Pos ----- Name------------------------------Points
1--------Paul Smith------------------------- 1123
2--------Paul Neale-------------------------1006
3--------James Shaw----------------------- 962
4--------David Anthony-------------------- 861
5--------Matthew Williamson--------------779
6--------Bradley Lofthouse-----------------685
7--------Daniel Parker---------------------658
8--------Edward Briscoe--------------------657
9--------Zac Stealey-------------------------655
10-------Sam Mitchell----------------------625
Wednesday 29 July 2009
Kawasaki Masters - Round Five
Landrake - Race report
Round 5 of the Wulfsport AMCA Masters championship travelled to Landrake 1.8km long and just a few kilometres from bustling Plymouth. With Paul Smith in the lead after the previous round, qualifying was eagerly anticipated – and didn’t disappoint.
The “usual suspects” were on form and top of the sheet was the familiar name of Paul Neele. Third too was not a great surprise as James Shaw rattled off at least two laps in the 2min 12 second bracket on the complex but well prepared track.
Behind him Paul Smith and Bradley Lofthouse rounded out the top five leaving a cat among the pigeons in the guise of Zac Stealey in a well deserved second place. With Stealey – who was in 12th position in the points stands after round four – upsetting the established apple cart the four Kawasaki Masters races at Landrake would be epic.
As the flag dropped of the first moto Neale got the holeshot followed by Smith, Anthony and Williamson. While Williamson drifted away from the leading pack to finish in a creditable eighth after dropping as low as 11th on lap six, the top two held station for lap after lap and finished in the same order, Neil first and Smith a strong second. James Shaw pushed up to third pace on lap two and was never ceded to join the others on the podium.
And Stealey? Well, not on the podium, but the hard charging qualifier did acquit himself well with sixth place.
Race two turned into a fight for forth, fifth and sixth as the top three ended in the same positions as they left the gate with Neale once more on the top step, followed by Smith and Williamson. A measured ride by Loftfhouse saw him gain a position in each of the early laps until he ended in forth place ahead of David Anthony and, that man again, Zak Stealey.
In race three it was perennial fast starter Paul Neale who blasted away with the holeshot closely followed by some familiar faces. Bradley Lofthouse hung on to Paul’s rear wheel for the first lap but eventually succumbed to the pace to drop to forth and then back up to third by the penultimate lap. It was not to be though and Lofthouse was pushed further back to finish sixth with David Anthony ahead of him then Zak Stealey, Mark Dyer and Paul Smith as runner up to Neale.
The final race of the day presented one last chance for honours – and with so many “nearly men” showing good form it was an eagerly awaited clash.
Paul Smith it was that dominated this encounter being pushed throughout by a gaggle of fast riders. Smith took the win from a gritty ride by James Shaw with Paul Neale relegated to third spot.
Behind them the order changed once again and a strong showing by Lofthouse had him in forth with yet another new name, Edward Briscoe in fifth.
A great days racing, and one that saw the points table flattened at the top with all to play for in round six.
Round 5 of the Wulfsport AMCA Masters championship travelled to Landrake 1.8km long and just a few kilometres from bustling Plymouth. With Paul Smith in the lead after the previous round, qualifying was eagerly anticipated – and didn’t disappoint.
The “usual suspects” were on form and top of the sheet was the familiar name of Paul Neele. Third too was not a great surprise as James Shaw rattled off at least two laps in the 2min 12 second bracket on the complex but well prepared track.
Behind him Paul Smith and Bradley Lofthouse rounded out the top five leaving a cat among the pigeons in the guise of Zac Stealey in a well deserved second place. With Stealey – who was in 12th position in the points stands after round four – upsetting the established apple cart the four Kawasaki Masters races at Landrake would be epic.
As the flag dropped of the first moto Neale got the holeshot followed by Smith, Anthony and Williamson. While Williamson drifted away from the leading pack to finish in a creditable eighth after dropping as low as 11th on lap six, the top two held station for lap after lap and finished in the same order, Neil first and Smith a strong second. James Shaw pushed up to third pace on lap two and was never ceded to join the others on the podium.
And Stealey? Well, not on the podium, but the hard charging qualifier did acquit himself well with sixth place.
Race two turned into a fight for forth, fifth and sixth as the top three ended in the same positions as they left the gate with Neale once more on the top step, followed by Smith and Williamson. A measured ride by Loftfhouse saw him gain a position in each of the early laps until he ended in forth place ahead of David Anthony and, that man again, Zak Stealey.
In race three it was perennial fast starter Paul Neale who blasted away with the holeshot closely followed by some familiar faces. Bradley Lofthouse hung on to Paul’s rear wheel for the first lap but eventually succumbed to the pace to drop to forth and then back up to third by the penultimate lap. It was not to be though and Lofthouse was pushed further back to finish sixth with David Anthony ahead of him then Zak Stealey, Mark Dyer and Paul Smith as runner up to Neale.
The final race of the day presented one last chance for honours – and with so many “nearly men” showing good form it was an eagerly awaited clash.
Paul Smith it was that dominated this encounter being pushed throughout by a gaggle of fast riders. Smith took the win from a gritty ride by James Shaw with Paul Neale relegated to third spot.
Behind them the order changed once again and a strong showing by Lofthouse had him in forth with yet another new name, Edward Briscoe in fifth.
A great days racing, and one that saw the points table flattened at the top with all to play for in round six.
Kawasaki Masters - Round Four
Foxhills - Race Report
They don’t come any more impressive than Foxhills, and when the 1.4km track played host to the forth round of the Kawasaki Masters the prospect of riding on such an auspicious track was no doubt daunting.
That said, the KX250F mounted riders pushed nerves aside for the qualifying session which witnessed James Shaw at the top of the sheet with an impressive 3min 15 sec lap, some four seconds ahead of Paul Smith in second. Daniel Parker, Mathew Williamson and David Anthony followed with Bradley Lofthouse and Jamie Hallet in sixth and seventh places respectively. Paul Neale was clearly not 100% in the groove as his eighth place showed, but nobody would bet against him in the races proper.
Race one bore this out with an impressive display by Neale leading for all but one of the laps. Canny Paul Smith was hard on his heels for second and James Shaw on the last podium step after being second for much of the race.
In the second moto Smith made good and won having led for the final six of the eight laps. Paul Neale was just behind him and Shaw now third, but none the less impressive.
The third race was won in determined style by Paul Smith. No one even got a sniff of the lead as he dominated from lap one until lap seven, a magnificent ride and a marker for the final race of the day. Following him past the checkered flag James Shaw and Mathew Williamson were pleased to be up at the pointy end. Not so perhaps for Paul Neale who realised that he needed to keep in the points to stand a chance of vying with Smith for overall championship honours.
Neale did better in the final race, finishing a creditable third but his nemesis, Smith was there, two steps further up the paddy by race end. Between them Shaw was a comfortable second and Williamson, quietly racking up points, a menacing forth.
They don’t come any more impressive than Foxhills, and when the 1.4km track played host to the forth round of the Kawasaki Masters the prospect of riding on such an auspicious track was no doubt daunting.
That said, the KX250F mounted riders pushed nerves aside for the qualifying session which witnessed James Shaw at the top of the sheet with an impressive 3min 15 sec lap, some four seconds ahead of Paul Smith in second. Daniel Parker, Mathew Williamson and David Anthony followed with Bradley Lofthouse and Jamie Hallet in sixth and seventh places respectively. Paul Neale was clearly not 100% in the groove as his eighth place showed, but nobody would bet against him in the races proper.
Race one bore this out with an impressive display by Neale leading for all but one of the laps. Canny Paul Smith was hard on his heels for second and James Shaw on the last podium step after being second for much of the race.
In the second moto Smith made good and won having led for the final six of the eight laps. Paul Neale was just behind him and Shaw now third, but none the less impressive.
The third race was won in determined style by Paul Smith. No one even got a sniff of the lead as he dominated from lap one until lap seven, a magnificent ride and a marker for the final race of the day. Following him past the checkered flag James Shaw and Mathew Williamson were pleased to be up at the pointy end. Not so perhaps for Paul Neale who realised that he needed to keep in the points to stand a chance of vying with Smith for overall championship honours.
Neale did better in the final race, finishing a creditable third but his nemesis, Smith was there, two steps further up the paddy by race end. Between them Shaw was a comfortable second and Williamson, quietly racking up points, a menacing forth.
Wednesday 3 June 2009
To many Kawasaki riders and fans, the familiar face of Ryan Voase will be instantly recognisable. Retired from racing, Ryan now represents Kawasaki Motors UK at Kawasaki Masters events up and down the country.
We caught up with Ryan between rounds and asked him a few questions about what makes him tick.
Q – Ryan it seems like you have been a feature of UK racing for a long time but how long was your race career?
A - "I started racing at five. Blimey, that means I have been racing for 25 years! I turned pro at 16 and raced at this level for 14 years altogether".
Q - What got you interested in MX/Enduro and at what age?
A - "My dad has always been a big off road fan and he initially got me into it. He used to race and the first time he took me that was it, it was all I thought about from that day on".
Q - Tell us about your first race
A - "I was only five on a QR50. My “factory kit” was with a set of wellies and a parker jacket, I finished last but boy I had so much fun."
Q – So tell us, what success did you have on Kawasaki bikes?
A – "That’s a good question, there has been so much it’s difuclt to remember. Back in 1992 I won the Champion of Champions in Schoolboy British champs on a KX100. Then in 2004 I won Dublin Supercross, was third in the Belfast Supercross, third at the Sheffield SX and forth at Weston beach race."
"In 2005 I won the Fast Eddy series and the GBXC Championship. I was also second in the British SX championship, all on a KX250."
"2006 saw me race for the factory Kawasaki squad in the U.S plus I won a European 24 hour endurance race in Germany and was second at the Athens Supercross."
"Finally, in 2007 I won rounds of the Fast Eddy and also the British 2 stroke MX series before injuring my wrist which effectively ended my career."
Q - What is your greatest achievement in racing ?
A - "2004 stands out. I was racing enduro all year then came home and won the Dublin Supercross beating some of the best British and American riders in the process."
Q - What do you think about having a skill outside MX, like being a qualified electrician, plumber etc. - something to fall back on?
A – "I think it’s a great idea to have a trade behind you. Motocross for most riders is a short career. I think it’s also good to work a few days even if you are racing, it helps you appreciate racing even more."
Q - How do you think the Kawasaki Masters helps up and coming riders?
A - "I think the series is a great stepping stone for the young riders and a big incentive to do well with the prizes and title that comes with it. It’s also great for the older working guys, these guys are the grass roots of the sport and it’s good to give something back to them."
Q - What do you think of the quality and breadth of the field in the 2009 series?
A - "I think the standard is good in the series. There are 5 or 6 guys that look capable of winning then there are always groups battling all the way through. It’s hard to have riders all at the same level so all in all I think its good."
Q - Are you enjoying reporting on the series for Kawasaki?
A - "I’m really enjoying getting to the races. You know, talking and having a crack with the guys, it’s great to see just Kawasaki’s on the line they're a good bunch of people and its fun to be part of it, I believe its the first time a manufacturer has done this and I would like to see it go from strength to strength."
Q – Ryan it seems like you have been a feature of UK racing for a long time but how long was your race career?
A - "I started racing at five. Blimey, that means I have been racing for 25 years! I turned pro at 16 and raced at this level for 14 years altogether".
Q - What got you interested in MX/Enduro and at what age?
A - "My dad has always been a big off road fan and he initially got me into it. He used to race and the first time he took me that was it, it was all I thought about from that day on".
Q - Tell us about your first race
A - "I was only five on a QR50. My “factory kit” was with a set of wellies and a parker jacket, I finished last but boy I had so much fun."
Q – So tell us, what success did you have on Kawasaki bikes?
A – "That’s a good question, there has been so much it’s difuclt to remember. Back in 1992 I won the Champion of Champions in Schoolboy British champs on a KX100. Then in 2004 I won Dublin Supercross, was third in the Belfast Supercross, third at the Sheffield SX and forth at Weston beach race."
"In 2005 I won the Fast Eddy series and the GBXC Championship. I was also second in the British SX championship, all on a KX250."
"2006 saw me race for the factory Kawasaki squad in the U.S plus I won a European 24 hour endurance race in Germany and was second at the Athens Supercross."
"Finally, in 2007 I won rounds of the Fast Eddy and also the British 2 stroke MX series before injuring my wrist which effectively ended my career."
Q - What is your greatest achievement in racing ?
A - "2004 stands out. I was racing enduro all year then came home and won the Dublin Supercross beating some of the best British and American riders in the process."
Q - What do you think about having a skill outside MX, like being a qualified electrician, plumber etc. - something to fall back on?
A – "I think it’s a great idea to have a trade behind you. Motocross for most riders is a short career. I think it’s also good to work a few days even if you are racing, it helps you appreciate racing even more."
Q - How do you think the Kawasaki Masters helps up and coming riders?
A - "I think the series is a great stepping stone for the young riders and a big incentive to do well with the prizes and title that comes with it. It’s also great for the older working guys, these guys are the grass roots of the sport and it’s good to give something back to them."
Q - What do you think of the quality and breadth of the field in the 2009 series?
A - "I think the standard is good in the series. There are 5 or 6 guys that look capable of winning then there are always groups battling all the way through. It’s hard to have riders all at the same level so all in all I think its good."
Q - Are you enjoying reporting on the series for Kawasaki?
A - "I’m really enjoying getting to the races. You know, talking and having a crack with the guys, it’s great to see just Kawasaki’s on the line they're a good bunch of people and its fun to be part of it, I believe its the first time a manufacturer has done this and I would like to see it go from strength to strength."
Thanks Ryan, and good luck as Kawasaki’s “man on the ground..”
Tuesday 19 May 2009
Kawasaki Masters Championship
Top Ten Results - Pontrilas - Round 3
Pos_Points___Name
1___224_____Paul Smith
2___ 215____Paul Neale
3___ 188____James Shaw / Matthew Williamson
5___ 181____Daniel Parker
6 ___174____David Anthony
7___158____Dean Simes
8___146____Edward Briscoe
9___136____Sam Mitchell
10__ 132____Joe Harper
Pos_Points___Name
1___224_____Paul Smith
2___ 215____Paul Neale
3___ 188____James Shaw / Matthew Williamson
5___ 181____Daniel Parker
6 ___174____David Anthony
7___158____Dean Simes
8___146____Edward Briscoe
9___136____Sam Mitchell
10__ 132____Joe Harper
Kawasaki Masters - Round 3
Pontrilas - Race Report by Ryan VoaseThe third round of the 2009 Kawasaki Masters took place on May 9 and 10 on the well known Pontrilas facility on the Welsh borders. With the track in perfect shape and the sun was beaming down, the AMCA officials and volunteers had obviously done an excellent job and the scene was set for a great weekend’s racing.
On Saturday there was no holding Paul Neale back and the Gloucestershire rider put in a blistering qualifying lap two seconds faster than the rest of the field. From that moment on everyone knew they would have their work cut out to try and catch him when the gate dropped and racing proper began.
In the first race, and true to form, Neale took the win ahead of fast starting James Shaw and championship leader Paul Smith taking third. Race two saw Smith put it back on the top step with a win from Neale and young Matthew Williamson taking third.
Sunday, and it was all to play for with Smith and Neale having a win each and then Williamson, Shaw and Parker all in the hunt for their first win of the Championship too.
The gate dropped and it was disaster for Paul Neale who got stuck in the gate and was dead last away, while at the front it was James Shaw with a two second lead over the always hard charging Paul Smith.
It stayed like this for five laps then Smith made the decisive move holding on for the win with Shaw second and a brilliant battle for third with Matthew Williamson passing
Daniel Parker right in the dying moments of the race. Paul Neale meanwhile had a gritty ride from last to seventh after finally getting his bike out the gate.
The second race on Sunday wines no gate problems for Paul Neale who was in the lead at the end of the first lap with Smith all over his back wheel. For five laps there was nothing in it and the large crowd was able to witness the KX250F machines and riders giving their best.
Suddenly Smith slowed and Neale took a easy win matched by a great ride from Daniel Parker to take an impressive third. The event overall again went to Smith who extends his championship lead. Second place man for the third round was Paul Neale and third went to young talent Matthew Williamson
PAUL SMITH "I am happy with this round to be honest. I had a shoulder injury today and couldn’t feel my hand at the end of the races so to take the win is great"
PAUL NEALE " It’s been a great weekend for me its the best I’ve ridden all series… it’s just a shame I hit the gate"
MATTHEW WILLIAMSON "It’s always good to get on the podium. I rode well and just need to find my speed earlier in the race to make a bigger difference at the end. Overall though, I’m happy"
Friday 24 April 2009
Kawasaki Masters Championship
Top Ten Results Dean Moor - Round Two
Pos_Points___Name
1___211_____James Shaw
2___ 203____Paul Smith
3___ 192____Matthew Williamson
3___ 192____Daniel Parker
5 ___168____Bradley Lofthouse
6___166____David Anthony
6___166____Dean Simes
8___154____Jamie Hallet
9___152____Peter Eccles
10__151_____Paul Neale
Pos_Points___Name
1___211_____James Shaw
2___ 203____Paul Smith
3___ 192____Matthew Williamson
3___ 192____Daniel Parker
5 ___168____Bradley Lofthouse
6___166____David Anthony
6___166____Dean Simes
8___154____Jamie Hallet
9___152____Peter Eccles
10__151_____Paul Neale
Kawasaki Masters Round 2 – Dean Moor
Dean Moor - Race Reports by Ryan Voase
The second round of the Kawasaki Masters Championship took place at Dean Moor on April 18 and 19. In perfect sunny conditions, the rolling hills and Lake District setting of the undulating and technical track, were set to witness some spectacular racing.
Saturdays opening races saw round one winner, the so far dominant Paul Smith, take a brace of wins. James Shaw figured highly too with a podium visiting second in race one, followed up by a fighting fifth in the second race of the day. Mathew Williamson improved his points tally with a second and sixth, while Daniel Parker took two third places with his spirited and precise riding technique.
Sunday dawned with competitors wondering if the Championship dominance of Paul Smith would continue. With tension building, the crowd were as eager as the riders themselves to see how this crucial race would unfold.
Paul Neale grabbed the lead out of the gate with Smith in hot pursuit and soon the two were battling in a race of their own. With just two laps to go, Smith took over at the front only to be thwarted by a determined Neale who took his first Kawasaki Masters win. Smith ended a close second and James Shaw claimed the last podium place.
An early race mistake saw “Mr Consistency”, Daniel Parker, take the flag for forth followed by Mathew Williamson in fifth despite riding for half the race on a flat rear tyre!
Race two burst from the starting gate with James Shaw talking the holeshot closely followed by Neale and Smith. As before, it became a two way battle at the front as Neale slipped off and left Shaw battling with Smith for honours.
By half way Smith had made the lead his own and it looked like the Sheffield based rider would be on the top step once more. Then, after an uncharacteristic mistake, Smith tumbled with just two laps left and Shaw pushed through for his first win and the overall win for the weekend.
Smith remounted a rode hard to finish 13th making him second overall and Mathew Williamson stood on the third step of the podium for the last race and the weekend overall.
Quotes:
James Shaw: – "After victory on race one: I am really pleased to finally get the win, it was tough, my hands were sore, but all that’s forgotten now I have won!”
Paul Smith: "I had another good day. I lost the front end in that last race which cost me the overall win."
Mathew Williamson: "I rode from lap two in the first race on Sunday with a flat tyre and still got as fifth, I have to be happy with that”
Paul Neale: "I injured my wrist on the Saturday but when I stated to lead the race the adrenaline kicked in and I held on for the win, what a great race!"
The second round of the Kawasaki Masters Championship took place at Dean Moor on April 18 and 19. In perfect sunny conditions, the rolling hills and Lake District setting of the undulating and technical track, were set to witness some spectacular racing.
Saturdays opening races saw round one winner, the so far dominant Paul Smith, take a brace of wins. James Shaw figured highly too with a podium visiting second in race one, followed up by a fighting fifth in the second race of the day. Mathew Williamson improved his points tally with a second and sixth, while Daniel Parker took two third places with his spirited and precise riding technique.
Sunday dawned with competitors wondering if the Championship dominance of Paul Smith would continue. With tension building, the crowd were as eager as the riders themselves to see how this crucial race would unfold.
Paul Neale grabbed the lead out of the gate with Smith in hot pursuit and soon the two were battling in a race of their own. With just two laps to go, Smith took over at the front only to be thwarted by a determined Neale who took his first Kawasaki Masters win. Smith ended a close second and James Shaw claimed the last podium place.
An early race mistake saw “Mr Consistency”, Daniel Parker, take the flag for forth followed by Mathew Williamson in fifth despite riding for half the race on a flat rear tyre!
Race two burst from the starting gate with James Shaw talking the holeshot closely followed by Neale and Smith. As before, it became a two way battle at the front as Neale slipped off and left Shaw battling with Smith for honours.
By half way Smith had made the lead his own and it looked like the Sheffield based rider would be on the top step once more. Then, after an uncharacteristic mistake, Smith tumbled with just two laps left and Shaw pushed through for his first win and the overall win for the weekend.
Smith remounted a rode hard to finish 13th making him second overall and Mathew Williamson stood on the third step of the podium for the last race and the weekend overall.
Quotes:
James Shaw: – "After victory on race one: I am really pleased to finally get the win, it was tough, my hands were sore, but all that’s forgotten now I have won!”
Paul Smith: "I had another good day. I lost the front end in that last race which cost me the overall win."
Mathew Williamson: "I rode from lap two in the first race on Sunday with a flat tyre and still got as fifth, I have to be happy with that”
Paul Neale: "I injured my wrist on the Saturday but when I stated to lead the race the adrenaline kicked in and I held on for the win, what a great race!"
Sunday 19 April 2009
Rider Report - Paul Neale
Paul Neale was just one of an enthusiastic full entry of riders for the first round of the Kawasaki Masters Championship held at Culham.
As part of our new “Riders Report” feature, we asked Paul about his career so far and his ambitions for the future. Here is what he said:
Paul, tell us about when you very first started out in MX
As part of our new “Riders Report” feature, we asked Paul about his career so far and his ambitions for the future. Here is what he said:
Paul, tell us about when you very first started out in MX
"I think I first rode a bike when I was 6 years old as my dad took me to a motocross meeting and I just wanted to have a go at it. I used to ride a PW50 around the garden for fun and then I got a Kawasaki KX60, which I had to get used to the clutch and gears in the garden also.
I decided to skip the auto class and at 6 years of age I found it really hard to get used to the geared bike, which I used to ride without a seat because I wasn’t tall enough! I then started racing with the Mid Wilts schoolboy club for enjoyment in about 1998."
So how did you fit this in with school work. Did you have an understanding school and how did your parents help with your education?
"I just fitted Motocross in with school by riding and racing at the weekends, which I still do now. I never really have had days off of school to go racing or practicing as you can just go in the holidays, as loads of tracks are now open on Wednesdays and Thursdays which is good. It’s pretty hard to keep up with the school work when doing a lot of two day events, but it hasn’t been that much of a problem since I started racing in 1997"
OK – now tell us about how you progressed. Did you do well right away or was it a lot of hard graft?
"Well when I started racing there was a lot of last placed finishes LOL. I suppose it took me a good couple of years to start finishing in the top 10 at local club meetings… and then a pretty long time until I started winning them.
There was always a group of us that used to go practising at a good track a couple of nights a week after school which had jumps, banked corners and other things which I think helped really well when trying to learn new skills on the bike. Because we had it to ourselves as well I think it helped a lot more as we could just practice certain sections and stuff.
I think I progressed the most when I moved up onto a Big Wheel KX85 as I started getting top 10 finishes at the Nationals, and managed to even win a moto at one of them, which was really good for me at that time."
I decided to skip the auto class and at 6 years of age I found it really hard to get used to the geared bike, which I used to ride without a seat because I wasn’t tall enough! I then started racing with the Mid Wilts schoolboy club for enjoyment in about 1998."
So how did you fit this in with school work. Did you have an understanding school and how did your parents help with your education?
"I just fitted Motocross in with school by riding and racing at the weekends, which I still do now. I never really have had days off of school to go racing or practicing as you can just go in the holidays, as loads of tracks are now open on Wednesdays and Thursdays which is good. It’s pretty hard to keep up with the school work when doing a lot of two day events, but it hasn’t been that much of a problem since I started racing in 1997"
OK – now tell us about how you progressed. Did you do well right away or was it a lot of hard graft?
"Well when I started racing there was a lot of last placed finishes LOL. I suppose it took me a good couple of years to start finishing in the top 10 at local club meetings… and then a pretty long time until I started winning them.
There was always a group of us that used to go practising at a good track a couple of nights a week after school which had jumps, banked corners and other things which I think helped really well when trying to learn new skills on the bike. Because we had it to ourselves as well I think it helped a lot more as we could just practice certain sections and stuff.
I think I progressed the most when I moved up onto a Big Wheel KX85 as I started getting top 10 finishes at the Nationals, and managed to even win a moto at one of them, which was really good for me at that time."
Now give a us a quick run down of the classes of racing and the clubs you have raced for...
"I have raced for a number of clubs series since I started riding and these include Mid Wilts schoolboy scramble club, Corsham SSC, Severn Valley SSC, and the BSMA Nationals. I then switched to the AMCA in 2007 with the Dursley club. I am currently in the Stroud and District club doing the AMCA championship and also the British Masters."
Tell us something about the support you get from your family Paul.
"None of my family have ever ridden or raced motocross before. I am the first, but they all give me loads of support. Both my parents come every weekend no matter what and also my brother and sister come to watch regularly. Also recently, my Brother in law has started racing, so he now comes with us to a lot of the races which is good."
"I have raced for a number of clubs series since I started riding and these include Mid Wilts schoolboy scramble club, Corsham SSC, Severn Valley SSC, and the BSMA Nationals. I then switched to the AMCA in 2007 with the Dursley club. I am currently in the Stroud and District club doing the AMCA championship and also the British Masters."
Tell us something about the support you get from your family Paul.
"None of my family have ever ridden or raced motocross before. I am the first, but they all give me loads of support. Both my parents come every weekend no matter what and also my brother and sister come to watch regularly. Also recently, my Brother in law has started racing, so he now comes with us to a lot of the races which is good."
What about your current sponsors, why they are with you, how did you get these sponsors?
"This year had been good for me as I have managed to receive a lot of help and support from many sponsors. These include Thornbury MX, SixSixOne, Proppa.com, Ultimate Windows and Jeremy Bingham Personal Training.
All of these companies and people help me out loads which I am grateful for as it helps in many ways throughout the season and also financially as motocross is an expensive sport.
If anyone would like to help me out in the future I would appreciate it loads and they can contact me on Neale_599@hotmail.com."
Finally let's talk about two more things:
"This year had been good for me as I have managed to receive a lot of help and support from many sponsors. These include Thornbury MX, SixSixOne, Proppa.com, Ultimate Windows and Jeremy Bingham Personal Training.
All of these companies and people help me out loads which I am grateful for as it helps in many ways throughout the season and also financially as motocross is an expensive sport.
If anyone would like to help me out in the future I would appreciate it loads and they can contact me on Neale_599@hotmail.com."
Finally let's talk about two more things:
- Firstly, talk us through your recent injury
"This was just a small thing that should have never of really happened. I went practicing in the school holidays just before the season was about to start and cased a double jump as the take off was a bit slippery and ended up braking both of my legs.
It wasn’t very pleasant at all but I still went and watched the races every weekend and found I learnt a lot of things when watching other riders. It also made me realise how much fun it is and when I started racing again I enjoyed it a lot more. At first I was trying a bit too hard and kept crashing but managed to ride pretty well as the season ended."
- Now give us a few words on your ambitions as a rider and a person. What do you want to achieve on and off the bike.
"My goals for this year are to win the Kawasaki Masters and do as well as I can in the AMCA championship, as it will be my first year doing it.
In the future I would like to be a top championship rider hopefully putting myself in a position where I can get picked for the Great Britain IMBA team. This would be a good experience for me and I think I could do this if I keep trying to improve all the time and I hope to keep riding for as long as possible as it’s the sport that I enjoy the most, by far!
Finally, I would just like to say a big thank you for everyone that has helped me out over the years and see you at the races!!!"
"This was just a small thing that should have never of really happened. I went practicing in the school holidays just before the season was about to start and cased a double jump as the take off was a bit slippery and ended up braking both of my legs.
It wasn’t very pleasant at all but I still went and watched the races every weekend and found I learnt a lot of things when watching other riders. It also made me realise how much fun it is and when I started racing again I enjoyed it a lot more. At first I was trying a bit too hard and kept crashing but managed to ride pretty well as the season ended."
- Now give us a few words on your ambitions as a rider and a person. What do you want to achieve on and off the bike.
"My goals for this year are to win the Kawasaki Masters and do as well as I can in the AMCA championship, as it will be my first year doing it.
In the future I would like to be a top championship rider hopefully putting myself in a position where I can get picked for the Great Britain IMBA team. This would be a good experience for me and I think I could do this if I keep trying to improve all the time and I hope to keep riding for as long as possible as it’s the sport that I enjoy the most, by far!
Finally, I would just like to say a big thank you for everyone that has helped me out over the years and see you at the races!!!"
Monday 16 March 2009
Kawasaki Masters Championship
Top Ten results Culham - Round One
Pos__Points__ Name
1___240_____Paul Smith
2___ 199____Paul Neale
3___ 170____Daniel Parker
4___ 169____Matthew Williamson
4 ___169____David Anthony
6___168____James Shaw
7___150____Bradley Lofthouse
8___147____Robert Minnitt
9___142____Zac Stealey
9___142____Peter Eccles
Culham Race Four Report
Formation ride for podium three
The brilliant sunshine, and clear blue skies over the Culham Moto Park in Oxfordshire, made way for the soft glow of early evening as race four of the 2009 Kawasaki Masters Championship got underway.
The start gate was soon straining under the combined power of over 30 Kawasaki KX250F machines. The gate dropped and the riders roared up Culham’s start hill, into turn one and round with no fallers.
As the ochre coloured mist of dust cleared, the familiar sight of Paul Smith leading the pack was followed by Gloucestershire rider Paul Neale, and an equally determined James Shaw.
Behind them, Bradley Lofthouse did not get the best of starts in eighth, but took advantage of a strong surge in lap two and moved up four places to forth, where he would finally finish the race.
Conditions took their toll however, with lap time averages increasing as the ruts robbed precious seconds. Holding station, Smith, Neale and Shaw rode in formation throughout the nine lap race always charging hard but never able to get the better of each other.
At race end it was indeed Smith who crossed the line first, from Neale and then Shaw to complete a fantastic weekend’s racing for the Kawasaki KX250F riders.
“It was harder to lap quick out there this time”, admitted Smith after the race. “I had a good time this weekend, I pushed hard and its great for me and the guys from Sandbach Scrap Metal and Disease clothing… let’s see what happens next!”
Second place Paul Neale was equally happy with his results and pleased to be able to analyse Smith’s riding technique first hand.
“I was behind Paul for a while just watching his lines and trying to match his times”, said an exhausted post race Neale. “I am better on hard packed tracks so my performance at Culham has been a real bonus”.
Third place James Shaw illustrated the highly competitive nature of the Championship when asked for his thoughts about a creditable third place. “OK, but not happy, I’ll only be happy when I win!”.
Culham Race Three Report
Rutted track challenges riders
Fittingly day two at the impressive Culham track dawned Sunny and bright and so it would remain all day.
The Summer like conditions encouraged a large crowd to attend the final day of the first AMCA British masters event of 2009, and to witness races three and four of the innovative Kawasaki Masters Championship.
With the track graded overnight, all riders in the Kawasaki one make series were familiar with its twists, turns and jumps and looked determined to improve on their day one standings.
As a full field left the gate and roared up the hill for turn one, expectations were high for all riders and their support teams. At the end of lap one Bradley Lofthouse – one of the weekends most improving riders – was in forth behind Paul Neale of Stonehouse, Daniel Parker and, heading the pack, that man again, Paul Smith.
A distant eighth on the first lap, James Shaw was on a mission and by lap five was circulating in fifth and then into second by lap eight – a position he retained until the end of the race.
Neale, was also determined to make progress on the second day of racing at Culham, and worked hard to stay on the tail of a dominant Smith who led from start to finish.
“That were harder that time”, said Smith afterwards. “I’d got some friendly banter from the guys overnight and thought I would make a real effort to win again today. The track was more rutted though and I certainly had a few moments out there”.
Culham Race Two Report
Smith double leaves pack chasing
Race two of the Kawasaki Masters Championship marked a back to back win for 32 year old Paul Smith riding the Sandbach Scrap Metal Kawasaki KX250F.
In a display that saw the Huddersfield rider, eat away at his times earlier in the day. Once again he was once again the only rider to post a lap in the 2min 8sec bracket at the immaculately prepared Culham Moto Park in Oxfordshire. In fact, his times round the sinuous hillside circuit were so quick he stood a very real chance of dipping into 2min 7sec territory as early as lap three of the race.
Running hard behind Smith, the chasing pack also improved their times in the second outing. Paul Neale arrived at the finish in comfortable second place ahead of James Shaw, who improved his points tally impressively over his first race finish lower down the pack.
“We are delighted to see such a strong field, and applaud Paul’s dominance of the first day of racing in the Kawasaki Masters Championship”, commented Kawasaki Motors UK Branch Manager, Howard Dale. “Equally encouraging is the movement in the field between races with different riders achieving second and third places in each outing”.
Culham Race One Report
Exciting opening race of 2009 Kawasaki Masters Championship
The inaugural Kawasaki Masters race, held on Saturday 14 March, was won in convincing style by Sheffield rider, Paul Smith with David Anthony in second and Matthew Williamson on the final step of the podium.
The 32 year old rider, who is making a welcome return to competitive motocross, added a dash of style to proceedings to win by a convincing margin.
The only rider running in the sub 2min 9sec bracket during the race, Smith also had the honour of the fastest lap of the moto as well.
“The start was not one of my best”, admitted Smith who has not ridden competitively for some time. “I was three quarters of the way down the pack at turn one but, after that, things just started to click”.
A winning margin at race end of some 20 seconds showed that the bike, team and rider package has certainly clicked.
“A big shout to my main sponsor Alistair at Sandbach Scrap Metal and to Disease clothing who also organise my mechanic”, said a grateful Smith. “To have them onboard this year for the first time, and to reward them so early with a race win, is the perfect start”.
For the Championship organisers, the AMCA, Ken Winstanley echoed Smith’s enthusiasm.
“A one make race like this in British motocross is rare, if not unique. We are delighted that the first race was such a success, and that the crowd here appreciated the close action of a full field of Kawasaki KX250F machines racing handlebar to handlebar.”
The inaugural Kawasaki Masters race, held on Saturday 14 March, was won in convincing style by Sheffield rider, Paul Smith with David Anthony in second and Matthew Williamson on the final step of the podium.
The 32 year old rider, who is making a welcome return to competitive motocross, added a dash of style to proceedings to win by a convincing margin.
The only rider running in the sub 2min 9sec bracket during the race, Smith also had the honour of the fastest lap of the moto as well.
“The start was not one of my best”, admitted Smith who has not ridden competitively for some time. “I was three quarters of the way down the pack at turn one but, after that, things just started to click”.
A winning margin at race end of some 20 seconds showed that the bike, team and rider package has certainly clicked.
“A big shout to my main sponsor Alistair at Sandbach Scrap Metal and to Disease clothing who also organise my mechanic”, said a grateful Smith. “To have them onboard this year for the first time, and to reward them so early with a race win, is the perfect start”.
For the Championship organisers, the AMCA, Ken Winstanley echoed Smith’s enthusiasm.
“A one make race like this in British motocross is rare, if not unique. We are delighted that the first race was such a success, and that the crowd here appreciated the close action of a full field of Kawasaki KX250F machines racing handlebar to handlebar.”
Monday 2 March 2009
KX250F overview – lime green success in the white heat of competition
It hasn’t taken the KX250F long to become one of the main weapons of choice for discerning riders in the hotly contested MX2 class.
Having made what many consider the definitive two-stroke quarter litre MX machine, Kawasaki had a tough act to follow with their first 250cc thumper – and the KX250F has not disappointed.
The white heat of competition has quickly moulded and refined the KX250F, and the 2009 incarnation is reckoned to be the best yet.
Testers at MotoX magazine commented that the KX250F has been “…up there with the best in the power stakes repeatedly in recent years...”, and “with a totally revised frame and chassis, not to mention another slight improvement in engine performance, the ’09 KX250F has become the all round package to beat in the 250F class”.
So what of that package?
Well a new cylinder head has revised intake ports and stronger titanium valves deliver improved performance at all revs. In fact during the head casting process, the cores of the intake ports are actually given a special coating to make them smoother giving increased efficiency across the entire rev range.
Less mechanical loss from the transmission has been achieved by a reduction in oil capacity. Meanwhile the relocated scavenge oil screen is now accessed without splitting the crankcases which was a fair criticism of the original machine.
Moto magazine were also bowled over by the KX250F with Dave Willet commenting that it is, “…a weapon… it has so much power for a 250F and turns like a dream, with a few selective changes I feel you could have a bike that’s competitive in the Maxxis British Championship” – praise indeed.
With separate ignition maps to aid quick starting and then to reduce engine braking when a gear is engaged, the ’09 KX250F is certainly trick kit. Revised ignition timing also improves the feeling at low revs, while a lost spark control system gives better rev limiter performance too.
In fact Moto magazine went so far as to describe the KX250F’s overrun as “shrieking”, as well as saying the Kawasaki has “…been the best 250 for years, and for this year it’s improved significantly...it’s still the No1 for the rev happy race head”.
During the season we’ll come back to the awesome 250F and look exactly what makes that jewel-like engine tick…and conduct a comprehensive chassis overview. For now, rest assured that the bikes being used in the 2009 Kawasaki Masters Championship really do represent the best of the best.
Having made what many consider the definitive two-stroke quarter litre MX machine, Kawasaki had a tough act to follow with their first 250cc thumper – and the KX250F has not disappointed.
The white heat of competition has quickly moulded and refined the KX250F, and the 2009 incarnation is reckoned to be the best yet.
Testers at MotoX magazine commented that the KX250F has been “…up there with the best in the power stakes repeatedly in recent years...”, and “with a totally revised frame and chassis, not to mention another slight improvement in engine performance, the ’09 KX250F has become the all round package to beat in the 250F class”.
So what of that package?
Well a new cylinder head has revised intake ports and stronger titanium valves deliver improved performance at all revs. In fact during the head casting process, the cores of the intake ports are actually given a special coating to make them smoother giving increased efficiency across the entire rev range.
Less mechanical loss from the transmission has been achieved by a reduction in oil capacity. Meanwhile the relocated scavenge oil screen is now accessed without splitting the crankcases which was a fair criticism of the original machine.
Moto magazine were also bowled over by the KX250F with Dave Willet commenting that it is, “…a weapon… it has so much power for a 250F and turns like a dream, with a few selective changes I feel you could have a bike that’s competitive in the Maxxis British Championship” – praise indeed.
With separate ignition maps to aid quick starting and then to reduce engine braking when a gear is engaged, the ’09 KX250F is certainly trick kit. Revised ignition timing also improves the feeling at low revs, while a lost spark control system gives better rev limiter performance too.
In fact Moto magazine went so far as to describe the KX250F’s overrun as “shrieking”, as well as saying the Kawasaki has “…been the best 250 for years, and for this year it’s improved significantly...it’s still the No1 for the rev happy race head”.
During the season we’ll come back to the awesome 250F and look exactly what makes that jewel-like engine tick…and conduct a comprehensive chassis overview. For now, rest assured that the bikes being used in the 2009 Kawasaki Masters Championship really do represent the best of the best.
Tuesday 24 February 2009
Kawasaki Masters Championship full
Rider places for the recently announced Kawasaki Masters Champion-ship are already full and a reserve list is now being compiled, according to organisers, the AMCA.
New for 2009, the one make Championship has captured the imagination of Kawasaki riders across the UK with applications from England, Scotland, Wales and even the Isle of Man.
Organised and promoted by the AMCA, in partnership with Kawasaki Motors UK, the Championship is an MX2 series held over seven rounds with riders competing on highly acclaimed KX250F, four stroke machines.
In keeping with the theme of the Championship, the prize for the overall winner will be a brand new 2010 Kawasaki KX250F. For riders up to fifth place overall in the final standings, there are prizes of genuine spare part support deals making what will be a hard fought the series one of the most rewarding too.
Ken Winstanley of the AMCA commented on the level of interest saying, “When the idea was originally discussed it had an instant appeal and we had a cascade of entries on the very first day. It’s pitched at the right level and is feeding an important enthusiast driven level of the sport, something that Kawasaki have always been famous for. ”
Kawasaki Motors UK’s, Branch Manager, Howard Dale was equally enthusiastic. “The KX250F is already an iconic race winning machine from World Championship to amateur level. For club riders to have the opportunity to compete against each other on similar machines, and to have the very real chance of winning a brand new bike, or spare parts support, is a fantastic incentive. We wish them all well.”
New for 2009, the one make Championship has captured the imagination of Kawasaki riders across the UK with applications from England, Scotland, Wales and even the Isle of Man.
Organised and promoted by the AMCA, in partnership with Kawasaki Motors UK, the Championship is an MX2 series held over seven rounds with riders competing on highly acclaimed KX250F, four stroke machines.
In keeping with the theme of the Championship, the prize for the overall winner will be a brand new 2010 Kawasaki KX250F. For riders up to fifth place overall in the final standings, there are prizes of genuine spare part support deals making what will be a hard fought the series one of the most rewarding too.
Ken Winstanley of the AMCA commented on the level of interest saying, “When the idea was originally discussed it had an instant appeal and we had a cascade of entries on the very first day. It’s pitched at the right level and is feeding an important enthusiast driven level of the sport, something that Kawasaki have always been famous for. ”
Kawasaki Motors UK’s, Branch Manager, Howard Dale was equally enthusiastic. “The KX250F is already an iconic race winning machine from World Championship to amateur level. For club riders to have the opportunity to compete against each other on similar machines, and to have the very real chance of winning a brand new bike, or spare parts support, is a fantastic incentive. We wish them all well.”
Pic shows: L - Howard Dale. R -Ken Winstanley.
Blog intro - First out of the gate
Welcome to the offial Blog for the 2009 Kawasaki British Masters Championship.
OK, now the formal bit is over, you’ll ask yourself, “what’s going to be on this blog then?”…. a fair question to be honest.
Well, the blog will be updated regularly with race reports from the seven round 2009 Championship along with a selection of awesome pics from the heart of the action.
They’ll also be interviews and profiles of many of the riders, KX250F focus features, a regular “inside the Championship” update and lots more more cool stuff.
Make sure you check back regularly... and thanks in advance for your support and taking the time to read the blog.
Cheers.
OK, now the formal bit is over, you’ll ask yourself, “what’s going to be on this blog then?”…. a fair question to be honest.
Well, the blog will be updated regularly with race reports from the seven round 2009 Championship along with a selection of awesome pics from the heart of the action.
They’ll also be interviews and profiles of many of the riders, KX250F focus features, a regular “inside the Championship” update and lots more more cool stuff.
Make sure you check back regularly... and thanks in advance for your support and taking the time to read the blog.
Cheers.
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