Invited Riders to THQ U.S. Open

THQ U.S. Open Extends Invitations To The Word's Greatest Riders 300,000 $Showdown At MGM Grand Garden Arena October 12, 13 & 14 The 2001 edition of the THQ U.S. Open has invited the most talented motocross, supercross, and arenacross riders on the planet to compete for $100,000 first place purse at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

The top 15 finishing riders in the 2001 SFX Motor Sports supercross circuit and the top three finishing riders in the 125cc Eastern and Western Regional divisions have received invitations to this prestigious event. In addition, Buddy Antunez, who is the five-time champion of the Speed Stick National Arenacross Series, and a couple of promoter's choices complete the line-up.

"We are inviting a great field of riders this year that includes two previous U.S. Open Champions, four current National Champions, two World Champions and several past National Champions," said Tim Clark, Director of the THQ U.S. Open. "And there are still quite a few top riders like Ryan Hughes, John Dowd, and Larry Ward that might have the opportunity to make the start gate... not to mention a couple of top European riders that have shown significant interest in racing the event."

Invitations to the riders and team managers will be sent out the first week of June. Travis Pastrana, who missed last year's event due to a broken leg, has already committed to this year's event as well as several top riders that want to take a shot at the $100,000 first place prize. Ricky Carmichael, who is the defending champion, should be back to defend his title. October is always a tricky time of year with riders switching brands and last minute preparation, but this year's talent pool is as strong as it's ever been. <pre> List Of Invited Riders:

Ricky Carmichael Jeremy McGrath Mike LaRocco Kevin Windham Ezra Lusk Tim Ferry Stephane Roncada David Vuillemin Michael Byrne Sebastien Tortelli Damon Huffman Grant Langston Heath Voss Kyle Lewis Robbie Reynard J.S. Roy Ernesto Fonseca Rodrig Thain Justin Buckelew Travis Pastrana Nathan Ramsey Mike Brown Buddy Antunez Nick Wey </pre> The coveted THQ U.S. Open stands alone in fan excitement with the greatest riders in the world competing for the largest purse in the world, and the most exciting track in the world. You can purchase your tickets by calling Ticketmaster at 702-474-4000, at the MGM Grand Box Office, or online at www.ussx.com <http://www.ussx.com>.

-SFX Motor Sports