This just in from RPM:

“Twice in one year, RPM Racing L.L.C., the WERA South Central regional affiliate is introducing a new venue to fill its Round 7 near Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The date for the RPM Regional Final is September 14-16 with an open practice on Friday. This is to replace Texas Motor Speedway being shut-down due to repaving the NASCAR oval.

“The new speedway is named Grand Bayou Circuit, aka No Problem Raceway. It is located 35 miles Southwest of Baton Rouge. It is a combination drag strip and road coarse. The track is officially 14 turns, 1.8 miles in length, 50 feet wide, and has asphalt mixed with limestone. RPM will host a full weekend of races to include the final rounds of the Coca-Cola 4 Hour and HRD Mini 2 Hour Endurance on Saturday. Sunday will play host to Mini Sprints, Vintage and a full WERA Sportsman Sprint schedule.

“The RPM Steering Riders Committee (Harold Hixon, Scott Howse, David Kagan, Greg Abbott, and Pete Martins) will have made final adjustments to the track safety before the race weekend.

“Go to www.noproblemraceway.com to view shots of the track. RPM has also shot on-board footage that gives more of an updated view of the track. Go to www.rpmraceclub.com message board to view the footage.”

Loris Capirossi was fastest in the first 500cc qualifying session at Assen, Holland on Thursday, followed by Valentino Rossi and Alex Barros.

The Dutch TT, a round of the Grand Prix World Championship, is held on Saturday instead of Sunday, with practice and qualifying starting on Thursday instead of Friday.

Times follow:

1. Loris Capirossi, Italy, Honda, 2:01.417
2. Valentino Rossi, Italy, Honda, 2:01.649
3. Alex Barros, Brazil, Honda, 2:02.338
4. Kenny Roberts, USA, Suzuki, 2:02.349
5. Norike Abe, Japan, Yamaha, 2:02.707
6. Max Biaggi, Italy, Yamaha, 2:02.806
7. Alex Criville, Spain, Honda, 2:02.921
8. Tohru Ukawa, Japan, Honda, 2:03.150
9. Shinya Nakano, Japan, Yamaha, 2:03.204
10. Carlos Checa, Spain, Yamaha, 2:03.345
11. Jurgen v. d. Goordbergh, Holland, Proton, 1:03.540
12. Sete Gibernau, Spain, Suzuki, 1:03.589
13. Noriyuki Haga, Japan, Yamaha, 1:03.699
14. Olivier Jacque, France, Yamaha, 1:03.707
15. Garry McCoy, Australia, Yamaha, 1:04.046
16. Chris Walker, Great Britain, Honda, 1:04.287
17. Leon Haslam, Great Britain, Honda, 1:05.465
18. Jose Luis Cardoso, Spain, Yamaha, 1:05.561
19. Haruchika Aoki, Japan, Honda, 1:05.607
20. Anthony West, Australia, Honda, 1:06.465


In the first 250cc qualifying session, a quartet of Aprilias led the way with Marco Melandri fastest ahead of Tetsuya Harada, Jeremy McWilliams and Roberto Rolfo. America wild card rider Jason DiSalvo was 28th-fastest, just behind 27th-fastest Katja Poensgen. Times follow:

1. Marco Melandro, Italy, Aprilia, 2:05.194
2. Tetsuya Harada, Japan, Aprilia, 2:05.289
3. Jeremy McWilliams, Great Britain, 2:05.514
4. Roberto Rolfo, Italy, Aprilia, 2:06.088
5. Daijiro Katoh, Japan, Honda, 2:06.094
6. Randy de Puniet, France, Aprilia, 2:06.312
7. Sebastian Porto, Argentina, Yamaha, 2:06.792
8. Emilio Alzamora, Spain, Honda, 2:06.938
9. Alex Hofmann, Germany, Aprilia, 2:06.940
10. Roberto Locatelli, Italy, Aprilia, 2:07.315
27. Katja Poensgen, Germany, Aprilia, 2:12.590
28. Jason DiSalvo, USA, Honda, 2:12.832


In the first 125cc qualifying session, Gino Borsoi was fastest ahead of Lucio Cecchinello and Toni Elias. Times follow:

1. Gino Borsoi, Italy, Aprilia, 2:13.485
2. Lucio Cecchinello, Italy, Aprilia, 2:13.753
3. Toni Elias, Spain, Honda, 2:13.792
4. Youichi Ui, Japan, Derbi, 2:13.890
5. Manuel Poggiali, Italy, Gilera, 2:14.356
6. Jaroslav Hules, Czech Republic, Honda, 2:14.478
7. Steve Jenkner, Germany, Aprilia, 2:14.592
8. Stefano Perugini, Italy, Ital Jet, 2:14.769
9. Noboru Ueda, Japan, TSR-Honda, 2:14.800
10. Angel Nieto Jr., Spain, Honda, 2:14.812

Racer Chuck Chouinard, who was stripped of his second-place finish in the Loudon AMA 750cc Supersport race over allegedly modified valves he says were only cleaned using Scotch-Brite, has now been suspended by AMA Pro Racing.

The suspension continues a crack-down on rider behavior by AMA Pro Racing, which fined Mat Mladin $5000 and one championship point for remarks Mladin allegedly made during a press conference at Loudon. Comparing an AMA press release on the fine and point deduction to a tape recording of Mladin’s remarks shows that the AMA release grossly misrepresented what Mladin said and how he said it. That case is headed for the courts, insiders say, while AMA officials are maintaining a hard line and have privately said that Mladin can go race someplace else if he doesn’t like it.

According to Chouinard associates, Chouinard has been suspended for one year for his conduct following his disqualification at Loudon, when he allegedly spit at an official, threatened to ram the second-place trophy (which he had been ordered to return) up an official’s ass, and came close to hitting an uninvolved grid marshall with his pit bike while leaving the tech area in a rage.

Chouinard and his team have denied all charges and said that he did not spit at an official, did not hit a grid marshall with a pit bike or intentionally even come close to the walking official, and did not threaten to ram a trophy up an official’s ass.

Meanwhile, Roadracing World today took possession of two valves from the involved engine and while preliminary examination showed no metal removal, detailed measurements and photos of the valves and stock valves using a microscope will be taken, and the results will be posted on roadracingworld.com.

Showing Its Ugly Ass

so much for freedom of speech, guess the AMA once again shows its ugly ass.




Mladin Fine Okay

I’m taking advantage of the link provided by Roadracing World to your e-mail addresses.

I think Mat Mladin deserved a fine for hijacking that press conference. However, I think championship points should be deducted for on-track actions, not for anything that happens off-track.

Keith Patti

P.S. Here are some links you might find interesting:

http://venus.13x.com/roadracingworld/audio/Mladin_Interview_Small.mp3

Mladin’s taped comments from RRW

http://www.concordmonitor.com/stories/sports/motor/joesqualifying.shtml

Item claiming Mladin refused interviews to protest track conditions.

http://www.theunionleader.com/Articles_show.html?article=3293&archive=1

Item for which Mladin “copped a lotta flak.”

(The “flak” item appeared Friday morning. The “protest” item came out Saturday morning. Mladin’s taped interview was Saturday afternoon.)

http://www.concordmonitor.com/stories/sports/sportcol/ray%27s%5Ftidbits%5F0

Sunday’s Monitor included this item (second in column) attributing the protest claim to Mladin’s “PR person.”

http://www.theunionleader.com/Articles_show.html?article=3272&archive=1

Sunday’s 600 race: “The pathetic surrender …” more from the Concord Monitor:

http://www.concordmonitor.com/stories/news/recent/loudon%5Fii.shtml

http://www.concordmonitor.com/stories/sports/motor/mcycle%5Fnotes%5F061701.

http://www.concordmonitor.com/stories/sports/motor/motorcycles%5F061801.sht

more from the Union Leader:

http://www.theunionleader.com/Articles_show.html?article=3239&archive=1

http://www.theunionleader.com/Articles_show.html?article=2447&archive=1

http://www.theunionleader.com/Articles_show.html?article=3274&archive=1

http://www.theunionleader.com/Articles_show.html?article=3155&archive=1



Fine Inapprpriate And Excessive

I want to state my opinion, based on listening to a recording of the Mladin interview, that the AMA fine was inappropriate and excessive. Further, after reading the comments of Larry Lawrence on the WERA BBS, where he called Mladin a liar based on his own interpretation of events, I think your PR man had an axe to grind. It would appear his “feelings” of what occurred at the press interview over-rode a cogent, intelligent analysis of the facts in evidence. I do not view Mladin’s comments, or conduct, as “detrimental” to the sport or to the AMA. Could someone with more maturity or reasonableness please review this situation?

Jeff Hunter
AMA #693145




There Doesn’t Seem To Be Any Correlation

I read the AMA’s press release which detailed the reason for fining Mr. Mladin and removing one point in his score for the race at Loudon last week.

Then, I read and listened to Mr. Mladin’s actual statement during the press conference.

There doesn’t seem to be any correlation between the two. Mr. Mladin was very calm and reasoned in his press conference, while also conveying how upset he was at being wrongly portrayed by media reports. This seems understandable, and a proper and responsible way for an AMA Champion to act. During this portion of his comments, he mentioned that he was tired of this sh**. While I don’t normally use vulgar language in public conversation, it does have the effect of making a strong point, when used sparingly. I believe Mr. Mladin was indeed using this word to make a strong point, and as he did not use any other vulgar language during his statement, I think it was a reasonable thing to do.

He then mentioned how disorganized the scheduling of press conferences have been. He did not blame Mr. Lawrence of the AMA for the disorganization, but only mentioned that he had been the person to schedule the conference, and that the schedule had not been communicated to Mr. Mladin. Again, a proper and responsible way for an AMA champion to act. Mr. Mladin alone, as the reigning AMA Superbike champion, has a responsibility to try to elevate the standing of his sport. If he believes the sport would be better served by speaking out against a perceived disorganization, he has the podium to do so. This was not an attempt to harm the AMA, but to help make it better.

Then, Mr. Mladin mentioned in a very offhand manner, in response to comments on his record-breaking lap time, that it was in fact slowed partially by two fellow factory racers. He also conveyed his disappointment that his lap time wasn’t any faster because of this, and he thought the two riders should have known to get out of his way. While I tend to think that Mr. Bostrom and Mr. Pegram do in fact know how to get out of his way, it shows that Mr. Mladin is at heart a fierce competitor, and this is something commendable in a champion racer.

For these comments, the AMA saw fit to punish Mr. Mladin. I don’t think this is justified, and only serves to make the AMA seem small and petulant, far over-reacting to a perceived criticism that simply isn’t there.

Please reconsider your organization’s action, and rescind the fine and point removal. Mr. Mladin is a fine competitor, and seems like the kind of person the AMA would be better off to have as a friend than an enemy.

Charles Stembridge




God-given Right To His Opinion

The nice gentlemen at the AMA must have missed the movie “Good Morning Vietnam.” Invariably, the media will always twist words and actions in order to make the opinions of many into headlines. Check out that story on Lady Di if you don’t believe me! What I don’t understand is the undeniable lack of logic on the part of the AMA! What exactly is the purpose of such an organization!? Why does it take, in a most prolific manner I might add, someone like Mr. Ulrich to see things clearly and give much needed information to the public at large? Should I really care about giving money over and over again at races nationwide, and seeing nothing positive come out of it? I attend the race in Daytona every year! Need I bring up a few of the many absurd happenings during race day this past March?

In the end, you (the AMA) fined a man simply because he expressed a God given right to his opinion! If Mat Mladin thinks you are doing a crappy job, then maybe that point should be considered for a few seconds! The racers put their lives on the line each and every second they spend on the track! Ask Mr. Ulrich the animosity he can feel in just a few seconds while his son is out racing. I currently work for one of the largest global corporations in existence. Safety is the #1 overriding priority each day I go to work! Why can’t the AMA put that on the list as well?

Sincerely,

Chas Johnson



Fine Speaks Volumes

That the AMA would fine a person for speaking their mind in the country whose First Amendment is freedom of speech speaks volumes. This clearly demonstrates why street riders I’ve meet over the last years are not renewing membership – lack of support for the members and the racers. Major changes are need in personnel to find a new direction. What a sad, sad day for the AMA.

Jim K.




Mladin And Choinard Treatment A Travesty At Loudon

AMA’s treatment of Choinard is a travesty. I refuse to renew my membership until AMA Pro Racing stops treating racers so poorly. The Mladin thing is worse because I don’t think the fine or the one point happens if Mladin is American. Keep this up and all the expensive PR in the world will not save you. It really seems like the AMA is to motorcycle racing what Don King is to boxing.

Don Gosen
Ontario, Canada



What A Joke

Thanks for bringing to light what a joke Vanderslice and his whole organization are. Thanks as well as coming up with the Air Fence fund, that was a great idea and has been very successful. Your magazine is the only one I have a subscription to. It is without a doubt the best racing/sportbike magazine ever.

Thanks,

Bart Fuqua



Demanding A Resignation

Due to vanderslice’s unprofessional conduct, please ask(demand) his resignation.

He has nothing to lose from lack of practice during changing track conditions, but the riders certainly do. Vanderslice is not the person to represent the AMA. He especially shouldn’t running a race where lives are at stake.

James Arhart, DDS
AMA #305264




Heavy Hand Of The AMA

I used to be a card-carrying member of the AMA due to participation in the USBA that was based out of Salt Lake City, UT and the Hare-N-Hound events that were held in Utah, Idaho and Nevada back in the late 1980s. I had first experienced the heavy hand of the AMA in regards to the constraints being placed on the Offroad Series, followed closely with the plundering of the CCS. I had been part of the AMA before, during, and after the entire CCS debacle and it is evident in my eyes that no matter what spin the AMA puts on the judges decision, you don’t pay out over 3 million dollars to the defendant if you were right.

But the AMA seems to think that not only are they above the law, but that they are the law. Penalizing a rider when he exercises his freedom of speech (even if he is Australian) is inexcusable. The entire chain of events from press conference through Sunday’s aborted 600 race are deplorable. If the AMA truly had the racers’ interest at heart, versus trying to make a buck off the race, more time should have been given to ensuring that the racetrack was fit to race on. Due to lack of regard for racer safety, I would be surprised if any of the factory teams show up next year at NHIS. At least Sears Point is making an effort to redesign their course to make it safer.

Your actions and words during and following the races are alienating fans and racers. Mr. Vanderslice’s actions alone have shown that the AMA believes that it is more important than the racers who put it on the line for pride and determination. If you are going to continue to treat these brave people in this manner then it is my opinion that the AMA should abandon sanctioning races and go after those pesky helmet laws that are so deplorable. Leave racing to organizations such as WERA and various local clubs that are concerned about the safety and well being of their riders.

Good day,

Ed Fox




AMA Pro Racing Punishment of Mladin Completely Inappropriate

I have a very direct interest in AMA Pro Racing. My son is an AFM and AMA road racer and will be competing in the upcoming AMA Nationals at Laguna Seca.

The purpose of this note is to express my opinion regarding your fining Mat Mladin $5000 and penalizing him 1 point for what you term “detrimental conduct” during a post-qualifying press conference at NHIS. To be blunt, I believe that your punitive actions against Mladin were completely inappropriate.

I have listened to the unabridged interview on the Roadracing World website. The only area that I feel was even questionable was when Mat once said he was tired of this “s***,” referring I believe, to the local reporter’s article that [unfairly?] accused Mat of not being accessible to reporters.

Your press release states that “AMA Pro Racing deems Mladin’s actions in the press conference as inexcusable. The public form of a press conference is not the place to raise personal issues with AMA Pro Racing officials, newspaper reporters, fellow competitors or use foul language.”

I agree that a press conference is not the place for foul language (although one “s***” is certainly not a biggie these days), but I strongly disagree that a press conference is not the place to raise issues. As far as I can tell, there is just about no other place that AMA riders can effectively express their concerns today. Please correct me if I’m wrong, but it is my belief that currently there is no ombudsman or other such channel within AMA Pro Racing for riders to bring up such issues as track safety, officiating, or competitor behavior in a meaningful way.

In closing, I would like to say that TRACK SAFETY is always very much on my mind. My son contributed $100 to the Roadracing World Air Fence Fund as soon as he heard about it. At Sears Point in Turn 10 I saw with my own eyes how Air Fence can save a rider from serious injury. I also have seen how “air bales” have saved riders at Sears Point in AFM races. Track safety means a whole lot to a parent of a road racer. Frankly when I learned about the Roadracing World Air Fence Fund, I was APPALLED that the AMA hadn’t done anything visible in this regard for years, even though the technology has been available.

Thank you very much for listening,

Ron Kunzelman




Loudon A Fiasco

I am a huge road racing fan and also a licensed CCS racer and card-crrying AMA member. However the actions of the AMA at the Loudon event this past year and at the 2000 event leave me with some pretty serious doubts about the competency of the select few in charge of these events.

First of all, let me ask that you, please continue to bring AMA road racing to NHIS. I happen to live only 30 minutes from the track and this is the only professional road racing event that I am able to attend.

Now, the real reason for my writing. You guys need to pull your collective heads out of your asses. Penalizing the AMA national champion by fining him and taking away a championship point is ridiculous. Do we no longer live in a country where we are allowed to speak our minds? By not allowing the riders a few practice laps after the track was dried turned out to be another really dumb move. You denied the fans what they had paid for. I know you can’t do anything about the weather but last year you guys sat around for hours before finally deciding that the race be postponed to MONDAY. How many people do you think were able to make it back for the race on MONDAY? Same thing again this year, how many of the fans actually made it for the main event?

Way to go for the 600 SS winner and the others on the podium, but do you people really think that this is the way these guys really wanted to get on the box? I know that I would be disappointed that I did not get the chance to race against the best 600 SS riders in the country just because the powers that be felt it necessary to flex their muscle.

I think that you owe:

1)The fans an apology and a partial refund

2)A refund to Mat Mladin of $5000 and reinstatement of the point taken away

Get it together soon or I fear that the AMA will lose not only members but the credibility that it has worked hard for all these years.

John Giordano
AMA #434158
CCS #647816



AMA Did What Had To Be Done

TO ALL AT THE A.M.A. SOMETIMES WE ALL HAVE TO DO THINGS THAT WILL NOT PLEASE ALL PEOPLE.

I THINK WHAT YOU DID HAD TO BE DONE, PERHAPS IT WAS NOT WHAT YOU REALLY WANTED TO DO, BUT IT WAS THE RIGHT THING, AND I AM PERSONALLY GLAD YOU DID IT.

JOE FENECH




AMA Member Very Disappointed

As a AMA member I am very disappointed the AMA has fined Matt Mladin regarding his comments in Last week’s press conference. Objectively listening to the file downloaded from Roadracing World’s website it is evident that personal feelings entered into the decision to fine Mladin. The interview was courteous, truthful and not worthy of any type of penalty. If the press published the truth, perhaps racers would not be in the position to voice their opinions of the truth. I am glad Matt spoke his mind and set the record strait.

Regards,

Marco Zucchi
AMA # 406529
WERA # 205
Bluewave Computing
Director of Sales and Marketing





AT A Loss Over Mladin’s Fine and Point Loss

After listening to the recording of Mat Mladin’s post-qualifying press conference at the Loudon race facility, I am at a complete loss as to why the AMA would fine Mladin and dock him a championship point. Especially puzzling is the championship point, considering that he is being penalized for a behavior that was demonstrated not during the actual race.

I have no affiliation with motorcycle racing other than being a fan. If the AMA is trying to mold motorcycle racers into the NASCAR paradigm of milk-drinking, all-American, bible-quoting pretty boys who are trying as hard to sell soap as to win races, I will not be around to see it. I like racers who are focused on the task and willing to speak their minds.

I’d be willing to bet that if Mladin’s (or any other racer’s) sponsors take enough offense at on-or off-track behavior, the loss of sponsorship dollars will have much more of an effect than the AMA’s petty slap.

Tom Shields
Fort Worth, Texas





Request for Reconsideration of Mat Mladin Disciplinary Action

I am an ardent supporter of AMA racing and attend events all over the country. However, I feel that AMA’s disciplinary action towards Mat Mladin was inappropriate, considering what was actually said during the press conference. I have reviewed the taped interview of Mladin and the AMA press release and it certainly appears that the disciplinary action taken by AMA was reactionary, excessive and even vengeful.

I have also seen Larry Lawrence’s “explanation” as stated on http://www.wera.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/002893.html , and invite you to do the same. I am asking that you do a complete review of this action and take any steps you deem necessary to make it more appropriate to the “sins” committed.

It is apparent that the AMA press release, obviously written by the still-smarting Mr. Lawrence, distorted what Mladin had actually said and the manner in which he said it. When I first read the press release, I agreed with the AMA disciplinary action. After hearing the tape itself, I realized how inaccurate and self-serving the press release was. It is apparent to me that Mr. Lawrence was attempting to justify the disciplinary action by distorting the truth and essentially demonizing Mladin for being critical of his organizational skills. I don’t know if the press conference was disorganized or not, but Mladin thought so and should have been allowed to speak his opinion without fear of reprisal. AMA disciplinary actions should not be used as a foil by its PR representative for personal vendettas or revenge.

I believe that Mr. Mladin was indeed frustrated with the reporter who wrote a story that he was refused an interview because the riders were being forced to race on an unsafe track. After reading Lawrence’s accounting of this incident, it wasn’t Mladin who refused the interview at all, but an unnamed pit worker. Regardless, Mladin should have had the right to refute this reporter’s allegations to the very press that was making them…what more appropriate venue was there?

In addition, regarding the criticism of the Loudin track, Mladin was just stating the obvious fact…that Loudon is an unsafe track for racing motorcycles and the owners have done very little in the recent past to make it safer for bikes. I wonder what AMA’s position would have been if one of Superbike’s star riders had been killed after hitting one of Loudon’s infamous walls? Mladin was not the only critical voice amongst the riders about the unsafe track conditions. Several other riders voiced their concerns in Speedvision interviews, albeit a bit more subtlety than Mat did. Actually, I feel that AMA’s focus should have more emphasis on rider safety at these tracks, much like WSB and GP racing has for its riders.

Thanks for your reconsideration.

Jim Daniel
Frankfort, KY



It’s Unbelievable

With regard to Mat Mladin being fined and losing points. After listening to the tape recording of the press interview I find that it’s unbelievable that a rider cannot express himself in an honest manner with regards to track conditions, slower riders, printed misquotes and the lack of professionalism shown by the AMA Officials. With reference to the so-called profanity. One word! Give me a break! I’ve heard worse than that from children. Also, for Merrill Vanderslice to make a comment the “we run the AMA – they don’t”, referring to the riders, shows complete ignorance. Without the riders (racers and street riders), there would be no AMA! Who does he think basically pays his salary and provides him a job? I say, give Mladin back his point and money!

Al Lyons, President
California Motorcycle Road Race Association




AMA And The Racer

Lately all I have been hearing about is all of the challenges racers are having with the AMA, from the 750cc Supersport rider who was disqualified for cleaning his valves, to the incident where the racers were not allowed practice laps on a slippery track. Then there is the Mladin fining issue which seems out of hand. And I feel you should share the Air Fence with the other racing groups. I personally contributed to the Air Fence fund through my motorcycle group. I understand that there is a lot of power plays going on and political type issues bantered about by various groups, but it seems to me that the purpose of the AMA is to work with the racers to provide safe and fun events that are fair for all. That includes not excluding the privateers from gaining track practices prior to an event. I have been considering getting into racing as a hobby, but as of this moment, I would prefer to involve myself with racing groups other than the AMA. Please use your power wisely and make the AMA a good organization for all that love this sport like I do.

Sincerely,

Richard Toepper



Mladin Press Conference Made A New Fan

After listening to the Mladin interview, I was left a fan. I never really was a Mladin fan, in fact I wanted a T-shirt that says “Anyone but Mladin”; but after listening to the interview, I now like him. He’s not afraid to speak up, even though nothing he said was terrible, it was all the truth as he saw it.

Free speech is great in this country, isn’t it? That means we all don’t have to walk around and praise everything that George Bush does or the laws he makes for this country. We can disagree, and not get fined, jailed, or penalized in any way. If George Bush wanted me to go out and do something I wasn’t comfortable with, I would have to voice my concerns. Sure, if this were a different society, those comments could get me in trouble; but luckily, I can disagree all I want and still whistle all the way home.

We listen to interviews with the professional racers because we want to know how they feel, what’s on their minds REALLY, not some “Oh I better make this rose-colored or I’m going to get in trouble” made up BS with a fake happy face on.

If Mat doesn’t like how the other riders rode around the track in qualifying, he has a right to say so. If he doesn’t like the track safety conditions, he has a right to say so. If he is being misquoted by the press, he DEFINITELY has a right to say so.. and what better place than back to the press, where the misquote originated. He was trying to set the record straight, and the time and place was perfect for that.

Also, “using profanity at times”, I heard “shit” one time (compare that with 162 times on South Park last week). Big fat hairy deal. Was there a rule before entering the press conference that he COULDN’T say any particular words or talk about any particular topic?

Don’t try to control what the riders say, it takes away from the experience for us spectators. We want to know if they’re scared to go out on a track; we watch with anticipation and hope no one gets hurt after hearing stuff like that. I think that fining and docking him a point is completely unfair; there were no rules against him saying what he said until after he said it; then all of a sudden it’s wrong to speak your mind.

With all of the unfortunate decisions AMA racing has been making, it could very easily get taken over by a more “open minded” organization that would give the riders perks to come over. I think if you continue to piss off the riders, they most certainly will abandon your organization when something better comes along (can I say “piss off”? I hope I don’t get fined for that).

I know I’m watching AMA racing because of the riders. If they left, I’d be just as happy watching them race in some other organization. I broke my back in a race two years ago; track safety was not a paramount concern at the track I was at. After the agony, wheelchair, rehab, humility, and the daily pain I go through, I only wish more people had the balls to stand up and say that a track is unsafe, so that maybe the tracks would become safer.

I don’t want to see my favorite riders have to go through what I went through. Maybe I should have spoken up; I would rather see people maybe look crabby than to have to live with my regrets.

But in closing, it’s just plain ridiculous and mean-spirited to fine and penalize a rider for conduct he does when he’s not riding that doesn’t (negatively) affect the safety of the other riders. Again, I was never a Mladin fan, but I’m quickly becoming one; and I’ve always been an AMA fan, but I’m becoming much less of one with every dictator-like decision that comes out; like unfair enforcement of rules (letting certain rider ride at the track before a race, and not letting others), dragging your feet when it comes to jumping on opportunities to make the riders safer, trying to force the riders to race on a track they don’t feel comfortable with when all they asked for was a lousy five laps, and now this). Realize we’re not in this for you; we’re in this for us and the professional riders.

Steve Bauman




Detrimental Conduct Is BS

The AMA is great for protecting the average “Joe’s” right/privileges to ride. AMA PRO RACING has gone downhill and down hill REAL FAST. Refusal to acknowledge when you’re not “in the right” and taking your lumps is hypocritical when phrases are doled out such as “worthy of a champion”. Like a little child who does not get his way, you concoct total BS regarding Mladin. Take the S_ht out of your ears and listen to the riders and stop making up childish stories. You just make the whole organization look like a bunch of ignorant buffoons. Before the factories eventually jump ship to Formula USA.. And it will happen if this keeps up…..

Oh yeah, the AMA didn’t care about Air Fences until John U made the move. You all better get some schrader valves installed in your heads to deflate some of your pompous egos.

Michael De Blanco




Questioning AMA Tactics

As a competitor, and a Loudon Club racer I question your tactics striping Mat Mladin of his pole point and fining him $5000.

After reviewing a tape of the actual words spoken during this conference it seems to me that you are fining Maladin for expressing his opinion rather then for use of profanity. The punishment is unusually harsh for simple profanity. In fact this punishment is unprecedented.

Major League Baseball does not have the power to do what you did. Take John Rocker as an example. Major League Baseball did not fine or suspend him for voicing his opinion. (although they did threaten)

“Selig made his decision to punish Rocker in full knowledge that no arbitrators would uphold it, but what the heck, he could now say to the cameras, ‘Hey, I tried.’ That Major League Baseball had absolutely no business restricting Rocker from pursuing his livelihood because he is a bigoted asshole went curiously unremarked on by the mainstream media.” Quoted from Allen Barra. Allen Barra is a sports columnist for the Wall Street Journal and a regular contributor to the New York Times.

My point.

Do not use your power to censor. This is unprofessional. The AMA is a small operation where you are not in the general public eye. You will probably get away with this. It’s wrong to punish a rider for having an opinion, even if he is dead wrong. Although on a few points I think Maladin struck a nerve.

Please try to run your business in a more professional manner in the future.

Thanks

John Kabacinski



Yet Another Blunder

Mat Mladin was asked in a press conference, if he’d share how he set the track record. With that Mat set out to set the “record straight” in a few other areas which caught those in attendance off-guard.

I view the $5000 fine and point reduction action taken by the AMA as yet another blunder in the AMA’s handling of the Pro Racing series and still another reason why “WE ARE THE AMA, TAKE BACK THE AMA” is a valid banner and and cry for overhaul immediately.

Tom Drumm
RW subscriber/Air Fence Contributor




Totally Unacceptable

I think the way you handled the incident totally unacceptable. Mat is the 2-time AMA Superbike Champion and when he speaks about issues such as track safety he speaks not only for himself but for the other racers as well. Most of the factory riders didn’t even push each other due to the safety of the track. I believe the only reason you fined him and docked him a point was to show the press that no rider will badmouth the AMA and get away with it. Ask yourselves a question, how long have riders been complaining about Loudon. Has anything been done? No. The only thing AMA has done is place the Air Fences in certain areas of tracks. I will however compliment AMA on that. It is a good step towards safety. I believe every rider will agree with me by saying Loudon isn’t a motorcycle track. The track owners and officials don’t care if AMA races there or not. All they care about is the money. Mostly coming from NASCAR and other car series. I’m waiting for a good excuse as to why Mat was punished for stating the facts about the racer’s safety. How many times does someone have to complain before anything will be done? Tired of Yosh Suzuki winning? Enjoy the money? Waiting for someone to die? I know, I know, politics…..right? Give me a break.

Regards,

Jacob Warren




Problem Just Keeps Getting Worse

I have been watching AMA pro events for 20 years. The AMA racing organization has always seemed to leave much to be desired in most areas including event organization, event promotion, rules administration and track safety. The sad thing is that despite the years of criticism and continuing turnover of high level management, the problem just keeps getting worse, highlighted by the AMA’s poor handling of criticism by Mat Mladin. As a past amateur racer I am always amazed that various amateur organizations seem to perform better than the AMA Pro racing.

Bob Chappuis

Former racer Shane Clarke, now a tuner and 750cc Supersport engine builder working with Ben Spies and Chris Ulrich, says that his experience with AMA Tech has been nothing but professional. In an e-mail refering to the controversy involving Chuck Chouinard’s disqualification at Loudon, Clarke wrote:

“After reading a lot of the comments being made about Chouinard’s DQ, I kinda think there must have been more there than just the ‘metal removal’ off of the valves. On RoadracingWorld.com there was a comment about Rob and his ‘sidekick’ Terry making accusations about Chuck’s weight vs. his performance. So far those guys have been VERY fair and professional when I have been in tech with Ben’s bike and Chris’ bike! If Chouinard’s crew upset the tech guys or started something with them I might see it. I understand the BS that is going on with the Merrill, but Rob, Terry have been really professional and I just don’t see those comments coming from them! I’ll see you at Laguna and hope CU and Ben can be on the box again!”

What follows are e-mails www.roadracingworld.com readers sent to AMA Pro Racing CEO Scott Hollngsworth, AMA Pro Racing Director of Competition Merrill Vanderslice, and Chairman of the Board of AMA Pro Racing, Mark Tuttle, regarding Pro AMA Racing’s censuring Mat Mladin by fining him $5000 and the Championship point he earned by taking pole postion at Loudon. For details of why the AMA says it punished Mladin, and to hear a recording of what Mladin actually said in the post-Superbike-qualifying press conference at Loudon on June 16, click here:
http://venus.13x.com/roadracingworld/index.html


AMA Was Right In Censuring Mladin

The right decision was made by the AMA, in the punishment of Matt Mladin. I personally don’t approve of such behavior by professional athletes and racers the like. Motorcycle racing cant possibly attract new fans and sponsorship with Hot-Headed behavior such as that. I applaud the AMA for standing tall and making sound decisions. Especially in the wake of the Edmondson court ruling. Not to mention the constant ranting of John Ulrich on the unfair application of rules or the penalties for the infractions. I also applaud Merril Vanderslice for posting to the WERA bulletin board and addressing some of Mr. Ulrich’s claims. I personally hope to see AMA racing grow into an entertainment spectacle that rivals NASCAR. Which I believe will only happen with sound financial decisions, not light-hearted personal ones that lack the foresight to see into the future. Take from this what you will, but these are merely my thoughts and opinions. I have always tried to make it a point to support those that have the greater good in mind.
Mike Sebastian
WERA Novice 805



AMA Was Wrong In Censuring Mladin

In response to your censure of Mladin after Loudon’s press conference. If the AMA PR Dept. is historically unable to handle media personnel and represent riders’ views successfully, a conference attended by said media would appear to be a justified platform to air those (riders) views. Riders should not feel they have to make such statements.

I suggest that the reactionary AMA response to Mladin’s statement and subsequent censure, at a time when the governing body is making large out of court settlements, whilst riders rely upon charitable organizations to provide safety equipment is, at best incredible. The AMA should carefully consider its own position before censuring its members with accusations of “detrimental conduct”.

Mladin has done a great deal to promote professional motorcycle sport in this country. It is small beans to display frustration with the media at such a daunting faciliy as is Loudon. To react and censure him and his team so severely (that point was not easily achieved) may, however, be easily perceived by others as “conduct detrimental” to the sport.

Rob Hough
San Francisco, CA



AMA Should Be Ashamed

The AMA should be ashamed of itself. How can you justify the actions that were taken for just a
simple opinion from a racer? What the AMA should really be taken action on is the root of the frustration.
Why are the racers frustrated? What can the AMA do to alleviate the problems the racers are encountering?
In my mind, that is the whole reason why the AMA exists in the first place. An organization the racers can look up to and seek for help. It sounds like the AMA’s priorities have changed and not for the benefit of the racers out there.

Ruben Padilla
OMRRA #130



The Lesson Learned

Lesson for us all, I don’t think so. I think the lesson we all are learning is the AMA has and always will be run by a bunch of A-holes whose only concern is how much money they can line their pockets with. I’ve been involved in U.S. road racing since the early 1970s. I say to Mat Mladin, great job Mat and I hope you don’t quit. Fight the good fight Mat Whatever happened to FREE SPEECH?

I cannot believe what the AMA did in trying to censure Mat for saying what is on his mind and what is on the minds of many I am sure. Did anyone notice the amount of the fine just so happens to be what a rider would win for winning a national event? Not only does the AMA NOT want to pay decent money to a person who wins a national event, they want to have the riders pay for it! This is incomprehensible! It is absolutely pathetic at how little a rider receives for winning a national event to begin with! An event, which is televised to millions of viewers all of which are consumers!

I am beyond fed up with the bureaucratic BULLSHIT that is imposed on riders by the AMA with what they call “Detrimental to the Sport.” There needs to be more people like Mat who finally have the guts to stand up to assholes like Larry Lawrence and Merrill Vanderslice and tell them just what they really are! When on God’s green earth are the factory race teams and all the other participants going to dump the AMA and either start another organization or move to another organization? Go and they will come, I say.

I am incensed to see the AMA repeatedly use bully-type tactics and impose fines and strip riders of points in hopes of keeping riders from telling the media just what a shit organization they really are. This is why Kenny Roberts was so fed up with the AMA and vowed to never return, ever.

I was listening to a radio talk show over the weekend 97.1 KLSX FM here in California. Chris Carr was the guest and he made a point in that people who compete at the professional motorcycle racing have to finish in the top five if they intend to make any money at all. He went on to say that people who race NASCAR for example can circle around in last place and still make hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. Whereas a rider who wins a national even be it road racing, dirt track, motocross, etc., get what everyone and I consider to be a pathetic sum or what, $5000 or $10,000. And if you win a pole you get a massive $500 or perhaps $1000! This is a joke and an insult to all the riders. We are all consumers and we need to make a stance. We should stop going to these events until the AMA admits to their wrongdoing, increases the purse so people can make a living doing what they love, racing motorcycles instead of these A-HOLES making HUGE salaries and leaving the racers with zip.

FED UP IN SO CA



Mat Shouldn’t Have Been Penalized

I was Vice-President/Secretary of the Los Angeles chapter of the American Federation of Motorcyclists, a grand prix road racing body, years ago. I have just listened to the controversial Mat Mladin interview at the Roadracing World web site. I don’t Mat should be penalized for giving his opinion; he certainly is qualified to have one. Perhaps he shouldn’t have said “shit,” but that’s a pretty harmless swear word. If the AMA can’t stand differences of opinion, then it is really stagnating. In our club, the officers were elected. That’s what should happen in the AMA.

Ed Light
[email protected]




Mladin Did Not Deserve Fine

I have been reading at some length of the incident involving Mat Mladin at the Loudon press conference and of the 600cc race incident. I have also listened to the tape of the press conference. I wanted to share some observations. I have followed motorcycle racing for several decades, have participated in various kinds of motor racing (MX, desert racing, off road car racing, road racing, karting and drag racing) as a racer, and have served as a lawyer (in part representing racers, teams, promoters, and sanctioning bodies in both motorcycle and car racing) since 1971. I have also been an AMA member. Mladin spoke his mind in a thoroughly professional fashion and did not deserve the fine or the point penalty imposed. The AMA action appears to be simply a petty abuse of control over the riders.

The 600cc incident appears to be symptomatic of the same thing, to wit: An all-too-common attitude of “us vs. them” insofar as dealing with your riders. That relationship should be nurturing and mutually beneficial, not adversarial. Riders risk their lives and limbs on tracks and are entitled to be heard on issues of safety. There need to be open lines of communication between riders and sanctioning bodies on these issues. Fostering a hostile relationship is deleterious to the growth of this sport and chases fans and sponsors away. I was more active in representing motorcycle riders in the 1970s and 1980s during which time the AMA was dictatorial and heavy-handed with the riders and promoters and engaged in the same childish power plays that we are seeing now. What happened then was that the AMA created a vacuum into which Supercross groups rushed. SFX now controls SX and the AMA is but a sanctioning group (of which there are others that could serve that function) with a year left on a contract. In short, the AMA gave up control of a fast-growing and now wildly successful branch of this sport by alienating its customer base.

It looks as though the AMA is hell bent to repeat history. Learn from your mistakes. Mean it when you say you have learned from the Edmondson fiasco. Above all, deal with professionals in a professional fashion. If that requires getting people that are professional themselves to run your shows and who have more ability than bare ego, please do so. Lead by example and strength of character, not by shrillness. This sport deserves it.

Thank you.

Walter Nash



AMA Must Be Kidding
You boys gotta be kidding, no? And to whom at the AMA should we administer the lethal injection for removing haybales from in front of the concrete barrier last year at Laguna Seca just in time for Jamie Bowman to fly head first into his death?

Clean up your own act!

Craig Massey
Hollywood Motorcycles, Inc.



Bostrom Fan Supports Mladin After Hearing Tape

I have been following the news reports and have been slow to judge anyone’s actions without first-hand knowledge of the events. I am not a fan of Mat Mladin. I am a huge fan of Eric Bostrom (and his brother). While my argument for fairness will put Eric at a greater disadvantage should Mat retain his point, I would rather see the right thing done and all treated fairly, first and foremost.

Reading the transcript does not give a true and accurate portrayal of Mat’s attitude during the press conference. I believe the way he said what was said could have been as bad or worse than the language used. After hearing the recording of his remarks I cannot understand why the “powers at hand” would penalize him as was done. As a fan I don’t see where he hurt the AMA, the riders, the track, or the promoters in this situation and I feel he should get his point back and not have to pay $5000. He is also owed an apology and all the riders should be given the opportunity to speak freely and openly but respectfully as Mat did.

Part of the freedom of motorcycling is captured in the freedoms that America represents. To deny someone these freedoms, Australian or otherwise, is to go against the very things the AMA stands for. Give Mat his point back, Eric will still win it all fair and square , give the $5000 back or direct it to charity, and finally admit that things were not handled as they should have been by all at Loudon and gain back a little of the respect and credibility that was lost on last weekend.

Thanks.

Shelley Gruber
New AMA Road Racing Fan



Mladin Fine As Childish As Calling AMA Officials Names

Hey Homos, first off – change your URL from ama-cycle.org to im-on-my-cycle.org. Renew your subscriptions to Martha Stewart’s Living to appease your wives, you, “Yes, Dear” wimps. Find a new sport to govern, dog shows would be a good start. Westminster would love to have you (no cussin’ allowed) ! Yes, calling you all homos is childish – just as your fine is for Matt Mladin. You are lucky to have such talent in your races!

Please reconsider.

Marc

PS: Like him or not, Dale Earnhart was one of NASCAR’s most popular drivers. NASCAR is much more dependent on a large fan base and cooperative advertising (at a level that an organization like yours can only dream of, so far). It is highly unlikely that they would impose such a tax on free speech and strong opinions. Just remember, these are the kinds of comments and verbal exchanges that add drama to the race scene and can and lead to bringing in more fans. Case in point – WWF. Yes, not a true sport, but all the drama and scandal packs in the crowds and the ratings. Get a spine!



Unhappy With AMA Decision

I just wanted to write and express that I am unhappy with the AMA’s decision to find Mat Mladin. I think he expressed his opinions in a clear, concise, and honest manner, and had *every* right to do so. Ever heard of freedom of speech?

I am a supporter of the AMA since I am a club-level racer, and respect what is trying to be done for this sport, but each day I am becoming increasingly disappointed in you and question whether I want to be associated with such an organization.

Laura Granato




AMA Should GHOOA

Get your head out of your ASS!
The fines are bullshit as is the point loss. Is it not about time to start building an OR instead of ruining the existing one.

Wayne A. McDowell
An ex-AMA-member



Moved South To Avoid Yankee BS

I moved to the south to get away from your BS. I wanted to race again, being only 50, and didn’t want to put up with your crap anymore. I think it is time you started to listen to JohnUlrich – soon, very, very soon!!

A New WERA Member



Mladin Was Obviously Fined For Criticizing AMA Press Flack and NHIS

As an avid fan of motorcycle road racing, I have been closely following the activities of the AMA Superbike and Supersport series via all available print, television, and electronic (internet) media sources for the last three years. I also have many friends who similarly follow the series.

It is obvious to any fan of your race series that Mat Mladin was not fined for using profanity, nor for criticizing a newpaper reporter and fellow competitors. It is obvious to all that he was fined for criticizing Larry Lawrence and NHIS. Your assertion that “a press conference is not the place to raise personal issues with AMA Pro Racing officials, newspaper reporters, fellow competitors or use foul language” is not only ridiculous, but extremely worrisome to any and all fans. Have you forgotten what country you live in and what the Constitution of the US of A is all about? Let people speak up about things that they feel are important. Occasionally they may say something out of line, but that will eventually come out and only make them look foolish in the end. Keeping everyone so intimidated that they can’t say anything other than the same old drivel about getting a good run and thanking the team and sponsors only makes the racers, series, and AMA Pro Racing look foolish.

Furthermore, far too many other recent events (Loudon 600 SS race, the Air Fence fiasco, Daytona pace car incident… the list goes on…) show that your past record on rider safety is truly appalling – the point of moral negligence.

Oh, and then there are the less serious but nonetheless disappointing incidents such as the recent Chuck Chouinard debacle. Please clear this up, by either “fessing up” or providing real evidence that there is more to the story than has been reported so far.

Before you go blaming roadracingworld.com for inciting this letter (along with I’m sure a lot of others), please think again. While I enjoy the fact that roadracingworld.com does not seem to pull any punches in criticizing the AMA, I insist to you that even without roadracingworld.com, your most serious errors in judgment are obvious to everyone. I am writing this on behalf of several of my friends, all of whom agree with this opinion, and some of whom do not even read the articles on roadracingworld.com. Your complete inability to “cover your butts” on these stories is so obvious that no one I know is willing to give AMA Pro Racing the benefit of the doubt anymore.

You are fooling no one. I’m sure you think the political/media situation is ugly or at least annoying now. If you think it’s going to go away while you continue with your past policies, think again. How many e-mails and letters to top riders, teams and sponsors do you think it will take to give the riders the confidence to be more vocal? How many complaints to private and/or public companies like Speedvision, Honda/Suzuki/Ducati/Yamaha/Kawasaki, sponsors like Chevy Trucks and Universal Studios, before you have to start taking safety, fair play and integrity seriously?

Lest you think that I’m just some jerk who likes to hear himself speak and loves writing flame letters, let me assure you I am not. Like most people, I often think of writing complaints, but never do. Never, until now. But trust me, unless things really start to change, I’ve only begun with this topic. And I’m confident that a lot of people feel the same way.

PLEASE stop playing petty politics, and re-evaluate your priorities. Start behaving like professionals. Your racers do. Most of us in the “real world” workforce do too (and we enjoy it). PLEASE make AMA Pro Racing the kind of organization that would encourage me to join the AMA and support the AMA and its sponsors/partners.

Sincerely,

Richard Kovach



A Sad Day

It is a sad day when a race governing body such as the AMA cares more about making money and pleasing the hosting promoters than peoples right to voice their opinion. Mat should be praised and not fined for speaking his mind. Riders and fans should boycott AMA racing if necessary to protect their safety and right to speak out.

Regards,

Chris Borre
Curly442
WERA and CCS #442
http://www.motorcycleroadracer.com




A Message To Merrill

In the midst of all the controversy over rider safety, riders expressing their opinions and now a Bogus DQ in 750 SS , I would like to say I understand you are under pressure to run a business and please all sides of a complex circus. While I believe AMA road racing has been improved over the years, it pales in comparison to what it could be. I believe it takes a very strong individual to run this program, someone who understands all sides, understands it takes a sanctioning body and talented riders to make this sport attractive to the marketing world, who inevitably pay for it all. Most importantly I believe this person must have strong person values and do the right thing at all time regarding this great sport. Mr. Mladin , and the people who questioned your recent decisions are not detrimental to the sport, you are. I’ve heard the interview and yes Mat sounds a little ticked, but wasn’t offensive or detrimental and does not deserve to be reigned over let alone fined $ and a point . As an AMA member I vote that you resign immediately and move on with your life.

Thank you.

Rick Fairbairn
[email protected]
AMA # 729437
WERA # 52



Disturbed At How AMA Pro Racing Is Running Things

I am a AMA member, motorcycle dealer, race attendee with Michelin, and most importantly a motorcyclist for the past 36 years. I am disturbed at how AMA Pro Racing is conducting the affairs of Professional Racing here in the USA. Mat Mladin’s fine and being docked a point is ridiculous if you listen to the recording of the interview and consider the complete circumstances surrounding the incident. Mr Vanderslice’s banning of Dan Lance from any and all hot pit areas and the events that lead to it are another testimonial to the unprofessionalism constantly displayed by AMA Pro Racing.

When not one, two, 10, but ALL the top factory 600cc racers refuse to start a race with virtually no practice at a track that is too well known for its hazards to these riders does it NOT send a message that AMA Pro Racing can hear? How foolish must AMA Pro Racing appear in the press and how many times before changes are made?

Chevrolet might have bailed ya’ll out this year but Clear Channel Communications has awfully deep pockets should they decide or be convinced by outsiders to compete head-to-head…..Just a thought.
Oh, and since you’ve paid him may I suggest you actually read, consider, and heed the truly professional advice that Mr. Gary Mathers WILL provide you with….AMA Pro Racing will do much better if his and other people who have been actively involved in racing directly (motorcycles, That IS!) advice is taken.

Yours Seriously,

Scot M. Tway



Was A Free Country

Kinda of a SHIT thing to do to Mladin. This is a free country last I heard.




Disappointed By AMA Slander

I am very disappointed at the way Mr. Mladin has been slandered by your press release written by Mr. Larry Lawrence. I cannot imagine a professional organization allowing an individual like Mr. Lawrence to mis-represent the facts this way. I feel a formal apology to Mr. Mladin is in order and fining him for exercising free speech in the United States is preposterous. I hope you have a higher regard for the AMA than this. Your organization needs higher caliber members than Mr. Lawrence. Everyone should feel proud that Mr. Mladin is racing for the AMA and that he has the courage to stand up for what is right.

Bill Stroup



AMA Officials Need Medical Insurance For Foot Wounds

I hope all you people have a good medical plan because the way you’ve been shooting yourselves in the foot you’re going to need it. We want changes and we want them now. It’s time to clean house.




Mladin Fine Is Another Piece Of The Iceberg

Having listened to the interview, read the AMA press release and read some of the commentary available in the press I am shocked that a national organization representing motorcycling would misrepresent a situation or perhaps I should use a stronger word such as lie. I have been following a number of actions that the AMA has been up to for some time, trying to get a sense of the middle ground in the information wars and this latest idiocy has proven to be the proverbial straw.

I have come to the conclusion that you absolutely must find other employment for Mr. Vanderslice where the skills that he may have can be utilized as he certainly lacks the ability to perform the job that he is in. I believe that unless this change is made and perhaps a number of others, (why is his lack of management ability tolerated by his superiors, etc.) you will ending up fighting a forest fire with a water pistol and the AMA will lose much of its clout in the U.S. racing scene. Most riders I know tolerate this type of stuff until it boils over and then there will be a spark that starts the revolt and then they will be gone to a new organization that will represent the real talent and the AMA will be relegated to club racing level activity. Americans, from their history should be the most aware of this of any group of people (Boston Tea party, Pearl Harbor) If you waken the sleeping giant, be prepared to accept the consequences.

It is in your camp to deal with your issues. I hope you have the courage and the skill to do what is necessary.

Respectfully Yours,

Jay Jennings
[email protected]





Taped Interview Changes His Mind

I read the AMA press release and thought maybe Mladin was letting his past success go to his head and he was acting like the stars do in most other sports. Upon hearing the taped interview, I believe the AMA is out of line and Mladin deserves a public apology and the fine/penalty canceled. I, along with several friends, did not renew our AMA membership this year because of the lack of credibility and the underhanded AMA actions that were exposed over last couple years. You and the Board Of Directors should be ashamed of yourselves.

Sincerely,

Jim Davis
CCS SW #29




Against Censorship Of Mladin
I completely support Mat Mladin’s ability to express his opinions with regards to an aging, dangerous racetrack. From the public’s point of view (i.e.; the fans), it looks like it will take a fatality before the AMA addresses the very serious shortcomings of the Loudon track. What Mat said regarding the track are the truth and the AMA should be ashamed at their attempt to censor a rider’s concern. If a rider can not voice his feelings at a point were they would truly be heard then don’t allow them access to reporters. I mean if you want to censor your riders (read: control) then eliminate their ability to cause a problem. That is the true nature of the AMA’s actions in this case. As far as Mladin’s whining about the other riders, we fans are smart enough to acknowledge a baby when he is crying. There is no need to attempt to restrain this behavior because it allows us, the fans, to see who the real rider is, and ignore or support him as we see fit. Don’t offer us what you think we want. Mladin earned those points on the racetrack and his behavior off the track shouldn’t effect those points at all. That should be left for poor behavior on the track as was the case a couple years back at Pikes Peak. Re-instate the point and maintain the fine but you need to address your role in censoring your riders. Maybe you could model your rules along the lines of the rules that govern free speech here in the US. We are free to speak our minds, aren’t we?

Doug Welty
AMA Member



No Problem With Mladin’s Statements

I have no problem with Mat’s statements, maybe he thought the only way he could get his point across is to do it in the manner he did. This is a country where we do have free speech, or do you guys not have to go by the same rules that the rest of us in the USA do? It is apparent that the racetrack is dangerous because I’ve never heard any of the fast guys like the place. I am just a race fan not a racer but I would like to see everyone at the next race after this event and it seems someone always gets hurt there and the level of competition goes down because everyone is not at the next event. Leave Mat alone, in my opinion he was just speaking his mind, ,how can you fine someone for that.

Sorry about my poor English, I am not a very good writer.

Scott Moore



He Disagrees With Mladin, So The Fine Should Remain

Mr. Mladin seems to voice an opinion on everything in road racing that affects him more than anyone else. (Racing in the rain). It is well known he is not a world quality racer in the rain therefore “We shouldn’t be running this race in the rain.” Everyone else who is experienced in the rain didn’t seem to have that much problem with it.

Another example; “We need to do something about those ‘backmarkers’. They need to go back to the smaller races and learn to ride before ‘they’ are allowed to race with us”. Now it seems that if you don’t prepare the track for “us” (Pro AMA) we will decide to do something about it. To semi-quote Mr. Mladin.

As an Amateur CCS racer and MOTORCYCLIST, I believe his decisions should be his own and should be kept to himself. He got into road racing because he wanted to race just like the rest of us. I could voice my opinions (Older people should not be allowed to drive in the country on twisty roads on the weekends when motorcyclists are going to be using the roads to “play”) but it would do no more than make me seem like an idiot. Mr. Mladin has captured the Number One competition plate for his class of racing and nothing more. I cannot think of anything else that he has contributed to the sport that would make him more of a “God” to make demands about how money is spent on OUR sport. I have been a Motorcyclist since 1962 and have owned 103 motorcycles and joined road racing again in the year 2000 at the age of 54. My opinion should be handled just as his, considered as an OPINION and nothing else. If Mr. Mladin wants to join in on OUR sport he should “Get in-set down-shut up and hold on.” THE FINE SHOULD REMAIN……….

Very Sincerely

Dick Snider
CCS Amateur # 215



AMA Decision Is Ludicrous

As a member of the AMA, a die-hard road racing fan, and a racer I find the AMA’s decision to fine Mat Mladin and strip him of a championship point “for detrimental conduct during a post-qualifying press conference” to be ludicrous. I listened to his comments and he spoke very calmly and clearly and addressed issues that had been brought up during the race weekend. I don’t know what a press conference is for if it isn’t to allow the people being interviewed to express their opinions. That is what Matt did and his comments seemed well thought and pertinent to the event. Apparently the AMA would rather that the riders simply shut up and keep all disagreements to themselves so that the rest of the world never hears about the AMA’s dirty laundry.

Mat’s actions are good for the sport. He is trying to bring up issues in a public forum that the AMA refuses to address privately. The need for the riders to do this is amply demonstrated by the AMA disregarding rider and team owner input with regards to safety and rule making. Without the vocal and public statements of people like Mat Mladin the public would never hear about these issues. If the AMA doesn’t want the riders to feel compelled to publicly air their dirty laundry, then perhaps they should make a better effort to solicit input from all affected parties, listen, and implement policies to address valid concerns.

The thing I find most disturbing about the AMA is its penchant for self-deception and its practice of misrepresenting facts that make it look bad. The press release regarding Mladin’s fine states that he opened the press conference “using profanity at times.” By my count he used the word “shit” one time. That is one time, not times. Does it make a difference? Yes, because your press release make it sound like he launched into a profane tirade and that clearly misrepresents what actually happened. What he said is, “I’m tired of reading this shit.” His conduct sure sounded professional when I listened to it. It sounds like his greatest sin was saying things that the AMA doesn’t like to hear and offending some officials.

Maybe you can explain to me what is wrong with the three following issues that Matt raised.

1) It was incorrectly reported that he refused to talk to reports. He took the opportunity to inform the press what really happened.

2) He doesn’t feel that the money that the speedway has been spent improves safety for motorcycles.

3) He was balked on his pole lap by riders on their out lap.

What is wrong with you guys? If all you want in the press conferences is sunshine and sponsor plugs why don’t you just hand out a script and make sure that nobody says anything negative? Hearing the good and the bad is what makes a press conference interesting. Hearing Mladin whine about being balked is a hoot given some of his previous antics (remember Bostrom at Pike’s Peak?). Hearing a whining rider is hardly detrimental to the sport.

At the worst it’s humorous.

Apparently the AMA feels that it is beyond reproach and any criticism of its conduct is detrimental to the sport of motorcycle racing. Unfortunately, I think the biggest detriment to the sport is th

The AMA Superbike race at Laguna Seca pays $6000 to win, from a total purse of $50,000. Payouts follow:
1. $6000
2. $4500
3. $3000
4. $2700
5. $2500
6. $2200
7. $2100
8. $2000
9. $1900
10. $1800
11. $1700
12. $1600
13. $1500
14. $1400
15. $1300
16. $1250
17. $1200
18. $1150
19. $1100
20. $1050
21. $1000
22. $900
23. $850
24. $800
25. $750
26. $650
27. $525
28. $400
29. $300
30. $250
31. $225
32. $225
33. $225
34. $225
35. $225

The top Superbike privateer gets an additional $700 with $550 for second Superbike privateer, $350 for third, $250 for fourth and $150 for fifth. The top-qualifying Superbike privateer gets an additional $500.

Doesn’t Like AMA, But Likes Mladin Less

First of all let my say that I don’t like the AMA and have never been a member. I have a hard time dumping my hard-earned money into an organization I disapprove of. Mladin is correct in stating the AMA as “disorganized” and they would have to do some major improvements before I would consider becoming a member. I’m sure if other riders had the balls, they too would speak up about their safety. But, then again, isn’t it the AMA’s job to provide safe racing conditions?

I have never been to New Hampshire International Speedway but will take Mladin’s words as truth about the conditions of the track.

I do, however, frequent Sears Point Raceway and have heard similar comments by racers about that track. Sears Point has been in the spotlight as well, for this same reason, and when it comes to improvements in the track you can bet it’s only done to improve the NASCAR turnout. I am sorry for being so logical, but why don’t they improve the track for ALL racers, not just some? Like increasing run-off area around the track? Wouldn’t NASCAR benefit from this as well? Of course they would!

The rest of Mladin’s comments and conduct, I don’t agree with. His lack of professionalism brings an immature quality to the sport. I don’t care for cocky, arrogant comments like the ones he made about Bostrom and Pegram. I think he should be fined for that kind of public conduct. The one thing that I hate is a racer getting an inflated ego just because his bike is working good this year(and last). Not to say he is not an excellent rider, but he will only be number one for a short time and the rest of the time, someone else will take his place. He should enjoy it while he can.

Joel Doerr



No Event Without Racers

Racers are the lifeblood of the AMA. Without them you do not have an event. Like most large corporations doomed to self-destruction, the higher you go in the food chain the more puny the worker’s voices become that is usually the beginning of their demise. Our sport is already dangerous enough at a local level with limited funds, local tracks, etc., without skimping on funds at a national level. We face a wall of tires just a few feet off the racing surface at most tracks. It is understandable, but not acceptable, that every local track does not make the improvements they should for racer’s safety because there is no collective voice. It is wholly unacceptable for national racers, who have stated their concerns repeatedly, to NOT have support from their own governing body!

The AMA SHOULD MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO LOBBY FOR TRACK SAFETY. If they did nothing else it would be ensure the survival of our sport. We have helped raise money for the Air Fences because someone up there is not looking out for us – when that should be a primary responsibility. If not, there will be another organization along the riders will defect to, which is already being talked about at a grassroots level, that WILL look out for our safety. We do everything we can to protect ourselves – safety wire, protective gear, etc., how can the AMA not do the same? To deny any racer’s voice, whether they be at my level – who have just started out or those who have devoted their life to the sport and are at the pinnacle – such as Mladin, is the unraveling of the fabric of our association. Get the priorities right guys and support the people who support you! We are putting our lives in your hands – get your hands out of your pocket and protect us or we won’t around and all you will pull out is lint!

Mark Ingram




What A Chickenshit Organization
Just listened to the taped interview that cost Mladin five large last weekend. You fined him five grand for *that*? What a chickenshit organization. When slut journalists print lies and the AMA is too busy defending untenable court cases to run a race schedule in an organized and orderly manner, what the hell else do you expect from your racers?

Mladin called it like he saw it. If you guys didn’t have your heads up your asses you’d either take his criticisms for what they are, an opportunity for you to improve what you do, *or* you’d send out a press release that addresses his statements with facts.

I fear the day that you guys get what you want: Motorcycle racers that are afraid or unwilling to tell it like it is. Ask yourselves what Gary Nixon would have said in similar circumstances. Count yourselves lucky. Very lucky.

Having said that, I would like to respectfully suggest that you refund Mladin the fine amount and apologize to him and the public for your behavior. You might be surprised how receptive we would all be to you guys trying to do the right thing.

Scott de Avelar Gilmore



Outraged At Tactics To Muzzle Riders

Having heard the complete dialogue resulting in your decision to fine and penalize Mladin I have to say that as a fan, participant and as an AMA member, I am outraged that the AMA continues to use these type of Naziesque tactics to muzzle riders and others associated with or competing in AMA sanctioned racing events.

The fact that Mat used language that may be borderline in some peoples’ opinion only helps illustrate the continued frustration people in Mat’s position have with sloppy journalism surrounding the most public figures in this sport as well as his JUSTIFIED frustration with the condition of numerous venues throughout the United States. Frankly, the use of the word “shit” has become such a part of the American vernacular I’m surprised it warranted comment in the first place.

I have ridden at and practiced at Loudon numerous times and Mat is correct, the track is in hideous condition and there are innumerable areas on the track that pose REAL and justifiable concern for competitors. Re-entering the lower part of the track from the upper section, particularly in the left hander just after the ‘tree house’, is just one area I am surprised hasn’t killed a rider or destroyed more bikes as a result of the extreme elevation loss immediately off the outside of the corner. Patched areas of pavement in the esses are also an area that should be looked at.

I am outraged at the behavior of the AMA at events this year, beginning with the gross mishandling of safety at Daytona (I was there helping to tune a friend’s TZ for the MBNA Pro 250cc GP and saw most the the incidents in question first-hand, the most grievous on the restart of the 200 from just feet away). This episode at Loudon, including Vanderslice’s continued strong-arming of participants and vendors in the paddock is an outrage and merits both a retraction of the fine/penalty and a public apology to all concerned and affected.

Granted, Matt is a public figure and his commentary should be tempered, but the situation in this case (sloppy journalism and misrepresentation of his own words in a public venue) justifiably warrants a strong response from him and you should allow riders to confront misquotes in whatever manner they deem necessary to set the record straight. Imagine your response to Cycle World or any other magazine publicly misquoting you. If there is any action that should be taken it is the removal of AMA sanction of ALL events at NHIS (as well as other venues coming under criticism this year) until suitable improvements can be made to the circuit(s).

Improvements that should be recommended by a joint committee of Pro Riders and AMA safety officials (and riders should outnumber AMA officials). NHIS should also consider the installation of their own Air Fence in areas of greatest concern on the track.

If Pro riders are concerned with safety at certain venues you can be assured that the risk to less-talented riders is even more acute in other events at the same track throughout the racing season (i.e CCS and WERA events among others). I urge you to reconsider your fine and penalization of Mat and furthermore urge you to reconsider your attitude and approach to safety in the sport altogether. As a sanctioning body the AMA is responsible to the riders and participants of the events FIRST AND FOREMOST. Fans, press, venues should always fall second their concerns.

Sincerely concerned,

Jonathan Flack
CEO, Gray Matter Productions, Inc.
New York, NY



Leery Of AMA Motives

First of all, I’m not a current member of the AMA although I should be. I appreciate the representation that the AMA gives motorcyclists in this country. Your legislative work and legal battles are admirable most of the time. The racing arm of the AMA has fallen a bit behind in its bid to look after many of those motorcyclists. Racers are motorcyclists and their safety is as important as any other AMA Member you represent on the street, dirt, ice or what have you.

As a current club racer and former AMA racer I’d like you to know that I love racing and riding motorcycles. I’ve had the opportunity to race professionally, even with the AMA and I must admit that I’ve become more and more leery of the motives of the AMA Pro Racing section. I must admit that I don’t know the details of organizing and promoting a race. I imagine it’s fairly difficult and I commend those that work hard to accomplish this feat so that the fans have a race to watch. Racing allows Racers to promote their sponsors (all the racers?), the sponsors can get some exposure, the manufacturers can advertise their bikes, and the track and promoter can hopefully make a living.

What I don’t understand is that the AMA is a *nonprofit* organization that represents motorcyclists. ALL MOTORCYCLISTS. That includes the racers I hope. On the other hand, there seems to be certain members of the AMA (non profit organization), that are also members of a *for profit* entity within the same infrastructure (Paradama or something like that?). If this is the case, or something remotely similar to it, then it appears that a slight conflict of interest may be the case. How can the same group of AMA Officials work to look after motorcyclists and also look after a profit? Which is more important if push came to shove? Many AMA members, former members, and non-members are concerned.

Speaking of “push comes to shove”; I just listened to the MP3 file of Matt Mladin at a press conference during the recent AMA National at Loudon NH. The same press conference that he was fined $5000. He sounded miffed that the track is unsafe. From looking at the place, I’d agree that it’s lined with barriers and appears unsafe. He sounded miffed and spoke his mind. He was talking to journalists, about journalism and he spoke his opinion. He should not, and cannot be fined for speaking his opinion in this regard. I guess the word “shit” can be deemed a no-no, but a $5000 fine? On television, there aren’t children at many press conferences during sport events and athletes often use profanity while expressing their opinion. They bleep over the words and move on. I suggest you all do the same and get over it.

Mladin has the *right*, duty and obligation to speak his opinion about safety issues that involve him or other racers. Interestingly enough, his stated opinion about safety are the same issues that the AMA is supposed to watch for on behalf of Mladin and the other members of the AMA racing community. From my perspective, the AMA should say something about track safety before any racer brings it up. When racers do bring it up the AMA, as their representative, should act on behalf of the motorcyclists first, not last. That is the duty of the AMA.

That’s where the “for profit” entity becomes a conflict of interest. Which is more important; Racers/motorcyclists or the bottom line? My local racing organization is “non profit” similar to the AMA, only there is no “for profit” entity. Thank God for that because they can make decisions without being blinded by green, even if they have to cancel a race and lose money.

Oh, well, you can roam the pits and charge every racer $5000 for each use of a profane word.

Roque Torres

p.s. Mladin ranted about being stuck behind Bostrom during qualifying. Too bad for Mladin. He spent an entire session getting in the way of Ben Bostrom a couple of years ago only he did so on purpose. Mladin can pound sand on that issue.



Mladin’s $5000 fine Is Utterly Ridiculous

After reading in print and then listening to Mat Mladin’s comments from the post-qualifying press conference at Loudon, NH, I can say in all honesty; a $5000 fine and one point deducted from his season points total is utterly ridiculous and is incredibly stupid. If AMA Pro Racing personnel want to talk about what is detrimental to the sportsmanship of the AMA Superbike Championship and what makes it look unprofessional, perhaps they should look no further than their own actions concerning this matter.

Sincerely,

Jeff Shults
AMA member
Seattle, WA



AMA Action Inexcusable
After listening to the Mladin interveiw I find the action takin by the AMA towards Mladin is inexcusable. Mr. Mladin used the press conference to address concerns reguarding the press. One would believe that all concerned were in attendance. I can think of no better place to express concerns of misquoting and mis-reporting.

As far as being critical of other riders Mr. Mladin described his fast lap and what happened on that lap, answering the question directly. Also expressing a concern reguarding track procedure which had a direct impact on the qualifying lap times. This “inside info” is just what fans like to hear. The view from the seat, so to speak.

The use of profanity is unfortunate to be sure, I agree it should not be used in this type of situation. However the AMA press release stating “using profanity at times” lead me to believe that much stronger and prolific use of profanity occurred. A more accurate description would have been “using a profane word”

While I do not always agree with Mr. Mladin’s comments I always respect his conviction and his willingness to express these convictions. The AMA should not be in the business of editing or censoring rider comments. They are the riders’ comments not the AMA’s. This is what fans want to be let in on. One can only imagine a list of acceptable responses to press inquiries being handed out at the next AMA riders meeting.

Gentleman and ladies of the AMA , smooth your feathers and do the right thing. Rescind your inexcusable action taken in this case.

Thank you,

Mike Canfield
Chandelle Motorsports




Mladin Fine A Huge Mistake
After reviewing the tape, and comparing what was actually said in comparison to what AMA releases stated, it is my opinion that somebody within the AMA organization has made a huge mistake in the issuance of a fine to Mat Mladin. The hardest thing for any man to do is admit you made a mistake and ask the forgiveness of the falsely accused party. It is my sincere hope that the AMA will do the right thing, apologize to Mat Mladin, and work harder, and in conjunction with the racers involved for the advancement, safety, and future of motorcycle racing.

Best Regards,

Mark Novak
CMRA/RPM #85



He’s Mad About The Chouinard DQ

Your treatment of privateer Chuck Chouinard at Loudon is grossly unfair. As a racer (USCRA Open Champion ’94, ’95, ’99 and team manager for Jonathan Spinney in ’00) and tuner I find your interpretation of the no-metal-removal rule to be absurd. I can understand your suspicion when your technicians saw marks. Those marks should have led you to take measurements to verify. To summarily disqualify a rider based on suspicion is wholly unfair.

As an AMA member and racer I urge you to overturn your decision. I would also urge the AMA to review its mission in regards to road racing. I fell your obligation should be to your members. Even those who don’t participate in the sporting side of motorcycling are becoming concerned with all of the bad press and illogical actions taken by your organization.

Best regards,

Keith D. Hussey