Getting Ready

All riders (except Patrick Schmidt who could not make the trip due to health problems) were  impounded by 4:15 p.m. on 9/20.

The process was not without problems, however. To begin with, the organizers decided International Drivers Licenses were required for competition, but failed to notify the participants in advance. This led to the denial of many riders at Administrative Control, which prevented those without their license from leaving the paddock area to test their bikes. Fortunately, the first Jury Meeting 9/19 corrected this problem.

Team USA was the 2nd team scheduled for tech inspection and impound this morning. As always, the organizers were extremely strict with the early teams. In addition, organizers required a permanently attached side/center stand, which many of the riders, not only Team USA, had to manufacture or secure from other sources. Team USA still has four riders, that after impounding, will have to change their "manufactured" stands.

The weather is overcast most of the day with temperatures around 60 degrees during the day and upper 40's at night in this mountainous region in the Northern part of the Czech Republic. The area is known for its skiing. We're just waiting for snow!

© 2002, American Motorcyclist Association