73 riders confirmed for Tegal motocross

JAKARTA (JP): Seventy-three riders have confirmed their participation in the Gudang Garam international motocross championships in Tegal, Central Java, on Feb. 7 and Feb. 8.

Organizer Helmy Sungkar told The Jakarta Post yesterday that he expected 140 motocrossers in the two-day opening leg of the series.

"We hope we can get to 140 crossers in the Tegal race. We have already received confirmation from six Australian riders which will be a good challenge for our local racers," Helmy said.

The local crossers expected to compete include Irwan Ardiansyah, Satya Sunarso, Andy Suryanto (Yamaha team), Aep Dadang, Pieter Tanujaya, Hendrik (Honda team), Johny Pranata, Denny Orlando, Frans Tanujaya and Hendriansyah (Suzuki team).

Helmy also said preparations for the race were nearly complete and should be finished on time. "For the Tegal people, this race is a big event and they certainly don't want to miss out on watching it."

He added that to make the event more entertaining, the organizers had erected a big stage near the circuit which will feature a local band playing dangdut music on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

"We do not want the spectators to be bored while waiting for each race so we will entertain them with the music. The band will play during the intervals between races. Through this entertainment, we expect to attract as many spectators as possible," Helmy said. Last year's race only attracted 30,000 people.

Helmy also said that the Tegal regent, Soetjipto, was expected to open the event on Feb. 7.

Total prize money of Rp 13.5 million is on offer. The top three finishers in the 125cc, 250cc and 80 cc classes will receive Rp 1.5 million, Rp 800,000 and Rp 400,000 respectively. The winners will also receive trophies.

Registration is still open. The entry fee is Rp 25,000 per motorcycle. Competitors can register at Pengda IMI Jawa Tengah, Jl. Erlangga Tengah No. 5, Semarang, MMC Club, Jl. Raya Pengasinan Km 3, Purwokerto and Trendypromo Mandira, Jl. Kesehatan 2 No. 6, Bintaro, Jakarta Selatan.

Tickets are Rp 3,500 for Saturday's races and Rp 6,000 for Sunday. There are also tribune tickets costing Rp 15,000 each. (lnt)