Whibs 2010

[Katoomer]

Live timing was crappy today .Showed Paul in third at halfway point. However found this news:

Strang made the pass for the win 1 mile from the finish.

Chris Bach was second about 5 seconds behind.

Mullins comes back for third.

Jarrett 4th, Kearney 5th.

Whibley runs out of gas about a mile from the finish while in third.

Hope he salvaged some points.

[Katoomer]

Ended up 15th OA , 10th in XC1.
GNCC site still not working

[raglanash]

Ratshit, that GNCC sites a joke!

[takitimu]

Whib's write up here http://www.paulwhibley.co.nz/news.php?item.117.2


End of lap two we were in for gas (as most riders did) as we elected not to push the gas mileage in the thick sand. With a freah pair of Smiths restoring my vision I managed to catch back up to Josh Strang who was running in 3rd. Part way into that lap my vent hose for the tank came loose and begain splashing gas everywere.
Sounds like Whib's had a pretty tough ride.

The gncc write up here http://gnccracing.com/articles/1975_strang-wins-parts-unlimited-florida-gncc

http://gnccracing.com/images/stories/1623_web_start1.jpg

[flyingcr250]

oh man human error is one thing but mechanical failure is just gutting

[Katoomer]

Round 2 results . Paul got 2nd behind Strang who won again
Points:

1. Josh Strang (60/2 wins)

2. Chris Bach (46)

3. Charlie Mullins (39)

4. Paul Whibley (36)

5. Cory Buttrick (28)


http://www.gnccracing.com/articles/1984_strang-wins-maxxis-general-gncc

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 2, Georgia
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: Am-Pro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 2nd XC1

Round 2 of the GNCCs was held near Washington Georgia. With some work done to make sure the problems we had in Florida were a thing of the past, I was confident of a better result this time out.
My jump off the line was ok but got pinched out coming into turn one. I was able to duck up the inside and into the top 5 and avoid a pile up. During the first lap there were several lead changes but eventually my teammate Thad Duvall made a break for it and took control of the race. He set a fast pace and built a lead of over 40 seconds. The track was in good shape and the mudholes were minimal, although still catching some riders out. It was also pretty rough with the puggy soil in the woods cutting up fast. I was racing with Josh Strang for 2nd place in the first half of the event until I collided with a lapped rider and lost a lot of time trying to restart my bike. Josh closed in on Thad and they duked it out until Thad crashed heavily and retired from the race. Late in the race I wore through my grip on the throttle side and could feel it balling up under my thumb but it didn't really effect my speed. Josh was riding good and no matter how much I tried I couldn't make up any time and had to take second.
I was happier with the result but these first 2 races have highlighted some things we need to work on and we plan to be a lot more prepared by the Steel Creek GNCC and be ready to make up some lost points.

Results
1st: Josh Strang, Suz
2nd: Paul Whibley, Yam
3rd: Chris Bach, KTM

[raglanash]

http://www.racerxonline.com/video/florida-gncc-film.aspx
Vid from round 1. Like strangs jump over bog and rider!!

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 3, North Carolina
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: Am-Pro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 4nd XC1

With some improvements made to the set up of my bike I was confident of a better result going into Round 3 of the GNCCs at Steel Creek in Morganton, North Carolina. Rain was forecast for Sunday afternoon and around lunch time it started to cool down and seemed like the weather was closing in. Light rain was falling as we lined up for the start making the mostly hard pack track pretty slippery.

The start went ok with a mid pack start but sneeking into the top three before we hit the woods. I was following Josh Strang and KTM rider Cory Buttrick. I was riding a little tight with the slick conditions not inspiring any confidence and pumped up a little in the early part of the race. I soon had other issues with the setting in the shock seeming too soft and not behaving like I would have liked. It seemed to be riding low in the back and this combined with the conditions was making life tough. I held onto third for a couple laps but lost contact with the leaders. At the fuel stop a quick adjustment was made to the shock and it was much improved and I felt I could push again but as the rain continued to fall and conditions became increasingly muddy and heavy the soft setup of the shock began to cause some more issues. I was running around 4th place when the 2 laps to go board came out.

The track was deteriorating and the slower riders began to struggle on some of the steeper hill climbs. One hill had a lot of riders bottle necked a third of the way up. I weaved my way through and attacked the hill. I got past the main blockage but my back wheel slid down into a rut and I spun out. While I was restarting my bike I was informed that the race was going to be called off due to the blockage. I got my bike going and since I had got past the worst of it I pinned it and climbed to the top of the hill and continued to the finish where they had put the chequered flag out and had indeed called the race off. I was also informed that Strang and the others were stuck at the base of the hill I had just climbed and I was first to come through.
I was also informed that the results were to count from the end of the 5th lap and the last lap that I completed was not to count.
Pretty gutted but them's the breaks.

Results: (XC1)
1st: J. Strang
2nd: C. Buttrick
3rd: C. Mullins
4th: P. Whibley

[denill]

Yep, that would piss you off.......................

A moral victory but not the points! :angry: :angry:

[takitimu]

Here's a video with Whib's waving at the end :), he definitely sneaked up the inside at the start !!!. Classic.
http://visionmoto.webs.com/apps/videos/videos/show/7737556-fmf-steele-creek-gncc-2010

It sounds like Whib's has the bike damn close to sorted, the next race I think will be very very interesting.

[denill]

Race Report; Mid East XC, Antiock Speedway, Morganton NC.
Rider; Paul Whibley
Team; AmPro Yamaha
Bike; Yamaha WR 450
Result,1st

The sun was out and the soil was primed for racing. The venue was Antiock Speedway, Morganton in NC for a Mid East Harescramble.
A good start and I was following GNCC XC2 champ Kailub Russell for the first mile or so, then I took my turn leading when Kailub overshot a turn. We swapped positions a few times as we learnt the way over the 5 mile course. Near the end of the lap I took control although Kailub stuck right with me as we battled through lapped riders early in the second lap. With the track being so short and lap times just over 10 minutes the racing was intense but traffic was everywhere.

The track incorporated the woods around the edges of a working speedway and we got to drift around most of the oval and part of the infield. The track was a little faster in places than the normal tracks but was fun with some nice loamy sections down by the creek. I pulled a little lead in the middle of the 2 hour event and had time to come in for gas and get back out still in front. The constant stream of traffic made it hard work to build any lead.

Earlier in the week the team had a Kenda tire test and with armed with this knowledge of the product, I was able to choose what I felt was the perfect combo for the race.
Kaluib was riding good though and never let up, keeping the pressure on and me in his sights right to the end.
I took the win with a 15 second lead.

Paul Whibley is supported by:
Yamaha, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Monster Energy, Ohlins, G2, CTi

[merv]

Good on Paul for winning.

[takitimu]

Kaluib is quick, so nice result for Paul, sounds like he's starting to gel better with the setup now. Hope it goes well for the next GNCC.

[denill]

Race Report: Southern Off Road Championship Series, Elberton, Georgia
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 1st

The plan was to race a North Carolina race after the Mid East XC that I raced on Saturday. With storms predicted for the area, the North Carolina race for Sunday was canceled. So I had to head south to find some racing. Almost 2 hours south from our base near the AmPro Yamaha workshop was a SORCS event.

I had never competed in one of these events before. With some promising reports from people who had raced this series the plan was made, up early and make the 10am start. We were met at the track by Dennis, a friend of Randy Hawkins who helped out a lot over the coarse of the day with filling me in on how the event is run and refueling in the pit stop.

I holeshot the race and led the way around the roughly 8 mile track. I had left my soft Kenda tires on from the day before expecting rain but the track was dry and hard pack in a lot of section. The trail had a good mix of open woods and a several mile pine tree sections that required a lot of effort and concentration to go fast in. Another section was a ripped open style mx track that bermed up nicely and provide a viewing area for the spectators.

Several of the local riders kept the pace up and never let me get too far out front. After 5 laps the chequered flag came out, taking my second win of the weekend. A good couple of days racing and training ahead of the next GNCC in S.C.


Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Monster Energy, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[denill]

Kaluib is quick, so nice result for Paul, sounds like he's starting to gel better with the setup now. Hope it goes well for the next GNCC.

Yep, he's doing the right thing, getting in lotsa riding and getting used to the WR and all the time setting it up to suit him.

[Reckless]

Two Firsts will boost his confidence as well! Hope he keeps those number one placings coming!

Kenda tyres Interesting!!!

[raglanash]

Big Buck results

1st #002 SUZ JOSHUA V STRANG XC1 Pro 1st 6 00:29:37.266 Overall Leader 16:16:20.906 02:59:50.906
2nd #989 YAM THADDEUS DUVALL XC1 Pro 2nd 6 00:29:44.703 00:00:20.922 16:16:41.828 03:00:11.828
3rd #001 YAM PAUL J WHIBLEY XC1 Pro 3rd 6 00:29:31.015 00:00:51.093 16:17:32.921 03:01:02.921
4th #003 YAM CHARLES D MULLINS XC1 Pro 4th 6 00:29:46.609 00:00:20.422 16:17:53.343 03:01:23.343
5th #005 KTM KAILUB K RUSSELL XC2 Pro Lites 1st 6 00:29:43.297 Class Leader 16:19:03.250 03:01:33.250
6th #016 HSQ GLENN J KEARNEY XC1 Pro 5th 6 00:30:17.484 00:01:42.391 16:19:35.734 03:03:05.734
7th #008 KTM CORY J BUTTRICK XC1 Pro 6th 6 00:30:03.609 00:00:43.359 16:20:19.093 03:03:49.093
8th #009 YAM BARRY HAWK JR XC1 Pro 7th 6 00:30:54.000 00:00:31.172 16:20:50.265 03:04:20.265
9th #014 KTM CHRISTOPHER BACH XC1 Pro 8th 6 00:31:32.828 00:01:18.563 16:22:08.828 03:05:38.828
10th #013 KTM JESSE ROBINSON XC2 Pro Lites 2nd 6 00:31:47.500 00:05:22.265 16:24:25.515 03:06:55.515

[Katoomer]

Strang is getting a good lead going, Hope Paul gives the Aussie some of the luck he's been having lately.
XC1 Standings:

1. Josh Strang (120/4 wins)

2. Charlie Mullins (78)

3. Paul Whibley (75)

4. Chris Bach (73)

5. Cory Buttrick (68)

6. Glenn Kearney (55)

7. Thad DuVall (50)

8. Nate Kanney (46)

9. Barry Hawk Jr. (44)

10. Kenneth Gilbert (44)

[vazza]

That is a solid lead by strang. Whibley better step it up! :D

[takitimu]

Solid in more ways than one, Strang was just plain quicker on that course, Whib's was 2nd fastest in pure speed ( my reading of lap times ), but there were a couple of Strang laps 10+ seconds quicker.
Got to be bloody tough changing manufacturer every year & not riding the YZF is a bit of a downer to, you'd have to suspect Whib's will be charging very hard in the last 1/2 of the season.

[denill]

That is a solid lead by strang. Whibley better step it up! :D

Would seem that Whibs is not gelling with the Yamaha? :mellow: :mellow:

[Ktmboy]

Yes, i would have to agree with that. The KX is purely a race machine that can be adapted to enduro where as the WRF is quite a bit more subdued. Probably missing that 1% of race finesse to be a good X country machine at the top end of racing like this. Still can't understand why he split with a winning formula. Can someboby enlighten me?

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 4 Union, South Carolina
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 3rd

The race itself started out pretty good. I took another holeshot but like the first round Jimmy Jarret snuck past and lead the way early in the lap. The hard pack dry conditions were making passing tough and you really had to plan a move. Some sections all you could do was fall back until the dust cleared. I pushed hard late in the lap and made a pass stick on Jimmy for the lead. Although just before scoring I hit a rock on the track and crashed into some trees handing the lead right back. Mid second lap I made another challenge for the lead in the only mud hole, only to hit a hidden root and stall the bike. Kicking the bike into life as I watched the lead pack of riders disappear through the woods.
I was determined to regain lost ground and slowly moved forward through the race. Passing Charlie Mullins while he was picking his bike up in the worst dust section. Catching Glen Kearney as we entered the pits and with some slick pit work by the crew, was in and out ahead of him. I pushed as hard as I could but I couldn't bridge the gap to Thad Duvall and Strang who were battling it out for the win. Charlie and myself ended up racing together for the second half of the race. He seemed to make time on me in some sections and then I would pull away in others. I managed to work in a little breathing room between us on the last lap, I still was looking to close down on the leaders but it wasn't happening.
It was a good day for the Am-Pro Yamaha Team with Thad taking 2nd, myself in 3rd and Charlie coming in 4th.
A podium was good but not the result I needed. I am disappointed with this result as it also doesn't reflect the effort or work that myself or the Am-Pro Yamaha team has put forth into defending this championship. I need to eliminate the little mistakes that are costing me time.
I'm now even more motivated and determined than ever to claw my way back into the title chase.

1st: Josh Strang
2nd: Thad Duvall
3rd: Paul Whibley

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[takitimu]

Statistics damn statistics :), I really like Paul's updates eh, they tell you alot about what really happened, laptimes are a little dangerous.

Here's hoping the next race it falls into place for him, certainly given what was not a great race I guess you could say, to be comfortably 3rd would indicate things are not going to bad :), pick up 1% of pace & he'll be all over Josh.

[denill]

Statistics damn statistics :), I really like Paul's updates eh, they tell you alot about what really happened, laptimes are a little dangerous.

Here's hoping the next race it falls into place for him, certainly given what was not a great race I guess you could say, to be comfortably 3rd would indicate things are not going to bad :), pick up 1% of pace & he'll be all over Josh.

Yeah, I was a little heartend to read Whib's report. It seems like he does have the pace and as you say, 3rd is not a bad place to be . Specially as he may have had his quota of 'bad luck' and Josh is yet to get his. :yes:

[Ktmboy]

last year Whibbs was hole shoting just about everything. Not happening here and the jump on the line is sooo important.
Anyway he sounds like he is starting to get pissed.

[takitimu]

Here's a video of the race

http://visionmoto.webs.com/apps/videos/videos/show/8098990-2010-pirelli-big-buck-gncc

[JaredBolton]

Hey everyone!

Thanks for reposting my videos here. I'm Jared Bolton from the USA, if you look at the Vision Moto video links here, that's my company. I do all the video editing, and well, pretty much everything else!

Anyway, I saw that a couple of my videos had been posted here and just wanted to give a thanks for reposting them.

I plan on bringing as many more GNCC videos this year as I can, and I'll try to get some good shots of Whibs in them for you guys.

Hope you enjoy the videos!

[Reckless]

NO we should thank you for your efforts!!

I love your choice of music in the vids fits extremely well with the theme

Specially your CRF450 review


http://vimeo.com/6673289


Keep up the good work Jared and thanks!!

[JaredBolton]

haha, yeah, the "2011 CRF450" test has been quite popular. That thing is so much fun though. We were riding it around the parking lot at Big Buck last weekend and had tons of comments from people saying how they either had one when years ago, or just liked it.

Glad you like the videos! As long as theres an audience, and I'm feeling creative, they'll keep coming!

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Round 1 Medora, Indiana
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: DNF

Round One of the OMAs did not go to plan.
I got a good start and was just pipped for the holeshot by Jordan Ashburn. He set a good pace and had some creative lines early in the the lap. I managed to make a pass down in a ravine before we climbed up one of the numerous steep hills. I led the first couple of laps of the shorter than normal track. I was soon joined at the front with Thad Duvall and Jimmy Jarrett swapping positions as lines developed around the virgin course.

Mid race Thad and I had a built a gap although I later learned Jimmy had dropped out with a damaged radiator. I soon had my own problems, bending my gear lever beyond use in a deep rut. The bike was jammed in 2nd gear which was good for the woods but the open sections on the various old logging roads had the WR valve bouncing quickly.

I was holding down second place and at the fuel stop an assessment was made to try remove and replace. Katherine had rounded up a team of help to try to fix the problem. I guess the shifter was pushed back into the footpeg and was difficult to remove so after a quick gas up I decided to carry on as is. As I left the pits I realized that the bike had been dropped to first gear while they were trying to remove the gearlever and that wasnt going to work. So I looped back to the pits and with some prying the damaged part was tossed and a new one fitted. I was now back to 4th or 5th but gaining time again. But it just wasnt my day as I soon bent the gear lever again. I think in the haste to replace it, I put it on a position too low.

I was back to being jammed in one gear, luck would have it, if I had any, would see the bike stuck in 2nd again. I even managed to move up to 3rd place and was closing in on Scotty Watkins in 2nd but was running out of laps. On the last lap, for some reason the WR decided it would prefer to be ridden in 5th gear although the clutch didnt think that was the best deal and was completely smoked by the last hill. I got half was up and that was it. Done. Less than a mile from the finish line.

Thanks to Ryan, Chad, and everyone else who helped out in the pits.

1st: Thad Duvall
2nd: Scotty Watkins
3rd: Jordan Ashburn

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[Reckless]

Bugger clapped out a mile from the finish. Not fault of the bikes or his really just one of those days by the way I read it! BUGGER!!
Hope it gets better from here, his overall speed seems ok though!

[takitimu]

Ok, that is getting unlucky now, poor guy must be be almost driven to drink.

[camchain]

Unreal. A lot of 'bad luck' can be traced back to bad prep but this really is mega bad luck. 2 bent shifters? They should have cut it/replaced it straight away rather than piss around with it. Stuck in gear again? Fried clutch halfway up a hill half a mile from finish line. Poor bastard must have been thinking it can't be real. Someone has put a voodoo curse him. Hopefully everything up to now is just a season full of bad luck all at once. Cheers Denhill, was hard reading that though...

[denill]

Unreal. A lot of 'bad luck' can be traced back to bad prep but this really is mega bad luck. 2 bent shifters? They should have cut it/replaced it straight away rather than piss around with it. Stuck in gear again? Fried clutch halfway up a hill half a mile from finish line. Poor bastard must have been thinking it can't be real. Someone has put a voodoo curse him. Hopefully everything up to now is just a season full of bad luck all at once. Cheers Denhill, was hard reading that though...

Yep and it came across quite clearly that he was going to kill that F****N Yamaha before he gave up. And he did kill it. :mad:

[takitimu]

Yep and it came across quite clearly that he was going to kill that F****N Yamaha before he gave up. And he did kill it. :mad:

Hope he can biff the damn WR in the tip & get an '10 YZF450, that WR is jinxed, IMS have the tanks on their website now & they should be out of customs by now surely. Biff the forks & shock on the YZ from the WR & go kick some Suzuki ass.

Maybe he can do that over the summer break

[camchain]

Yep and it came across quite clearly that he was going to kill that F****N Yamaha before he gave up. And he did kill it. :mad:
Heh. Too true: "for some reason the WR decided it would prefer to be ridden in 5th gear although the clutch didnt"
He would've beaten to death. Strange they have him on a WR. Sounds like they've removed the electric leg as well.

[denill]

Strange they have him on a WR. Sounds like they've removed the electric leg as well.

Yeah - thats the only good reason I would've thought to have Whibs on the WR??

Electric legs are vital in gnarly terrain. Kickstarting the big bitch while slipping down a slippery slope - not nice................

[secondfield]

Someone give that man a YZ450F for chrissakes!

[Reckless]

Hope he can biff the damn WR in the tip & get an '10 YZF450, that WR is jinxed, IMS have the tanks on their website now & they should be out of customs by now surely. Biff the forks & shock on the YZ from the WR & go kick some Suzuki ass.

Maybe he can do that over the summer break


Someone give that man a YZ450F for chrissakes!

You all reckon the Yz would be better for him?? I don't really have a clue as I haven't ridden either the WR or the YZF450.
But I was thinking that with the new mods that the 2010 Yzf has, maybe its far to snappy for enduro and he's ridding the best bike Yamaha have?
And waddya mean swap the Forks/shocks, these guys don't use any factory bits anyway, they are all bloody ohlins etc aren't they? Wouldn't matter what shocks he has in the thing they are modded so much they are from factory?
I reckon the Wr is probably the best bike for him and the new engine etc in the YZF has put it further away (maybe to far if Whibs as a factory rider is on a wr) from being a cross over bike?

Anyway from his write up he was catching this guy and gaining on that guy so I don't think speed is a problem you can bang up your gear lever twice on any bike and your gonna fry the clutch in 5th gear that's for sure!
Hope this is his bad luck round and things look up for him from here!!!
Just my 2c

[takitimu]

Whib's is RG3 from memory for suspension, figure it's seriously tweaked, hence take the forks/shocks from his WR ( already tweaked ) as a base, though he was riding YZF in NZ in summer, so might already have a baseline.

All the GNCC bikes ( well pretty much all ) are MX, Whib's WR has no electric start, probably no wiring loom or overflow bottle & I'm betting a '09 head & piston etc. So not really a WR anymore.

In the end I think it's handling & throttle flexibility with the FI that would make me think YZF, I'd love to know why they didn't go that way, might be Yamaha, might be the newness of the YZF, maybe lack of IMS tank.

I disagree on speed not being an issue, Josh had two laps faster than Paul's fastest.

I just hope it works for Paul eh, he works insanely hard & deserves to do well.

[camchain]

Yeah, just seems really odd being on WR but as Taka noted it'll be a long way off stock. All the best guys seem to want the extra pep of an MXer and the being the best, they can probably use it. The MX models are the cutting edge too with changes following onto enduro models the next year or so, & it's like this with all manufacturers.
Maybe he lost the RG3 suspension when he went Yamaha with their part ownership of Ohlins (But then again I think Ohlins may have bought Yamaha's share out again?)

Be real interesting to know the ins and outs of it. Strang really had the bit between his teeth last year too but had some bad luck, could be hard to beat this year. Whibs luck needs to change fast.

[guy smiley]

Think he'd prefer to be riding the YZF but was instructed to ride the WR(no choice).
Mullins is riding the YZF... Strang is on the RMZ not RMX....

[vazza]

I dont think Paul would have any say in what he rides. Yamaha pays him to ride what they want. Maybe they want it to help push sales of WR250/450 for XC use??

Regardless that WR would be completely factory im sure, would be nothing like a stock WR450 so I really dont think it makes much of a difference. He's obviously as fast as the others on their MX bikes, just having some badluck.

[Katoomer]

Round 5 this morning. Paul led the 1st lap then had a hold up and dropped to 8th. Mullins won with Strang 2nd.

PAUL J WHIBLEY - SALEM, OH
Points Summary
Class Class Rank Class Points Points Behind
GNCC Bike p.m. XC1 Pro 4 88 57

Event Finish Summary

Round 5 - Loretta Lynns - Hurricane Mills, TN
GNCC Bike p.m. - XC1 Pro
Machine: Yamaha Class Finish: 8 / Overall Finish: 12

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Rnd 5 Lorretta Lynns Tennesse
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 8th

With the wave of the green flag I kicked the WR to life and shot to turn one. Had a great drive and rounded the corner in first, taking the holeshot and the big check from Motorcycleusa.com. The first half mile down and around the pits was pretty sloppy from the rain on Saturday, but after we crossed the road and into the woods we were back into the traditional Lorretta Lynns rock. The woods were in pretty good shape as most of the rain had run off and any excess had been splashed off by the morning race. Although most of the trail was pretty beat up, a 3 mile section of fresh single track was a welcomed relief.

I soon realized I had a problem as I went to readjust my clutch after the start and discovered the adjuster was jammed with almost zero free play. I was having a difficult time reaching the lever and began to tighten up as I struggled to deal with the issue. I continued to lead the first lap but the lack of control caused me to clip a tree mid way through the second lap, going down and handing the lead over to the hungry pack.

I was signaled into the pits at the completion of the lap for repairs. The perch was replaced but took several minutes and by the time I rolled back out onto the track the leaders were long gone. I continued to make laps and picked off a few riders, eventually moving up to 8th in the XC1 class.

Late in the race a lapped rider roosted a rock into my face, slamming into my goggles. I have heard a lot of horror storys about rocks blowing the lense right out of some goggles and tagging the rider in the face. Well I'm happy to report that my Smiths bounced that rock no problem at all.

Good news for the Am Pro Yamaha team came with Charlie Mullins taking his first win of the season and stopping Josh Strangs' win streak.

1st: Charlie Mullins
2nd: Josh Strang
3rd: Nate Kanney

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[secondfield]

That seems bloody typical of Yamaha clutch perches. There was a 250 4T enduro shootout recently in ADB that mentioned the cable clutch on WR's
(yammy dirt bikes in general) hasn't changed for many years. It disengages at the furthest point with outstretched fingers and to get it operating mid-pull you have too slacken it off so much that the bugger flops around. I know he's factory and all but I bet he had a smoother pull on his KXF, which have beautiful clucth action, even better than hydraulic ones.

That said and done, Its great to see Pauls still a strong team player.. and good on Charlie as well ! about time a local won a round (snigger ..)

[takitimu]

The bit I liked was he was leading 1 & 1/2 laps, even with clutch problems, sounds like he's finally got the bike & himself sorted speed wise, from there it's just a matter of time before the results start piling in & my money is that he has a pretty large amount of frustration to take out on those tracks :).

[denill]

XC1 Pro - Class Points RND 1 RND 2 RND 3 RND 4 RND 5
Plce Make Nbr Name Total Points
1 SUZ 002 JOSHUA STRANG 1 1 1 1 2 145
2 YAM 003 CHARLES MULLINS 3 4 3 4 1 108
3 KTM 014 CHRISTOPHER BACH 2 3 7 8 4 91
4 YAM 001 PAUL WHIBLEY 10 2 4 3 8 88
5 KTM 008 CORY BUTTRICK 8 6 2 6 5 84
6 HSQ 016 GLENN KEARNEY 6 12 6 5 6 70
7 KTM 116 NATHAN KANNEY 19 5 5 9 3 67
8 KAW 529 ERIC BAILEY 12 10 10 10 9 54
9 KAW 021 KENNETH GILBERT 11 9 9 11 11 54
10 YAM 009 BARRY HAWK JR 7 18 8 7 13 52

[denill]

The bit I liked was he was leading 1 & 1/2 laps, even with clutch problems, sounds like he's finally got the bike & himself sorted speed wise, from there it's just a matter of time before the results start piling in & my money is that he has a pretty large amount of frustration to take out on those tracks :).

Yep, good point - but the difference is starting to mount and from here on, Whibs has to start scoring big points, else it will be too big a gap.

The big thing in Whibs' favour is that bad luck goes round too.

[takitimu]

Yep, good point - but the difference is starting to mount and from here on, Whibs has to start scoring big points, else it will be too big a gap.

The big thing in Whibs' favour is that bad luck goes round too.

This season will be tough to win agreed, but if he's comfortably fastest, then next season when with any luck the big money starts coming back & he can cash in, at the very least retain a top ride That'd be my theory :).

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Round 2 Hanging Limb, Tennessee
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 7th

With massive flooding all through central Tennessee it was sure to be a tough OMA event.
I got an ok jump off the line but got bounced around in the first turn and got filled in by the wall of roost coming from the back wheels of the bikes in front. In the first few turns the track had been turned into a sloppy mess by the quads on Saturday. I was working on making some quick passes to stay in contact with the leaders when I was basically T boned. I went down pretty hard. I dusted myself off (cant say muddied myself off, just sounds wrong) and fired the bike up. It didn't sound too good, more like an old tractor. The impact had punched a hole in my header pipe. I got going again but also had issues with the front brake. I first thought the crash had damaged the front disc with the brake hardly working. As I continued it got worse and within a mile I had no front brake at all. The technical soggy trail was a challenge to ride, even with both brakes working. I had several crashes trying to negotiate the numerous logs and hills that made up the track. Late in the lap I had a pretty good endo right in front of John Gasso's camera. It wasn't funny to me at the time but Im sure it looked pretty hilarious and I hope he got some good pics, probably of me mashing my new Monster Energy lid into the dirt.
I completed the lap and then pulled into the pits and went to work on fixing the brake. It seems the crash had knocked the brake line loose from the master cylinder. We tried to bleed it up but it wasn't happening so with the help of Ryan and Brit, a complete system was robbed from Brits bike and fitted to mine. Back out onto the track, lap one was completed in the record time of 51 minutes. I was so far behind the leaders now I had no hope of winning this race. I continued to put in laps and picked off a few riders as the race wore on, but that was a slim consolation to how the OMA season has started out.
A big thanks to Ryan and Brit for their help and Katherine for standing in the rain keeping me going.


1st: Jimmy Jarrett
2nd: Scott Watkins
3rd: Russell Bobbitt

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Round 2 Hanging Limb, Tennessee
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 7th

With massive flooding all through central Tennessee it was sure to be a tough OMA event.
I got an ok jump off the line but got bounced around in the first turn and got filled in by the wall of roost coming from the back wheels of the bikes in front. In the first few turns the track had been turned into a sloppy mess by the quads on Saturday. I was working on making some quick passes to stay in contact with the leaders when I was basically T boned. I went down pretty hard. I dusted myself off (cant say muddied myself off, just sounds wrong) and fired the bike up. It didn't sound too good, more like an old tractor. The impact had punched a hole in my header pipe. I got going again but also had issues with the front brake.

I first thought the crash had damaged the front disc with the brake hardly working. As I continued it got worse and within a mile I had no front brake at all. The technical soggy trail was a challenge to ride, even with both brakes working. I had several crashes trying to negotiate the numerous logs and hills that made up the track. Late in the lap I had a pretty good endo right in front of John Gasso's camera. It wasn't funny to me at the time but Im sure it looked pretty hilarious and I hope he got some good pics, probably of me mashing my new Monster Energy lid into the dirt.

I completed the lap and then pulled into the pits and went to work on fixing the brake. It seems the crash had knocked the brake line loose from the master cylinder. We tried to bleed it up but it wasn't happening so with the help of Ryan and Brit, a complete system was robbed from Brits bike and fitted to mine. Back out onto the track, lap one was completed in the record time of 51 minutes. I was so far behind the leaders now I had no hope of winning this race. I continued to put in laps and picked off a few riders as the race wore on, but that was a slim consolation to how the OMA season has started out.

A big thanks to Ryan and Brit for their help and Katherine for standing in the rain keeping me going.


1st: Jimmy Jarrett
2nd: Scott Watkins
3rd: Russell Bobbitt

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[Reckless]

Thanks for posting that denhill
doesn't sound like his luck is changing! Bugger!

[denill]

doesn't sound like his luck is changing! Bugger!

Yeah, it is a bugger, but one thing is for sure - Whibs is NOT a quitter.................:nono:

[camchain]

Hell's bells and buckets of blood. Can this man get a break? Someone has a Whibley voodoo doll and is sticking pins in it. Needs to sacrifice a chicken - smear blood on face/bike.
Good observation re about not being a quitter. Impressive. I'd be having a big sulk by now.

Do like the way he always slips in a nod to a sponsor though. Lol.

[takitimu]

Hell's bells and buckets of blood. Can this man get a break? Someone has a Whibley voodoo doll and is sticking pins in it. Needs to sacrifice a chicken - smear blood on face/bike.
Good observation re about not being a quitter. Impressive. I'd be having a big sulk by now.

Do like the way he always slips in a nod to a sponsor though. Lol.

You'd mention them to, if looking after them meant you could continue riding :), I think he does a great job of explaining how his sponsors actually help out & when their kit does it's job, sure as he mentions when stuff breaks to :).

THey reckon you find what a person is made of in adversity & looks like the axeman is one tough SOB.

[camchain]

100% with you there, didn't mean to come across like a dig, just thought his dry humour was hard case after a tough day at the office eg. Take a header - mention Monster energy lid!

When the going gets tough, the tough get going. He inspired me a bit today. The more I think about it, the less I feel bad for him & the more I respect him. Battlers like Axeman are true class and examples to admire.
Crazy society venerates vacuous plankton like Paris Hilton as a supposed 'celebrity' - someone worth paying attention to. Actors - who's work is literally to 'pretend to do things' are pretty much the most famous, wealthy, respected people on the planet. World is a strange place.

BTW. I hear Rory Mead came in a very impressive 4th in the Tough One Enduro in UK (That massive manx monster maxxed it - 1st)

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 6 Yadkinville SC
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 2nd XC1

I got a good jump of the line but got bounced around a little in turn one and surfaced in third position. Josh Strang nabbed the holeshot and was making good use of the dusty conditions. I moved into second after about a mile but Josh had already checked out. Mid lap I caught Josh a little and could see him in the tight section. When we came out into the dusty sections again I wasn't close enough to see through his dust and dropped back.

My team mate Charlie Mullins had also caught me in the tight section. Charlie is one of the best riders I've seen go through tight trees and he threaded his YZ through the pines with amazing speed. Later in the lap I washed the front end out and Charlie slid past taking 2nd position. I pushed as hard as I could but couldn't make any ground up on the leaders. At the end of the second lap I came across Josh lying on the side of the track. He had obviously gone down hard and hadn't moved far. I stopped to see if he was ok. He wasn't moving much but he said he was ok but hurt. Thad Duvall passed me while I was checking on Josh dropping me to 3rd. As I went through the pits I saw the Suzuki crew heading out to the woods to look for Josh and I tried to point them in the right direction.

Back into the race, I could see Thad in front of me but I gained and lost time depending on dust. I saw Thad picking up his bike after I'm guessing was a small crash and closed up the gap. We got back into a dusty section after the creek jump and I lost him again. Later that lap I passed a bike on the side of the track and after getting pit boards from Katherine that I was up to 2nd, realized that was Thad's bike. Later learning Thad had hurt his shoulder.

2 laps to go and Glen Kearney had his little Husky singing and caught up to me. His 250f seemed good in the tight stuff and he was right on my rear wheel through that section. I managed to extend my buffer on Glen in the last lap and was happy to be back on the podium again when the final flag flew.

A good day for the Am Pro Yamaha team taking a one, two finish. Also good to see Glen back on the podium after all the hard work he puts in.

1st: Charlie Mullins
2nd: Paul Whibley
3rd: Glen Kearney

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[secondfield]

Good result!, sounds like he is finding his form at last... well done Paul

[denill]

Race Report: Mid East Hare Scramble, Winnesboro, SC
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 1st

I got a good start and drove up the inside into second as we rounded the first turn. I moved into lead quickly by jumping a creek and set off to try gap the field. The track was mostly single track and pretty dusty on the higher ground. Down near the creek the soil was loamy, even sandy in a few sections. I opened up a good lead over Stewart Baylor (one of the top riders in the XC2 at the GNCCs) and continued to push as the laps ticked by. The weather was pretty hot and humid with temperatures in the 90s. When I came in for gas Katherine looked pretty hot from running around in the sun. At least I had some air to cool me as I raced around.

With short laps and dusty, tight conditions traffic was busy. Most riders were pretty good and were quick to move over and let the faster riders through. Although like always there are the few that want to race and make you work for the pass. On a tight track its hard to go two wide on single track, so apologies to those that my Kendas left marks on.
After two hours the flag came out. It was a good fun track and was great training in the heat and humidity.

1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Stewart Baylor
3rd: Matthew Nix

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[camchain]

Excellent news. That's more like it. No GNCC points but.

Quote from latest ADB: After trialing (and liking) the new YZ450F, defending champ bowed to Yamaha's will and rolled up to race on WR. Lol @ Kenda marks. Leaving sponsor imprint on competitors.

[vazza]

Haha well done. He'll be stoked.

[denill]

http://www.cyclenews.com/articles/off-road/2010/05/24/mullins-wins-mountain-ridge-gncc

XC1 Results:

1. Charlie Mullins (Yam)

2. Cory Buttrick (KTM)

3. Barry Hawk Jr. (Yam)

4. Paul Whibley (Yam)

5. Nate Kanney (KTM)

6. Glenn Kearney (Hsq)

7. Josh Strang (Suz)

8. Kenneth Gilbert (Kaw)

9. Jedediah Haines (Kaw)

10. Eric Bailey (Kaw)



XC1 Standings:

1. Josh Strang (171/4 wins)

2. Charlie Mullins (168/3 wins)

3. Paul Whibley (131)

[secondfield]

Jeez' wonder what happened to Strang? - good shit, slowly whittling down his series lead so far ...

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Rnd 7 Somerset Pennsylvania
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 4th XC1

Rain the previous day made the Pennsylvania track technical and tough. The trail is littered with rocks and some of the rock gardens found in the woods are pretty gnarly.
I got a good jump off the line but ran a bit wide on turn one. I was with the lead bunch on the first lap, learning some lines and running a comfortable pace. Charlie Mullins was in front of me and seemed happy to just follow the guys in front and wasn't pushing to make any passes.

On the second lap a minor spill resulted in losing sight of the lead bunch. I was getting signals that they were just in front but I couldn't seem to bridge the gap back to the leaders. Without seeing the leaders and riding by myself a lot I wasn't able to see and learn the best lines as easy. Although I have to thank the many people out on the track pointing lines through some of the rock gardens and bog holes.

Mid race some crazy guy was standing in the middle of the track. I slowed down, not sure what he was doing, then he took a swing at me and hit me in the shoulder. Kinda caught me off guard. Talking after the race this guy had taken a shot at a lot of riders and apparently wasn't happy with the event being held there.

I ended up going back and forth with Jason Thomas late in the race, I thought I had gapped him but I fell about 3 times on the last lap and he caught right back up.
Crossing the line in fourth in XC1 was still not the result that I am looking for but a finish was good in these tough conditions.

1st: Charlie Mullins
2nd: Cory Buttrick
3rd: Barry Hawk

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[secondfield]

Wow, Another new obstacle to add to XC races .... Lunatic greenies ....

[Katoomer]

So long as they left their guns at home. A fist v body armour sounds better than a tree.

[takitimu]

Wow, Another new obstacle to add to XC races .... Lunatic greenies ....

Unlikely to be a greenie, Somerset is in the back of beyond in Pennsylvania ( random factoid about 5 miles from where flight 93 went down on 911 ).

More likely a local pissed about noise or some random druggy trailer park trash.

[takitimu]

So long as they left their guns at home. A fist v body armour sounds better than a tree.

Good point, they have as many guns as Texas lol, though in all honesty never seen one ever at a GNCC.

[denill]

Wow, Another new obstacle to add to XC races .... Lunatic greenies ....

That reminded me of the stupid old half wit who was pissed off with the riders at a 4 day National at Pahiatua many years ago and who drove down the road at the riders………… Broke some ones leg.

Anyone remember that. Nah, you're all far toooo yopung.

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Round 3 Rio Grande, Ohio
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 2nd

Nice and hot. Thats how I like them. Although with the heat usually comes dust and I prefer mud. I guess I'm kinda hard to please.
Round 3 of the OMAs was hot and humid, over 32 C (90s) but since the track was fresh we escaped a lot of the dust usually associated with this temperature.

I got a good jump and Scotty Watkins and I were bar to bar down the start straight, neither of us let off and we both ran wide in turn one, handing the hole shot over to Jordan Ashburn I think. I was back in about 4th racing with Jimmy Jarrett for the first couple laps. We pushed each other forward and we ended up moving our battle forward to a race for 2nd. Thad Duvall was up front and making a break for it. While Jimmy and I swapped positions Thad built a lead of over a minute. I broke away from Jimmy and tried to chase down Thad.

At the fuel stop Katherine told me I needed to push harder if I was going to put a dent in Thads' lead. During the second half of the event I closed the gap a little but not enough to challenge for the lead. The white flag came out seemingly early, I still felt good and was pushing, can't of been pushing hard enough cause by the end of the race I still had more left. Katherine informed me the race ran a total time of 2hrs 15 min so it wasn't short by OMA standards.

So I was back on the podium in 2nd. Solid race but need to work on speed early and get into the race for the lead earlier to give myself a shot at the win.

1st: Thad Duvall
2nd: Paul Whibley
3rd: Scotty Watkins

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 8, John Penton, Ohio
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 3rd

The Penton GNCC has a reputation of being a dust bowl or mud fest. This year was no different. A massive downpour on Saturday as the Quad pro race was in staging delayed their start an hour. On Sunday another huge downpour just before 10 am completely soaked the place. There was a lot of talk about combining the morning and afternoon race and run a shortened race. In the end the morning race guys got their start delayed until 11:30 and ran for an hour and the afternoon race was to run 2 hours.

I got a good start and rounded turn one in the lead although Cory Buttrick just pipped me to the hole shot line entering turn two. The first few turns were on a mx track then we hit the woods where conditions were pretty wet and the mud was heavy. The trail technique was mostly get into the rut and stay there. I learned the hard way that the main slot was the fastest as I tried to make a pass on different lines and each time lost a position. I ended up behind Jimmy Jarrett and racing with him for the first lap until we got close to scoring. Early in the second lap I got wedged in a rut. It took me a long time to get the WR out. A lot of lifting and heaving to pry out my bike that now felt like it weighed a tonne. I thought my race was done again since I was so far back but I kept going hoping to salvage some points.

As the race progressed I picked up positions as the conditions began to take there toll. At the fuel stop Katherine told me I was up to 5th and that that fourth place was not to far in front.
Over the last two laps some sections of the track were removed as they were getting blocked by bottlenecks and some deep ruts. On the last lap I came to a blockage with some deep ruts. I could see what looked like Josh Strang, stuck in the rut. I decided to try go around as many others had tried too but unsure if it was possible. I pinned it up a little bank through the bushes, over a couple of logs and pushed through some vines and I dropped back down to the track, just behind Josh Strang as he emerged from the mud hole.

The track was single track and passing was near impossible so I had to just follow. We came to another rider stuck in the main line, Josh went high I went low, but I stalled my bike and lost some time restarting. I closed the gap back up by the finish but had to settle for the position I was in. Crossing the line I was surprised to see I was up to third (Josh was running 2nd).

Pretty happy with the result considering I was so far back early in the race.
A little disappointed the race was only 2 hours but I guess the call had to be made with the conditions being what they were.
A big congrats to Cory Buttrick for taking his first overall win. I'm sure the first of many.


1st: Cory Buttrick
2nd: Josh Strang
3rd: Paul Whibley

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions.

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Rnd 9, Snowshoe, WV
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha WR 450
Result: 9th XC1

Another one of those days.
In the first couple of miles I began to have clutch problems. With the Snowshoe event having a long lap of around 22 miles it was some time before I was back to the pits. One problem was fixed and another was created.

I was sent back out on the track although a long way back. All I could hope for was to score some points. Since the track was rocky and pretty tough there were a few positions to be gained when others dropped out with their own issues. The race was also long in duration, running about 3 hours and 30 min and I picked up a few positions late in the race passing riders that had spent everything already on the demanding course.

The Ohlins suspension again did a fine job of gobbling up the roots and rocks and smoothing the track out. The G2 throttle cam system allowed me to tune the power delivery to find traction in the slickest sections. I'm not sure what went wrong with the clutch, my only guess is I put something in incorrectly.
A very disappointing weekend.

Front Tire, Kenda Washougal
Rear Tire, Kenda Triple (soft)

1st: Nate Kanney
2nd: Jesse Robinson
3rd: Chris Bach

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[takitimu]

An article on Paul's latest OMA win, the really cool news is

Unlike previous races this year, Whibley rode a YZ450F. "We've kind of got the go-ahead to start sort of development for racing them full-time next year," he revealed.

I sure hope for the final GNCC's he rides the YZF, even better if I can time it with work so I get to catch a race ( I thought I'd be there for New Berlin, but looking more like St Clairesville ).

Only 4 races left, but would set Paul up for next year if he won all 4 eh :).

http://www.dirtbikemagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=news&mod=News&mid=9A02E3B96F2A415ABC72CB5F516B4C10&tier=3&nid=6009DE4C153F4A17B93B09C6B8018A44

[denill]

An article on Paul's latest OMA win, the really cool news is

I sure hope for the final GNCC's he rides the YZF, even better if I can time it with work so I get to catch a race ( I thought I'd be there for New Berlin, but looking more like St Clairesville ).

Only 4 races left, but would set Paul up for next year if he won all 4 eh :).

http://www.dirtbikemagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=news&mod=News&mid=9A02E3B96F2A415ABC72CB5F516B4C10&tier=3&nid=6009DE4C153F4A17B93B09C6B8018A44

Hey, that's GREAT news. Specially with the current high unemployment of profesional motorcycle racers.

Bring on 2011.......................

[takitimu]

Hey, that's GREAT news. Specially with the current high unemployment of profesional motorcycle racers.

Bring on 2011.......................

2011 is looking interesting, Wall Street is employing again, but I'm still a bit worried that the US has gone flat, my guess is better than 2010, but not that great either, oddly enough the UK massive tax increases & damn the city strategy along with Ireland's demise might well help the US enough to do ok.

But they are still what 9.2% unemployment, to high & pay rates to flat(or down) for the dirt bike market to really recover I suspect.

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Rnd 5, Mesick, Michigan
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

With the go ahead to start testing and development of the YZ for racing full time in 2011 I lined up with the 450 MXer at the latest OMA.

An average start and dusty conditions gave me a big challenge to work my way back to the front. The first few miles it was so dusty, all I could do was to stay on track. When we moved into the tighter fresh tracks I was able to pick up some of the slack and latch back onto the guys in front. Picking guys off whenever the chance was presented, I worked my way forward and within 3 laps moved into the lead when I passed Thad Duvall on the side of the track. I came in for fuel at the end of the third lap and had began to build a small lead over Scotty Watkins who was now running second. The track got better as the race worn on with the sand based soil forming some nice lines through the trees. As the race continued I was also able to get a good feeling with the YZ in the trees and appreciate its balance and nimbleness in threading through the tight woods.
I continued to put in safe laps and pushed my lead out to over a minute.

The YZ performed great and passed its first test with ease. Im looking forward to getting back into the points battle for the OMA title. With 5 rounds still to go and only a handful more points to make up Im confident we can make it an exciting close to the season.


Front Tire, Kenda Southwick
Rear Tire, Kenda Millville

1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Scotty Watkins
3rd: Nick Faringer

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[takitimu]

You can almost hear the sigh of relief that a race went well :)

[denill]

You can almost hear the sigh of relief that a race went well :)

Yeah, and you sense that he's enjoying the YZ....................

[WRFracer]

Yeah, and you sense that he's enjoying the YZ....................

He loves it!
Maybe something will accidently last minute happen to the WR at the next round, and Paul will turn & say to the team "oh bugger just aswell I've got the YZ in the back of the van ah" then we will see the Whibley we all know.:yes:

[denill]

He loves it!
Maybe something will accidently last minute happen to the WR at the next round, and Paul will turn & say to the team "oh bugger just aswell I've got the YZ in the back of the van ah" then we will see the Whibley we all know.:yes:

Thanks for the ups Adam.

Have you got any plans for the States? :yes:

[WRFracer]

Thanks for the ups Adam.

Have you got any plans for the States? :yes:

I'd love to be going back to the States or even Aussie for that matter but unfortunatly I just don't have the money to anything other than ride here, & even that is tough.

I'll be chatting to Paul in the next few days & I'll post up here if he's got any new/good news.
It would be great if they let him ride the YZ for the remainding GNCC rounds.

[denill]

I'll be chatting to Paul in the next few days & I'll post up here if he's got any new/good news.
It would be great if they let him ride the YZ for the remainding GNCC rounds.

It will be great if you can keep us in touch. :yes:

And also keep us informed on your own progress. :yes:

You know well that there is little media interest in two wheeled sport and the good thing about this Forum is - that those who are really interested can get be informed on the latest news. :yes:

[denill]

Race Report: IXCR event, Aurora, Indiana
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

On they way back from the OMA in Michigan last weekend we stopped at a friends place to break up the 14 hour drive home. We ended up staying the week (thanks Brandon) and racing a local Indiana XC Race.

With a heavy thunderstorm watering the track overnight early conditions were pretty slick. I didn't get the best jump off the line but had looked at the first few turns before we made a sharp left into the woods. I knew I could shoot up the inside if everyone else ran wide. That's exactly what happened. The door was left wide open and I went from about 4th or 5th to the lead.

The track was perfect where the kids had been riding and turned the soil over but once we got onto the fresh tracks it was a different story. A couple of the steep climbs and descents were actually removed for the second lap as I could only imagine the carnage that occurred in those gulleys. The track reminded me a little of the old Sparta GNCC in Kentucky.

I steadily increased my lead throughout the race and was having fun on the drying track.

We caught up with another friend and stayed the night with them (thanks Dan) before we completed the remaining 7 hour drive home.

Front Tire, Kenda Triple
Rear Tire, Kenda Triple

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[takitimu]

Mmmm, definitely sounding more like a guy enjoying his riding :).

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Rnd 6, Millville Minnesota
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

Round 6 of the OMAs was held at the famous Millville MX track in Minnesota. This event is one of the more fun races on the OMA circuit and attracts a good turnout of riders wanting to tackle the MX track and thrash around in the woods.
I had been practicing my starts and although I don't think I have it perfected yet on the YZ I was able to lead into the first turn only getting passed when fast starter Jordan Ashburn swept around the outside to take the hole shot honors.

I regained the lead a couple turns later and began to check out. I moved out to a 15 second on the first lap and was able to watch Scott Watkins in second. I was expecting to have to make two fuel stops and the lap before I came in for gas I pushed the lead out to close to a minute and was in and out before Scott entered the pits.

After another couple of laps I came in for the final splash of gas to get me to the finish. Continuing to pad my lead, I was out to about a minute and a half by the finish although Scott Watkins rode a strong race and kept the pressure on through most of the day.

With that win I have now moved into the points lead of the OMAs with only four rounds of the 2010 edition to go.

Front Tire, Kenda Triple
Rear Tire, Kenda Millville

1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Scott Watkins
3rd: Nick Fahringer

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[takitimu]

Rumour from gncc site


I also heard from a reliable source that Paul Whibley will be riding the new 2010 YZ450F at Unadilla instead of his WR. Whibs recently won an OMA race on the bike and he apparently has the okay from Randy Hawkins (and Yamaha) to race it in the remaining GNCC rounds.

Apparently Cory Buttrick is going 350 KTM & Glenn Kearney is after a '11 TXC310 for a bit extra go ( currently on '10 TXC250 ).

http://www.gnccracing.com/articles/2434_quick-fill-31-this-week-in-gncc

[WRFracer]

I spoke with Paul Yesterday and he definitely will be on the YZF450 for the remanding GNCC rounds, So should be good, he sounds happy. :yes:

[secondfield]

Excellent new's, knew he would do better on that machine..

[takitimu]

And another Oma in the bag http://www.cyclenews.com/articles/off-road/2010/08/16/whibley-again

Sounds a really solid effort by whibs, good stuff coming up to the gncc resumption.

[takitimu]

Race Report: OMA Rnd 7, Newark Missouri
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

Round 7 was a fresh venue for the OMA series located in north eastern Missouri. The woods were surprisingly dry considering the rain that had fallen around the area in the weeks leading up to the event. Also it was going to be a pretty fast track with the woods being fairly open and clean, there was less of the gnarly stuff for Bill Gusse to throw at us.
I got a good jump off the line and was in the top 3 going round the first turn. Moving in behind Scott Watkins who shared the hole shot money with Bret Zofchak. I followed Scott for a couple miles and took the lead when he made a small mistake climbing a bank. We set a good pace and opened up a gap on the rest of the pack. Scott latched onto my rear fender and hounded me for the first half of the race. I managed to get a 20 second gap by the fuel stop and I could watch Scott on a couple of sections to make sure I was maintaining the lead. The track was open and I didn't want to go too much faster through the trees because if a mistake was to be made the price would have been pretty high. Scott rode good and continued to keep the pace up and never fell back, maintaining the gap and pressure. I'm sure his maiden win in this series is not too far off.
Taking the win marked my fourth in a row in this series and an extension of my points lead. The plan is to continue to put in good results over the last 3 rounds and pad that lead some more.


Front Tire, Kenda Washougal
Rear Tire, Kenda Washougal

[takitimu]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/motorsport/news/article.cfm?c_id=66&objectid=10669990 ( via http://twitter.com/speedway_racing )

Nice article in NZ Herald :), Whib's really starting to get into form now.

My project getting pushed, still think I'll get back to USA to watch St Clairsville, but getting tight.

[denill]

Race Report: Little Brown Jug Enduro, Union, South Carolina
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 3rd

Conditions were very dry and extremely dusty again for the weekends racing. I was a late entry to the Little Brown Jug Enduro when Randy Hawkins asked me to fill in for an absent Charlie Mullins. With not a lot of racing on, being a long weekend, an Enduro would be a fun change of pace. Also learning the rules and how the event runs took some time with a different system than the World Enduro Format but by the middle of the day I had a grasp of the basics.

Right off the bat dust was an issue. Racing was limited to what you could see and I couldn't see much. The dust was pretty blinding as it just hung in the still, crisp air and with the sun shining down creating a seemingly solid wall in some situations. I wasn't at all comfortable with pinning it in these conditions with the risk outweighing the gain for me. I wasn't about to ride over my head and pick up an injury.

The trail however was pretty fun and had a cool flow to it, weaving through the open woods, a couple sections of rollers that could be turned into doubles and nothing too tight.

Local young gun Stuart Baylor ended up being a man on a mission when the times were all tallied at the end of the day, taking the win ahead of Jessie Robinson. I rounded out the top three, happy to be in one piece. I actually enjoyed the change of pace and getting back to an Enduro format. Hope next years not so dusty cause I'd like to take another shot at this event.

Thanks to the Belue family for all their support at the check points.

1st: Stuart Baylor
2nd: Jesse Robinson
3rd: Paul Whibley


Kenda Tires: Front, Triple. Rear, Washougal

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[raglanash]

Dusty all right. Whibs #27a
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5se3yVXM_dM&feature=player_embedded

[denill]

Dusty all right. Whibs #27a

Good vid, thanks mate. The whole field seem to be going really quick. Even over the lil wooded bridge.

[raglanash]

Heres another one of an older race, awesome camera work.
http://vimeo.com/14754640

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 10, Unadilla NY
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 10th

Tough day at the office pretty much sums up my race at the first GNCC back after the break.

I got a good jump of the line but got squeezed in turn one and pushed into the post on the inside of the corner, damaging the shroud and folding my thumb back.
I put the pain aside and set my mind to making some passes. I was making a move on teammate Barry Hawk when I hit an unseen kicker and hit the deck before I even new what was going on. Back up quickly and back on the bike while with a few other body parts feeling it now. I kept pushing and reminded myself that its still early in the race and I've won races before from worse situations. I soon realized I had some more problems with the clutch adjuster not working now.

Possibly the crash had bent the hand guard back against the clutch perch and caused the problem. As I passed Katherine further down the track I signaled I had a problem and would need some adjustment. I continued to push and a lap later was back behind Hawk, making a pass on him and pulling in behind Buttrick. I passed through the pits and saw they were ready to work on the bike. I wanted to make it to the fuel stop and fix it then so continued on one more lap.

A lap later I was into the pits for gas after passing Lafferty and Buttrick. I got gas but no one was ready to fix the issue with the clutch. Frustrated I went back out with the situation unresolved. It was becoming more difficult to race, with the clutch gaining too much free play and being unable to use it resulting in several near misses. I saw Katherine later in the lap and stopped and told her to make sure next time I gas they need to have the tools ready to fix the problem. The pain in my thumb began to take over and I realized my ribs were pretty sore from the crash as well, taking full breaths was tough. I was into the pits again for the second fuel stop and finally something was done to fix the clutch problem. I could ride properly again, but I was a fair way back and it was too late in the race to do anything. I finished the race very disappointed.

Big congrats to Jimmy Jarrett for taking the win. Its been long time and after the tough season that Jimmy has endured this year, the win was just rewards for his perseverance.

1st: Jimmy Jarrett
2nd: Nate Kanney
3rd: Chris Bach


Kenda Tires: Front, Triple. Rear, Washougal

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[NordieBoy]

Ouch !

[takitimu]

Ouch !

Yeah, nasty time of the year to be having team issues to, with renegotiations just around the corner.

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Round 9, Memphis, Mo
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

Round 9 of the OMA series dished out a complete contrast in conditions to the last OMA race. From blinding dust at Round 8 to deep mud this time, OMAs have it all.

A start was going to be just as important at this race for similar reasons. Vision. Its not a dust cloud but a wall of roost riders had to deal with this time.
I had been practicing starts and testing a new Vortex Ignition with good results. The green flag waved and I launched off the line and into turn one in first, only to have Shane Klemic kamikaze into turn two and take the hole shot money. I think he was already on his butt when he crossed the line and obviously in need of the cash more than me. I had bigger plans for the race and made the turn and led the way.

The track was pretty drowned from all the rain with a lot of water filling the ruts and low spots. I took my time, not wanting to make any rash decisions and drown out somewhere. Scott Watkins was still behind me as we completed a lap but had been eating mud for 30 minutes. Since I had been leading I didn't need to stop for goggles, my Smiths were still in pristine condition. I picked up the pace on lap two and created a lead. The Vortex Ignition also had a nice power curve that smoothed out power to find traction in the slick and slime, but also maintained that bottom boost to really dig in the deep mud.
At the completion of lap two we came into the pits for gas. Katherine, Sam and Mike had me in and out with Nascar speed.

The last two laps I rode safe and smart, maintaining my lead and staying out of trouble, taking my 6th win in a row and extending my points lead.
One round remains in this series, the legendary Moose Run.


1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Scotty Watkins
3rd: Nick Fahringer


Kenda Tires: Front, Washougal. Rear, Millville

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[NordieBoy]

I ride safe and smart too.

But I get last :(

Maybe a Vortex ignition would help...

[takitimu]

I ride safe and smart too.

But I get last :(

Maybe a Vortex ignition would help...

Dunno about the Vortex ignition, but I'm going for a G2 throttle cam, sounds damn handy.

I like how Paul mentions his sponsors personally, they cough real money & gear to enable him to ride & only fair for him to mention how they help him & what works.

[denill]

Dunno about the Vortex ignition, but I'm going for a G2 throttle cam, sounds damn handy.

I like how Paul mentions his sponsors personally, they cough real money & gear to enable him to ride & only fair for him to mention how they help him & what works.

Yep. Full credit to Paul for his most professional attitude.

Young guys with their heads up their arses should take note and show their appreciation to their sponsors - no matter what level. :msn-wink:

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 11, The Titan, TN
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 7th XC1

With the new Vortex Ignition on I was confident of another good start. The YZ fired up faster than ever, shooting me to the first turn in record time and nabbing the MotorcycleUSA.com hole shot money. The YZ was running strong and we led the way on the first lap although the thumb I injured at Unadilla was bothering me on the rocky, square edged track. Near the end of lap one there was a mile long section added for the afternoon race.

I blazed the trail through the virgin woods only to hit some loose rocks in some long grass and go down hard. Re injuring my thumb, bending the bars and loosing a lot of positions. At the end of the second lap I came in for fuel and the team straightened things up and sent me back out. The track was pretty choppy and I was finding it tough to hang on. Trying to grip loosely only encouraged blisters and rotating my grip to ease the pain just impacted another area of my hand.

After the second fuel stop I was no longer able to race, merely maintaining forward momentum in an effort to get to the finish. Not losing any positions by the finish was a small victory but also very far from the result I'm chasing.

1st: Josh Strang
2nd: Charlie Mullins
3rd: Corry Buttrick


Kenda Tires: Front, Triple. Rear, Triple

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[raglanash]

He's back !
GNCC Racing
St. Clairsville, OH - Round 12
XC1 Pro - Class Results
Place Nbr Name Hometown Brand Laps Elapsed
1 001 PAUL J WHIBLEY TRAVELERS REST, SC YAM 7 02:50:27.161
2 016 GLENN J KEARNEY HICKORY, NC HSQ 7 02:50:34.020
3 002 JOSHUA V STRANG ANTIOCH, CA SUZ 7 02:50:35.411
4 003 CHARLES D MULLINS HICKORY, NC YAM 7 02:50:39.130
5 009 BARRY HAWK JR SMITHFIELD, PA YAM 7 02:53:47.427
6 112 MICHAEL LAFFERTY MILLVILLE, NJ HSB 7 02:59:12.224
7 008 CORY J BUTTRICK LOGAN, OH KTM 7 02:59:31.630
8 187 TOBY PRICE SINGLETON NSW, AU KTM 7 03:04:47.270
9 308 JUSTIN WILLIAMSON SANFORD, FL KAW 7 03:05:10.395
10 021 KENNETH S GILBERT GAFFNEY, SC KAW 7 03:05:16.645
XC1 Standings:
1. Josh Strang (280/5 wins)
2. Charlie Mullins (248/3 wins)
3. Cory Buttrick (225/1 win)
4. Paul Whibley (220/1 win)
5. Chris Bach (191)

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 12, St Clairsville, Ohio
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

Launching off the line, the YZ drove me around turn one nabbing another hole shot. Cory Buttrick pushed past and took the lead as we dove into the woods. I was happy to have someone lead the way early on as there were a few mud holes that I didn't want to be first through. Mid way through lap one I got around Cory on one of the big hill climbs and retook the lead. I set a comfortable pace and opened up a small lead. As I completed lap one Katherine gave me a pit board saying I had about 10 second lead over the rest of the pack.
Glenn Kearney moved up to second and began closing in on me. I picked up the pace but soon my teammate Charlie Mullins was back there as well putting on the pressure.

Near the end of lap 3, I came in for fuel and Glenn and Charlie flew by opting to go one more lap before gassing. Leaving the pits in third I closed in on Charlie only to go down jumping one of the mudholes and lose sight of him. I picked myself up and pushed hard soon regaining sight of Charlie and pulling up on his rear wheel. A mistake came when he was trying to get around a lapped rider opening the door just enough for me to barge through. I took off after Glenn who had created a small lead. By the time we came back around to the pits I had Glenn within sight and when he stopped for gas I retook the lead. The pace increased and with four laps to go it was still anyones race. Glenn pushed hard and was right on my rear wheel going into the last lap. Somehow over the last lap I managed to open up a small buffer, taking my first GNCC win of the season.

Feels pretty good to finally get back on the podium and notch up a win. Got to thank all the friends and fans who have stuck by me this year and continuously offered support and encouragement through the challenging times.

Big congrats to Josh Strang on claiming the series championship. His third place was enough for him to wrap up the title with a round to spare.

1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Glenn Kearney
3rd: Josh Strang


Kenda Tires: Front, Triple. Rear, Triple

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[NordieBoy]

Good stuff :scooter::corn:

[secondfield]

Yeah' well done Paul, a valiant effort! :woohoo:

[denill]

Race Report: OMA Round 10, Moose Run, Illinois
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

Got to love a bike that can claim hole shots, and my YZ is grabbing them everywhere at the moment. Taking the K&N hole shot award and leading the way out through the dusty corn fields on the first of two 40 mile laps. In to the fresh woods and the pace slowed, I wasn't prepared to take many risks amongst the thick undergrowth and freshly fallen leaves that hide a lot of the logs and nasty's that lay in wait of an unsuspecting front wheel.

I continued to lead for a while until a log crossing caught me by surprise and allowed some others to take a shot at blazing a trail. Nick Fahringer, with his freshly broken nose took point and set a brave pace through the woods. I followed his every move and mishap and together we began to pull a lead. Late in the first lap I broke away from Nick when we came out onto some used trails and by the end of the lap had a comfortable lead.

Gassing up and off on the last lap with the trail now cleared the pace was much faster. Mid lap Katherine gave me a pit board as I crossed a little dirt road that I had about a minute and a half lead. I continued to push as you never know how bad the mud holes would have cut up and one small mistake can cost a lot of time. Everything went pretty smooth though and I even extended my lead to about 2 minutes by the finish, taking my 7th straight win and 3rd OMA championship.

On crossing the line I received news that JG Offroad, GEICO team rider Scott Watkins had taken a nasty spill out in one of the fast corn fields and been carted off to hospital with a suspected broken collar bone. We wish Scotty a full and speedy recovery.

1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Jimmy Jarrett
3rd: Nick Fahringer


Kenda Tires: Front, Triple. Rear, Millville

Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[Reckless]

Bloody good stuff another OMA championship!!

[denill]

Bloody good stuff another OMA championship!!

Yeah, looks like he's got the pace and the goods to do the job.

Will be good for his 2011 season. :yes: :yes:

[takitimu]

Backed up with another gncc win, was leading at the finish line for every lap, great for him to end a frustrating gncc season with some momentum and to be in a strong negotiating position with his team going into 2011.

[denill]

Anyone know what Whibs will be riding in '11?

[denill]

Race Report: GNCC Round 13, Crawfordsville IN

Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

Another good start put me in a good position in the early going at the final GNCC of the season. Kailub Russell sneaked up the inside and took the hole shot honors but midway through lap one I had the lead. Conditions were really dusty and I'm not sure what happened to Kailub but I knew I was in front when I could see where I was going. The drought in the area really had spoiled the usually prime riding conditions found at this event.
Just before the halfway point in the race I managed to hit a tree on one of the tough powder filled hill climbs, looping the bike out, bending the bars and giving up a lot of the lead I had built.
I held onto the lead to the fuel stop but soon after came under pressure from Josh Strang. We swapped positions over the course of the following lap and he took his turn at the front. Although it was short lived as his bike suffered a similar fate to many others that day by ingesting too much dust.
I retook the lead and put it in cruise control to the finish. Looking after the bike, avoiding as many big powder berms as possible and taking my second win in a row. Great way to finish out the GNCC season and now I can look forward to a bit of a break before getting back into training for an assault at the 2011 GNCC title. With the win I moved up to 3rd overall for the year.
Big thanks to the AmPro team and all the sponsors. Also Katherine for her continued support, dedication and belief in me.


1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: Thad Duvall
3rd: Chris Bach

Thanks to John Gasso for the photo.


Kenda Tires: Front, Triple. Rear, Millville


Paul Whibley is supported by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D

[secondfield]

Excellent ! a podium for the man at least ..:woohoo:

[Katoomer]

Here's a good video of the race. You can see why Strang's bike died.

http://www.digitaloffroad.com/2010/10/28/2010-ironman-gncc-race-video/

[denill]

Race Report: Bush Bash 4 hour Twenty10

Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: Sargent Motorcycles, AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ 450
Result: 1st

My first race back in NZ was the annual Bush Bash 4 hour put on by the Bush Riders MCC. I had just got a new 2011 YZ 450, and had chucked a couple of the essentials on it the day before the race like my IMS tank, Vortex Ignition and G2 throttle cam.
Lining up on the start with the wind howling through the nearby trees, holding the back guard waiting for the shotgun blast. When the gun went off I jumped on and my YZ and launched toward turn one in the lead.
Conditions were slick green grass and a super strong westerly that made going treacherous. I wasn't too excited to lead the way early on so a few keen men took various turns up front. I led the way through the tree section out the back of the loop and pulled a lead on everyone but Rory Mead. Lap one completed in about 40 minutes. I continued for another lap while most others came into the pits to gas up and swap riders. I opened up a comfortable lead and rode pretty conservatively in the tough windy conditions. Gassing up after two laps with a safe lead that I protected to the finish. The new pine section was a blast and post race feedback was unanamous in that was the best section of the track. The new YZ worked great and am looking forward to some more fun races in NZ over the summer.
Thanks to Katherine and Ryan for their help in the pits.


1st: Paul Whibley
2nd: John Odea/ Lance Odea
3rd: Rory Mead/Conrad Edwards

Paul Whibley is supported in NZ by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, Ohlins, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D, Bush Riders MCC,Spectro, Acerbis, DID, JT sprokets, GHQ, Pirelli, Sargent Motorcycles, Yamaha NZ.

[denill]

Race Report: Bush Riders Cross Country Series, Round 1
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: Sargent MC, AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ450 F
Result: 1st


The first round of the Bush Riders Cross Country Series was held just south of my hometown, Pahiatua. Rain arrived a few days before the event and provided relief from the dusty conditions of late. Light drizzle was still falling early on race day but had cleared by the time the Junior race was underway. Around midday we lined up awaiting the shotgun blast that would signal the start.
When the gun went off the quiet valley erupted in a roar as bikes fired up and launched toward the first turn. I got a good start and was first through the gateway and onto the main track.
Conditions were slippery early on but my Pirelli’s found traction on even the slickest clay. I felt good and pushed hard enjoying the track as it cut up and lines formed. One gully was pretty soft and turned into a massive bog but with plenty of options it never bottle necked or got any bottomless ruts. Also a log crossing just out of the scoring area kept the pit crews and spectators entertained. There was an alternative line if anyone felt uncomfortable with traversing the log but had to suffer the ribbing from any of their mates watching post race.
At the gas stop Katherine handled the fueling with her brother Nathan handing over a fresh set of Smith rolloffs. I had a comfortable lead and could play it safe but continued to put in strong laps and consistent times. I sneeked through scoring just before the 2 hour cut off and got an extra lap up on the competition.
Another fun day at the track and good prep ahead of the 2011 season.

Paul Whibley is supported in NZ by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith, G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D, Bush Riders MCC,Spectro, Acerbis, DID, JT sprockets, GHQ, Pirelli, Sargent Motorcycles, Yamaha NZ, Rossco’s Start Up Services

[denill]

Race Report: NZ GNCC Rnd 4
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: Sargent MCC/AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ450 F
Result: 1st

Blazing sun and high temperatures greeted riders lining up for the latest NZ GNCC event held in Maramarua forest south of Auckland. Some early confusion off the start line after a track change saw myself and fellow Yamaha rider Rory Mead briefly take a wrong turn and lose some track positions. I found myself in third behind Reece Burgess for the first few kms but with some aggressive riding moved up tosecond. The track was extremely dusty and excessively fast and I couldn’t let fast starting Karl Power get away. Although by the time I got to second all I could see of Karl was the long dust trail. I didn’t help my cause when in the dust I missed a turn and only realized when I came into clean air that I had made a mistake. End of lap 1 I had nearly a minute to make up.

I kept the pressure on and began to eat into Karls lead as I learned the track. End of the second lap the gap was down to about 30 seconds and by the end of 3rd lap I had reeled him in and locked on to his wheel. Some risky moves were made in the dust but they soon payed off as I took the lead in the fourth lap. Finally in the clean air I was able to ride safely and not take any more chances.

As the race progressed I was able to move out to a comfortable lead. Taking the win in the 2 hour 30 min event with Karl bringing his Honda home second and Reece Burgess maintaining his good start and rounding out the final podium spot on his Husaberg.
1st; Paul Whibley
2nd; Karl Power
3rd; Reece Burgess

Paul Whibley is supported in NZ by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith,
G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D, Bush Riders
MCC,Spectro, Acerbis, DID, JT sprokets, GHQ, Pirelli,
Sargent Motorcycles, Yamaha NZ. Rosscos Start up
Services

[NordieBoy]

I have the same problems in the dust.

Except I have clear air until they lap me...

[denill]

Race Report: Bush Riders XC Rnd 2
Rider: Paul Whibley
Team: Sargent MC/AmPro Yamaha
Bike: Yamaha YZ450 F
Result: 1st
The latest round of the Bush Riders Cross Country series was held in blustery dry conditions south east of Pahiatua.
The traditional “run to your bike” start was abandoned in favour of holding the back guard as the strength of the wind would have leveled the field before the shot gun could signal a start. Even the modified start couldn’t hold the YZ back, grabbing a massive holeshot and control of the race. First lap I played it safe, learned the track and rode smart in the gale force westerly.
The 22 km lap was long and took some remembering but by the second lap I had most of the dodgy bits memorised and stepped up the pace, opening up a gap on the chasing riders.
Katherine manned the IMS dumpcan and at the end of the second lap I was gassed up ready to tackle the last two laps. The conditions were mentally draining with high concentration levels needed to maintain a mistake free run as any idle mindedness along the ridgetops was punished by riders getting the front wheel blown out from under them.
The last two laps were put in the books trouble free and my lead was even stretched further taking the checkers just after the two hour mark.
After the race most riders were unanimous in that the wind spoilt an otherwise fun and flowing track. I did hear a report post race of one poor rider who we will just call, um, Woodchopper, actually getting blown over a fence!!! All made worse that it happened within sight of the scoring tent.

Paul Whibley is supported in NZ by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith,
G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D, Bush Riders
MCC,Spectro, Acerbis, DID, JT sprokets, GHQ, Pirelli,
Sargent Motorcycles, Yamaha NZ, Rosscos Start Up
Services

[NordieBoy]

:niceone:

Woodchopper?
Oh dear :weird:

[denill]

Race Report: Raglan Rox 4 Hour
Rider: Paul Whibley/ Rory Mead
Team: Sargent MC/ Yamaha NZ
Bike: Yamaha YZ450 F
Result: 1st

The annual Raglan Rox 4 Hour XC was held at a new venue near Oparau. I had teamed up for this event with fellow Yamaha rider Rory Mead.
Lining up on the start with spectacular views out over the Kawhia harbour and coastline could have been distracting some of the riders as I managed to pull a solid holeshot from a not so favourable position on the line. I worked hard on the first lap and opened up about a minute lead over the chasing team of Jayden Grey and Ben Townley.

Over the next couple of laps I maintained that lead without taking any risks on the fun and fast track. Ben Townley took over from Jayden and set a fast pace as he worked hard to eat into our lead. Rain began to fall as I handed the bike over to Rory for his turn at the fuel stop. Unfortunately Rory had a crash on the increasingly slippery track allowing Ben to make up a lot of time and take the lead. Ben and Jayden worked well together and put some time on Rory and myself. The track had become extremely slippery with the now persistant rain and several of the hills were giving riders some grief. I jumped back on after Rory's session and was surprised by how much the conditions had changed, getting caught out on a slick corner and going down. I worked hard at putting in mistake free laps after that and began to close in on the lead. We were running out of laps but on the last lap I caught and past Jayden. Over the last lap I managed to pull a small lead. The track was now littered with bikes especially on several of the slick hills that climbed up through the bush section. I managed to weave my way up the toughest hill safely, threading my way through the cooked and stuck bikes.

Arriving at the finish in first and sharing the win with my team mate Rory. Big thanks to Carol and Gordy Brooker for all their help.

1st: Paul Whibley/ Rory Mead
2nd: Jayden Grey/ Ben Townley
3rd: Scott Birch/ Cullum Birch

Paul Whibley is supported in NZ by:
AmPro Yamaha, Monster Energy, Shoei, Sidi, Smith,
G2, CTi, Moto SR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D, Bush Riders
MCC,Spectro, Acerbis, DID, JT sprokets, GHQ, Pirelli,
Sargent Motorcycles, Yamaha NZ, Rosscos start Up
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[takitimu]

Damn I hope I get to see a gncc this year, sounds really positive how paul is riding.

Though maybe just me, but sounds like bt was not exactly feeling crook either, which is also damn good news.