Putting A Positive Light On Powersports
For one night in July, Travis Pastrana channeled Evel Knievel and captured the imagination of millions around the world. In the process Pastrana put a positive light on powersports and was ultimately named American Motorcyclist Association 2018 Motorcyclist of the Year. Awarded annually, the AMA Motorcyclist of the Year designation recognizes the individual or group that had the most profound impact on the world of motorcycling in the previous 12 months.
"Few things or people in motorcycling today capture the fascination of today's youth like Evel Knievel did for me as a boy," AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. "Travis Pastrana's performance no doubt captured the attention of young people in a way that hasn't been done since the days of Knievel. He drew positive attention to motorcycling through mainstream media in a manner that helps to promote motorcycling and the motorcycle lifestyle.”
In addition to his high-profile Las Vegas stunts, Pastrana also raised awareness of the devastation caused to Puerto Rico by Hurricane Maria by competing in the Motocross of Nations as part of Team Puerto Rico. He helped raise money to rebuild motocross tracks, homes and a school playground.
A Charter Life Member of the AMA (signifying 25 years of continuous membership in the association), the full story
of Pastrana's efforts can be found in the January issue of American Motorcyclist magazine.