The first race of the season
Mike Morgan - May 1, 2007

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Racer, Mike Morgan, rides a stock 2006 Suzuki, GSXR 600, modified for racing. Mike, AMA number 811, intends to race in five races during 2007 according to the following schedule. Check back here for his personal account of progress throughout the season. Mike supports his racing passion by working full time for Kenwood.

 

According to Morgan, “We had quite a few hurdles to over come leading up to race weekend (April 20-22) at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, AL. Knee surgery 5 months ago and still recovering, the RIM Racing trailer stolen a month and a half before the race set us back financially, and finishing the final touches on the new bike.”

 

“Man has it been tough this year! But what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, I guess. Thanks to sponsors and understanding from my wife and daughter, things have come into place quite well.”

 

“I have come to understand how important practice is. It took two practice sessions to get the shift lever in the correct position with my knee still healing. At least the Komodo leathers and boots were soft enough that they did not require any break in time. You can train hard, but there is very little substitute for being on the bike.”

 

“I did qualify in 32^nd. Not really what I wanted, I was hoping for closer to 20^th. I felt like I could go faster if the bike handled better. In morning practice, I did find a better setup that made me more comfortable. I was able to do my qualifying pace during the race, but I just didn’t push it hard enough to lower my time.”

 

For the race, “I got a terrible start and went into turn one in dead last! I fought back though and was able to make up some spots I had lost. I thought I was clear, but on the last lap one person got passed me. I could not regain the position.”

 

I received several comments on the bike by spectators, and everyone’s products worked very well!

 

Mike’s 2007 racing schedule is as follows: