Seattle Mile 2001

Local Racers Headline This Year's Bill

On September 22nd, the roaring sounds of motorcycle racing will echo through Seattle (okay, Auburn) as the Seattle Mile, Drag Specialties National Dirt Track Series sanctioned by Formula USA thunders across the dirt oval at Emerald Downs.

The national series that began in Richmond Virginia and concludes in San Diego features the legendary 'flat-track' style of motorcycle racing that began in the 1920s and still thrives as motorcycle racing in its purist form. National and regional athletes will straddle motorcycles equipped to traverse the tight oval at speeds up to 130 mph (just a wee bit faster than the horses go).

At last years sold-out race Mica, Washington's Joe Kopp (right) wanted to make a big impression in his home state. And what an impression it was as Kopp out-dueled highly regarded, cushion-specialist, Geo Roeder II for much of the race and then cruised to victory after Roeder broke down. Kopp's win was also a milestone for the sport marking the first true National dirt track victory on a Suzuki brand motorcycle (HD fans were in tears). National champion Chris Carr came home second, and Jay Springsteen, another national champion finished third. Another Washington resident, Dan Stanley, won his second straight Pro Singles main event, also aboard a Suzuki (where is Buell when you need em).

As this season's drama unfolds, all eyes have been on the up-and-coming female rider, Jennifer Snyder (left) who rides a factory Harley. Snyder who is just 17 years old and who is a high-school salutatorian surprised the industry and the media in April. She won the opening round of the series and has been defending her points standing throughout the season. While the legendary men of dirt track racing aren't too keen on being dethroned by a 17-year old girl, Snyder takes it all in stride.

The Drag Specialties National Dirt Track Series, is in its second year under the sanctioning and management of Formula USA (Thank God). Formula USA sanctions more than 100 motorcycle races a year including the National Road Race Series, The National Dirt Track Series, and the Speed Stick National Arenacross Series.

The event opens at 3PM with a 'Motor Sports Expo' featuring products from the industry and aftermarket displays, qualifying begins at 5PM and races begin at 7:30PM.

Tickets to the Seattle Mile, Drag Specialties National Dirt Track event are $20 - $40 and kids tickets start at $10 and can be found at participating motorcycle dealers and Ticket master locations, or by calling 206-628-0888 or 253-627-TIXS.

Emerald Downs is in Auburn on 2300 Emerald Downs Drive. (You know, the place they run the ponies.)

For more information visit www.dirttrack.com .