An Inspirational Race Day: Brett Downey Memorial Race
by: Scott Parkinson / photos by: John Parkinson
www.panicrev.org


Jason Lawrence - showing his support at the Brett Downey Memorial Race

The past and the future came together for the Brett Downey Memorial Race, as amateur national champion Jason Lawrence and former AMA motocross and supercross champion Jeff Emig banged bars in the 250 Pro/Intermediate gate. Lawrence ended up taking the upper hand and taking the win; however, Emig put up a solid fight and provided race fans with some incredible bar banging action. Even with the incredible racing action, the support that the motocross community poured out in support for the Brett Downey Safety Foundation was moving, inspiring, and exceptionally hear felt.

The foundation's memorial race/fundraiser also allowed the foundation to set a precedent for the future of motocross racing. They had a full crew of certified, trained flaggers whose passion and enthusiasm was witnessed each time a rider went down. Kenny Morris, the vice president of the Brett Downey Safety Foundation, enthusiastically stated, “They [trained flaggers] make a huge difference. I had at least five different parents come up to me and thank the foundation for the flagging crew and compliment [the foundation] on how well they are doing.” Kenny continued to say, “Parents continued to say that they feel more comfortable watching their kid out on the track. That tells me they make a difference. It's important to understand that motocross has inherent dangers and not everything is preventable, but there is a certain comfort level knowing that safety changes are beginning to happen.” It is true that all dangers may not be able to be prevented or even eliminated; however, it is apparent that the Brett Downey Safety Foundation has a heart to encourage and promote safety and safety awareness and, thereby, make a positive change in the sport so many people passionately love.

Kenny left these concluding remarks, “The Brett Downey Safety Foundation and the Downey family would like to thank all the people that participated in the event and the industry companies that donated product.” The Brett Downey Safety Foundation has a great vision and an encouraging plan of action. Please check out www.mxsafety38.org for further information and current updates.

#75 Richie Owens	#764 Dereck Maher grabs the holeshot in the 125 beginner class
#47 Jeff Emig	#34 Nico Izzi