April 16, 2010 – Glen Helen Raceway, CA – In preparation for the United States Grand Prix at Glen Helen, set to take place on May 30 weekend, series promoter Youthstream and motocross legend David Bailey have reached an agreement which will see the 2-time USGP winner play an active role in the event.
Bailey won at Unadilla in 1983 (250cc) and at Carlsbad in 1985 (500cc). He now enjoys a successful career as a TV commentator and he will be involved in promoting the USGP at Glen Helen and providing color commentary on the television broadcast along with Youthstream TV Commentator Paul Malin, a former GP winner himself.
The news of Bailey’s participation builds a strong link with the previous GP events. The 2010 USGP at Glen Helen promises to establish a good base for the FIM Motocross World Championship in the United States.
“We are delighted having David co-operate with us. He is one of my heroes!” Said Youthstream president Giuseppe Luongo. “At the beginning of my career David raced at the first big event I organized, the Motocross of Nations in Maggiora in 1986, and from that moment I have had great respect for him. I am sure, like in Maggiora, we will do something great together!”
Dr. Wolfgang Srb, FIM/CMS President, continued “David Bailey was a great rider and is still considered by many fans all over the world as a true legend and icon of motocross. He will do great!”
“Hearing that a GP had returned to the USA was great news, plus it is very close to my house,” said Bailey when asked about the US Grand Prix return. “I look forward to seeing the European GP riders in person and to soak up that Grand Prix atmosphere. Can’t wait! I hope the fans are as intrigued with this event as I am and come out and pack the hillsides. I also hope some of the best riders here in the US decide to participate to stay sharp and give the fans a little extra to cheer about.”
In 1983 Bailey took 1st place in the 250 GP at Unadilla and in bagged another win in the 500 GP at Carlsbad. What will it take this year to win the Grand Prix of USA? “It is very hard to say who will win. Obviously the winners of the first rounds will be favorites but it is possible some of the American riders participating will mix things up a little bit,” said Bailey. “I always jumped at the chance to race the GP’s. Racing against new competition, changing my number, running our Nation’s colors and a slightly different format and rules always made it a fun new challenge.”
As a TV commentator how will Bailey welcome the fans watching the USGP at Glen Helen? “It’s been many years since the GP’s were held here in the US and it’s my hope that this event will be as exciting as it was during the 70’s and 80’s when ABC’s Wide World of Sports covered the Carlsbad USGP. As kids all of us American riders dreamed of winning that race against Europe’s finest on TV as it was one of the only televised motorcycling events of that era. I’m glad it’s back and glad to be part of the broadcast!”