By Jessica LeeIt’s every young racer’s fantasy to become a factory rider one day but for kids who are in their teens (13-16) that fantasy could become a as close to a reality as it gets by signing up for the Red Bull Rookies Cup. This is the first year that the series has come to the USA, and believe me, they have one great set up for these young riders.
I heard about the Rookies Cup last season but never got the chance to actually see it until now. If you haven’t heard of it yet - here’s the deal... Red Bull and KTM put together a road racing series that now travels all around the world hitting all the major tracks. The rookies are from all over the world and are all on 125cc two stroke machines; each one set up exactly the same. Red Bull is giving some very lucky (and fast) teenagers the chance to travel the world and race motorcycles in a race for the cup.
One thing that is so special about the series is that Red Bull realizes that racing is a family sport. Each rider’s family is invited to come out to the races and the only thing they have to pay for is travel and helmet fees for their child. Red Bull even set up a million dollar lounge overlooking the paddock for the riders and their families to relax in between sessions. No one else is allowed to enter it but I was lucky enough to get a tour (and a free Red Bull...oh ya!) I got a chance to see what it felt like being a big shot for a change!
With video games, foose ball, unlimited Red Bull, great food and a wonderful view of Road Atlanta it’s practically heaven on earth! This place really makes you feel like a MotoGP star. The lounge is a two story building with comfortable couch areas and great tables to sit down for a good meal. For the racers it's a place to chill with their families and friends. They can play video games and get hyped up on energy drinks!
Here are a few pictures of the lounge... I bet you wish you were there!
Source: Bikeland.org