Webb Claims National Trials Title at Donner
Norden, CA, July 30-August 1 – Cody Webb wrapped up his first AMA/NATC National Trials title with one round remaining on the schedule with a dominating ride at round nine of the series at Donner Ski Ranch. With plenty of hometown fans cheering him on, the northern California completed a sweep of the weekend with another impressive performance on Sunday to complete the series schedule.
After finishing runner-up in the series standings for four straight years, Webb picked up his game in 2010, winning eight of the 10 rounds to easily capture the championship. At Donner, Webb handled the huge granite walls and drops with precision, topping three-time and defending Champ Patrick Smage by 26 points on Saturday and 38 on Sunday. Smage ended the year in second position after taking two wins and eight seconds on his Sherco, while Webb’s GasGas USA teammate Keith Wineland was third both days in California and third overall in the series.
EnduroTrial Info
Here is information on the EnduroTrial which will be held at the Trials Training Center on October 16-17, 2010. This is an event that you don't want to miss!
Trial des Nations Teams Announced
With selections made and the members thick in competition for the 2010 AMA Racing/NATC Observed Trials National Championship Series, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) reports that AMA Team USA is ready to take on the world at the 2010 Trial des Nations (TdN) in Myslenice, Poland, on Sept. 11-12.
"Trials is one of the world's premier competitive motorcycle disciplines, with a history and heritage that go back generations," said AMA Director of Racing Joe Bromley. "The Trial des Nations is a major part of the AMA's international racing effort, and it is an honor to compete at this event. We're confident our riders will hold their own and make America proud at this world-class meet."
The 2010 men's team -- riding the International class this year -- will feature Pat Smage, Cody Webb and Keith Wineland. All veterans, these riders were part of the lineup that represented the United States in Italy in 2009 and collected AMA Team USA's best-ever fifth-place finish in the world championship event.
The Women's Team, which finished eighth in the Women's division last year, welcomes back the talents of Sarah Duke and Caroline Allen.
Smage, from Elkhorn, Wis., is a four-time AMA/NATC National Trials Champion and is tied for the points lead with Webb for the 2010 title. He will be returning for his fourth trip to the TdN.
"This year should be good," said Smage, who will ride a Sherco. "I'm glad I'm on the team this year. We should have a legitimate shot at getting a podium and potentially a shot at the win. I rode in Poland in 2007, riding the 125 line, so this should be a little tougher this year. I've had a lot more practice since then and feel a more confident."
The 19-year-old Smage is a veteran at international competition. In addition to the TdN, he has competed in various world rounds since 2007.
"I have a couple wins in the 125 class and one in the junior class," Smage said. "It's a different game over there. It's more mental than here. There are so many good riders that it's hard to go in and expect to excel. They have different techniques about how they go about their day, how they ride each section and how much time they take. Here, we could spend an hour in the first section, waiting for someone to go first. There, they go right away and they keep moving. Other riders try to get in front of you. There are bottlenecks. The pace is a lot quicker."
Webb, from Watsonville, Calif., will ride a Gas Gas in Italy. Wineland is from Fountain, Colo. He is third in the national points chase and will ride a Gas Gas at the TdN.
On the Women's Team, Duke, from Colorado Springs, Colo., is returning for her seventh TdN, and Allen, from Norton, Mass., will make her fourth trip to the event. Both will ride Gas Gas bikes at the TdN.
The sport of trials involves riders navigating their motorcycles over seemingly impossible terrain. The Trial des Nations began in Europe in 1983 as a way to bring the best trials riders from each country together to compete as teams, and it has evolved into one of the most anticipated trials events of the year. Each competing country fields two teams: a men's team consisting of four riders and a women's team consisting of three riders.
For more information on Team USA for the 2010 Trial des Nations team, visit USATdN.org.
Webb and Smage Trade Wins in Rhode Island
Patrick Smage won by a single dab on Sunday.
Cody Webb and Patrick Smage remain tied atop the championship points standings in the AMA National Trials Series after trading wins at rounds three and four of the series in Exeter, Rhode Island.
Just as he had done at the opener in Oklahoma, Webb struck first, taking a decisive win over Smage on the slippery rock outcroppings of Stepping Stone Ranch during Saturday’s round. The two riders riders – Webb on the Gas Gas Race model and Smage on a modified 300cc Sherco – remained tied through the first six sections of the opening lap, but Webb was able to break away at section seven after Smage scored a surprising five when he was not able to make a steep climb. Webb countered with a two on the section and from that point on the Californian was in the drivers seat. Webb went on to finish the first lap with a score of 7 while Smage finished with four points more.
“Pat and I were both clean through the sixth section and I was starting the think it was going to be tight,” said Webb. “But in section seven Pat had kind of an unfortunate five and nobody was expecting that. So I was thinking that was some weight off my shoulders. But then I went in there and I gave it way too much throttle and almost looped out. I saved it, although it was pretty out of control, and I ended up getting a two out of it, so that gave me a bit of a cushion over Pat for the rest of the loop.”
Cody Webb took the win on Saturday.
Both Webb and Smage fived the following section – number 8, which ended up being one of the toughest of the trial.
On the second lap, Webb increased his lead, dropping three points to Smage’s seven, after taking a one on section eight, and then finishing up with two other one-point rides.
In section 10, Webb spun his rear wheel and was lucky to get out with a two, which were all the points he took for his final lap.
Webb ended up taking Saturday’s win by 13 points over Smage, 12 points to 25, while Webb’s Gas Gas USA teammate Keith Wineland finished third with 71 points.
“I was really satisfied with my ride, the bike was working really well and I felt good on this stuff,” said Webb. “I had no idea how well Pat was doing, because I was riding ahead of him. I think he got a little frustrated when he had that five on the first lap, that was unexpected and he fell off the pace right away. Sometimes when you are playing catch-up you make mistakes you normally wouldn’t make.”
For all intents and purposes, section seven on the first lap cost Smage the win.
“In number seven, I think I kind of rushed it a little bit,” said Smage. “I was planning on using third gear but for some reason I forgot and right when I got ready to go I remembered I was in second and that kind of messed me up for the double step.”
“Unfortunately, I just had too many fives today,” added Smage. “Cody was riding awesome, he gets better every time I see him and I was going to be tough to beat him no matter what, but I didn’t help myself with that five in seven. Once you make the first mistake it’s hard not to make the next ones.”
On Sunday, Smage got off to a bad start when he fived the opening section, giving Webb another opening. Webb cleaned the section and went on to finish the first lap with a three-point advantage over Smage – Webb completing the lap with just three marks lost, while Smage dropped six.
On lap two, Smage got back in the groove and needed only a single dab to complete the 12-section course. Webb on the other hand, dropped a three in the mud bog at section 10 and added one other dab in section 11 for a total of four.
After two laps Webb and Smage were tied with seven points each and the two riders started the final lap in the rain, which in Rhode Island, translates into slippery conditions ahead! Both riders cleaned the first seven sections, however, Webb encountered trouble in the difficult eighth, spinning out on a slick rock and taking a three. Another dab in section 11 gave Webb four points for the lap and 11 for the day. Smage countered with three single dabs and a total of 10 for the win.
“I just misjudged how muddy that first section was and that three put me in a hole again,” said Smage. “I was able to shake it off and just hope that there were enough tough sections that I could overcome it. I just followed Cody and watched his lines. He was riding awesome and it took everything I had to beat him but I was able to do it.”
Wineland again finish third, with Commo once again finishing fourth.
Results:
Saturday
1. Cody Webb 12
2. Patrick Smage 25
3. Keith Wineland 71
4. Ron Commo III 121
5. Karl Davis Jr. 155
6. Andrew Oldar 161
Sunday
1. Patrick Smage 10
2. Cody Webb 11
3. Keith Wineland 67
4. Ron Commo III 131
5. Karl Davis Jr. 139
6. Andrew Oldar 155
ShanBlog #4, Stardate May 6, 2010
I'm still reeling from the sights and sounds of the opening two rounds of the national trials series in Oklahoma. Everyone was thrilled having learned that defending champ Patrick Smage had won the Portugal round of the World Junior Championships just one week before and I couldn't wait to see what the Wisconsin rider looked like after spending all winter practicing in his barn. However, it was Cody Webb with the hot hand on Saturday, the newly acquired Gas Gas rider came out with guns blazing on Saturday, tackling the super-tough Tishomingo sections with confidence and poise. Even though Smage told us he was having problems getting his new Sherco jetted correctly, lots of credit should go to Webb for the ride he turned in on the opening day.
Smage came into the event with a brand new Sherco 2.9, which had a new S3 315cc big-bore kit installed, in addition to a high-compression head. All of this was in anticipation of some really big climbs and gaps - which the Texhoma club produced. However, Smage just didn't have the time to get things sorted out before Saturday's event.
After Webb took the big win on Saturday (he beat Smage by 16 points), Ryan Young and Brad Baumert stayed at the Tish club grounds until late in the evening getting things sorted out. On Sunday, Smage turned in an impressive ride, cleaning every section except for the first creek section, which took a three and a one from him.
At the end of the day, Smage took the win, and he left Oklahoma deadlocked with Webb for the series standings.
As for Europe, Smage told me he didn't enjoy the trip to Spain and Portugal and wasn't planning on going back - which is a big disappointment for most of the trials community, however, Smage is a great talent and what we need to hope for - as far as the prospects of a future US World Champ, is that he continues to compete for may years to come so the younger riders coming up (and there are a lot of really talented kids coming up through the ranks, thanks to people like Bill Markham, Ryan Young and Dan Brown), and hopefully, we will soon find a young American willing to do what Bernie Schreiber did and go to Europe, learn the techniques and take it to those guys... just my thoughts.
Webb, Smage Kick Off Trials Series
Cody Webb and Patrick Smage served notice that the 2010 season is not going to be a runaway by any single rider after trading wins at the opening two rounds of the AMA/NATC National Trials Series in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, this weekend.
Smage was fresh off of a big win at the Portuguese round of the Junior World Championships heading into the Oklahoma event, however, it was Webb who was the dominant rider on Saturday, riding his 300 Pro Racing Gas Gas to a 19-point margin of victory over Smage on the tough and intimidating course. The Oklahoma sections consisted of enormous ups and large, spectacular gaps over grippy, sandstone rocks that jutted out of the hilly landscape. Smage, on the other hand, started off the event by fiving the opening section. Uncharacteristically, the defending champ claimed a total of five fives over the 36-section course, leaving Webb to take the easy victory.
“This was definitely what I was hoping for,” said Webb. “After seeing the results from last week’s Portugal round, I knew Pat would be on his game. But I feel I was ready and the bike was working well. Honestly, nothing went wrong for me and everyone else seemed to be making mistakes. So I’m super-stoked to come out on top.”
Colorado’s Keith Wineland finished third with 70 points, while fellow Gas Gas USA rider Ron Commo III was fourth with 146.
After making a few set-up changes to his Sherco 2.9 on Saturday evening, Smage seemed to return to the form that won him three-straight titles. The Wisconsin native dropped a total of four points in the creek section that opened Sunday’s event, and then cleaned every other section, en route to a four-point day. Webb again started strong, but struggled in the ninth section, logging a total of 10 points in the section. Webb finished the event with a total of 13 marks to finish second behind Smage.
Wineland rounded out the podium again after posting a 58-point card, while Sherco rider Karl Davis Jr. finished fourth on 130 points.
The Texhoma Trials Club changed up the format for the event to give spectators a better chance at seeing the action. Sections 1 through 6 were ridden three times each by the Pros to start the event, and then, after a 30 minute break, riders and spectators moved down the loop for three laps of sections 7 through 12.
After two rounds, Smage and Webb are tied atop the series standings with 55 points each, while Wineland sits third with 42.
Smage Ties Things Up
Sherco USA’s Patrick Smage fired back at round two of the AMA/NATC National Trials Series in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, taking a solid win and moving into a two-way tie with yesterday’s winner, Gas Gas rider Cody Webb, for the series points lead.
Today’s event was somewhat easier than yesterday, and Smage ended up cleaning every section except for one – a creek section where he went 3-1-0. Webb, on the other hand, started strong but had problems in the tricky ninth section – a tough step out of a muddy creek – and ended the day with a total of 13 points, compared to four for Smage.
Gas Gas USA’s Keith Wineland turned in several stylish rides and finished the event with a total of 58 points for third, while Sherco’s Karl Davis Jr. topped Ron Commo Jr. (G-G) for fourth.
With two rounds in the books, Smage and Webb lead the series standings with 55 points each, while Wineland sits third with 42.
Webb Draws First Blood at Oklahoma Trials
Cody Webb fired the first shot at the opening round of the AMA/NATC National Trials Series, in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, taking a 19-point victory over defending series champ Patrick Smage on rather tough and intimidating terrain.
Webb was precise and confident throughout the event, handling the enormous ups and large gaps with very few errors on his Gas Gas USA-backed TXT 300, and at the end of the opening loop, the Californian held a three-point advantage over Smage, who was dealing with setup issues on his Sherco. Smage, who had just returned on Monday from winning the Portugal round of the World Junior Championships, was dealing with jetting problems with his new Sherco, and had changed carburetors just before the event – not to take anything away from Webb, though, who turned in clean after impressive clean.
On the second lap, Webb increased his lead by three more points, while the final lap was his most impressive – an amazing two-point effort, compared to a 15-point lap for the defending champ. At the end of the day, Webb turned in a total of 16 points, compared to 35 for Smage.
“This was definitely what I was hoping for,” said Webb. “After seeing the results from last week’s Portugal round, I knew Pat would be on his game. But I feel I was ready and the bike was working well. Honestly, nothing went wrong for me and everyone else seemed to be making mistakes. So I’m super-stoked to come out on top.”
Keith Wineland finished third with 70 points, while fellow Gas Gas USA rider Ron Commo III was fourth with 146.
Karl Davis Jr. put his Sherco into sixth with 153 points, with Bailey Tucker (G-G) and Andrew Oldar (Shr) finishing seventh and eighth after logging 159 and 165 points, respectively.
Round two of the series will take place tomorrow.
Pro Results:
1. Cody Webb 16
2. Patrick Smage 35
3. Keith Wineland 70
4. Ron Commo III 146
5. Karl Davis Jr. 155
6. Bailey Tucker 159
7. Andrew Oldar 165
8. Miles Morgan 170
9. Shad Petersen 179
Smage Wins In Portugal
Nineteen year old Patrick Smage – Sherco is certainly putting the USA back on the World Trial map and flying the ‘Stars and Stripes’ high on the European scene. While Smage is no stranger to the SPEA FIM Trial World Championship, having previously contested the SPEA FIM Youth Trial Cup back in 2007 and 2008, up until now he has not quite lived up to the expectations that surrounded him. Coming from a nation where motocross is King of all off road sports, Smage has had to carry the full weight of responsibility on his young shoulders for a country that has not enjoyed a FIM Trial World Champion since 1979.
Looking to follow in the tire marks of the great Bernie Schreiber who pioneered a new style for the sport with his pivot turns and bunny hops, Smage finally looks ready to accept the challenge. A sixth place at the opening GP in Spain was not ideal, but Patrick Smage bounced back brilliantly to take second place on the first day in Portugal before securing his first ever victory at this level on the Sunday. Smage now heads the SPEA FIM Junior Trial World Cup standings and looks a real contender for this year’s title.
Story courtesy of fim-live.com. Used with permission.
World Trials Video: Spain
Click on the link below to see video courtesy of the FIM from the world trials opener in Spain.
Patrick Smage at Octobertest
Nice video of Patrick Smage, in section 3, at the 2009 Octobertest:
Eric Storz Signs with Gas Gas
(l to r) Eric Storz, Neil Storz and Cody Webb pose with the new Gas Gas.
Eric be supported by Gas Gas USA and Lewisport USA at all the National events. Neil Storz will soon be riding a new 280 Gas Gas PRO and will continue to be Eric’s minder at all National rounds. Eric will also be receiving local support from Bill Merritt with SoCal Lewisport.
Eric has been recovering well since his Trials bicycle accident in November and has been practicing with Cody Webb, also recently signed with Gas Gas USA.
Even though Eric is currently nursing a broken finger his motivation to ride and compete in Trials is greater than ever and the recent practice sessions on the new 2010 280 PRO have contributed to the increase in his enthusiasm.
The entire Storz family, Steve, Joanie, Neil and Eric are excited about the upcoming season and are looking forward to a successful relationship with Gas Gas USA and LewisportUSA.
Webb Signs Clothing Deal
Cody Webb, AMA/NATC National #2 Pro trials rider has signed a contract which will have him riding in XC-Ting trials clothing, helmets and gloves, Gaerne Boots, and using various S3 performance products during the 2010 season. Having a rider of Cody’s caliber and character representing and using our products this year is very exciting, said Brad Baumert, products manager. Gaerne boots, the most popular trials boot in America, has long been known for being extremely durable and providing the best flexibility and performance. XC-Ting clothing, helmets and gloves have been the top sellers in America because of cutting edge designs and durability. S3 performance products will be used on Cody’s 2010 Gas Gas to not only make it look good, but also provide the top level of performance that all riders need when they compete. For information on any of these products call 800-607-8742.
Patrick Smage to Europe
This is a call to arms of all US trials enthusiasts.
19 year old Patrick Smage will be making a full on assault at the FIM Junior World Trials championship. Patrick, the three times AMA National Champion will have the support of Ryan Young the six time AMA/NATC National Champion, as his Manager, Mechanic and Minder. Ryan will be traveling to Europe with Patrick to each round that Patrick competes in. We have the support of the Sherco factory to provide the motorcycles along with transportation.
What we need from the trials community is financial assistance for the travel expenses for Patrick. Everyone can appreciate how expensive it is to travel to Europe much less several trips in a year, throw in a trip to Japan as well and you have just broken the bank. Patrick has the skill to compete with the Europeans, and we would all like to see a rider from the USA at the top of the podium, this is your chance to make it happen. We are accepting donations of any size at www.trialsworldfund.com . Your donation can make a difference. All donations will go 100% to fund Patrick in Europe.
Thanks,
Trials World Fund
Patrick Smage’s First Ride On The 2010 Sherco
Patrick Smage takes his first ride on the brand new 2010 Sherco trials bike.
Bookmark & Share Us
Menu
- 1) Current Issue of T & E News
- 2) Store & Subscriptions
- 3) Classified Ads
- 4) Useful Links
- 5) Contact Info
More T&E News Content
Our Sponsors
Tag Cloud
Blogroll
Archives
- August 2010 (5)
- July 2010 (5)
- June 2010 (4)
- May 2010 (8)
- April 2010 (6)
- March 2010 (2)
- February 2010 (10)
- January 2010 (7)
- November 2009 (2)
- October 2009 (9)
Advertisers
