SPEED Channel show the Outdoors some love...

This just in: a MONUMENTAL change in the way the AMA National Championships will be broadcast this year. Think I'm exaggerating? Check this out:

“This is a monumental step forward for AMA Motocross,” said AMA President, Rob Dingman.

There you have it, straight from the top. Yessir, a cable channel has agreed to cover the Nationals! And get this: Also spake Dingman, "We’re also thrilled to be able to present several events on a live basis.”

SEVERAL EVENTS LIVE! Oh, be still my beating heart!

Why, not too long ago I was musing over the fact that we're well into the first decade of the 21st Century, and now the news that our lovable sport has grown up to the point that we finally qualify for live coverage. Not for the whole series, of course... expecting that would simply be ridiculous, right? Yes, I'm being sarcastic, because in my heart of hearts I believe IT'S ABOUT DAMN TIME. But that's just me.

Oh yeah... you can read the rest of the press release here at Racer X Online.

But here's the real news, hidden down in the sixth paragraph of the blurb: Racer X will carry real-time web streaming of certain race elements as well as unique, behind-the-scenes action.

Now THAT'S some news. Finally, someone gets this web-thing and will put it to use. Here's the money quote: "We have spent the last five years building the audio webcast for fans all over the world, and now we're ready to go even bigger. The online coverage of AMA Motocross--both audio and streaming video--will mark yet another step forward for our sport,” said Racer X Illustrated’s founder, Davey Coombs.

Thank you, thank you, THANK you DC for bringing this sport into the 21st Century.