Copyright, 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By Michael D. Green

In an interview with a Roadracing World reporter, AHRMA’s Race Director John Goodpaster said that he would be discussing the issue of oil-containment bellypans at the next board meeting, and he felt sure that AHRMA would adopt bellypans in the near future.

“There’s no excuse not to use them,” said Goodpaster. “Every other organization has them. People can be creative, and you won’t even notice them on the old bikes.”

Goodpaster was reacting to the death of former AHRMA 500cc Sportsman Champion Jim Swartout in practice at Mid-Ohio last Friday.

Swartout, 52, of Martinsville, Indiana, suffered fatal injuries in an accident during the afternoon of the AHRMA practice day at Mid-Ohio. As Swartout entered the sweeping turn 10, the engine of his racebike failed, and Swartout crashed at high speed, on his own oil. A second rider, Craig Murray, crashed right behind Swartout, and the two machines and riders tumbled across the track. Swartout received a blunt-force injury to the face during the melee and appeared to die almost instantly. Murray broke his arm and bruised some ribs. A third rider also crashed but was not injured and rode back to the pits.

Services for Swartout were held at the G.H. Herrmann Funeral Home in Greenwood, Indiana this morning.

Swartout was survived by his wife, Barbara, a son, James, Jr. and a daughter, Kristen.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Jim’s wife, Barbara, at 610 Crooked Creek, Martinsville, IN 46151. Contributions in his memory may be made to the AHRMA Racers Benevolent Fund, c/o David Lamberth, Executive Director, P.O. Box 1725, Goodlettsville, TN 37070.