Some of the most extreme racing on two wheels, against the backdrop of an unforgettable venue, will crown the first AMA Racing Amateur National Champions of 2009. The AMA Racing Ice Race Grand Championships are set to get the season started Feb. 14-15 at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mount Pleasant, Mich.

"The 2009 AMA Racing season promises to be better than ever, and we expect to set the bar high early with the AMA Racing Ice Race Grand Championships," said AMA Flat Track Director Ken Saillant. "Not only will these incredible ice racers battle each other, but they'll also fight the equally extreme Michigan winter weather, which always provides an extra challenge for both competitor and machinery."

Promoted by Baja MX, the AMA Racing Ice Race Grand Championships feature riders from 4 years old to 50-plus competing on bikes that range from lightly modified off-road machines to full-on, purpose-built ice racers. Riders will battle for Grand Championships and National No. 1 plates in a number of classes.

The top riders will also battle it out for the AMA Racing Ice Racer of the Year award, given to the most impressive rider on the ice, while the youth riders will chase the honor of AMA Racing Youth Rider of the Year.

Of course, not all of the action will be on the track this year, with the AMA Racing Ice Race Grand Championships being held at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort, which is certain to be packed on the Valentines Day weekend. In addition to the two days of racing on the ice, the Soaring Eagle will host a Freestyle Snowcross Show, Snowboarding Rail Jam Competition, Public Snow Luge, as well as other forms of live entertainment.

Soaring Eagle's facilities include a neighboring field of 100 acres and an impressive snow hill. The hotel includes more than 500 rooms and suites, fine dinning and buffets, a massive gaming area, and "Kid Quest" child care, in addition to other amenities.

To learn more about the event, see www.bajamx.com or call the Baja MX office at (989) 871-3356.