2012 Indy MotoGP: The Passion Lives!

Dani Pedrosa- pic by H H

Andrea Dovizioso- Pic by H H

Casey Stoner- pic by H H

Jorge Lorenso- pic by HH

Yamaha helps kids get in on the action

Vendors- pic by HH

Over 65,000 fans shared in the excitement of the fifth Indy MotoGP! Even before the race or qualifications or even the practice began, excitement was in the air. The vendors had a huge  selection of the latest technology and gear. The virtual experience had upclose looks at the newest bikes. Even the kids could experience biking, as Yamaha had a place for them (see photo.) Many organizations got in on the excitement, and some let us know that their love for the sport brings with it a heart, too.  For instance, ABATE had 5 gear checks, free, with donations accepted, for the Hoosier Burn Camp, to send kids who have had  serious burn injuries a specially designed camping experience.  So the excitement went beyond the track. But the track was really something to behold. In spite of several crashes, not the least of which kept Nikki Hayden out of the race, the race went on. The riders voiced concerns over the track condition, notably the three different kinds of surfaces on the Indy track. Even so, Saturday’s practice saw Dani Pedrosa come up with a record lap of 1 minute 38.850 seconds.

 But even track conditions and a crash during Saturday’s practice did not keep Casey Stoner from competing Sunday in the big race, pulling off a major victory, even if it was fourth place, considering his right ankle injuries (fractured ankle, torn ligaments) that would have kept all but the most vigilant of riders from getting back on the bike so soon. He used special Alpinestars boots to accommodate the injury. Ben Spies had mechanical failure 14 minutes into the race, an incredible disappointment, as he was at the front of the pack. At the end of the GP, Dani Pedrosa took first place, for the second time in three years at Indy (He was first in 2010.) Jorge Lorenzo was 10 seconds behind for second place, and Andrea Dovizioso took third place, his fifth podium of the 2012 MotoGP season.

After this exciting race (actually it was three races, Moto2, Moto3, and GP) was yet another- the AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series race. The motorcycles used in this race- these Harleys have minimal variations in their mechanics and adjustments, so essentially it is a race showing the skills of the riders. These engines have more of a grumble-roar than the higher pitched GP bikes. And in the first few minutes, three riders were down, but none seriously injured. A quick race, in which the winners were: 1^st place Tyler O’Hara, second place Kyle Wyman, third place Benjamin Carlson.

The GP continues to give Indy one more way in which to share the passion of an awesome sport!

Review: The Red Pepperoni

The corner of Cragmont Street (IN 7) and Main (IN 56) in Madison, IN now has two great places to stop, eat, and have a good time. The Red Pepper (see my review-June 22, 2012) was popular enough to spin off its Pizza business into its own place, right across the street. Just as the Red Pepper is a converted Standard Oil gas station, the Red Pepperoni is a converted Sinclair Gas station, with the air compressor and other nostalgic elements preserved. And the food on this side of the street is every bit as good!  I had the Thai Chicken Pizza (personal size, $7.99). It was phenomenal! A just-spicy-enough peanut sauce, large chunks of chicken, red peppers, shredded carrot, and blended cheeses, baked golden brown on a tender yet slightly chewy fresh crust. I will be back to try some of the other 14 specialty pizzas, though you can choose any other combination of toppings. The Italiano salad, ($6.95) with house Italian dressing, was also excellent. The assorted greens were fresh, and loaded with plenty of pepperoni, capacola ham, salami, mozzarella, banana peppers, onions, green olives, artichokes, and tomatoes.  There are also calzones, 6 different baked grinders,  6 salads, and a few appetizers and sides, like bread sticks, toasted ravioli, spinach and artichoke dip, loaded fries. Beverages include soft drinks, tea, and domestic and imported beers. Suzie served us our lunch promptly, and with a warm smile. The help all enjoyed the 80’s music track playing as much as we did, and it was great to be able to enjoy our meal with a staff that obviously liked doing their (very good) job. You’ve got to give this place a try!