Thank you for the most amazing opportunity! The memorable experience that you provided will never be forgotten. Being chosen to attend the 2012 Monster Energy Supercross Awards Ceremony, will go down as top-ten coolest things I have experienced in my life. To be mingling and having conversations with riders, owners, and media professionals was a surreal experience. We spend so much time reading articles in magazines and the internet, watching the races on TV and in person, but never get to truly spend time with those that we admire and follow. This was an opportunity to chat with the industries finest about the current state and future of supercross.
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Upon entering the venue at the new Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the hallways were littered with the top dirt bikes that were used the night before, and from injured riders as well. Windham, Stewart, Weimer, Dungy, Milsaps, Reed… all of their bikes lined the walkway to the entrance. Some of them still had dirt on them from the night before. When we made it to the entrance of the Joint, there were amazing Ice sculptures and some of the top riders Jerseys were frozen in the ice to admire. The party was definitely on, and it seemed like the riders were ready for it. The ice cold beverages flowed like a river and the atmosphere was that of celebration. On the stage, the Lites East and West bikes of Tomac and Barcia surrounded the KX450F of Ryan Villopoto, whose bike sat center stage behind the speaker's podium.
During the awards, I admired the fact that the behind the scenes staff and the EMS crews were recognized as important and integral as they are. There were many awards that gave thanks to them.
Another huge surprise was that I was asked to present an award, along with the other two Cross Club winners.
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We were fortunate enough to present the Rising Star award, recognizing the lites rider that was voted to make the biggest impact on the 450 class next year. Justin Barcia was chosen. I was very proud to stand at the podium and announce what the fans had decided.
Being a fan of RV2... no wait RV1… no, make that RV$1million, I was stoked to say hi and congratulate him on all of his accomplishments. As with all of the riders, he is a very humble and grounded person that clearly loves his life and the sport that he rules at.
I can honestly say that becoming a Cross Club member was one of the best things I have ever done.
Thanks again!
Mike B
P.S. Erin Bates looked amazing! :)