With two of the last three AMA Arenacross Series titles to his credit, defending series champion Chad Johnson leads a talented field of riders into Grand Rapid, Mich.’s Van Andel Arena on January 2-4.

Thousands of Michigan faithful will welcome the new year with some of the most intimate and competitive racing in the world. Johnson, aboard his new Babbitt’s Monster Energy Kawasaki, will begin his title defense and lead title contenders Josh Demuth, teammate Kelly Smith, and X Games Gold Medalist Kevin Johnson out of the gates with two nights of exciting action.

Last year at Van Andel Arena, Brock Sellards took the win on Friday night for the Grand Rapids-based Babbitt’s Monster Energy Kawasaki team and followed it up with a runner-up finish on Saturday. Keith Johnson broke through with his first win of the season on Saturday leading flag-to-flag in the main event.

In the Arenacross Lites class, up-and-comer Cory Green grabbed the Friday night victory while Travis Sewell won the first of four races in 2008 on Saturday.

“On paper the 2009 AMA Arenacross Series looks to be the most competitive seasons ever,” said Jayme Dalsing, director of arenacross, Feld Motor Sports. “Combining legends Josh Demuth and Chad Johnson with current stars Kelly Smith and Kevin Johnson and up-and-coming AMA Arenacross racer Michael Willard adds to the parity of this year’s series.”

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.

Tickets are available online at www.arenacross.com, www.ticketmaster.com, www.tickets.com. For more information on the AMA Arenacross Series log on to www.arenacross.com.