SHAKOPEE, MN

Raceway Park's motorcycle-racing season opener was round two of new Minnesota Asphalt Oval Series. Since 1995, Raceway Park has hosted flat-track motorcycle races. Davey Durelle started it all when he was promoting races, racing AMA Pro events and living in Minnesota. After that, Billy Hofmeister, Bob Reynolds and John Conet helped run flat-track exhibitions. Finally, the Minnesota Asphalt Oval Series was born, the brainchild of former AMA National number holder Hofmeister and with the support of retired racer/promoter Frank Radloff. Throughout the years, all the Minnesota AMA Pros and Amateurs have used the 60-foot blue groove to gain talent and hone their skills.

AMA Pro Flat Track National number 68, Josh Koch (above) from Minnesota, is using this series to get used to winning. Koch has clearly moved on from his days on minibikes, racing as an amateur flat-tracker; he now has the skills to win. It's reminiscent of the good old days when Hofmeister would school the riders at Raceway Park. Now the torch has been passed.

Expert rider and former I.C.E. Champion Kevin Anderson was runner-up for the second time. After a race-long battle, South Dakota's Duke Erickson (55K, below) finally moved ahead to take the last step on the podium away from crossover racer Curtis Wise, from the motocross ranks. Duke's brother Clint Erickson (42K) was fifth.

After a great start in the series with a third-place finish at Elko Speedway's round one, California's Lindsey King finished sixth here in Shakopee. Todd Giese, Ron Bystrom and Dan Jacobson Jr. completed the nine-rider main event.

The Minnesota Asphalt Oval Series continues on May 29 at Elko Speedway. These events run an open formula, with singles and twins racing together. Raceway Park's next event will be held on Friday, June 11.

Results

OVERALL: 1. Josh Koch (Honda); 2. Kevin Anderson (Honda); 3. Duke Erickson (Suzuki); 4. Curtis Wise (Yamaha); 5. Clint Erickson (Rotax); 6. Lindsey King (Yamaha); 7. Todd Giese (Yamaha); 8. Ron Bystrom (Honda); 9. Dan Jacobson (Rotax).