I came into the AMA Pro Final Round at Pomona 14 points ahead of Mikey Avila and 15 points ahead of Gerit Callies. I led the championship for the last eleven events, over half of the series. Having had the bull's-eye on my back had been stressful, but going into the finals and not having the series wrapped up was the most stressful of all. I came into the finals knowing exactly where I needed to be and what I needed to do. I did not take any unnecessary chances and left myself an escape route at all times. Winning the event was definitely important but not worth jeopardizing the championship for. I rode conservative and kept out of trouble.
In qualifying, I ended up fourth overall, which put me on the front row in the heat race. I rode just a little too safe in the heat and ended up fourth, which put me on the second row in the main. I was still very confident. We made some changes to the gearing because the track was getting faster and just tried to relax and focus on the job I needed to do.
I was on the second row in the main and when the light went green I dropped the clutch and was third into turn one. The second time I came by, the red flags were out, someone went down and we lined up for a total restart.
The second restart was not as good, as I started in about fifth, but it did not matter because the red flags were out again after a few laps. The third restart was single file. I started from the fifth position. When the light went green I dropped the clutch and followed the first four riders through turn one. I was unable to make any passes, but I knew where Avila and Callies were. I was in a great position and safe from any battles that could possibly get me into trouble. I finished sixth. I was very happy I won the championship for my team, sponsors and all my fans that have supported me along the way.
I have been looking forward to this day for thirteen and a half years.
As the AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com Pro Singles Champion, I automatically earned a national number, which means I can drop the letter immediately and just run my number, so I think I will exercise the right to do that right now.
Thanks!
Mikey Martin 91 Weirbach Racing
Special thanks to our sponsors:
Weirbach Racing, General Engineering, Barnett Clutches, Spectro, K & N Filters, Saddlemen, Motion Pro, Spider Grips, Engine Ice, Cheney Engineering, G2 Ergonomics, Works Connection, White Lightning Retrievers, Firecoat Custom Powderworks, CP Pistons & Carrillo Rods, Web Cams, PMP Sprockets, Foudree¹s Graphics & Signs, Bob Berry Racing, Ron Bailey, V.P.
Fuels, Pro Wheel, Durelle Racing, All Balls Racing, T N T Honda, Pingel Products, Hindle Exhaust, Supertrapp, Regina Chain, Loudmouth Intakes,
