2011 Motocross/Supercross
Although James Stewart and the San Manuel Yamaha team decided to not compete in 2011 AMA Motocross, the two-time Supercross Champion will participate in the inaugural Monster Energy Cup at Las Vegas’ Sam Boyd Stadium in October.
The race carries a $1 Million purse that will be paid to any rider that wins all three main events, the Monster Energy Cup’s promoter Feld Motor Sports says.
James Stewart (San Manuel Yamaha YZF450) says: “I definitely look forward to a new look and feel. That’s a lot of money for one night, and the chances of being able to win it is, of course, very appealing, but there will be a lot of guys with this same thought so we need to just focus on the race.”
Sam Boyd Stadium has been good to Stewart; the Haines City, Fla., native has a total of three wins there – two in the Supercross class, one in the Lites class.
James Stewart says: “Although it’s in the same stadium it’s a new night and a new race format and I am glad to just have the opportunity to be a part of it.”
Stewart says he anticipates competing at the track, which was designed by supercross/motocross icons Jeremy McGrath and Ricky Carmichael.
James Stewart says: “I believe they will put together a great track, but I also wonder how crazy it will be. These guys know what (tough) obstacles are – the ones that are very demanding. I’m sure they will want to put us through the ringer, but I would do the same if I were in their position, so bring it on.”
Stewart decided to postpone the 2011 AMA Motocross Championship due to his self-described “struggles” in this year’s Supercross Championship, which brought about many ups and downs for Yamaha’s Stewart.
Stewart held first in the championship points for two rounds, but then a few races later dropped down to fifth. As Stewart chased his third AMA Supercross title, many crashes and inconsistent riding brought about bad luck.
JS7 would finish 15th in the final Supercross round at Vegas, and fourth overall in the point standings, 37 behind the 2011 Supercross Champion, Ryan Villopoto (Monster Energy Kawasaki).
Overall, Stewart finished on the 2011 Supercross podium nine times in 17 races, including five wins (Phoenix, Oakland, Anaheim II, St. Louis and Seattle).
About Monster Energy Cup Motocross
The unique hybrid track will consist of supercross/motocross terrain and will have a tremendous motocross-style influence, making it unlike any other stadium race in the world. This track will be the perfect blend of supercross and motocross combined and created into the ultimate battleground. The Monster Energy Cup posts a $250,000 purse with the winner walking away with a $100,000 check, and for the “first time ever” $1 Million will be paid to a rider that wins all three main events.
