The inaugural Miller Motorsports Park AMA SuperBike race was held Friday June 16th through Sunday June 18th, right here in Utah. Parts Unlimited Ducati teammates Ben Bostrom and Neil Hodgson rode their Ducati 999 Superbikes on the new 3.06-mile outer course. Featuring 15 turns and several elevation changes in its outer course, Miller Motorsports Park was lauded by Hodgson, saying it "is absolutely brilliant. In my opinion, the track is the best layout in America."
In the qualifying races, Ben Bostrom was on the provisional front row with his best mark at 1:50.403, good for fourth place. Neil Hodgson qualified seventh fastest with a time of 1:51.315.
Bostrom finished third with Hodgson right behind in fourth at Saturday's Superbike race. Bostrom fought in a four-rider pack for most of the 21-lap race, showing his aggressiveness and a veteran's talent for tire conservation. The podium finish was his first of the year. "It feels good to get back on the box" said Bostrom. With Neil in fourth, the team placed solidly.
Pushing for victory, Ben Bostrom went strong in race 2, taking an early lead. On lap four, Ben Spies (Suzuki) gained the lead when Bostrom abruptly high-sided and crashed. "I'm okay," Bostrom recounted. "Now that we have a half year on the bike, I'm understanding the Ducati 999 much better." Bostrom is now placed eighth overall.
Hodgson fought through a difficult race. Despite two separate trips through the gravel traps, Neil claimed sixth place and kept his fourth place standing in series points.
Racers and spectators alike felt the energy of the new track throughout the weekend. Crowds of race fans came through the Salt Lake Motorsports tent, the SLM Ducati Hotties were out in full fashion, and our own Shane Turpin finished ninth in Supersport. Thanks to everyone for a successful weekend for SLM and the entire Salt Lake racing community!