After coming up just short of the 2008 AMA Arenacross Series Championship with rider Kelly Smith, Babbitt’s Monster Energy Kawasaki returns in 2009 with one of the most talented pairs the series has ever seen.

Seasoned veteran Smith returns this season, but new to the stable is the defending series champion and two-time title holder Chad Johnson. Team owner Eddie Babbitt’s has been known for putting the best talent on his bikes and in 2009 it won’t be any different.

“We couldn’t ask for anything better for this season,” said Team Manager Denny Bartz. “Kelly is one of the most experienced riders in the field and Chad has proven he knows what it takes to get the job done. Hopefully, these two do what they did last season and put on a show for the crowd and give Babbitt’s a 1-2 finish.”

Smith, from Ludington, Mich., has raced professionally since 1998. He has been a part of both AMA Motocross and AMA Supercross, but appears to have found a home in the AMA Arenacross Series with one of the most successful teams on the circuit.

Johnson, from Rhienlander, Wis., has won two of the last three AMA Arenacross Series titles. A full time arenacross competitor since 2001, he has arguably logged more laps on the challenging, technical layouts than any of his competitors.

Based out of Grand Rapids, Mich., Babbitt’s Monster Energy Kawasaki has the fortune of kicking off the 2009 season in their backyard at Van Andel Arena, January 2-4. With that incentive, fans can count on seeing the green duo up front as they fight for their spot on the podium in front of family and friends.

A limited number of Gold Circle seating is available. Kid’s seats are just $5 (excluding Gold Circle.) Tickets are available at Van Andel Arena Box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone 616-456-3333 and discounted tickets available at Babbitt’s Sports Center.

For more information on the AMA Arenacross Series log on to www.Arenacross.com.