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Licence holders fill podium places at Motegi, Japan
This weekend's FIM SPEA World Trial Round at the Twin Ring Motegi in Japan on 31st May/1st June, provided an excellent example of the strength of talent this country has in the younger classes. Whilst the current World Trial Championship standings have three, ACU rider's in the top 10 of the Championship - Dougie Lampkin 5th, James Dabill 8th and reigning Youth Champion Michael Brown 9th - the Junior Cup has three riders in the top 5, and the Youth Cup is being headed by another British rider. The World Junior Cup saw three ACU riders fill the rostrum places on Day 2 of the Japanese Grand Prix, Alexz Wigg, Championship Runner Up at his first attempt in 2007, improved on his first days Second place, recording his third victory of the season and is now heading the Championship by 8 points. Ross Danby, Youth Trial Cup Runner Up in '07, equalled his best result of the season, a Runner Up finish taking him up to 5th place in the standings. Sam Haslam's, (5th place in 2007's Championship) consistency continued taking the final rostrum place on Day 2, maintaining his 3rd place in the Championship. The W orld Youth Cup saw another British rider climb the podium on both days. Jack Challoner earned a Runner Up spot on Day 1, but then went one better on the second day, allowing him to extend his lead in the Championship to 12 points. John Collins, Chairman, ACU Trials and Enduro Committee said, "The World series is the ultimate challenge for all these riders. The dedication, commitment and expense demanded of all riders at this level is significant, so to see young British riders doing so well is very satisfying and demands our recognition and support." Applications invited for 2009 European Trials & Enduro Championship events The Trials and Enduro Committee wish to invite any ACU Centres and Affiliated Clubs who may be interested in hosting either a European Trials or Enduro Championship events to forward their applications as soon as possible. With the large number of British riders taking part in these Championships, and each Training squad using their respective UEM Championship's to increase each Squad's rider development, there is likely to be high interest from each sport's fan base and media. Any Club/Centre considering running any such event should contact Mary Kerr, 01788 566403 or e-mail mary.kerr@acu.org.uk, the deadline for applications is Thursday 5th June 2008. Replacement round for Metzeler British Enduro Championship Following the cancellation of the SCEC Round of the Metzeler British Enduro Championship, scheduled for September due to land issues, the Trials and Enduro Committee are delighted to announce the successful replacement venue. The Central Wales Auto Club (CWAC) have agreed to host the Round on the same dates as originally scheduled, 20th/21st September 2008. Clerk of the Course for the event, to be named 'The Knighton Enduro', will be Mark Vaughan, Secretary of the Meeting will be Marty Jones. The Central Wales Auto Club were originally 'pencilled in' to hold Round 1 of this year's Championship, but unfortunately, issues with their land meant this being ruled out. John Collins, Chairman, ACU Trials & Enduro Committee said, "I am delighted both for the Championship and CWAC that this final Round can still take place. It is important for the Championship, and its sponsor's Metzeler to have a reasonable number of Rounds counting towards the Championship, and also that discussions between the Club and the land owners have proved successful, showing that occasionally 'land issues' does not necessarily mean the total loss of a venue." Sadly, with the unavoidable clash of dates between the FIM World Enduro Championship Round in Italy and the BAFMA's on 27th/28th September 2008, the final Round of the Metzeler British Enduro Championship, for Championship competitors will be Round 4, the Knighton Enduro, but the Expert, Clubman's, Veteran's and Women's classes will finish at Round 5, the Natterjack Enduro the following week. Further information will be released in due course. BEC 5th Round CANCELLED The ACU regrets to announce that due to land issues, the Southern Counties Enduro Club's round of the British Enduro Championship, which was to be held on the 20th & 21st September, has had to be withdrawn from the Championship for 2008. If any other Club is interested in taking over this date in the calendar to run a round of the BEC, please contact Alison Devine either by e-mail alison@acu.org.uk or telephone 01788 566409 as soon as possible. A one or two day replacement would be considered. Open Trials Forum 21st June 2008 The ACU's Trials & Enduro Committee would like to give advanced notice of a general Open Trials Forum for adults and youths, which will be held at ACU House, Rugby on Saturday 21st June 2008. By holding the Forum earlier in the year it is hoped that there will be ample time to discuss the many and varied issues relating to Trials Championships and enable adequate time for any changes agreed to be included in the 2009 ACU Handbook. Please note that a separate Forum will be held for the British Solo Trials Championship. Enduro forum Report by Bob Mullins The Auto Cycle Union held their annual Enduro forum on Saturday 16th February at it's headquarters in Rugby. Mr E P Bartlett (ACU ISDE Organiser) Mr J Crimp (West of England MCC) Mr D May-Miller (Logistics Officer) Ms K Madeley (MWTRA) Mr A Martin (Trophy/Junior Trophy) Mr V Madeley (MWTRA) Mr K Williams (MCC of Wales) Mrs V Madeley (MWTRA) Mr P Hearn (RAF) Mrs S Powell (MWTRA) Ms D Harvey (St.George's) ) Ms L Powell (MWTRA) Mr M Seward (North Riding Enduro) Mr E Williams (Federation of Wales) Mr T Gilbank (North Riding Enduro) Mr B Mullins (Enduro News) Mr B Birrell (BAFMA) Mr D Johns (BAFMA) Mr B Jay (Witley MCC) Mr G Ayshford (Witley MCC) Mr I George (Witley MCC) Mr C Boniface (Witley MCC) Mr G McGregor (Bon-Accord MCC) Mr C Chatham (Melville MC) Mr S Davidson (SACU) Mr C MacKenzie (SACU) Mr N Hesleton (REME Enduro Team) Mr T Peck (Support Crew) Mr L Cordingley (Southern MCC IOM) Mr D Roberts (Southern MCC IOM Mr and Mrs King (Support Crew) Mr and Mrs Hearn (Support Crew) Mr J Collins (Chairman T&E Cttee) Mr M Bates (T&E Committee) Mr D Willoughby (V/Chairman T&E Cttee) Mr and Mrs Room (Support Crew) Minutes Secretary: - Mrs A Bartlett RIDERS AND TEAMS Mr Bartlett stated that as Greece had limited the numbers of riders to 450 there would probably be a maximum of 5 club teams plus the Trophy and Junior Trophy teams. Any club teams who are interested in going are required to pay a £1000.00 deposit by the 31st March, this is refundable if they do not get a place. Cheques are to be made payable to: E P Bartlett Motorcycle Sports Club and forwarded to: The Conifers, West Promenade, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 6TZ Mr Collins stressed that all clubs must be ACU affiliated, riders who were not experienced would no longer be allowed to go, they should preferably have ridden the British championships for at least 3 years at expert level, obviously there would be some exceptions which would be discussed on merit. By mid March there would be a priority list of teams and a reserve list, it would be mid June before it would be known how many club teams were allowed. Mr Bartlett said that he was in Geneva next weekend and would talk to one of the organisers who he knew very well and try to find out how many club teams were going to be allowed. Trophy and Junior Trophy Teams Wales 2 teams Builth Wells 1 team West of England 1 team RAF 1 team Witley 2 teams St. Georges 1 team North Riding 1 team Southern IOM 1 team BAFMA 2 teams SACU 1 team Bon-Accord 1 team Total of 14 club teams OUTRIDERS Only trophy and junior trophy teams were allowed official outriders, any unofficial outrider caught by the organisers could result in his whole team being excluded. ACCOMMODATION Mr Bartlett has booked a total of 100 beds in two hotels, The Galaxy and The Elena Palace. He hoped to have everyone in one hotel but had to book two due to the shortage of twin bedded rooms. They were booked to arrive on the 26th August and leave on the 8th September, a total of 13 nights. Cost would be £31.00 per person per night for bed and breakfast, there is very limited parking available outside the hotels. SUPPORT CREWS Mr May-Miller stated that each team should consist of 3 riders, a team manager and 2 support as a minimum requirement, each team should have 2 vehicles, one to use on outchecks and one to travel between the parc ferme and hotel and to ferry riders to walk the tests. Mr and Mrs Room, Mr and Mrs Brettle, Mr and Mrs King and Mr and Mrs Hearn with Mr and Mrs Peck would be in charge of support crews again. He was looking into the possibility of hiring a 40 foot truck and taking the equipment in this to Greece, then hiring an empty container in Greece to use for storage. He could look into any discounts available for ferries from Italy to Greece, Mr Seward said that Motorsport York were very competitive on prices and could beat the internet, their number is 01759 301010. Mrs King asked if it would be possible to obtain passes to park their vans in the paddock for security at night as there was no parking at the hotels, Mr Bartlett said he would discuss this in Geneva. SUPPORT VEHICLES There will be 3 out checks in the same place every day, the riders will come through the parc ferme every day at lunch time. If any of the support crews are not taking vans Mr May-Miller will arrange for their equipment to be taken out for them. The cost of support will be £250.00 per rider again. JERRY CANS/FUEL/WATER/OILS Mr May Miller has enough jerrycans, quickfills and enviro mats. He also has 6/7 x 20l water containers for washing bikes, the water in Greece is safe to drink or bottled water can be bought out there if required. He is working on a deal at the moment for two stroke oil. BIKE STANDS Mr May-Miller has enough to supply 3 or 4 at each check, in the parc ferme riders should have their own stand, moose board etc. According to FIM regulations every bike must have a side stand fitted, a sprocket guard, speedo and horn, if a new bike needs to be registered do it well in advance as the registration changes on 1st September and it will be a very busy time. Mr Willoughby mentioned that the FIM are proposing to change the start order every day going on the results of the day before but this is not definite. GAZEBOS Mr May Miller has got 4 and the support crews also have their own. REGULATIONS No full regulations have been published yet, these will be approved in Geneva next weekend. MOBILE PHONES Mr May-Miller said that he would prefer not to rent phones as last year it was very expensive, it would be better if people used their own mobiles. There will be a nominated mobile at each check with a list of numbers and he would be prepared to reimburse calls made for official purposes. INSURANCE Riders must have an insurance certificate or cover note with them when they sign on, this must be in their name and not their company etc. There would be the usual package for riders and for support crews, details would be emailed to team managers. It was queried whether the support crew insurance covered the crews when working, Mr Bartlett said that this was usually the case, also it was asked if the organisers would be doing an insurance package again, Mr Bartlett said he would check in Geneva. CLOTHING Mr Martin said that he had the same deal for Trophy and Junior Trophy team clothing as he had last year. If the support crews give him their sizes well in advance he will make sure that they get the correct size clothing. ENTRY FEES There are no details of the cost of entry yet so Mr Bartlett said he would add this to the list of questions to ask the organiser in Geneva. Mr Collins then discussed the method of determining which teams had priority for entry, some changes were made to the points system. Date of next meeting: Saturday 5th July 2008 The afternoon session concentrated on more general topics. A consultation document has been circulated through the centres to guage their interest in running Youth classes in cross country/H&H events. There will no longer be a need to set a "target" in H&H events. Bob Birrell expressed his disappointment that the Championship class at this year's Natterjack would not score points in the BEC as the event clashes with a World round. The growth of the WEC is making it increasingly difficult for British clubs to find suitable dates. This sparked a long debate. Lynton Powell, Campbell Chatham & Charlie Mackenzie spoke very persuasively that in future BEC organisers should set their dates irrespective of WEC dates & riders will have to choose if events clash. The paragraph referring to the late arrival allowance was read several times*. Clubs were reminded that Sportsman is a non competitive class & should only receive finishers awards. There was new provision in the handbook for Special Events such as extreme/indoor events. * (e) Late Arrival Allowance. A rider is permitted to arrive at any time check, other than the 'start' time check, up to one full minute after his due time without penalty. This allowance is designed to cover normal delays and is called the 'Late Arrival Allowance' (LAA). Riders who are at any time check more than one minute late will be penalised 60 pts per minute in excess of the LAA according to the time indicated on the official clock. "Example: A rider due to arrive at 10.30 can arrive at 10.30.59 seconds & still be within his due time. If he arrives between 10.31 & 10.31.59 seconds he will not incur a penalty but he have to carry a minute. After 10.32 he will incur penalties. 2008 ACU British Ladies Motocross Championship Following the crowning of Natalie Kane as ACU British Ladies Motocross Championship at the inauguration of the Championship at Howton Court in September 2007, the ACU Motocross Department are delighted to announce the increase to a two Round Championship for 2008. Both events will be incorporated in to the MMX Championship series and will run alongside the ACU British Open and Under 21 classes at the first and the final rounds. Transponders will be used for the timekeeping and results service which will be provided and sponsored by EMS Race IT. The venues and dates for the events are listed below. Round 1 Matchams Park, Hampshire 24th February 2008 Round 2 Cusses Gorse, Wiltshire 31st August 2008 Championship Regulations and Entry Forms are now available from the ACU Motocross Department on 01788 566422/566404 or e-mail moto.cross@acu.org.uk , You will also be available to download the forms on www.mmx.org.uk New 2008 ACU British Youth Quad Cross Championship With the continuing growth of quad racing at European, British and Club level the ACU Motocross Department held a meeting at Rugby on 14th November 2007 with key members of the quad racing fraternity, including dealers and clubs. The meeting discussed many aspects of developing this exciting form of motocross, including the need for a new youth championship, to encourage younger riders into the sport, help develop their talent through British Championship level and onto the new European Championship. The ACU are now delighted to inform you of the classes, age groups and provisional dates, with organising clubs (venues to be confirmed), for the new ACU British Youth Quad Cross Championship. Classification and age groups 50cc Auto Open Class 7 - 9 years old 100cc Open Class 9 - 13 years old 200cc Open Class 13 - 16 years old 250cc Open Class 14 - 16 years old Provisional calendar Round 1 13th July 2008 Nett Quad Club Round 2 31st August 2008 Quad Racing Scotland Round 3 21st September 2008 Quad Racing Association To register for the 2008 ACU British Youth Quad Cross Championship please contact the ACU Motocross Department on 01788 566422/566404 or via e-mail moto.cross@acu.org.uk 2008 British Enduro Championship The ACU's Trials and Enduro Committee have received a cancellation for the scheduled venue for Round 2 of the 2008 Metzeler British Enduro Championship, but are hoping to successfully find an alternative to maintain the full, six Round series. The Central Wales Auto Club Ltd who were due to organise the Radnor one day Enduro, as part of the BEC on 9th March, have announced that unfortunately they will have to withdraw from the Championship calendar due to land issues. If anyone is interested in hosting a replacement round of the Championship on this date, please contact Mary Kerr or John Collins. No 144cc in British Enduro Championship The ACU Trials & Enduro Committee announces that there will be no capacity class changes within the E1 Enduro class in 2008. A topic, which has been subject to much debate in MX. T & E Chairman John Collins states: We understand the issues raised in MX and the decisions taken but obviously we need to look at the matter from an Enduro perspective. Some of our reasoning is: If it is accepted that 144cc two strokes are now a better option in E1 to compete with the developments that have taken place to the 250cc Four strokes in recent years, then it must logically follow that these 144cc machines are a lot better than the current 125cc two strokes. If then the E1 Enduro capacity class were changed to accommodate the 144's we believe that the riders who have previously purchased 125cc machines will be disadvantaged. We have read about " kits" available to take these 125 two strokes to the new capacity, but information varies on their suitability. We also feel that to expect current 125cc competitors to have to invest in such kits to remain competitive on their current machines is both undesirable and an unnecessary cost. There are no plans in 2008 for either the European or FIM Enduro Championships to change their capacity classes, which means that if the British Championship was changed to accommodate 144cc machines, their riders would not be able to use the same machine to compete Internationally. Even kits would not necessarily solve this problem - as in Europe the Technical documents/Log books have to be produced at administration - and frequent changes back and forth from 125 to 144 would surely be very difficult to achieve with the DVLA. It has to be accepted however that since its original conception, the E1 class has seen developments with the 250cc Four Strokes that have placed the 125 two strokes at a disadvantage - although it could be argued that a study of results does not always confirm this, possibly because of Enduro being different to MX, and the requirement for competitors to ride 6-7 hours each day, which may give the lighter 125cc machines a chance to address the balance? We are certainly not convinced that just increasing the capacity to 144cc is the answer. Why not 160, 180, 200? Surely if the four strokes continue to develop this may be suggested. The T & E Committee have decided to try to address the problem in a different way, and for 2008 therefore will divide the E1 Enduro class into E1 Two Stroke and E1 Four stroke. Capacities within the class will remain the same as at present i.e Two stroke - 100cc to 125cc Four Stroke - 175cc to 250cc. These changes will apply to British Championship only - and will be reviewed at the end of the year. The E1 class in Non-Championship events will remain as currently published in the Handbook, but it should be noted here that there has always been the option for Non-Championship Organisers to include alternative classes as they wish. Finally - the ACU are currently looking at new Technology in regard to engine measurement and it is envisaged that there will be engine measurement tests carried out in Championship events - so anyone tempted to cheat on capacities - beware! Further congratulations from Trial and Enduro Committee Following this weekends European Trial and Enduro competitions the ACU's Trials and Enduro Committee have, once more the opportunity to congratulate licence holders on their excellent achievements in 2007. The final round of the Women's European Trial Championship took place in Hobol, Norway on Saturday 18th August and saw Becky Cook climb onto the second step of the podium, her best result of the season, finishing third in the Championship standings. Supporting her were fellow Trials Des Nation team member Donna Fox with a fifth place in the event and Championship standings, Emma Bristow 10th, 7th in Championship and Joanne Coles 11th - 8th in the Final standings. The same day and venue also saw Jack Challoner crowned Champion of the Youth Trial UEM Cup, for the second year running, with another dominant performance, giving him a 100% record in this year's Championship. Supporting Jack was Ben Morphett who rode superbly for 3rd, his second podium finish and 4th in the Championship. Jonathan Richardson also claimed his best finish with 8th place, 10th in the Final standings, Joshua Maud and Jonathan Chambers also finished in the points, claiming 14th and 15th respectively. Sunday 19th saw two more ACU Licence holders on the podium with Ross Danby in second place, taking his expected second place in the UEM Junior Championship, joined by Youth Champion, Challoner in 3rd place, finishing the older class with a Championship 9th. The Country's European Enduro stars were also competing in Scandanavia, but at Heinola in Finland, the 3rd of the four Round Championship. Daryl Bolter is currently leading the E1 Senior class Championship following his 1st and 3rd in the two day event. The trio of Jones' are also within the top 12 of the current standings - Ed, 6th; Dylan, 9th and Robert 12th. Another ACU licence holder is at the head of the E2/3 Junior class, Si Wakely recording his best and worst results of the season, his first win and a 4th place. The weekend also saw Oliver Moyce maintain his Championship 6th place, recording a 9th and 6th and Jamie Paget record his first top 15 finishes of the year, lifting him to 17th in the Championship standings. Greg Evans also kept his 3rd place in the E1 Junior class Championship standings, recording a 5th and 6th in Finland. The final round of the European Enduro Championship takes place near Kiece, Poland on 22nd - 23rd September 2007. John Collins, Committee Chairman said, "The Committee's decision to provide assistance for our young Trials and Enduro riders to compete at European and World level seems to be paying dividends. With the likes of Brown, Challoner, Cook, Danby and Wigg in Trials and Bolter, Evans, Moyce, Sagar, Wakely in Enduro the Committee are very much looking forward to watching these riders successfully compete at the highest level." Manx 2-Day Trial 25th/26th August 2007 The ACU's Trials and Enduro Committee have been requested by the Isle of Man's Department of Agriculture to ensure that all competitors entering this weekends 2 day Trial present their bikes to the Machine Examiners in a 'showroom' condition. With the outbreak of foot and mouth disease on the mainland, the Manx Authorities are understandably taking no chances and have stated that if machines are presented in a muddy condition, they will be refused entry into the competition. Committee Chairman, John Collins said, "With the farmers current fear still very high over foot and mouth, we are very lucky to still have many events going ahead and I would ask all competitors to be sympathetic with the Manx residents and ensure their machines are thoroughly cleaned before being transported to the Isle of Man." Metzeler ACU British Enduro Championship Round 1 Hafren 14th - 15th July 2007 John Collins, Chairman of the ACU's Trials & Enduro Committee invites you to the first round of the newly titled Metzeler ACU British Enduro Championship at Hafren, Powys on 14th & 15th July 2007. In addition to it being the first round of the new Championship for Metzeler Tyres, Hafren will also be very important for organisers, the Hafren Dirt Bike Club in their bid to hold a World Enduro Round at the same venue in 2008, following their successful European Championship Round in 2005. John said, "Firstly, I would take this opportunity to welcome Metzeler to the first round of their Championship and thank them once more for their support. Secondly offer Hafren Dirt Bike Club best wishes in their goal for 2008, they certainly have the experience to run such a large event." A further boost to the event is the entry of World Championship leader Juha Salminen, who is making the trip from Finland to experience a British Enduro Championship round and possibly early preparation for the 2008 World Championship season! Finally, with the obvious exception of David Knight, all members of the recently announced ISDE Team, Optoma Loans Team GB/ACU will also be in action at the event. ISDE Team Manager Dusty Martin will be taking advantage of this and organising a photo shoot for Saturday evening in the Parc Ferme. The time will be shortly after all riders have completed the day's event, approx 1700hrs. 2008 ACU BRITISH CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP John Collins, Chairman of the ACU's Trials and Enduro Committee is requesting proposals to run an ACU British Cross Country Championship in 2008. ACU Clubs, Centres and Promoters or potential ACU Promoters are invited to register their interest with Mary Kerr, ACU House, Wood Street, Rugby, CV21 2YX, direct line 01788 566403, or e-mail mary.kerr@acu.org.uk by Friday 20th July 2007. Further to receiving proposals, a meeting will be arranged to discuss the format of the Championship in detail with representatives of the Trials & Enduro Committee. The Committee wish to emphasise that the current ACU Metzeler British Solo Enduro Championship will take priority regarding date reservations in the 2008 Calendar. Transport Select Committee Motorcycle Strategy Report 2007 The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) welcomes the publication of the Transport Select Committee's (TSC) Report into the Government's Motorcycling Strategy and its commendation of the ACU's work with Local Authorities to proved safe and legal riding opportunities for young people. At a time when the Governing Body for Motorcycle Sport is devoting significant time and resources to fighting implications of proposed Off Road Registration Bill (1), the ACU welcomes the Transport Select Committee's own reservations about the impact of this proposed Bill on illegal riding. Although in the matter of an off-road registration scheme the committee recognised that most agencies, including the police, do not believe it would work and does not support implementation if cost and administrative burden would be prohibitive, the TSC has confusingly come down on the side of off road registration 'trials', a contradictory finding, given the arguments presented in the Report and by almost every witness who gave evidence to Committee members. In light of these facts and evidence to the Committee, plus briefings to MP's, the ACU is disturbed ed that the Off Road Registration Bill passed its second reading and that such little regard has been given to the experience and input of the experts called before the Committee. The ACU's Dave Luscombe is disappointed that this situation has been allowed to develop, "The ACU is delighted that the Select Committee has recognised the work of the ACU in creating legitimate off road riding facilities for young people. However, it is shocking that in the face of so much evidence to the contrary, the Bill, proposed by Graham Stringer MP, who is a member of this committee and heard this evidence first hand, can go further than its Second Reading," said Luscombe. "Equally shocking for the sport is the total lack of consultation by those who have drafted this proposed legislation; a Bill that seems to fly in the face of logic, reason and dare I say common sense" he continued. Copies of the Transport Select Committee's Report can be found at: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmselect/cmtran/264/264.pdf
John Collins, Chairman, ACU Trials and Enduro Committee is pleased to inform you of the new title sponsor to the 2007 British Enduro Championship. John is able to confirm that Metzeler will be the new sponsor of the 2007 British Solo Enduro Championship, the Series will now be entitled the METZELER - ACU BRITISH SOLO ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP. Neil Booker, Marketing Manager, Metzeler Tyres said, "Metzeler are proud to be the new sponsors of the British Enduro Championship and look forward to an exciting season and to further establishing the brand through this important championship and a closer working relationship with the ACU." John stated, " I am delighted that such a prestigious company has decided to back this Championship and I am sure the organisers will find the support they offer invaluable." Final call for club teams to register their intention to enter the 2007 ISDE - Chile is 31st March ! I would be very grateful if you would put out a final call on your website as prominently as possible for any club team interested in participating to contact me or Ted Bartlett absolute deadline 31st March! We will strictly enforce this to prevent the problems we had last year and will be sending out club team package details / monies needed up front-in the very near future. The meeting also agreed that in future, there will be a strict limit on the no. of club teams allowed to enter- judged by ability. Mary mary.kerr@acu.org.uk CCM BRITISH MMX Motocross Championship Britain's number one motocross Series for our young riders, sidecar teams and quad riders has received a major boost after securing a new title sponsor for the Series for 2007 from one of Britain's last remaining motorcycle manufacturers CCM Motorcycles. In addition to this the Under 21 Championship receives direct sponsorship from PAR Homes After some very productive discussions with CCM Motorcycles, based in Bolton, Championship Co-ordinator Roy Barton is pleased to announce that for the 2007 season the Series now becomes the CCM British MMX Motocross Championship. CCM were synonymous throughout the 70's and 80's with motocross at the very highest levels at British Championships and Grand Prix. They flew the flag for Britain in the days when the Japanese manufacturers were coming to the fore. CCM have always experienced a roller coast ride of success and failure in ample doses. CCM's last foray into the world of MX was back in 1995 when the late great Donny Schmit of the USA won the World 4 stroke Championship on a CCM. That was just before the 4 stroke revolution swept 2 strokes aside. Gary Harthern CCM Managing Director said "CCM always played David in the Goliath battles at the very highest levels and it's been way too long for CCM to have been away from the sharp end of the action so we see this sponsorship deal as a great re-introduction of the CCM brand back into the mainstream MX market. We hope that during the course of this year we'll be able to show the world a new motocross project that will reflect our company's strategy for the future. It's exciting times for the small band of people at CCM and we're really pleased to be associated with the under 21's, 4 stroke, quads and sidecars. As part of CCM's continued strategy to get back into the marketplace CCM are sponsoring a sidecar MX Team, formerly JLR Racing. The new team will take on the main team sponsor name of CCM and will compete at British and Grand Prix levels with their number one pilot John Lines." In addition to CCM joining the Series, the countries largest off road team, PAR Honda, have approached the ACU with regards to sponsorship of the Under 21 Championship. Team owner Paul Rowland shares a similar goal of the ACU, in his support to some of the Country's top young riders in both his Motocross and Enduro Teams. Furthering his commitment to our young developing talent, Paul was very pleased to put his company's name to the Under 21 Championship. Paul Rowlands of PAR Homes Ltd said, "I am extremely pleased to be able to sponsor this series and look forward to another season of close and exciting racing. PAR Homes Ltd (PAR Honda) have a long standing commitment to the development of riders in the UK and are pleased to add the sponsorship of this series to our sponsorship of the Youth BYMX Championship and the Evening Motocross Series in Rhayader" Roy Barton, series co-ordinator added "The MMX championship has come a long way over the last 5 years or so starting out as a partnership between the Sidecar and Fourstroke classes. The hotly contested Under 21 Championship then joined to make it a three class series and produced the likes of Tom Church, Stephen Sword and Mark Hucklebridge in its first year. For 2007 the Quad Championship has become fully integrated within the British MMX Series and QRA's Tony Nash joining the organising team. The series relies strongly on the input of sponsors to maintain the high standard of events that the series runs at and we are extremely happy to welcome CCM and PAR Homes onboard joining Maxxis Tyres, EMS Race IT and RB Trophies as series sponsors and supporters." 2007 UNDER 23 ENDURO SQUAD The Under 23 ACU Enduro Squad for the current year has now been selected. For 2007 the emphasis will be changed to offer a smaller squad some direct rider development assistance to compete in events such as the European Enduro Championship Squad members will have their results carefully monitored as the whole selection process will be performance based with the opportunity to review and alter the squad make up as the season progresses. The named Squad for 2007 is:
Daryl Bolter, Lee Edmondson, Oliver Moyce, Jamie Paget, Greg Evans, Simon Wakely. With European rounds in Italy, Finland, Hungary and Poland this campaign will prove an expensive exercise and if any firms or individuals feel they would like to get behind this effort and help these young riders with some additional funds they are asked to contact Mary Kerr, T & E at the ACU J. COLLINS
The ACU are delighted to officially support the English Federation for Disabled Sport (EFDS) 'Count Me In' Campaign. EFDS are the national body responsible for developing sport for disabled people in England and provide a united voice of disability sport seeking to promote inclusion and achieve equality of sporting opportunities for disabled people The 'Count Me In' campaign aims to have 10,000 disabled people Counted In sport by March 2007. The campaign has signed up 5619 supporters including Sir Trevor Brooking, Duncan Goodhew, Colin Jackson, Dame Kelly Holmes, Danny Mills, Ian Rose, Tessa Sanderson, Iwan Thomas and Marc Woods. More details of how you can add your support to this campaign can be found at http://www.efds.net/index.php?incpage=home_cmi.php The ACU can already boast a number of very successful disabled riders in many different disciplines of motorcycle sport and loosing an arm or a leg has been proven to be no obstacle to enjoying the thrill of competitive motorcycle sport. On the back of their support for EFDS, the ACU are also keen promote its own campaign for wider participation in motorcycle sport and ensure that were possible, anyone with a disability is encourage to 'have a go' at motorcycle sport. A new Disabled Licence Applicant Assessment Process will be put in place from 1st April 2007. This new system will provide anyone with a disability with a clear pathway through the licence application process. Through full disclosure of the applicants disability, with supporting evidence from their GP or Specialist, the ACU Medical Panel will be able to take a consider the application. Riders whose disability does not medically preclude them from competition will then be referred to the relevant sporting committee for a practical assessment of riding ability. This final test will require the applicant to simply demonstrate a reasonable level of bike control, proving that they are not a danger to themselves or other riders. If successful, the appropriate competition licence will be issued. ACU Chairman Jim Parker is proud that the ACU are now able to boast a fully transparent and robust assessment process, "Motorcycle sport must look to broaden its membership where ever possible and in widening participation, we must always be conscious of removing any and all obstacles to our sport," explained Jim. "Inside our sport we are aware of how accessible motorcycle racing is to disabled riders, and I am hopeful that this new process will encourage more disabled people to consider motorcycle sport as an exciting and rewarding sport." Youth invitations for Colin Appleyard British Trials Championship Further to the very positive forum, attended by riders, importers, organisers and ACU Trials and Enduro Committee members, regarding the Colin Appleyard British Trials Championship on 3rd February 2007, concern was expressed that a stricter criteria be adopted for selecting the 5 eligible youth riders for this Championship. In 2006 a further complication arose, as there were both a 250 and 125 class, which would make the previous criteria difficult to apply. Consequently, for the 2007 season, the 5 riders and further 5 reserve riders will be selected after the first 2 rounds of the 2007 A Class Youth Championship. Round 1 18th February 2007 Yeadon Guisley Round 2 4th March 2007 Cheadle Following these 2 rounds a decision will be taken on both there 2006 and early 2007 performance. Any Youth rider wishing to be considered and who has not already applied should do so by contacting the Trials & Enduro Committee, ACU House, Wood St, Rugby CV21 2YX. This must be done by Monday 5th March. Those who have already applied need not do so again as their details are already held on file. The list of confirmed riders and reserves will be decided at the discretion of the Trials & Enduro Committee. Sound Levels at Motocross Events Following further discussion at the ACU's Motocross Committee on 31st January 2007, Chairman Roy Humphrey wishes to inform you of the decisions regarding future sound testing at ACU motocross events. The previous press release issued in December 2006 informed you of the ACU's acceptance of the 2008 FIM sound levels limiting 4 stroke machines to 94 dba at fixed revolutions, whilst 2 stroke machines will remain at 96 dba. In addition to these new levels from the beginning of the 2008 season, it will be compulsory for all organisers to ensure random sound testing is carried out at their events. In addition to these new levels there will also be a change in the timing of sound testing at Regional events, from 2008 once more, testing will take place during practice and racing, rather than prior to practicing. During 2007 the Motocross Committee will be evaluating 'drive by' sound testing at some events and this maybe introduced for the 2008 season. In addition to Sound Training for officials wishing to become Club or ACU Sound testers, sound meters are available, to ACU affiliated clubs, for purchase at the discounted price of £110 from ACU House (£120 for non ACU Clubs). For more information on these seminars and sound meters please contact Michelle Haynes, 01788 566405. Widening Participation in Motorsport 'Whole Sport Plan' 2007 Consultation Survey Under the direction and coordination of Motorsport Development UK (MDUK) and Sport England, the Auto Cycle Union (ACU) and Motor Sports Association (MSA) would like to invite you to take part in a survey to establish your views on how to widen participation in motorsport. The bodies are working together from now until April to develop a new 'whole sport plan' for the next 5 years, with the aim of getting more people involved in motorsport at every level, whether that be competing, spectating or volunteering. The independent sports consultancy Performance Matters (a division of Leisure Partners Ltd.) has been commissioned to lead the consultation process across the entire sport. Performance Matters has conducted similar processes in cricket, golf, equestrian, and has considerable experience of working for national sports agencies such as UK Sport, Sport England, SkillsActive, and London 2012. The voice of all those who participate, spectate and volunteer in motorsport is vital to the development of this new plan. In addition to this we would like to hear from those who are not currently participating. The survey is being circulated as widely as possible in order to collate current opinion. It has been designed to be completed in no more than five minutes and to be submitted back to us electronically. Please contribute by clicking on the link below. All responses are anonymous under the Market Research Society Code of Conduct and should be submitted by a closing date of 16 March 2007. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=269173104860 Enduro Under 23 Training Squad Applications are now invited from Enduro riders interested in being considered for the 2007 Under 23 Enduro training Squad. In conjunction with the Trials training squad, it has been decided that as opposed to concentrating on home based training, emphasis this year will be placed on making direct financial support for rider development available to a limited number of riders whose effort will be focused primarily on the European Enduro Championship. It may also be that one or two intense training sessions will be organised as early in the year as possible, before the European series starts, but at this is to be confirmed. Support will be performance related and constantly assessed to determine whether assistance should continue. As such, it may be that at intervals, existing squad members may be replaced by others whose performance may justify re-selection. Deadline for applications is 2nd February latest and forms should be returned to -: Mary Kerr, ACU, ACU House Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 2YX Tel: O1788 566403 mary.kerr@acu.org.uk
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