SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 21, 2006) – Kawasaki Racing Team rider, James Stewart, gave another amazing performance aboard his Kawasaki KX450F as the 2006 AMA/Motocross Series began with the Hangtown Classic this weekend. The popular rider from Haines City, Fla., scored a thrilling come from behind victory in the first moto and displayed a calculated effort in the second moto which resulted in a second-place finish, and thus the overall win. Stewart’s overall victory also ended the illustrious 27-race win streak currently held by Ricky Carmichael.

In Motocross Lites action, Team Monster/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider, Ryan Villopoto, was the rider to watch as the gate dropped on the first moto. The talented rookie got a good jump out of the gate and hounded leader Mike Alessi for the duration of the feature to finish second. Villopoto’s teammate, Grant Langston pulled off the track on lap six after experiencing recurring pain in his right wrist. Troy Adams also left the race on the third lap while Chris Gosselaar finished in tenth-place.

As the day progressed the weather deteriorated as consistent rain and drizzle played havoc with the track conditions. In the second moto, Villopoto had his work cut out for him after a few bobbles on the first lap left him playing catch-up throughout the remainder of the race. Gosselaar had the best start for the team and worked his way up from ninth into sixth while Villopoto rounded out the top ten. Troy Adams finished 21st as Langston bowed out to save his wrist for next week.  

Kawasaki Racing Team and Team Monster/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki move on to round two, May 28, at High Point Raceway in Mt. Morris, Pa.