin)
5)Andrew "The Taxman" Kennedy #10 Yamaha (good to see Taxman back in the groove)
6)Joey "Superman" Faulk #467 Honda (after fallin' & stallin' in turn 2 by the trees)...
7)Joe "McKey526" McKey #526 Yamaha (finished behind "Rockstar" after stallin' on the last lap)...
SSR B moto 1:
1)Nary "The Naryator" Cannon #509 Honda (after stallin' at the gate; you "sure" he's SSR-B)?
2)Bob "Rebel 500" Calhoun #808 Honda (after narrowly missing the "holeshot I predicted")...
3)Tad "Tadbro" Breaux #43 KTM (way to "geaux, breaux")...I couldn't help myself...lol
4)Wesley "Wes" Whitfield #467 KTM (may earn the nickname "steady-eddie" soon).
5)Clayton "Clay-Dog" Foster #747 Yamaha (much more agressive than I've seen of him)!
6)Tommy "Tug-Boat" Means #11-3 Honda (ridin' harder than I had ever seen him)...
7)Gary "Rockstar" Wilson #38 Honda (after stallin' on the last lap, allowing the "Tug Boat" the right of way)!
The Temps had dropped quickly, and the dirt got "right" for the 2nd moto! I spoke to Tracey about their plans for adding additional light after Thursday nite's practice, and he did as he said. He added more lights, but it was too bad that some of the existing light bulb were burning out faster than my energy did! This made things rather "interesting" in spots...
SSR moto 2:
1)Richard "Buckshot" Vinson #59 Yamaha (talk about being "due"), Congrats!
2)Mike "Motood" Alf #5A Yamaha (as I predicted)...
3)Bobby "The Terminator" Carter #515 KTM (might have done better if he had not been at work all day)...
4)Bobby "Big Air" Billiot #253 Kawasaki (always has a nose for the front)
5)Joey "Superman" Faulk #467 Honda (a better 2nd moto yeilded better results)...
6)Andrew "Taxman" Kennedy #10 Yamaha (Taxman had trouble seeing in the dark so he took it easy)...
7)Joe "McKey526" McKey #526 Yamaha (had alot on his mind after his son was injured in an earlier moto)...
SSR B moto 2:
1)Nary "The Naryator" Cannon #509 Honda (hmm, finishing amongst the "A" riders, this is becoming a habit for Nary)!!!
2)Bob "Rebel500" Calhoun #808 Honda (after pulling the holeshot in the 2nd moto as I predicted)!
3)Tad "Tadbro" Breaux #43 KTM (This I did not expect)...WoW!
4)Clayton "Clay-Dog" Foster #747 Yamaha (was on a tear when he passed Rockstar late on lap 3)...
5)Wesley "Wes" Whitfield #467 KTM (regained the position he lost over Rockstar on lap 4)!
6)Gary "Rockstar" Wilson #38 Honda (having trouble with the "light to dark transitions" took a steady pace)...
7)Tommy "Tug-Boat" Means #11-3 Honda (made the double on the "big triple" but had nothing for Rockstar late in the race)!
Overalls by class:
SSR
1)Mike "Motood", "da Professor", "da Coach" Alf #5A Yamaha (1-2)
2)Richard "Buckshot" Vinson #59 Yamaha (3-1)
3)Bobby "Big Air" Billiot #253 Kawasaki (2-4)
4)Bobby "The Terminator" Carter #515 KTM (4-3)
5)Joey "Superman" Faulk #467 Honda (6-5)
6)Andrew "Taxman" Kennedy #10 Yamaha (5-6)
7)Joe "McKey526" McKey #526 Yamaha (7-7)
SSR B
1)Nary "The Naryator" Cannon #509 Honda (1-1)
2)Bob "Rebel500" Calhoun #808 Honda (2-2)
3)Tad "Tadbro" Breaux #43 KTM (3-3)
4)Clayton "Clay-Dog" Foster #747 Yamaha (5-4)
5)Wesley "Wes" Whitfield #467 KTM (4-5)
6)Gary "Rockstar" Wilson #38 Honda (7-6)
7)Tommy "Tug-Boat" Means #11-3 Honda (6-7)
All in all another GREAT SSR DAY AT THE RACES!!!
As our fealess leader once said "much more fun than old men are supposed to have with their clothes on"!!!
A couple of miscues early on, but no one got hurt!
Even a bad day of racin' is better than a good day at work!
Okay, so I might have had about a 50% prognostication rate, but with racing as tight as the SSR Class is, it just goes to show that on any given weekend anyone can win, place or show;
and that's the way "We" like it!!!
Many thaks go out to M.R.I. and staff, you guys "ROCK"!!! I can't forget to include the new eye-candy...'er-uhm "lady flaggers", (note to Cluis: Bro, I think you would have raced if you knew you would see them every lap)...lol!
Thanks to Tank, GodFather, Moto"B" Spectator, Keith Polk, Jon Dean, and any other SSR brethren that made it out to watch, cheer, or just heckle us on!
Viva SSR!
G-Dub
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