DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 13, 2015) - AMA Pro Flat Track released the 2015 Operational and Technical rules Friday, and the most notable change was made to the Dash For Cash format based on rider feedback.
For the 2015 season, the winner of the Dash for Cash will be awarded one championship point, but no other finishers will earn points for their performance. Instead, the starting lineup for the GNC1 main will be based on finishing position in the Dash.
Previously, the top five finishers in the six-rider Dash for Cash earned championship points, with five points awarded to the winner. The change in point distribution promises to keep championship battles even tighter as the season progresses.
In 2014, three riders were alive for the title at the season finale in Pomona, Calif., but under the new point schedule, even more would have had a shot at the championship in the final round.
"It's a good thing, for sure," 2013 Grand National Champion Brad Baker and rider of the No. 6 Factory Harley-Davidson said. "The Dash for Cash, you're not recognized for second, third, fourth or fifth. You go out there and you should want to win it."
Riders feel the new format levels the playing field.
"I'm excited about it," said Kenny Coolbeth, rider of the No. 2 Zanotti Racing Harley-Davidson and the series' winningest active rider. "Especially for me, I'm not that good of a starter. I'm better at the end of the race. For (AMA Pro Flat Track) to take the points away, I think it's going to be better."
Starting position can be key in a race, so there's still plenty on the line.
"I think it's really good that (AMA Pro Flat Track) is going to line us up for the main event from placement in the Dash for Cash. I'm happy for that," Coolbeth said.
And with a point and some cash still available for the winner, the battle for the checkered flag promises to be just as exciting, if not more.
"I think it'll add excitement for the race," said Baker. "Now, you'll be out there like, win or don't do anything. It'll boost everybody's intensity for the Dash."
The season begins with a double header at DAYTONA Flat Track March 12 and 13. Every round of the 2015 AMA Pro Flat Track season will be available live, in high definition and free of charge for fans to watch online at www.FansChoice.tv.
