The Time Has Come
There seem to have been numerous problems at NHIS and other recent AMA Superbike events. There comes a time when someone must take control and action. It is hard to let an employee go after numerous years of service. However, that time has come. I have had numerous dealings in the past with Mr. Vanderslice and I must say that they were for the most part unpleasant. I brought up numerous flagrant rule violations with Mr. Vanderslice and was rebuffed in each instance. Other AMA employees who were present at these meetings, Ron Barrick and Rob King, had that ‘I can’t believe this is happening’ look. After each incident, Ron and Rob, went out of their way to right what we all knew was wrong.

These instances happened in 1996 and 1997. It seems that Mr. Vanderslice has not changed in the way that he deals with others. I understand that Director of Competition is a difficult job. However, it seems that this position may need someone with better organizational skills and a better attitude. The Director of Competition needs to be somewhat of a people person, at least in that they can deal with others in a decent manner.

Ask yourself, where does the buck stop? Take charge and take a chance. The situation can only improve. If the AMA is unwilling to make the change, you may not leave the factories and riders a choice. There are other series. SFX has Supercross now and Superbike may be next if you don’t change your ways. If Mr. Vanderslice was as good at spinning his job as Larry Lawrence is you wouldn’t have any problems. Larry can fall in a pile of manure and come out making the AMA and himself smell like a bed of roses. If you have any questions about the above incidents, please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,
T. David Porter




Incredibly Excessive
I just listened to the interview with Mat Mladin that resulted in his being fined $5000 and being docked 1 point. I believe this is incredibly excessive; from what I heard, I do not believe
that any fine or point docking should have even been considered. I think Mr. Mladin was expressing his opinion concerning the track conditions and safety, and I do not think his language was particularly offensive. When put into the context of what Mat was saying at that time, given that his adrenaline was up, etc., he exercised, in my opinion, considerable
restraint.

Thanks for your time.
Ron Chain



Mladin Is A Black Cloud
I’m all for slapping his wrists.
He has a very poor attitude and is a black cloud on the sport (racing talent aside). He and a few others have been able to get away with an unprofessional attitude for too long.

I have been following road racing for 18 years and have watched the sport change dramatically. It is growing by leaps and bounds and it is crucial that we all do our part to keep it a family atmosphere and provide positive role models for our children to look up to. Outbursts from adults acting like children should not be tolerated. Fine him now and every time he pulls similar circus stunts until he either grows up or moves on. We must keep this sport clean and as respectable as possible.

The Bregars



Extremely Disappointed
I was extremely disappointed to learn of your censure of Matt Mladin. This action shows a complete lack of respect for an individual’s opinion. Is not the purpose of the AMA to protect our rights. Is expressing an opinion, which seems to be universally shared, not one of those intrinsic rights?

The hallmark of a truly professional organization is one that can listen to criticism be it positive or negative and grow stronger as a result. Your actions lead me to believe that the leadership of the pro-racing (sic) division needs to be overhauled. I am not currently a member of your organization, but I have decided to become member as I believe this best way is to speak out and participate as I think Mr. Mladin has done.

Guy Patterson
Harrisburg, PA
NESBA #142


Where’s Charlie?
None of this would have happened if Charlie Watson was still around!
Imola23



Applauds Decision, And Apparently Hates His Job, Too
I applaud the AMA’s decision to fine Mat Mladin. Perhaps if he(Mladin) has such a problem with the AMA and a track like Loudon he should pack up and go to WSB or 500 GP. The reality is that any large organization, such as the AMA, will inevitably become caught in bureaucracy. Even if John Ulrich was able to get every AMA cardholder to renounce their membership and join a new organization it too would eventually become flawed. I would rather get paid (if I had the ability) to race at a lousy racetrack run by a**holes any day of the week than do what most of us do for a living. Say thank you to your sponsors Mat, ride your superbike as well as you can, and please shut up. Be like Ben Bostrom; l believe I saw him twice on the podium in WSB last weekend.

Cameron MacDiarmid
Maine


AMA Could Suffer ACU Fate
If you want to see what will happen if you guys do not step back, review what your aims and objectives are, decide just what you’re in this for and take appropriate action to achieve those aims, then look across the pond and see what happened to the British ACU. Eventually everyone became so pissed with their arrogant attitude and pitiful organisation that the people who rely on the “business” of racing for their livelihood, the track owners, manufacturers, major teams etc. found it necessary to form the MCCRCB and take over control of Pro Racing in the UK.

It can and will happen, they have the model to work to! You have been
warned.

Dave Carson
Pittsburgh



Adversarial Relationship Is Unbelievable

I’ve ridden motorcycles for 42 years. I’ve been an AMA member for many of those years. I am very happy with the AMA’s government interface/watchdog function, museum, vintage days programs, etc. etc.

However, I am also a total road race fan and former racer thinking of returning to the track. Hence the following comment: the adversarial relationship you have established with your pro riders is unbelievable. What are you thinking? I suggest it is time for you to find a more suitable position within (or outside) the AMA.

Further, since apparently nothing has been learned from the Edmondson debacle, it is time for the AMA to relinquish management of pro road racing and serve as a sanctioning body only.

Bill Hiller
AMA #614718


Self Destruct Is On Schedule
If It is AMA’s Pro Racing intention to self-destruct they’re well on their way and with the past incidents this seem to be a recurring problem. God Speed as far as I’m concerned. Their obvious disregard for rider input and participation in rider safety issues has directly resulted in catastrophic injuries to the personalities that are directly responsible for the success of superbike racing in the USA. Besides the all-important safety issues is the AMA’s Vanderslice who’s more concerned with the bottom line than the progression and betterment of the sport. Being the dictator and having the final say seems to be the priority for this ego-driven man. I can only hope that the riders and manufacturers realize that a change is essential and necessary in order to facilitate the growth that superbike racing in America deserves.

Sincerely, one of many who recognize the obvious.
[email protected]


Angered And Disgusted
I read with great interest, transcripts from last weekend’s Loudon press conference and the subsequent AMA press release. I found Mr. Mladin’s comments to nothing more than an expression of his concerns and expertise as a top rider and current AMA Superbike champion. I was angered and disgusted by the subsequent AMA press release and fine of Mr. Mladin.

The AMA press release is deceptive, bordering on fiction, but more importantly shows the AMA to be disorganized, domineering, pompous and rather childish. I have been an proud AMA member for seven years and demand that your organization take a good hard look at itself. Imposing fines upon riders(or in this case the current series champion) because they express an opinion about track safety that may not be in lockstep with the AMA is wrong!

What was so detrimental about his comments? Was the AMA afraid that he may be correct or is it the AMA is unwilling to accept criticism? A profession racing organization such as the AMA should encourage input from its riders concerning all matters of racing, especially safety.

The actions and attitude of the AMA needs to change, and the change must start at the top. Unfortunately, the cat is out of the bag on this one and by fining Mr. Mladin the AMA has drawing much attention to this situation. A situation in which the AMA looks very, very bad.

Joel Alleger
DBM Associates
Whitehouse Station NJ



Absolutely Horrified
I was absolutely horrified at the recent behavior of the AMA brain trust. Over the past 20 years I have trusted your leadership to do what is right in the marketing/promotion and most importantly the safety of OUR sport, yes that word is OUR sport, because if it was not for the vision of many concerned riders many years ago the AMA would not exist. I’m afraid that the AMA has become nothing but a group of frustrated “has beens” which are piloting OUR sport much in the same manner as the captain of the Titanic.

The latest controversy now involves an off-color comment made by Mat Mladin, prior to that, AMA’s public whipping regarding the safety of its riders, it’s unfortunate that it takes a small well-organized effort based solely on the safety interests the riders to successfully mount a campaign to raise the needed funds for implementation of Air Fences throughout the AMA Pro circuit and then to smaller venues and may I say in less than two months. Where was the AMA? Does it not stand to reason that OUR safety should be YOUR primary concern?

Last year I received a phone call from a member of the Hooters Race team advising me of the death of my friend Jamie “B”, after the initial shock I began to ask questions as to why no haybales were present that may have saved his life, again the AMA had no response let alone any accountability as to who was responsible for this executive decision.

Of course there was your utterly professional handling of the Roger Edmondson debacle which will now cost your membership millions, but now the AMA is concerning its self with the word “shit” and the perceived tarnishing of the sport and the legions of devoted fans that will be migrating to other forms of motorsports all in a futile effort to gain respectability and show “who’s the boss”.

Your leadership abilities are akin to those of a group of 3-year-olds fighting in a sandbox over who can hold their breath the longest. I hope you are all proud of your “accomplishments”.

Sincerely, Jeffrey & Nicole Hoffman
Draganee Racing
Port Orange Fl.
CCS #’s 73 & 731


Greater Good Not Served By Suppression Of Free Speech
Mike Sebastian wrote in his e-mail, “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. …I have always tried to make it a point to support those that have the greater good in mind.” Geez, that is funny!

Greater good in mind?!

Greater than what? Self gratification? Self Grandiose accolades?

In mind of what exactly? The rest of the AMA membership? The fans?

M.V. has MY greater good in mind? What is he now some kind of self appointed Demi-god?

What is this A-hole talking about?

This is exactly the kind of thinking that has held back the AMA.

These ‘like-minded’ individuals are a huge detriment to our sport.

Taking back the AMA cannot happen fast enough to weed out these moronic individuals.
John, cool move by putting this guy’s e-mail first, smack on the first page.

George Gervasi


Point Shouldn’t Be Taken
I don’t believe that championship points should be deducted for any off-track conduct, no matter how serious. Using the precedent from two years ago is specious, since Mladin was then docked his pole point for blocking Ben Bostrom in qualifying and thus potentially denying Bostrom the pole.

And although the MP3 file of the press conference conveys considerably more of Mladin’s vitriol than the transcript, I believe that tone of voice is too subjective a standard to consider in determining whether conduct is detrimental to the sport. Mladin’s behavior should be judged
based on the words of all involved, and not the tone of his words.

Susan Haas


Basic Right Of Free Speech
To put it simply, Mat Mladin addressed the safety of himself and other riders at the Loudon press conference. This is beyond a merely “personal” issue and should be recognized as such. I have read the transcript of the press conference and the AMA’s response seems to me to be misdirected and innapropriate. To attempt to diminish the import of the main thrust of his comments belittles the AMA and demonstrates an apparent disregard not only for the safety of the professional riders who are the heart of the pro racing organization, but also the basic right of free speech.

Tom Keating
AMA member and race fan


Should Be Allowed His Opinions
I am not a Mat Mladin fan, so I would love for him to lose a point, however I feel that that Mat was and is totally right in his statements. He is allowed his opinions and as arguably the best rider in the nation his opinions should be weighed greatly. I personally think that the AMA has not done enough to protect the very riders who make the AMA Pro racing what it is. What are we waiting for at these tracks with NASCAR retaining walls? Do we have to lose a world class rider to realize that ALOT of these tracks are not safe for our riders? It is obvious that even bad accidents aren’t enough to make a difference i.e.. Duhamel?! I watch races from overseas and see HUGE run offs, I wish we had that kind of investment in our racers both pro and up and coming here in the states.

I realize that we participate in a dangerous hobby, but we need to make
valiant efforts to ensure the best of protection for the riders.

One more thing, the Air Fence….great idea….what took so long?

Sincerely,
[email protected]


Seriously Disappointed
As a long-term AMA member, I am seriously disappointed by recent actions of AMA Pro Racing, among them the fine and penalty imposed upon Mat Mladin, current world (sic) superbike champion. That action is totally unwarranted and should be reversed in its entirety, with a public pledge that racers will be treated with dignity and that free speech will be respected. It was his opportunity to set the records straight the way he saw it, speaking only for himself, a right he has earned.

Respectfully submitted,

Leonard Lloyd
AMA # 291270 [18 years]




Wrong Decision
You have made your decision regarding Matt’s behavior and I think it was a wrong decision. The AMA is an organization of its members and each of those members has his right to an opinion and a style in which to deliver it. He slandered no one. If it had not been for his and riders like him who speak their mind you would have raced Superbikes in the rain and shame on you for running the 600 event.

Sincerely,

Peter J. Moran
AMA #237 – 600ss, 750ss, Extreme, AND Superbike

The track is 2.238 miles long with 11 turns and major changes of elevation.

The current track record was set in 1999 at 1:25.185 by Anthony Gobert aboard a Vance&Hines Ducati 996 Superbike on Dunlop slicks during World Superbike qualifying.

Past Laguna World Superbike Winners (Race 1/ Race 2):

2000: Noriyuki Haga, Yamaha/Troy Corser, Aprilia
1999: Anthony Gobert, Ducati/Ben Bostrom, Ducati
1998: Troy Corser, Ducati/Noriyuki Haga, Yamaha
1997: John Kocinski, Honda/John Kocinski, Honda
1996: John Kocinski, Honda/Anthony Gobert, Kawasaki
1995: Anthony Gobert, Kawasaki/Troy Corser, Ducati

In the six rounds and 12 World Superbike races held at Laguna Seca:

Gobert, Corser, and Kocinski are tied for the most wins with three.
Ducati is the winningest manufacturer with five wins.
Troy Corser has the most podium finishes with seven.

Only three AMA Superbike regulars are entered in the 2001 World Superbike round at Laguna Seca:
Eric Bostrom, Kawasaki
Doug Chandler, Kawasaki
Anthony Gobert, Yamaha

Ben Bostrom (Ducati) recorded his first World Superbike win as an AMA regular at Laguna Seca in 1999.

Neil Hodgson (Ducati) recorded his first World Superbike podium finish at Laguna Seca in 1996.

Colin Edwards’ second-place finish on a Honda in last year’s race one was his first podium finish in World Superbike action at Laguna Seca.

Twin-cylinder machines have won six times at Laguna Seca, but four-cylinder bikes have also won six races.

According to the World Superbike Media Guide, the 2000 race at Laguna Seca was attended by 82,000 spectators and 243 media members. The spectator turnout was second only to the 2000 race at Brands Hatch in England, but Laguna Seca’s media figure was the highest for the year.

Current World Superbike Point Standings (16 of 26 races complete, all 26 count):

1. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, 250 points
2. Colin Edwards II, Honda, 203 points
3. Troy Corser, Aprilia, 179 points
4. Pierfrancesco Chili, Suzuki, 153 points
5. Ben Bostrom, Ducati, 147 points
6. Neil Hodgson, Ducati, 141 points
7. Gregorio Lavilla, Kawasaki, 116 points
8. Akira Yanagawa, Kawasaki, 110 points
9. Tadayuki Okada, Honda, 100 points
10. Stephane Chambon, Suzuki, 80 points

World Superbike Point Payout
1st – 25 points
2nd – 20 points
3rd – 16 points
4th – 13 points
5th – 11 points
6th – 10 points
7th – 9 points
8th – 8 points
9th – 7 points
10th – 6 points
11th – 5 points
12th – 4 points
13th – 3 points
14th – 2 points
15th – 1 point

The AMA issued the following press release Tuesday morning, making official what roadracingworld.com posted at 12:00 midnight EDT, namely, that Gary Mathers has been put in charge of road racing operations. The text of the release follows:

“MATHERS NAMED AMA PRO RACING ROAD RACE OPERATIONS MANAGER

“PICKERINGTON, Ohio — AMA Pro Racing announced today the addition of Gary Mathers in the capacity of Operations Manager for the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship.

“In this role, Mathers’ responsibilities will encompass the planning, budgeting and field operations for all AMA Pro Racing road-race events. More specifically, the Operations Manager attends each event, and directs the activities of all AMA operations staff, including full-time, part-time and volunteer staff, plus local labor hired for the event. Mathers’ responsibilities also include interfacing with racing teams, track operators and promoters to ensure the smooth operation of each event.

“Gary Mathers comes to AMA Pro Racing with a deep background in motorcycling and professional motorsports competition, as a racer initially and, more notably, as a team manager. He began his motorcycle racing career aboard a BSA 650 dirt-tracker, and in 1975 Mathers transitioned into race team management with Kawasaki, eventually heading up their motorcycle road racing and motocross teams.

“In 1985, Mathers joined American Honda in the capacity of race team manager, overseeing their burgeoning flat-track, road racing and motocross teams. The leadership experience and working knowledge of corporate structures that Mathers gained during his long tenure with two major motorcycle manufacturers will serve him well in his capacity of Operations Manager.

“Since entering the world of race team management, Mathers’ teams won a remarkable 76 national motorcycle and snowmobile championships, and never failed to win at least one championship every year — an enviable record that makes him the winningest team manager in the motorcycle industry. This impressive racing résumé makes Gary Mathers uniquely qualified to enter his new position with AMA Pro Racing.

“Mathers stated, ‘I’m flattered that AMA Pro Racing would consider me for this position, and I am anxious to begin in this new capacity. I know that my race team background will help me understand the needs of teams, sponsors, promoters and manufacturers. This is a time of growth for AMA Pro Racing and the road-racing community as a whole. Road racing is maturing as a sport, and it’s time for road racing to take a higher profile in the public eye.’

“For immediate post-race results, rider information, AMA Pro Racing notes and news, log on to www.amaproracing.com.”

The transporter for Team Pennzoil crashed while the team was driving back to Atlanta, Georgia after winning the latest round of the WERA National Endurance Series series at Portland International Raceway June 30. According to Team Pennzoil rider Chris “Opie” Caylor, he fell asleep at the wheel of the team’s 2000 Ford F-350 dually truck while towing the team’s 40-foot Country Boy fifth-wheel trailer east on I-84 through Idaho at about 7:00 a.m. local time Monday, July 2. Caylor said that the vehicle ran off the left side of the road from the left lane and “did sort of a double-jump. I’m just glad that the double jump wasn’t over another road or river.”

Team Pennzoil co-owner Mark Edwards had just been convinced to sleep in the truck rather than in the trailer before the crash and was uninjured. Caylor, Steve Grigg, and Jamie Lane escaped with minor injuries. Grigg, who signed on to ride at Portland in place of injured team regular Wade Buffington, bruised his back from impacting the roof of the truck, and Lane may have re-broken a hand that he injured earlier this season, Caylor said. Caylor added that he may have aggravated the ligaments that he strained in his shoulder from crashing in the endurance race at Virginia International Raceway June 16. The team’s Ford suffered $15,000 in damage and the crash totaled the trailer, but most of Team Pennzoil’s bikes and equipment escaped without damage.

Caylor said that the Ford will be covered by insurance, and that he will use the Suzuki contingency money that he earned by winning the WERA 600cc Superstock race on Sunday at Portland to pay the deductible. Caylor did not know the insurance status of the team’s trailer but said, “We may show up at Summit Point (the next round of the WERA National Endurance series) with our stuff in the back of pick-up trucks.” Caylor also said that he will do everything he can to pay for out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the team due to the crash.

All four of the Team Pennzoil members flew home from Idaho to Atlanta. Lane then took a bus back to his home in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

American teenager Jason DiSalvo had mixed results in his first 250cc Grand Prix wild card ride June 28-30 in the Dutch GP at Assen. DiSalvo was within 6-7 seconds of the fastest times for most of the weekend and qualified 24th for Saturday’s race. As it often does at Assen, rain came into play on race day. The 250cc final was declared a wet race, and DiSalvo chose to start on full rain tires. But the track dried through the course of the race, DiSalvo’s tire choice proved to be wrong, and he retired near the halfway point for a DNF.

Cruise America Grand Prix Racing’s DiSalvo will be back in action again this weekend, July 6-8, as a wild card rider in the British 250cc Grand Prix at Donington Park. The 17-year-old racer from Batavia, New York has 250cc experience at Donington, unlike his situation at Assen.

In routine drug and alcohol testing conducted by FIM officials on June 10 in conjunction with the Lausitzring World Superbike round in Germany, current points leader Troy Bayliss, Aprilia’s Troy Corser and Team Alstare Suzuki’s Pierfrancesco Chili all provided samples free from any banned substances.

Fine, No. Warning, Maybe
After listening to the MP3 file of Mat’s comments, I am not sure that a fine is warranted in this case. Although I admit using the word “shit” in a press conference is less than completely professional, I did not hear anything that sounded “detrimental” to the sport of motorcycle road racing. If anything could be inferred from those comments made, to the average listener, it would be that Mat Mladin should be more cautious of his language, as he undoubtedly is if he is around his own children, if he has any. Fine? No, you shouldn’t. Warning, yes, maybe so. Thank you for your time in reading this.
Sincerely,
Stanton Simmerson, RN, CRC
Clinical Research Coordinator
Duke University Medical Center

Nothing Wrong With What He Said
I just listened to the Mladin PC and I heard nothing wrong with what he said. This is the United States of America where we have the freedom of speech you have no right to fine him or take any points. If this isn’t over turned then I hope they sue the hell out of the AMA. Use your head, you can’t play God.
Wade Thalberg


Mladin Should Not Be Fined
I strongly agree that Mladin should not be fined or even reprimanded for his actions, but do think he should have set up a separate interview to vent his well-founded frustrations with the press. Were Mladin an American citizen, the AMA would definitely have infringed upon his constitutional right to free speech and would be open to a lawsuit. But the fact that he is not makes me think that the AMA targeted him as a whipping boy, without fear of legal retribution. I think the AMA needs to take a big step back and take a strong look at itself because it seems that everything that it does, or everything that the media reports, is seriously undermining its credibility.
Ian Crowne
WSMC #122


Mladin Deserves A Slow-moving Pace Car
As a motorcyclist for more than 30 years, I am shocked by Mr. Mladin’s public use of the “s” word. Even more disgusting is that he openly voiced his opinion on a matter so trivial as rider safety. Any rider who doesn’t realize the AMA knows best should have his competition privileges revoked immediately. Or, perhaps more in keeping with AMA policy, a slow-moving pacecar should be pulled directly into his path during the next race.
mmarchelya


What Did He Say Or Do?
You must be kidding, what did Mat say or do for that fine? He told the truth, the track has been in sad shape and slow riders need to be aware that pole sitters are trying to do just that set fast time! You people in the board need to get a better understanding of what you are doing to the people that you are there to represent it is our A.M.A.
Charles Huffstetler
[email protected]


Surprised To Get Response
A few weeks ago I wrote to voice my concern for track safety. I was surprised to get a response from you. Well, thank you, and I will consider renewing my membership.
Respectfully,
Mark McIntosh

Upset And Disgusted Mother
I am very upset, disgusted and full of questions as to how THIS will be explained away. I had hoped in the drive from one ocean to the next on the other side of the United States, I would become immune to caring anymore to make sense of the present system or be at least too tired to care. Neither has happened. I apologized to my son Ben if being verbal should cause him any flack as a racer within the AMA or with his current team and sponsor affliation or future ones.

Mat Mladin was being used as a whipping post and I want to know why? As a member of the AMA I want to apologize to him. I am appalled. My question is how does one even begin to attempt to take away earned points through the work of physical skills and team efforts in response to an opinion of the racer?????

Profanity? What the dictionary deems meaning to a term and its context within the accepted norm in society of 2001 might be extremely different from an opinion of someone who feels slighted or responsible for a situation not in control of or whatever standard of consciousness one person may hold.

Why on earth would Matt be congenial and cooperative when asked by one AMA official to give his opinion ( along with another well respected,experienced and mature racer) of the track? I was standing there thinking how wonderful it was that the AMA was making real big efforts to work with the riders in safety issues. Silly mother of a racer am I. Mr. Barrick can only work around the BIG OBSTACLES of the AMA and can not be responsible for the negative outbursts from the AMA. Thank you anyway, Mr. Barrick for attempting to move the AMA mentality up a notch or two.

Mat, I would charge to AMA $5000 for that consultation and track opinion.

Listen up. There is big money and big headaches in this business. Mat and the other riders are not just commodities for businesses to make money. This is a serious lifestyle with serious opportunities for serious injury. With the helmet and leather companies and racing accessories continually striving for better and newer technology to cushion the racers against injury—then so should the racers, clubs and racetracks.

As to who had holed up some dollars on a desk for air fences for a someday action in that direction or to who jumped out there and said (more or less) in your face–racers want safety now–and dominoed over $100.000 to the cause–why be shabby and base about it???? I heard nasty remarks from you about a Mr. Ulrich and how the press was trying to eulogize him over the airfence deal. Well, he is still trying to help the club levels with air fence assistance and since my son’s teammate was killed at TWS and my son, along with most of the racers come from the clubs so that you can have a job, why not let’s look at Mr. Barrick’s demeanor at the track———–I watched in amazement to screaming and profanity and mouthfoaming spitting iinto the face of Mr. Barrick by one said owner of the New Hampshire track. As eves-dropping was unavoidable with ranting tirade from this said owner in the face of Mr. Barrick who was really trying to be calm, resourceful and find a solution befitting the climate and track conditions–all I can keep thinking is “Mr.Owner of the track (who doesn’t need the AMA and their riders, according to him) the war is not over and the South will rise again. No wonder I have a problem with yankees.

Why would we as members and racers of the AMA even want to be at a track with that attitude? Why wasn”t he fined for being in public (at an AMA function too) screaming misdemeanors at all of us in the crowd. IT is a federal law that using profanity in public is considered a misdemeanor act and I believe it is finable and class c level. Is this correct??? I also believe the fine is $500. Do you know??? Why is the track owner not fined? Who is responsible for protecting the riders and spectators at an AMA event from this type of abuse? When private land is used for public use, he can not hide under the “private property deal and speak his mind” or can he?

If the federal government only fines a particular amount, how can the AMA come up with the amount of $5000 and how do the sponsors feel about their rider not being allowed to express his private and personal opinion–especially when it is in regards to safety??

Does this mean a rider will get fined for his perception of a race, conditions, a person–because if so, my son will not be allowed to say anything in public, podium, interviews etc… outside of THANK YOU TO MY SPECIFIC SPONSORS and then list them because I cannot afford fines of this nature. If our government would implement your fine tactics there would be social security for me after all.

All of the above is truth in my opinion as I have witnessed, heard and read and should not reflect my son, his sponsors or any affiliation. I need answers, my son wants to race and in order for me to assist him in this endeavor–I need to know what the rules really are for him to be able to do this.

Thank you,
Mary Spies



Faith-restoring
What you’re doing is faith-restoring, in democracy. You’re almost my hero. I’m glad my e- mail was the first you ran, and I hope it served to open the floodgates.

But as a user of your site, I’d like to email the editor with these questions:

1. What’s Mladin saying/doing about all this?

(He’s appealing the fine and has consulted with lawyers….JU)

2. Why is Suzuki so silent?

(They’re working behind the scenes….JU)
3. What does the AMA rulebook say about fines? Do they dock it from his purse, or expect him to sit down and write a check to the AMA (and in the lower left corner, where it says FOR, he might note “shit”)?

(They expect him to write a check….JU)

3. Where is Suzuki’s PR person?

(Mark Reese, Suzuki PR man, said they’re glad the AMA is considering the appeal, and hope to obtain a postive result…JU)

4. What’s wrong with speedvision.com? Running the AMA party line and then no more.

(TV is not journalism…JU)

5. Who is Mark Mitchell?

(I give up, who is he?….JU)

6. Is everybody in bed with everybody?

(Apparently so…..JU)

Keep up the good work.
Sam Moses




Disappointed By The AMA’s Behavior
As an Australian who keenly follows the AMA Superbike Championship, I am disappointed by the AMA’s behavior in the recent disagreement with Mat Mladin’s conduct.

You enjoy probably the premier National Superbike series in the world, which attracts talent and fans from as far away as my own country. The AMA has spent a small fortune in time, effort and money to promote and improve the series and has done a fantastic job with a sport which is traditionally hard to market in the USA.

There will always be those who disagree with the way the series is run, organized and promoted. Having had criticism from all corners, I presume you are familiar with the fact that people who have a strong opinion tend to air their opinion where it is most likely to be heard. And I would like to believe that you support the rights of each of those people to express their opinion, regardless of the merit of their point of view.

Mat Mladin is an experienced and champion superbike racer – someone whose opinions on motorcycle racing could probably be considered to have some merit. Mat is one of those lucky people who have available to them the forum of the press, because of his champion status.

Mat obviously has strong opinions, and a right to air them.

I have listened to the interview in which you have decided Mat conducted himself in a way which was detrimental to the sport.

He appeared to have a legitimate criticism of a particular journalist and his report, and expressed confusion with the way press conferences are organized, blaming that confusion for his failure to appear at an earlier conference.

He roundly rejected claims that money had been spend at Road Atlanta (sic) to improve facilities and safety for motorcycle racing, offering instead that the money had been spent to improve conditions for NASCAR racing.

He used the word “shit” once, to describe the press situation in general, without directing it at any particular person. This is a word which is now in common use on public television. In an adult setting, I feel it would be puerile to object to the word.

He felt that Larry Pegram and Eric Bostrom didn’t get out of his way on their slow-down lap while he was on a qualifier.

Mat may not be the world’s best orator. Nor may his opinions sit comfortably with the AMA, or some of it’s members. However, I frankly cannot see that Mat’s expression of his legitimate opinions in the forum available to him constitutes “detrimental conduct”.

The sport is not brought into disrepute because Mat Mladin has opinions.

The sport is not brought into disrepute because Mat Mladin used one mildly offensive word.

The fine and penalty levied on Mat by the AMA just seems a bit silly to me, and at worst, could be considered spiteful. It’s clear that the AMA and Mat Mladin do not see eye-to-eye on several topics. I can’t see anything wrong with that. In fact, I think it’s a healthy state of affairs. And it certainly does not bring the sport into disrepute.

I don’t know where you can go from here. I do ask you, as a person who enjoys the AMA Superbike Championship and Mat Mladin’s talents equally, that if you have the opportunity to modify the position that you have taken, please consider that option seriously. For the good of the sport.

Thank you for your attention,
Yours Sincerely,
D. Gibbons
Victoria, Australia


Absolutely Unjustifed…
This is my protest against the Mladin fine. It was and is ABSOLUTELY UNJUSTIFIED!!!

Mladin was simply stating the facts. The safety of the New Hampshire International Speedway has not improved in 12 months. Indeed this facility should not be used for for Superbikes at all. They are simply too powerful for the track.

I’ve listened to Mladin’s interview–twice. He said one “foul” word, “shit,” once. I believe he was referring to the AMA’s misconstruing of some previous statements of his when he remarked, “I’ll say now I’m tired of reading some shit.” Earlier in the interview Mladin had complained about being misquoted (by the AMA), saying “I’m pretty tired of seeing stuff that actually isn’t happening,” and he had complaining about AMA disorganization.

This is what he got fined $5000 for: justifiably criticizing the New Hampshire International Speedway and the AMA. Fined for using foul language? Oh come on!!! Don’t give me any of that SHIT!!!!!!!

I am a lifetime member of the AMA. I am thinking of burning my membership card. I pity the poor professionals that have the misfortune to race under the AMA’s banner!
Vic Norton
AMA Member



Has Trouble Believing It’s The Same Interview
I’ve recently listened to Mladin’s interview that earned him a fine and loss of a point. I have trouble believing that this is the same interview that the AMA released a media report of. It sounds to me that the AMA is an unprofessional organization, that is trying to silence genuine complaints by intimidation. You could consider a more open line of communication with your people, and acting on feedback to produce a better product.
Regards
Colin Linz



Shame On The AMA
I suppose my disgust for the AMA Pro Racing really started this year. I had noticed bits and pieces in the past, but paid them no heed since I was more enthralled with the racing than the politics that surround it. For some reason I began to notice oddities at first such as allowing the switching bikes during the Daytona 200, to the more recent and amazingly unjustified disqualification of Chuck Chouinard. Now they have even one-upped their previous efforts of retardation and gone and fined and removed points from Mat Mladin for voicing his opinion. An opinion I might add that is most likely shared by each and every racer that risks his well being on a race weekend. I joined the AMA to help be part of the solution, to do my part by supporting those that supposedly protect my sport. But now I see that they are bitter and reactive instead of supportive and proactive. Shame on the AMA. Shame.
Jason Hatfield



Words, Just Words…
Reading and listening to this all………???? I wonder, what is the big deal here. Who’s little soul did he step on??? The man is expressing himself and I just can’t see anything wrong with that. Foul language????
Words, just words……….if this will set the AMA off, what will be next?
Grow up!! Stop annoying people you depend on. I’m a race fan, not just Mat, all racers. They make the show happen, and the visitors come to see them. Thanks for listening.
Rik Wesselius


Track Officials Are Typical Rednecks
Good for him for speaking his mind in a respectful manner. I take his side because I live in Vermont and do not find it hard to believe that the caretakers of the New Hampshire International Speedway are typical redneck NASCAR fans, and don’t take into account the needs of motorcyclists when preparing the track for the year.
[email protected]


Mat Should Be Fined, But In Regards To 600cc Supersport Deal, What Is Wrong With You!?
I am a road racer, an enormous road race fan and I will never be an AMA member. First I must admit that I support the fact that there was a fine levied on Mat Mladin. However, profanity and detrimental comments should be far from the reason why. Mat’s disrespectful comments towards Bostrom and Pegram should carry some penalty, as it would in any other sport, i.e. basketball, baseball, etc. The Dallas Maverick’s owner has displayed disrespect towards officials quite often, and has had to pay for his words/actions on every occasion. The comments Mat had about the racetrack are founded comments from a national champion. I don’t think anyone can say that he doesn’t know what he is talking about, and for that reason alone, action should be taken in either a precautionary respect, or the track should be replaced on the schedule. That should go for the rest of the tracks as well. As far as Mr. Vanderslice’s actions at Loudon with the 600 Supersport race, WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!? Racers were willing to ride on a historically dangerous track in wet conditions if you would have simply let them take 20 extra minutes to sight the track and prepare for the conditions. 20 minutes. You obviously lack the kind of objectivity and common sense that is required to be in charge an anything other than your own life.
Mike Endzel



And About That 600cc Supersport Race…
I just wanted to bring up something else to your attention about this year’s National at Loudon. I contacted Speedvision after the National regarding when the 600SS would air. They replied with two dates and times. These spots were actually filled with the Superbike race. I contacted Speedvision again, and this time received a response stating that due to technical difficulties, they do not have the race on tape.

It seems quite a coincidence that the race where no pro’s raced, due to another screw up by the AMA, will never be shown.
Thanks,
Charles Fowler
LRRS #111

Copyright 2001, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Posted 12:00 a.m. EDT Tuesday, July 3

Former Kawasaki and Honda racing manager Gary Mathers will take over control and direction of AMA Pro Road Racing, perhaps as early as this coming weekend at Laguna Seca, an AMA Trustee said Sunday.

Mathers, who recently retired from American Honda, was hired as a consultant to attend several recent AMA Nationals and report on operations to AMA Pro Racing CEO Scott Hollingsworth.

Mathers compiled such a scathing indictment of bungled operations and inconsistent policies and rules enforcement that he fully expected to be dismissed and ignored after turning in the report, according to associates. The report specifically criticized the reign of AMA Pro Racing Director of Competition Merrill Vanderslice, National Technical Director Rob King, and AMA Superbike Operations Manager Ron Barrick.

But instead of getting him fired, Mathers’ report made a deep impact on Hollingsworth and reinforced what several members of the AMA Pro Racing Board of Directors have been saying for years, namely that continual problems created or added to by Pro Racing staff members are holding back commercial development and general advancement of the AMA road racing series.

Those problems have been laid mainly at the feet of Vanderslice, the former GP mechanic who came to the AMA over a decade ago professing that he wanted to do away with “the old AMA” and bring fairness and fresh thinking to the organization’s professional racing operations.

Critics say that over the years Vanderslice has morphed completely into a classic example of “the old AMA” he once said he reviled, and his tenure with AMA Pro Racing has been increasingly marked by conflict with the Board of Directors.

Vanderslice in the last 12 months has complained long and hard about what he sees as Directors–who he feels know nothing about racing–interfering with his ability to run Pro Racing as he was hired to do. That charge has irritated several individual Directors who have long been involved in managing or sponsoring riders and teams, as well as the one Director who is a former professional racer.

The Directors have also been angered by what they see as staff members presenting incomplete or selective information when the Board has been asked to make or ratify a decision; as a result, Vanderslice has lost all credibility with some Directors.

It is unknown at post time exactly what responsibilities Mathers will assume, what title he will hold and to whom he will report. Similarly, the fates of Vanderslice, King and Barrick are unknown. They could be fired, reassigned, told to report to Mathers, or left in position with Mathers firmly in control behind the scenes.

But given that some Directors have plainly stated that, to persons outside the AMA bunker, AMA Pro Racing looks the same as it did five or even 10 years ago, it is unlikely that Vanderslice, King and Barrick will retain their jobs.

Directors have complained that the appearance that nothing has changed–and that the interface between AMA Pro Racing and the riders, teams and sponsors that participate in AMA races is as rough and rocky as ever–is diverting attention from successful efforts to increase the size of purses, increase television coverage of races, and increase safety measures.

The debacle at Loudon two weekends ago reinforced the idea, advanced in Mathers’ report, that AMA road racing is completely mismanaged and that any time a choice between the right reaction and the wrong reaction to a problem presents itself, the current management has managed to consistently make the wrong decision.

Vanderslice did his cause no favor with his handling of problems at Loudon, at one point refusing to allow riders five laps of practice prior to the 600cc Supersport race being flagged off on an artificially-dried track, instead declaring (of the riders) “they don’t run the AMA, we do!”

See related posts dated 6/18, 6/19, 6/21, 6/24, 6/25, 6/26, 6/27, 6/28, 7/1 and 7/2.

For your listening pleasure, the unabridged Mladin interview in MP3. Hear the few complaints voiced in a reasonable fashion that cost the reigning AMA Superbike Champion $5000 and a point in the Championship.

Then compare what Mladin actually said with this press release, written by AMA Media Relations Contractor Larry Lawrence and issued by the AMA:

“MLADIN FINED AND LOSES LOUDON POLE POINT FOR DETRIMENTAL CONDUCT

“PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Yoshimura Suzuki’s Mathew Mladin has been fined $5,000 and penalized a Superbike championship pole position point for detrimental conduct during a post-qualifying press conference at New Hampshire International Speedway on Saturday, June 16.

“When asked a question about his record-setting qualifying run, Mladin instead opened the press conference using profanity at times to criticize New Hampshire International Speedway, an AMA Pro Racing official, a newspaper reporter and fellow competitors.

“AMA Pro Racing deems Mladin’s actions in the press conference as inexcusable. The public form (sic) 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.

“Mladin leads the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship with 230 points.”

To express your opinion on the AMA decision to fine Mladin and dock him a point for expressing his opinion and the way he expressed it, send an e-mail to AMA Pro Racing CEO Scott Hollingsworth ([email protected]); Mark Tuttle, Chairman, AMA Pro Racing Board Of Directors ([email protected]); AMA Pro Racing Director of Competition Merrill Vanderslice, ([email protected]); with a copy to Roadracing World ([email protected]).

Large MP3 file (for high bandwidth connections)

Smaller MP3 file

This Just In:

“My name is Briggs Willoughby and I am the Grand Prix rider rep for WMRRA. We also have a SuperSport, Vintage and Novice rep. The mission of each particular rep is to represent the interests of their riders, along with riders in general. We are also the people a rider can come to if they have an issue or request to make to the Executive board.

“On top of this, everyone on our Executive board, save one who is the girlfriend of a rider, is an active racer here at WMRRA.

“Briggs Willoughby
Seattle, WA”