Ricky Carmichael University makes stop at Red Bud
Published 3:32 pm Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Ricky Carmichael, left, talks with Grant Langston and Ivan Tedesco during a break at Red Bud in Buchanan. The three are taking part in the Ricky Carmichael University. (Leader photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ)
BUCHANAN — Legendary motocross racer Ricky Carmichael has brought his instructional school to a legendary track — Red Bud.
Ricky Carmichael University took to the track Wednesday with nearly 100 riders. Those riders are learning how to sharpen their skills from some of the best riders in the history of motocross.
On hand at Buchanan to aid in the instruction were the likes of Jeff Emig, Grant Langston and Ivan Tedesco.
Langston said that he likes the way the school is structured.
“I really like this in a sense that I like what it gives to the kids,” he said. “When you are doing it on your own, you know most of the fundamentals, but people’s opinions very. What I like about this is, they have taken this track and broken it up into five segments and said, ‘Ricky you were the best at that kind of stuff. You tell him how to do that. Grant you were killer in the rollers and the big sand turn, you do that.
“This is a stunning facility. Talk about a track that can cover almost everything. This track has it. When you get sponsors like Oakley, Monster, Suzuki and Fox (Head), I love it. This is my first time doing something of this kind of nature and I think it is just going to grow and grow.”
Carmichael is pleased with the turnout as a track he dominated.
“I’m really happy to be back a Red Bud,” he said. “This is a great facility for the Ricky Carmichael University. Glad to be here. This is the roots of motocross racing. We are just trying to hone their skills a little bit more and improve on what they want to do. Be a little better in the corners, be a little better on the jumps, starts, everything and even the mental aspect of it as well.
“The level of riders has been pretty good. The turnout has been pretty good and it has been a fantastic experience.”
Riders spent the day learning with five periods on the track, plus a classroom Q&A with the instructors. The day wrapped up with a free ride with the instructors and then a graduation ceremony.
Carmichael will be at Red Bud the entire weekend. The professionals hit the track for the 40th Red Bud National Saturday. Gates open at 6 a.m. and the opening ceremonies are scheduled for noon.
