AMA Toyota MX Championship Goes Under the Lights
LAKEWOOD, Col. (June 19, 2008) – History will be made in Colorado on Saturday, June 28 as the 2008 AMA Toyota Motocross Championship Presented by FMF showcases its first-ever night motocross race at the Toyota Trucks AMA National at Thunder Valley Presented by Division 7 Insulation from Thunder Valley Motocross Park.
The inclusion of lights, from the famed Musco Sports Lighting, continues the tradition of innovative ideas Thunder Valley promoter David Clabaugh has presented during its four years on the schedule. With the change to nighttime racing, advantages are present in a variety of ways for both the fans and riders alike. After sweltering 100-degree temperatures at this event one year ago, participants and attendees will be rewarded with temperatures that could be as much as 40 degrees cooler, creating a fun and exciting summer atmosphere perfect for the whole family.
In order to accommodate this newfound tradition, Clabaugh has put in considerable man hours to develop the circuit, introducing positive changes for the event. While the outstanding track layout will essentially remain intact, and in perfect condition thanks to designers Mark Barnett and Glen Bates, the fans will be presented with a stellar viewing experience with the addition of numerous bleachers, a brand new sound system and a large terracing hill perfect for watching the on-track action.
“Thunder Valley has always tried to add some new promotional concepts to the series while keeping the same great racing intact,” said Clabaugh. “Moving the race to Saturday and bringing in the lights for a night time race should really add some excitement to the event. We’ve done several test events with the lights and, with the help of Musco Lighting, the event should look good for the fans on-site and on television.”
With the excitement created by the efforts of Monster Energy Kawasaki’s James Stewart and Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto, there will be no shortage of on-track fireworks. With each rider boasting overall winning streaks at least three races in length, the bar has been set for challengers Mike Alessi and Ryan Dungey from Rockstar/Makita Suzuki as well as Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Tim Ferry and Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Austin Stroupe. Hungrier than ever to snap those streaks, these riders and many others will bring their A-game in the AMA Motocross and AMA Motocross Lites classes.
Additionally, vendor row tenants and concessions have been increased throughout the facility and the inclusion of a beer garden is sure to be a popular feature amongst the fans. Toyota, the series’ title sponsor, returns in support of this historic occasion on a national level while Toyota Trucks, the event title sponsor, will assist on a local level. Presenting sponsor Division 7 Insulation, along with Thor and FMF, continue their efforts while Red Bull has stepped up this season to offer a two-story Energy Station.
A variety of accompanying events make Thunder Valley the place to be over the course of the two-day event. Live bands will take to the stage throughout Friday and Saturday while the Red Bull Sky Diving team will turn heads to the sky. Ten-time National Trials Champion Geoff Aaron will also be on hand to treat the fans with one of the most unique motorcycle disciplines in the world.
Tickets are available at Greater Denver Toyota Dealers, participating motorcycle shops, and King Soopers/Tickets West. Or log onto www.mxthundervalley.com for any and everything regarding the Toyota Trucks AMA National at Thunder Valley Presented by Division 7 Insulation. For more event or series information, log onto www.mxnationals.com.
Ticket Information
Friday and Saturday
Adult (11 and older) $45
Children (5-10 years) $20
4 and Under Free
Saturday Only
Adult (11 and older) $35
Children (5-10 years) $15
4 and Under Free
Interview opportunities are available to the media by contacting AMA Toyota Motocross Championship media coordinator Brandon Short via email at Media@MXNationals.com or by phone at 951-203-2605.
For more information on the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship, presented by FMF, log on to www.amamotocross.com for live timing and scoring at @theWireLIVE!. Racer X Illustrated will host a new and improved webcast on www.motocross.com, with live racing action hosted by Jason Weigandt. The Racer X Motocross Show on Motocross.com has also been added on Saturday night of each race weekend, featuring practice footage and interviews taken earlier in the day.
Credential requests for each round of the 2008 AMA Toyota Motocross Championship Presented by FMF must be submitted via email to Media@MXNationals.com three weeks prior to the race. Media members interested in interviews with the riders of the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship Presented by FMF should contact Brandon at 951-203-2605 or email Media@MXNationals.com.
