RC signs up to AMA merchandise programme.

Two-time AMA EA Sports Supercross champion, and two-time AMA Chevy Trucks US Motocross champion, Ricky Carmichael is the latest name to sign on to AMA Pro Racing's official merchandise programme.

Carmichael joins a growing list of AMA racing superstars who have reached an agreement with AMA Pro Racing's new merchandising partner, Wateree Sports Group, that allows fans to purchase their gear at AMA events and online. Carmichael's line of merchandise will be available this weekend at Spring Creek Motocross Park in Millville, and is also available on www.USMotocross.com, the official website of the AMA US Motocross Championship.

"The signing of Ricky Carmichael is tremendously exciting for us, and for all motorcycle racing fans," said Jeff Reeves, vice president of Wateree Sports Group, "Having Ricky on board, as well as Nicky Hayden, means the current AMA Motocross, Supercross and Superbike champions are both participating in our programme."

Chris Bradley, AMA Pro Racing's associate vice president of commercial development echoed Reeves' statements.

"The more we can expose Ricky Carmichael to not only two-wheel race fans, but to sports fans in general, the more all involved in the sport of AMA Motocross will benefit," he said, "As a sports fan, you can't help but stop and notice the athlete that Ricky is - his incredible record this season speaks to that. I hope RC and AMA Motocross gear starts showing up on sports fans everywhere."

Carmichael is nearing completion of one of the most extraordinary seasons in the 30-year history of AMA Motocross. The 22-year-old Floridian is undefeated in the
previous nine rounds coming into this weekend's race. Not only has Carmichael earned victory in every round, but he also has pulled off the unprecedented move of winning all 18 motos so far this season. This weekend Carmichael has the opportunity to match the longest winning streak in AMA Motocross history, set by Mark Barnett in the 125 class during the 1980 and 1981 season.

RC is no stranger to winning at Millville, either, having earned two victories at Spring Creek Motocross Park in the 125 ranks and another pair of wins since switching over to the 250 class in 2000.

"I am very excited to launch my own line of official AMA Pro Racing gear," RC said, "It will be great to see all the fans out there supporting me and supporting motorcycle racing in general by wearing official gear with my name and number on it."

Located in the heart of NASCAR country, Wateree Sports Group has extensive experience in merchandise distribution and corporate identity programmes. The company's impressive list of corporate clients includes General Mills, Sprint and Conseco Financial Services, as well as Winston Cup drivers Kyle Petty, John Andretti, Buckshot Jones, and retired drivers and teams owners AJ Foyt and seven-time Winston Cup champion Richard Petty.