American Focus

American Focus

Nicky Hayden may be the poster child for the IndyGR having done loads of pre-race publicity, but two other Americans are also regularly competing in international roadracing’s top class.

John Hopkins (right) is a veteran of the series, despite being just 25 years old. He made his Grand Prix debut in 2002 at age 18 with Red Bull Yamaha, moved to Suzuki the following year and is now in his first season with Kawasaki. “Hopper” earned his first pole in 2006 and has four podium finishes to date.

Colin Edwards (below) is having his best season in years. Two-time World Superbike champion and a six-year MotoGP veteran, the “Texas Tornado” rides for Tech 3 Yamaha, a factory-backed satellite squad managed by Herve Poncharal. The 34-year-old Edwards has three pole positions and

nine podiums to his credit but is still seeking that elusive first MotoGP win. Will it come at Indy?

With the 125 and 250cc GP support classes joining MotoGP in Indy, Steve Bonsey will have the first opportunity of his short international career to race in front of an American crowd. The 18-year-old Californian rides an Aprilia 125 for Degraaf Grand Prix, and his mentor is none other than three-time 500cc World Champion Kenny Roberts. Could this be the start of something big? Matthew Miles