American Prize
When the world comes to Southern California’s Glen Helen Raceway on May 29-30th, it marks two major milestones in motocross history.
The return of the U.S. Grand Prix (USGP) concept of pitting America’s best against the crowned heads of European racing and falls on the 30th anniversary of Marty Moates becoming the first American to win the 500cc USGP at Carlsbad.
To commemorate both these momentous events, the Moates Cup and $5,000 will be presented to the top-finishing American at the USGP.
There will also be a special lap of honor in tribute to Marty as Doug Dubach circulates the track on the #23 LOP Yamaha prepared by Rick Doughty and Vintage Iron.
"We are happy to pay tribute to the top American, by awarding the inaugural Moates Cup… and a nice cash reward, courtesy of friends and many industry supporters," says co-conspirator Scott Cox.
"What started as a nice tribute to our fallen brother Marty has become a happening unto itself… Everyone has been on board with remembering Marty’s legacy."
Speaking of supporters, Dr. D’s Doug Dubach is honored to play a role in the tribute. "It is an honor to represent Marty Moates and his historic ride at the 1980 USGP," says Dubach.
"Race fans will see the #23 LOP Yamaha again and in a small way, pay tribute to the man whose USGP win changed the face of motocross in the US. I’m sure it will be one of the most memorable laps I’ll experience at Glen Helen…" which is saying something considering Dr. D has won 17 World Vet Championships at Glen Helen.
Look for Dubach to be clad in replica gear head-to-toe, including an authentic LOP jersey and even the Seer goggles Marty wore.
Co-sponsor Todd Huffman adds, "What better testament to Marty and what his win 30 years ago represented than presenting the Moates Cup?" Huffman is just finishing his film The Carlsbad USGP: 1980, which premieres a month after the Glen Helen USGP.
"I think it’s a fitting tribute to Marty as America’s first Carlsbad 500cc USGP hero and I’m hoping that it rekindles that same day of magic 30 years ago."
Look for the lap of honor ceremonies to take place around 11 a.m. as master of ceremonies Tom White interviews former USGP winners Chuck Sun, Broc Glover and Ricky Johnson.
The growing list of donors includes Marty’s many fans and friends as well as powersport powerhouses like Lucas Oil, Dubach Racing Development, MotionPro, Vintage Iron, legendsandheroestour.org and resmarket.com.
Tickets for the "Race Of The Century" are available at the glenhelen.com. Reserved camping is available at the track for $50 per spot.