King Kenny and Yamaha to make historic return to Indy Mile

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Posted July 21, 2009 Email Print


From a press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp....

Cypress California, July 20, 2009 -- Yamaha Motor Corporation takes great pride in announcing that the legendary “King” Kenny Roberts will make an historic return to the world famous “Indy Mile” on Saturday evening, August 29th during this year’s event held in association with the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at the world famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The 2-time AMA Grand National Champion, and 3-time World 500cc Champion, plans to take several hot laps on the infamous Yamaha TZ-750 powered dirt tracker, as built and tuned by former 250 World Champion Kel Carruthers. The TZ-750 powered dirt tracker, thought to be unrideable by many, took a historic last lap win at the 1975 Indy mile that ultimately proved to be one of the most famous wins in American Dirt Track history.

“After the race in 1975 I said they didn’t pay me enough to ride that thing,” said Kenny Roberts, “and this year will be no different! But it should be fun for the fans to hear that Yamaha TZ once again up against the bales.”

“This will truly be a memorable event for motorcycle fans the world over.” said Bob Starr, General Manager of Communications for Yamaha Motor Corporation, “Kenny’s accomplishments years ago formed the basis of what Yamaha’s performance image is today and we are all excited to have him and this extraordinary motorcycle on the track once again.”

Amongst the enthusiastic spectators planning to attend this historic event will be none other than 8-time World Champion Valentino Rossi. “For sure Kenny’s win at this event on the Yamaha 34 years ago was monumental” said Valentino Rossi, “and the fact that I was not born yet makes it even more exciting for me to be there this time!”

Ticket information for the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix and Indy Mile is available at: https://imstix.brickyard.com/SelectedEvent.aspx

Here's a brief video clip of the 1975 race: