Wimmer headlines motocross field in Kentucky

It’s said that defending a championship is harder than winning it, but defending AMA Pro ATV Champion Dustin Wimmer has had no troubles holding onto his top ranking in the series so far. The Rockstar Makita Suzuki rider has won both races so far this year, as the fastest motocross riders on four wheels head to round three of the Moose Racing/ITP Tires AMA ATV Motocross Championship presented by Parts Unlimited at Ballance Moto X in Bowling Green, Ky.

Designed by nine-time GNCC ATV champion Bill Ballance, the natural terrain 1.3 mile lighted track has hosted the AMA ATV Motocross Championship since 2006.Tickets on Sunday are $15 for fans ($10 for ages 6-11), and admission includes full pro pit access, and an autograph session.

Wimmer expects a challenge at Ballance MX from Joe Byrd, the 2006 and 2007 AMA Pro Motocross Series’ Champion on a Honda. Byrd came in third at Glen Helen and second at Millcreek. Josh Creamer, of the Monster Energy Kawasaki team, took second at Glen Helen and, despite a hard crash at the previous race in Alabama, should be 100 percent ready to go this weekend. His teammate Chad Wienen has proven fast this season, but mechanical troubles have hurt his efforts. If Wienen gets good starts and has good luck this weekend, he can run with Wimmer. Similarly, 2005 Champion John Natalie has been fast, but unlucky, so far this year on his Warnert Racing Can-Am. He needs a win this weekend to climb back into the championship points race.

Dustin Wimmer looks to continue his hot start at Ballance Moto X.

In addition, nationally-recognized stars including veteran Doug Gust, Jeremy Lawson, Josh Upperman, Pat Brown and a crop of rookie talent will make up a full gate of talent in the AMA Pro ATV Class.

The pro class will feature two 20-minute races on Sunday, taking place at noon and 3 p.m., with the combined scores of both races determining the overall winner.

The pro riders will run as part of a full schedule of amateur racing, including classes for Youth, Women and veteran riders. Amateurs will practice on Friday and race on Saturday and Sunday. Pros will practice on Saturday and race on Sunday.