Scott Russell (to the right with his fist in the air) gets ready to be interviewed by Richard Chambers after winning a thrilling last-lap battle with David Sadowski in the 1988 Suzuki GSXR750 Cup Final, during the WERA GNF at Road Atlanta. It was a riveting final lap with Russell and Ski coming together under the bridge, cleaning Ski’s right leg from his pegs. Practically falling off the bike Ski couldn’t let off the throttle yet somehow get it back under control to make one last attempt to get Russell, but it was too late. Russell crossed the line first, earning the $5000 prize from Suzuki.

Georgia fans are ecstatic that home state hero Scott Russell (to the right with fist in the air) has just won a thrilling Suzuki GSXR750 Cup Final at road Atlanta over David Sadowksi. Russell is about to be intervied by former racer Richard Chambers. Dunlop’s Jim Allen (center) looks to be nearly as happy as Russell. Sadowski looks on and sportingly applauds Russell. (Larry Lawrence photo)
I think that’s Tom Houseworth on the far left. He was wrenching for Cal Rayborn III, who finished third.
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A truly memorable race. I recognize several faces in the photo, including Phil Flack — the SE region Dunlop rep. The race was an affirmation of Russell’s fortitude. A couple of months prior to this event, Scott had broken his knee cap from a hi-side crash aboard Muzzy’s Team Targa ZX10 at Sears. He was only able to compete at the GNF after agonizing therapy, and this was the first time he had ridden since Sears …… the man could barely walk. The sight of Russell — on the cool-down lap, standing on the pegs with hands held high, coasting out from under the bridge and down the hill is seared into the memories of us who witnessed that great moment.
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