Ups & Downs
Ups & Downs
DOWN: To terror, for causing the cancellation of the prestigious
Dakar Rally. An earlier attack in Mauritania against a French family linked to al-Qaeda and threats against the race itself forced organizers ASO this past January to pull the plug, a first in the event’s 30year history. “Our first responsibility is to guarantee the safety of all: that of the populations in the countries visited, of the amateur and professional competitors, of the technical assistance personnel, of the journalists, partners and rally collaborators,” stated ASO. In past years, terrorism fears have forced organizers to cancel individual stages or reroute the race.
UP: To Ducati North America, for peeling some green in support of local and regional racers. Contingency has been expanded for middleweight classes in support of the new 848, and payouts have been added for the Hypermotard and 696, to go along with the existing assistance provided for SportClassic and 1098 models. “Ducati sells motorcycles so that we can go racing,” said Alex Dunstan, promotions manager for Ducati North America. “This spirit is embedded in everything we do, and we are excited to offer support for all the regional racers around the country who are competing week in and week out. With a record number of club racers competing nationwide, our program is designed to help off-set the costs of competition. It is our way of saying thank you to all who put in the effort.” For more information, visit http://racingcontingency. ducatiusa. com.
