Arguably the most popular, and recognizable motorcycle rider on the planet, Travis Pastrana, will drop out of supercross racing beginning this weekend to recover from shoulder and knee injuries recently sustained while swimming and riding. The following press release describes the continuing saga of Pastrana’s almost-endless list of injuries and disappointments.
Having attended each of the two AMA Supercross rounds (in Anaheim and Phoenix) held so far this year, we can assure you that a certain level of excitement and electricity will be gone without young Travis participating. We have to wish him the best in his efforts to recover from these injuries, and rehabilitate himself.
BREA, Calif. (Jan. 16, 2003) – American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today announced that Team SoBe Suzuki factory rider Travis Pastrana will not compete in upcoming rounds of the 2003 AMA U.S. Supercross Series.
On Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, Pastrana injured his shoulder while swimming laps in a pool. Said Pastrana, “The last few weeks I have been limited in my training due to my knee injury. While swimming, I re-injured my left shoulder. This made me realize that I would not be able to run in front with the other top racers. Yesterday, I made the final decision to pull out with a renewed focus on rehabilitating my body and mind to get 110 percent healthy. So, when I come back I will be able to run in front and win races.”
According to Mel Harris, vice president of ASMC’s motorcycle/ATV division, Suzuki stands behind Pastrana and respects his decision. “Of course we’re disappointed and dismayed for Travis,” said Harris. “He’s a tremendously gifted rider who’s just had a string of bad luck. We at Suzuki certainly encourage Travis to take care of himself and recover fully so that when he returns to racing, he’ll come back 100 percent.”
