The Kentucky Kid

MotoGP is the premier class of motorcycle racing; the best of the best competing, racing, crashing, and winning to be crowned the best of the best. So this makes from some very exciting racing and action to watch. Unfortunately, there have been no Motorcycle Grand Prix races since November, but that all changes this weekend with the opening race of the 2009 season in Qatar happening. In the mix are rookies and seasoned veterans all looking to become the 2009 MotoGP champion. Some riders have changed teams, while others have new mechanics. But all the riders have new and updated bikes.

My favorite rider is the Australian, number 27, Casey Stoner. He is the 2007 champion and a rider for the factory Ducati team. I don’t really know how I picked him as my favorite; it just sort of happened. In the same way that I picked my second favorite rider, number 69, American Nicky Hayden. This year he joins Stoner at the Ducati team (now I can just root for one team) and I really, really want him to do well. He doesn’t have to win the championship –although that would be pretty sweet –I just want him to get in the top couple of riders. He deserves to be there. He is such a humble and down-to-earth guy –always thankful and grateful for the opportunities he has received and for all his fans.

Although, he does have a mountain to climb. The Ducati Desmosedici GP9 is a new bike for him and it is on different tires than what he is use to. And that Ducati is no easy bike to handle –only Stoner has really managed to tame it. After his first ride on the Duc, Hayden came off saying, “Whatever it is they are paying Casey it’s not enough.” However, things are going well for “The Kentucky Kid”, as Hayden is called. He continues to improve on riding and getting a hang of the seeming untameable Ducati beast. Optimism surrounds Hayden, as the new season looms overheard, and he is feeling confident. I feel confident in him. I know he can do well –he did win the 2006 championship after all.

Best of luck Nicky!