Following my earlier post on "Whatever Happened to American Speedway?", 2010 has thankfully seen the return of the USA to the Speedway World Cup, but it's been a far cry from the heady days of the 1980s. This years qualifying round was held at the Lonigo track in Italy and was eventually won by Finland, one point ahead of pre-meeting favourites Slovenia. USA finished third with the host nation bringing up the rear. According to Speedway Star reporter, Giorgio Lazzari "... The Americans were particularly impressive during practice, especially teenager Gino Manzares". Ryan Fisher battled hard with three heat wins in his 12 point total and Chris Kerr gave him solid support but the Americans battle was really lost before the action even started. Firstly, Grand Prix veteran Greg Hancock was a late withdrawal from the event and then the FIM declared that 16 year old Gino Manzares could not ride because he is below the age limit set for international meetings as set out in their regulations. It was good to see a couple of new, young riders being given their chance though, both Kenny Ingalls and Tommy Hedden have toured the UK with Steve Evans' USA Dream Team and have obviously progressed enough to be able to score points on the International scene... good on 'em and welcome back USA.
"Flyin" Ryan Fisher scored 12 points in Italy including three impressive heat wins.
Gino Manzares was impessive in practice but the FIM barred him from representing his country in the Speedwaqy World Cup as he is too young!
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