MotoAmerica is alive and well!
Pro motorcycle racing was alive and well at Pittsburgh International Raceway (PittRace) for Round Four held August 7-9. About an hour and forty-minute drive from Cleveland, PittRace is a beautiful facility with numerous elevation changes and extremely fast corners and straights to maneuver.
For those of you not familiar with MotoAmerica, this is the series where the big boys come to play. From Superbike, Stock 1000, Supersport, Twins, Liqui Moly Junior Cup and the Mini Cup all were action packed and brought fans to their feet. Cameron Beaubier was again the class of the field in Superbike. Extremely close racing was the norm in Stock 1000 and Supersport where position and lead changes were many. Liqui Moly Junior Cup is an entry level series that is open to riders between the ages of 14 and 25. This series replaced the previous KTM Cup and is an opportunity to showcase these kids talents before moving on to the next level. MotoAmerica mini cup is a youth program featuring three classes: 110cc; 160cc for riders up to 14 years of age and 190cc bikes for riders over the age of 15. Mini Cup races were run on the karting tracks at three events for this season. It is also an opportunity for these youngsters to experience racing in front of not only family, but real race fans and they did not disappoint.
Unlike other forms of racing, the competitors welcome the opportunity to interact with fans. The North Paddock was filled with haulers and riders available for autographs and photos. It is not unusual to see a pro rider cruise on their pit bike through the camping areas.
After racing on the track ends competition continues. Remember these folks are also riders not just spectators. Slow drags brought out fans of all ages to compete in a little good clean fun.
After all that is happening in our country now, it was a great release to take in a little racing action and a chance to hang out with family. MotoAmerica at Pittsburgh International Raceway is an event that I look forward to every year. Perhaps put it on your calendar for next year. It is well worth the trip.
As always, ride safe.
Denise Kennedy
