When the promoter of the World Supercross GP began holding points-paying races in Canada during December a few years ago, a number of the AMA Supercross riders balked. After all, the races further burdened these riders who race too many dates as it is — or so it seemed. After all, the real prize was the AMA Supercross title, and those races begin in January.
Times change, and the Canadian rounds are now considered important enough that all of the top riders participate (if healthy). This year, that includes James Stewart (Kawasaki), Chad Reed (Yamaha), Ricky Carmichael (Suzuki) and several of the other AMA regulars. Why? A couple of reasons, really. First of all, the World Supercross GP title is slowly gaining greater prestige. Second, and most important, these riders view the Canadian rounds as an important opportunity to test and prepare for the opening round of the AMA Supercross series, and to gauge the speed of their primary competition.
Check back here at MD for the results of the Toronto Supercross event this Saturday.