Bridgestone Congratulates Chad Reed, Reed Claims the 250CC U.S. Open Championship Title
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 17, 2003) -- Bridgestone shod rider, Chad Reed, proved his mettle on American soil at the recent U.S. Open in Las Vegas. Reed, a Factory Yamaha team rider, came to the track prepared to give a large portion of his $100,000 winnings to fellow Australian and friend, Jamie Brockman, now recuperating from a serious accident. Beating out three time Supercross champion, Ricky Carmichael, Reed said that this track is fun, very similar to the tracks at home in Australia.

Bridgestone is extremely pleased with Reed's first place finish and David Vuillemin's third place finish at the MGM Grand Garden Arena last weekend. Reed's dedication to Bridgestone has proven to be a win-win combination. The Bridgestones responded to perfection on a track that is noted for its tight, technical layout.

Motorcycle/Kart Product Manager, Bob Graham, says, "Reed is just beginning to show what he can do on Bridgestones. This is not an easy race by any stretch. It takes a tire that can corner, and respond on a dime. Reed had a strong desire to win this race and he was supported by tires that could manage the feat. We're delighted Reed is ending this year's season as the U.S. Open Champion."

Nashville-based Bridgestone / Firestone North American Tire, LLC, is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Holding, Inc., whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is the world's largest tire and rubber company. BFNT develops, manufactures, and markets Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton and associate and private brand tires. The company is focused on wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light truck, commercial vehicle, off-road, agricultural, motorcycle and other tires to its customers in North America.