DirtRider . Net MX, SX, Arena Cross, Off-Road Community

This is the text version of DirtRider.Net
Click Here for the Full Version

Pages: 1

Pastrana Injured at Gravity Games
(Click here to view the original thread with full colors/images)

Posted by: motomike137---------------------

Does anyone have any details?

Posted by: DWreck---------------------

I heard that he won. He did a one handed backflip. But I haven't heard anything about him being injured.

Posted by: yzeater---------------------

Hit his knee and dislocated it...I assume that means he won't defend his X games title...

Posted by: Treejumper---------------------

Must of did it after winning the event or just didnt feel it. He was running around half naked after winning. Threw everything but his pants and helmet into the crowd.

Posted by: MX-727---------------------

Think he got hurt in the step-up event.

Posted by: SirReel---------------------

It was during the step-up portion of the freestyle challenge (best whip, best trick, step-up) on Sunday. But, he still had enough points to win Gold for the Freestyle Challenge, to match the one he got Saturday for the regular freestyle. According to TP, he had hurt his knee ("stretched some ligaments") earlier in the year during a crash through a whoop section (not sure where this was). He re-aggrivated the problem and is now going to get surgery. He will miss X, but should be back for the start of SX...
Bet Decoster is really freakin now :scream:

Posted by: MTRIDER---------------------

That poor kid, his body cant keep up with his talent....

Posted by: kmccune---------------------

Yup, Roger must really be hating this!

Kevin

Posted by: KDX220rm---------------------

Guess that screws up his planned racing in Millville next week.

I bet Roger C. & Suzuki isn't too happy with this, but I am glad he got 1st place again. I think Travis enjoys the X-games more than outdoor MX.

Posted by: zcookie49---------------------

yeah, Travis got famous doing freestyle, so suzuki being mad, imo, is bogus, for he sells bikes for them when he races, and he sells bikes for them each time he wins gold doing freestyle.
I mean, give me a break, the guy has won a championship racing and rules at freestyle. THAT is probably why they tolerate it....

Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

I don't know if freestyle (or, as in the video game, they should call it freekstyle) sells all that many bikes. I bet if you ask the great unwashed that watch freestyle who rides what bike, they couldn't tell you. SX/MX fans, as a whole, could.

Posted by: The Honda Pilot---------------------

Who thinks Roger wont play with travis's game much longer and once the contract is up say bye bye ? travis will be doing this body mutliation well into his early 20's so roger is going to either suck it up or get new talent. What do you think he will do ?

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

I am an MX and SX fan. Everytime Travis gets hurt at FX, I can't help but wonder how much it will hinder his MX and SX career.

I want to see him focus 100% on MX and SX, just to see how good he really can be compared to Bubba and RC. It doesn't matter at all to me how the judges score him compared to the Mulisha et al.

IMO, Travis can FX when his MX and SX career is over.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by The Honda Pilot
What do you think he will do ?

Since Suzuki and Travis alreayd had a big meeting about his involvement in FMX and Suzuki backed away I think Roger will have to accept it. TP is much more of a PR machine than they can lose right now.

Even with him out and injured he is the most recognizeable Suzuki rider they have had. I bet more people (ok, most kids) know who TP is than they know who Greg Albertyn is.

Ivan

Posted by: James---------------------

I think Travis has the money to do whatever he wants. Who cares if Roger isn't happy. I spose if Roger decides to kick him off of the team, there isn't anything that's gonna stop Travis from racing if he wants to. They should have known what they were getting into when they signed him.

If I could make 60,000 per jump or flip or whatever it was doing freestyle twice a year as opposed to crashing every week at motocross...I'd flip too. Travis has already proven himself on the track. So his first year on the 250s wasn't stellar? I'd guess that there are just as many people out there who know the name Travis Pastrana as there are who know the name Ricky Carmichael.

So freestyle isn't racing....big deal. I can tell you that seeing freestyle is what finally got me on the MX track so Honda can chalk up the sale of at least two CR250s to Carey Hart (not that I ever intended to do some of that craziness).

In the end, how can you question what he is doing until you have the same choices that he does...oh, I forgot, most of us don't (I doubt the ones that do are sitting here knocking Travis right now).

Posted by: jboomer---------------------

Besides, look at how many more times Pastrana has been injured racing MX/SX compared to Freestyle. He missed most of last season because he knocked himself senseless what 3 or 4 times? If I remember right, this is his first real freestyle injury. He's got plenty of time to recoop before the SX season starts back up, and you can believe that even if he is injured, he'll still ride. I hate that he hurt himself, and hope he can still race Millville, but he's having fun! You can't hate him for that! Read some of the other posts. At least 1/3 of the DRN'ers are riding injured(sorry guys, the gigs up!), and we're not getting paid for it! Who's the stupid ones? (I'm riding injured too!)

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by James
In the end, how can you question what he is doing until you have the same choices that he does...

If a young MX racer with the potential to become one of the all time greats decides to focus his efforts elsewhere, tongues will wag. It's not a crime, it's human nature.

IMO, having fun should take a back seat to fulfilling your potential if you are blessed with extraordinary skills.

Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by jboomer
Read some of the other posts.

i just read all the posts in this thread. i don't see where anyone is bad-mouthing tp. these last couple of replies have gotten a little off. the previous questions were if roger and suzuki would or should be upset.

we can't question what tp is doing but roger and suzuki can.

and now to piss you off--i think, as someone said above, that he should concentrate on mx for a few years, then do the freestyle later. he has the chance to rule both. as it is, he will just be the best freestyler.

Posted by: mx547---------------------

you're a little quicker than me, dave.

Posted by: James---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
IMO, having fun should take a back seat to fulfilling your potential if you are blessed with extraordinary skills.

How many times have you heard "do what you have the skills to do" rather than "do what you love". It's obvious he has the extraordinary skills to do both. I think he enjoys freestyle more and is probably more of an exhibition of his skills than racing.

I see what you are saying but I don't think I would want a bunch of people always on my back saying "well we really see how you would prefer to make more money and work less in middle management but you should really put your exceptional floor sweeping skills to work". Not exactly a valid comparison but along the same lines.

I don't think his racing career is going to last all that long if he keeps getting hurled off his bike trying to live up to all of our expectations of his racing skills. Is he even 19 yet? I'd rather see him healthy doing flips...there are plenty of fast guys to watch on the track. I like to watch Ricky Carmichael even though there's a whole mob of people who would wish him harm because he is so good at using his extraordinary skills. So after he wins every outdoor race this year...do we then decide he needs to top the no-hand backflip in free-style because otherwise, he hasn't lived up to our expectations of the all out super moto guy.

Posted by: zcookie49---------------------

There was an old saying about work, "you either love you job and get paid squat, or you can make alot of money doing a job you hate".
.
Travis is definately an exception, Yeah, I would like to see him win another championship, but the guy is so spread out, not with just FMX, but college and other issues I'm sure.
.
I dont think Freestyle sells as many bikes, but I bet it helps, especially with someone like Travis on one of the only yellow bikes out there the past 3-4years...
Come on people, Travis is Travis, if you dont know that by now, get a clue, who else can backflip a dirtbike into the grandcanyon?
Only he knows what his priorities are right now, and I think that being 19 and having a career revolving around FMX, he probably loves it, loves the challenge of showing up a couple times a year and whipping the guys that do it all year in competition.
.
personally, I love seeing him race. I wouldnt mind if he chilled either and concentrated on racing for a few years, but you know, Travis is travis, and there is Always something in the News with him, and I think some of us would miss that if it was only racing, Oh well, either way, I am stoked he's still involved and not retired yet!!! :scream:

Posted by: mx547---------------------

if i was in his position, i would do exactly as he is but...

i just hate to see him become the ron lechien of his generation. the one that should have, could have, would have...

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

It is my opinion that when one of the world's best MXer's gets hurt doing freestyle, it is one thing: A WASTE.

I am openly biased toward MX and SX. If Travis' does not like the responsibility/pressure of a full time factory ride, he should quit.

mx547 - good point about Lechein. Per the AMA page, Pastrana has 7 major wins (outdoor national & 250 SX) to Lechien's 26 career victories. If Pastrana wants to lay claim to being the Lechein of his generation, he better get busy.

Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
Per the AMA page, Pastrana has 7 major wins (outdoor national & 250 SX) to Lechien's 26 career victories.

that's interesting. i knew he won a 125 championship but i didn't realize he had that many wins. do you have a link to that page? i would like to see career results of some other riders too.

Posted by: SirReel---------------------

I think the main thing is that we are dealing with Travis Pastrana... That kid is a freak of nature, and if pushed hard enough I think he will tell the MX world to take a leap... He's got so many outside sponsors and such that he is probably the first person that could turn down a factory ride and still do what he wants. I remember reading one of his Racer X columns where he started it by saying "Supercross is not fun!" That right there told me the pressure that is being put on the wonder boy is/was getting to him. To him it is all about the fun factor (like said above is he even 19 yet), and when it ain't fun, I doubt he will continue. I big loss for the MX world yes, but give the kid a break he has been "the next big thing" since he was 14. I think he just needs some time to relax, then we will see the real TP again. And I can't wait, cause that kid is amazing!!!

Posted by: jboomer---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by jboomer
Read some of the other posts.

Quote:

Originally posted by MX547

I just read all the posts in this thread. i don't see where anyone is bad-mouthing tp.

I was referring to all of us riding injured, not anyone bad mouthing "tp."

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

mx547,
Here is the AMA page, it's a good one:

http://www.usmotocross.com/article....bHTRMIq9&aid=60

Per MXA, Lechien also was runner up for 4 major championships in addition to his 125 crown.

http://www.motocrossactionmag.com/everychamp.asp

Posted by: angry jim---------------------

I think Roger DeCoster should have seen the writing on the wall before he signed him. He could have put something in the contract that says that he must forfiet his contract salary if he gets injured doing freestyle. Many pro athletes in other sports are forbidden from doing risky activities during their playing season. This way Travis can do what he wants and know that he's responsible for himself if something goes wrong. I'm sure he would continue to do freestyle.

Roger has to accept the whole package with Travis. As much as I personally would like to see him concentrate on racing, I understand why he does what he does. You can't mary someone and then expect them to change. Unless it's in the contract beforehand, Roger's only choice is to wait for the current contract to expire and swallow his pride.

Posted by: Big Tuna---------------------

I too would like to see TP live up to his expectations in MX & SX, but we all sound like the proverbial mini dad. He's got a boat load of talent, and diversified talent at that, let him enjoy it, and deal with his own demonds when all is said and done. The greatest tragedy would be him not making his "own" decissions.

Posted by: justql---------------------

Travis is the best known Suzuki rider. Being known and having his personality is a bunch of what Suzuki is paying him for. I'm sure they consider the injuries a bad thing, just as they would if they had happned in a MX race. They'll hang with him even if he does Freestyle only.

Posted by: IrishEKU---------------------

Ditto!

Posted by: weimedog---------------------

His racing career was done last year with those head injuries. Now he's playing with the rest of his life.

Posted by: Milquetoast---------------------

I think Travis is a rarity in this day and age. He is a happy person, has enormous talent, really enjoys what he is doing, doesn't lose track of his ego, and works hard toward his goals. If he decides to switch over to the pro-level basket weaving competitions, I'll still like him. Let the guy do what he wants!

Posted by: TwinSpar---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by jboomer
Besides, look at how many more times Pastrana has been injured racing MX/SX compared to Freestyle. He missed most of last season because he knocked himself senseless what 3 or 4 times? If I remember right, this is his first real freestyle injury.

Bzzzzz, wrong answer... he basically separated his his spine from the pelvis when he came up short on a FMX jump (before going pro at racing). I've never seen a bike come to a complete stand still that quickly and after that big of a gap! His recovery was fairly quick but each follow-up injury takes longer to heal.... It's an age thing.

Posted by: super rat---------------------

Another topic that I was pretty vocal about last week was Travis. The name Travis has practically become an adjective. I said what I said because I was pulled into the loop to help him understand how critical rest would be over the next 10 weeks. Not long after our conversation I heard he was training. Then I saw a picture of him doing a back flip. Travis and several folks who have e-mailed me, assure me that all his problems have stemmed from MX not Freestyle. Really? Didn’t he case a jump in a freestyle event, break his back and train in a wheelchair? Why don’t people remember that? Travis's problems are a result of him trying to do to much. He hasn’t finished a national since Red Bud last year! He hasn’t finished a SX event since Indy in February. Doctors told him to rest, but Travis does what he wants, which is what freestylers do. I love the kid, he is popular, polite and talented as hell, but finishing some races would be nice, or maybe letting his bosses in on his latest endeavors rather that having them find out about it on the internet. All the people who tell me he is a positive role model might want to think about that some more. Is it good for kids to see a guy get rewarded for doing whatever he wants because it’s fun, and going about it in sort of a sneaky fashion? I want Travis to succeed! Everybody is pulling for him, but he needs to be smarter.

This is somthing I got from David Baileys site and I think he hit the nail on the head.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by super rat
[B]Is it good for kids to see a guy get rewarded for doing whatever he wants because it’s fun/B]

IMO do what you have to do to be able to do what you love. If you get to do what you love and get paid for it then you are a very lucky person.

I think Travis should do whatever the hell he wants. He only owes himself. If he enjoys what he does then so be it. He has enough money to live off of for the rest of his life.

If I was in the same position I'd do whatever I wanted and tell everyone else to kiss my butt.

Ivan

Posted by: super rat---------------------

Quote:

I think Travis should do whatever the hell he wants. He only owes himself.

Doesn't Travis work for a race team?

Posted by: MoO_coW---------------------

I totally agree with super rats post. Travis has TONS of talent as we all know but hes going to be crippled by the time hes 25 if he just does whatever he wants because its fun right now. Also, if hes in a contract to race he needs to be out practicing to race and learn to race safer, instead of going out and getting hurt. I don’t care if it’s not in the contract that he can’t do FMX or anything, I think needs to owe up to some responsibility and have some respect and go out there and do what he has a contract to be doing. Don’t take this as a flame against him, but for his own good he needs to slow down.

Posted by: motomike137---------------------

Yes, Travis should be able to do what he wants. On the other hand those of us who help pay his salary by buying his sponsors products are entitled to our opinions. Actually all of us MXers are not trying to tell him what to do. We are just begging him to spread his talent a little differently. As cool as his backflips are we can just imagine what a few good seasons on a factory 250 could look like! We dream of a TP/RC/Bubba duel! Man I just realized how lucky we are to have the talent we have here in the U.S. and the run we have had of having the best riders in the world. Come on Travis, you could put your name up there at the very top for a couple of seasons and then go on like JMB.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by motomike137
We dream of a TP/RC/Bubba duel!

Travis got to where he has by trying to fulfill HIS dreams.

I'll leave him to do what he feels is best.

Those that think he'll be crippled or whatever may be right but it is his choice and as much as I like watching him race I don't care if he ever races again.

He is a recognizeable name and his merchandising sells very very rapidly. He can skip MX and SX altogether and he'd still be one of the top sellers in merchandising. Just like MC. If MC never wins another race he'll still be a top seller of shirts, hats, dolls and merchandising for a long time.

I want to watch racing and I want to watch bikes. I don't care who is out there or who is racing. It is nice to see people like RC and think what a TP / RC duel would be like but truth be told as long as I get to watch a race I'm happy. I get just as excited watching the A riders at my track as I do the pro's and just as excited when I watch the pee wee's. Why? B/C I love the SPORT and realize that great riders will come and go.

I could care less what Travis does anymore than I care if any of you guys make it to the top. I still wish you well and hope for your happiness no matter what endeavor you choose. Just as I do Travis and every other person out there.

It is his life and I hope he does what he feels is best. If he starts trying to please the fans by compromising himself that would lead to more problems than he has now. I don't think anyone needs to compromise their dreams when they have the opportunity not to.

And just as others have the right to their opinion I have the right to believe Travis should tell those that are criticising him to kiss his butt

Ivan

Posted by: txvintage---------------------

When there was rumor that he might be let go, I took the opportunity to tell my son that it doesn't matter who or what you are, you have to live up to your obligation and the promises you have made. TP has a contract with Suzuki (which is where most of his money comes from, btw) and he has not given them the track time they have bought. Injuries are a part of the game, but it kills me that he does the X Games or Gravity Games while not racing during recovery.

When Suzuki and Travis reached an amiable agreement recently, my son said, "See, he can do what he wants and they won't fire him. He's Travis."

Yep, just the lesson for my son that I was hoping for.........NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I don't care if he is a teenager, he was man enough to sign the deal. Live up to it.

Posted by: Camstyn---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Truespode

happy. I get just as excited watching the A riders at my track as I do the pro's and just as excited when I watch the pee wee's. Why? B/C I love the SPORT and realize that great riders will come and go.

Ivan

Ivan, you're not booing any pee wee riders are you?

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Cam Mitchell

Ivan, you're not booing any pee wee riders are you?

Only the ones with bored out PW50's

Ivan

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by txvintage
I don't care if he is a teenager, he was man enough to sign the deal. Live up to it.

You are making an assumption about his deal (unless you know something I don't). From my understanding he can do what he wants in his off-time as long as he uses his own bikes and not factory supplied equipment.

However, if Suzuki would have let him go that would have been a great lesson. He would have started his own team and done what he wanted and probably made a lot of money and done just as well.

Then we could point and say "if you don't like the circumstance you are in, get out and do what you want to do."

Having the courage and desire to do what you want is a noble thing and just b/c others disagree with what he enjoys doesn't take away from it. If he was an electrician who finally got tired of all the work he was doing for his boss so he went and started his own company we'd say that he had a lot of guts and be praising him.

Just b/c he has the ability to negotiate things on his terms does not make him a bad example. It makes him a better example b/c he is not compromising his dreams for anyone. He works hard at everything he does, whether it be FMX, training, MX, SX or working with the fans. It isn't like he is a couch potato eating doritos and smoking rope instead of training.

He is following his dream and putting an extreme amount of effort into it. He didn't learn the backflip by just doing it, he worked on it and perfected it. That is the lesson that should be seen. You can do what you want as long as you are willing to follow your dreams and work your ass off to get it.

Ivan

Posted by: James---------------------

The comment about "us" paying his salary kills me. Suzuki pays his contract...that's it. This isn't the government we are talking about and even then, you go ahead and tell the cop that is writing your ticket that you pay his salary.

I think racing until exhaustion with health problems and crashing out trying to win races goes a long way toward fulfilling his contract. I don't know about you guys but crashing has never been easy work for me either. It is my understanding (maybe I'm wrong) that this so-called freestyle injury is actually an aggravation or reinjury of an MX injury. Suzuki put Travis on a 250 long after he separated his spine.

"Is it good for kids to see a guy get rewarded for doing whatever he wants because it’s fun, and going about it in sort of a sneaky fashion?"

The kid is getting rewarded for going out and working hard to be the best at freestyle while he was also working hard to win lots of 125 races. On top of all of that, he gives lots of time to the fans, almost always projects a clean positive image, all while getting excellent grades and finishing high school early.

It amazes me that people who probably don't nearly live up to the example this kid is setting would sit around and knock him for participating in a freestyle event.

EDIT: Ivan - looks like you are posting at the same time...you must type quicker :D

Posted by: motomike137---------------------

I think that if he's gonna keep racing he needs to change his approach, that's all. He needs to quit drilling the ground every time he rides. He is his own worst enemy right now. I'm sure that freestyle is a great release for him and that he loves it. I also think that down deep inside he loves racing and longs to be the champ at that also. The trouble is he keeps sending himself back to the "go" square on the monopoly board. I bet that this stretch he has been through in the last year is killing him. He probably appreciates that we all have such strong opinions about him and his talents. I just hope he sticks with MX and gives us a couple seasons to remember.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by James
[B]It amazes me that people who probably don't nearly live up to the example this kid is setting would sit around and knock him for participating in a freestyle event.
[B]

Well said.

Ivan

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

Anybody know when Travis' Suzuki contract is up? Would any factory hire him as their #1 MX/SX rider when he is available?

When he signed his current contract, he was a hot property in demand as a potential #1 rider by all the factories, which gave him a lot of clout when negotiating terms. Those days are gone.

"Free to be Travis" is a philosophy that seems pretty popular, but it comes with a price.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
"Free to be Travis" is a philosophy that seems pretty popular, but it comes with a price.

What price? The price of not getting a factory contract and starting his own team and doing absolutely what he wants? Maybe SX/FMX only? Maybe he retires and takes care of tadpoles for the rest of his life?

At this point, what is the price? It seems it is whatever he is willing to give up and he has enough now that he can pretty much choose what he wants to give up or work for.

I think that is a fairly good position to be in.

FWIW, I hold the same philosophy for Kevin. If he wants to race he'll get enough support to race. If he wants to retire he will just have to suffer it out and work the new OHV park he created. Poor guy

Ivan

Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Truespode

It isn't like he is a couch potato eating doritos and smoking rope instead of training.

what would be wrong with that? as long as it's what he wants to do and makes him happy.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by mx547

what would be wrong with that? as long as it's what he wants to do and makes him happy.

Honestly, nothing. As a matter of fact, I'm sure there are more people doing that and complaining about Travis and his "potential" than there are people trying to achieve their dreams.

Ivan

Posted by: KDX'r in IN---------------------

His contract is with Suz. not Roger. If suz. lets him do what he wants more power to him.

Posted by: zcookie49---------------------

Ivan - well said on your posts.
I agree, the guy can do whatever he wants, actually, even if he stopped racing/fmx all together, he would still be in demand, look at ryan Hughes now, training riders/education...
.
As I said before, I am glad that we have someone like Travis around, He brings people to the sport, and he lets us live out things WE CANT do thru his actions. Its great to get excited for him over the past 5 years, watching him grow the sport of MX and FMX. Another good thing about Travis is that he has fun at what he does, at least it seems, the dude glows, and not many others out there come close to that.
Be yourself Travis, that is who you've been and that is what the fans like.

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

Yeah, why should a young MXer pay attention to a boss like Roger DeCoster?

Someday, I want to visit this planet where no one is allowed to criticize or have expectations, where responsibility is not in the dictionary, and where everyone gets to do what they want 24/7.

Obviously, racing MX is a lower priority to Travis than FMX. That disappoints me. Count me as an ex-fan of Travis.

Posted by: Tod---------------------

Quote:

If he was an electrician who finally got tired of all the work he was doing for his boss so he went and started his own company we'd say that he had a lot of guts and be praising him.

Yeah, but his situation is more like calling is sick from his electrician job so he can stay home to do some arc welding and ends up burning his fingers off

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Tod

Yeah, but his situation is more like calling is sick from his electrician job so he can stay home to do some arc welding and ends up burning his fingers off

Not really. Jumping is part of his training regimen. The only thing keeping him from racing is his endurance. Endurance doesn't play a part in FMX and the dangers associated with FMX are no greater than the dangers associated practicing bike control on a test track.

He didn't call in sick. He was told not to race b/c of his conditioning level.

Ivan

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
Yeah, why should a young MXer pay attention to a boss like Roger DeCoster?

Who says he's not? TP met with Suzuki and Roger was a part of the discussion. Why do you have a perception that Suzuki forbade him from doing FMX?

Quote:

Someday, I want to visit this planet where no one is allowed to criticize or have expectations, where responsibility is not in the dictionary, and where everyone gets to do what they want 24/7.

Nobody is saying you don't have that right. I'm only saying that with the right you are given to criticise he has the right to tell you to kiss his butt.

Just b/c you have the right to criticise does not take away my right to criticise your criticism!

Quote:

Obviously, racing MX is a lower priority to Travis than FMX. That disappoints me. Count me as an ex-fan of Travis.

Ahhh, dissappointed b/c someone has a different priority base.
Doo-diddy-waa-waa.

I think you'll get over it. If not, you need help

j/k

For the record, I doubt any of us in this discussion know what his priorities are. We are making generalizations and assumptions. I think that is the bad part. I support his right to do what he wants. Others who are quick to criticise are making assumptions based on perceptions.

I don't know the whole story and as a result I support him to do what he wants. Just as I support anyone's right to do what they want in life as long as it is legal and moral.

Ivan

Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Quote:

dirt bike dave said:
Obviously, racing MX is a lower priority to Travis than FMX. That disappoints me.

It disappoints me as well, but I'm sure that how I feel don't mean diddleysquat to Travis.

Quote:

Tod said:
Yeah, but his situation is more like calling is sick from his electrician job so he can stay home to do some arc welding and ends up burning his fingers off
then Ivan said
He didn't call in sick. He was told not to race b/c of his conditioning level.

Okay, I'll give you that Ivan. But it is like he was sent home sick from work and then went over to another job and made a bunch of jack, then his boss saw him, he waved at his boss and said "Whazzup!", but his boss decided he maybe oughta keep him around because even though he rarely makes it into work, he's still the best electrician he's got.

Or something like that . . . :confused:

Posted by: super rat---------------------

Who has their own teams? MC and The Rock, year after year, week after week they are there with their sponsors names on their shirts,bikes and trucks racing for a championship like they were hired to do. What does Suzuki have a guy dressed up like Travis.

Quote:

It amazes me that people who probably don't nearly live up to the example this kid is setting would sit around and knock him for participating in a freestyle event.

That's the whole point. When I sign a contract to do work for someone I do what I'm being paid to do. Why because it's my job. What is Travis job? He is a PRO racer. When is the last time he raced? He is still collecting checks and now he hurt himself in a freesyle event because it fun!!!

My first post in this therad was taken from David Bailey's site the son of Gary Bailey Travis' coach. Do you think David talked to his dad about this before he put it on the net for us all to read?

Posted by: angry jim---------------------

I don't know how much of a training benifit doing backflips is going to be during a race.

I think it's very noble of Travis to ride injured. He won his 125 national title while riding with a cast on his arm part of the season. This season, his luck has run out. I think the point that most of us are making is that we want to see him ride. Whether it's freestyle or racing, let's hope he doesn't burn himself out overdoing it. Money is no object for Travis. I hope he get's in a good couple years with no major injuries, but I'm losing hope.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by XRpredator

Okay, I'll give you that Ivan. But it is like he was sent home sick from work and then went over to another job and made a bunch of jack, then his boss saw him, he waved at his boss and said "Whazzup!", but his boss decided he maybe oughta keep him around because even though he rarely makes it into work, he's still the best electrician he's got.

Or something like that . . . :confused:

That isn't uncommon around here in IT. I know of many guys who work contract work and accomplish just as much on there "official" bosses time as they do on their own time.

Ivan

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by super rat
That's the whole point. When I sign a contract to do work for someone I do what I'm being paid to do. Why because it's my job. What is Travis job? He is a PRO racer.

Really?

Can you post the details of his contract?

Didn't think so. You are speculating. He met with Suzuki and they gave him their blessings. Either way he has his own free time and if my boss told me what I could or couldn't do I'd walk.

There are some companies that think b/c you ride dirtbikes you have the potential to call in sick more with injury so they are less inclined to hire you. They have the right to pass on me just as I have the right to work for someone who doesn't care what I do in my off-time, even if it does occassionally effect my full time job.

Bottom line... it is his choice. We don't know squat other than he has a contract with Suzuki. Everything else is speculation and so many people are quick to dispense advice based on their half-assed speculation.

Ivan

Posted by: motomike137---------------------

Wow, when I threw this post out there I didn't intend for this to happen. I was just dissapointed that he got hurt again cause I was thinking about going to Milleville and hoping to see both Travis and Langston back in action. With the nature of our sport you need to see these guys in action when you can because they may not be around for the next race. I think the underlying thing going on here is that a lot of people (us old school MXers) don't care for FMX all that much. Heck if I had my way SX probably would not exist. Lets all hope that Travis gets it all together and wins at everything next year!

Posted by: MikeT---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Truespode
I bet more people (ok, most kids) know who TP is than they know who Greg Albertyn is.

Ivan

Without a doubt. My 4 year old sees that Hamblin guy #99 and thinks he is, guess who??? Travis. My 2 year old, who just turned two, goes into the garage as I am working on my fork seal, points at my front number plate and says, "One niney nine Daddy"..... The kids LOVE him. I think if Travis came out riding a tricycle people would still Love him. He is such a nice guy and so immensely talented, you can't help but like him. I do.

Posted by: super rat---------------------

"so many people are quick to dispense advice based on their half-assed speculation."

Maybe you should drop David Baliey an email and set him straight too. :silly:

Posted by: James---------------------

zzzzzzzzzzzzzz

"Opinions are like............." David Bailey may have quite a bit more inside knowledge...but it is still just an opinion.

Maybe you guys should leach onto a hero guy who actually does want to put all of his effort into racing.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by super rat
"so many people are quick to dispense advice based on their half-assed speculation."

Maybe you should drop David Baliey an email and set him straight too. :silly:

I put a lot of stock into David's opinion but it is only his opinion even though his opinion has more inside knowledge. From my vantage point I say none of us without that knowledge should be criticising TP the way he has been criticised in the this thread.

As a matter of fact, here is what Bailey said:

Quote:

Doctors told him to rest, but Travis does what he wants, which is what freestylers do. I love the kid, he is popular, polite and talented as hell, but finishing some races would be nice,

He didn't say Travis has an obligation or should do this or that. If David was in Travis' shoes he may do something entirely different b/c of his personality. However, for anyone in this thread to claim to know what TP's job is or to make statements that come across as if they know what TP should or shouldn't do is bs.

Nobody tells me what to do and I pay the consequences and reap the rewards of it. I'm just expecting Travis to have the same opportunity.

Ivan

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

Travis is the top rider on a factory TEAM. IMO, if he accepts that job, he has responsibilities to his team.

It only takes a little bit of common sense to understand how his team, including Roger DeCoster, might be disappointed that Travis has injured himself doing FMX.

Of course none of us have read Travis' Suzuki contract. Obviously it allows him to do freestyle. When Travis signed that contract, he had major clout as the up and coming superstar, courted by all the factories. Now he is the oft-injured FMX'er who likes to dabble at pro MX.

His bargaining position as an SX/MX rider is now WEAKER - some may think that is an advantage for Travis and his career. IMO, it is not.

Posted by: Tod---------------------

Quote:

Truespode writes
I know of many guys who work contract work and accomplish just as much on there "official" bosses time as they do on their own time.

IMHO that truely sucks. That is the sort of nonsense that make life/business difficult for people who really earn their living as contractors. Billings someone for work you are doing for someone else is theft.

Most employers are aware that this happens and compensate accordingly

As a contract engineer for the last 18 years, I have never understood the shortsighted approach taken by many "direct" employees, as mentioned in your quote above.

BTW - I think Travis is a talented kid and can do whatever he damn well pleases :D ,but everthing has it's price.

Posted by: KDX220rm---------------------

I just wanted to drop in a reminder as about a year ago, one of our members here was seriously injured with head trama injuries while practicing for an upcoming Missouri State fair race and many thanks to Oldguy which hand delivered notes that Jeremy L. (_Solo_) and If wrote to Travis and his mom at Millville. Travis and Debbie came to Kansas City and visited Cobrakid in the hospital. (also want to thank Okie, Thump, Nikki, and many others for all their help and articles which helped get Travis to KC also).

Now tell me how many racers in motocross, SX, or freestyle has done that

Not only did Travis and Debbie come visit Chris in the hopsital, he also went to see a younger motocross injuried with similar injuries the same week in Iowa.

Also Travis did something for Chris which he very rarely does and that was give Chris an autographed jersery that he wore from a previous race.

I read an article in one of our local motocross racing magazines (PLAYGROUND) and the mother was praising Travis and Debbie for the hospital visit and the kid was alittle disappointed that he wanted a jersey and Debbie told him that Travis usually only donates his gear for charity auctions to help young kids and man, this about brought a tear to my Eye.

Travis is still #1 on my list along with the KTM riders and I guess I might have to start cheering Jeremy McGrath again.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Tod
Most employers are aware that this happens and compensate accordingly

As a contract engineer for the last 18 years, I have never understood the shortsighted approach taken by many "direct" employees, as mentioned in your quote above.

I understand your point. Most of the ones I know who do it have the full blessings from their bosses as long as it does not interfere with their regular responsibilities.

Plus, the ones that do it have not suffered like I have with the current economy. Threats of layoffs don't bother them b/c of their outside contracts and the talk of no raises doesn't phase them either.

Quote:

BTW - I think Travis is a talented kid and can do whatever he damn well pleases :D ,but everthing has it's price.

I agree. He is the one that makes the choice and will reap the reward and pay the consequences. It's not up to me to criticise just to enjoy what I see for as long as I'm fortunate enough to see it.

Ivan

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by KDX220rm
Not only did Travis and Debbie come visit Chris in the hopsital, he also went to see a younger motocross injuried with similar injuries the same week in Iowa.

That is the example we should be most concerned of. Travis has proven his humanity over and over again.

He is a great person and a great athlete.

Ivan

Posted by: Battered Sav---------------------

Sorry to hear Travis is injured, again. I admire young Mr.Pastrana, he's always smiling and his enthusiasm is almost infectious, I dont think I'd be so cheerful after all his setbacks. The pressure from peoples expectations must be enormous, I'd really like to see him just rest and come out fightin fit next season.
Just for a chuckle, he reminds me of a cross-eyed javelin thrower,
nobody's really sure if he's going to win, but gee, he sure keeps the crowd on their feet.

Get well soon Travis.

Posted by: Yamaboy---------------------

My G/F's daughter is a Travis nut. We spent hours waiting outside the trailer at the ATL SX last year only to find out he was sicker than a dog. Even though he wasn't officially signing autographs, he took the time to shake hands, give away custom Spy goggles, and his dad gave out a worn out Tech8 practice boot. Sorry about being crude, but after puking during the race and going back to the trailer and starting to pack up, Robert took the time to let G in the trailer and meet Trav.
She came out sobbing and hugged and thanked Robert and Debbie and Robert even let her BACK in becuase he noticed we had a camera. So he snapped a shot of a sick Trav. and G. The Pastrana's are genuinely nice and extremely generous people.

So am I a Travis fan, hell yes. Do I care about his contract, no. Am I going to think everything he does is smart, no. Am I going to cheer him on while he's doing it, of course.

I wish Travis the best not because of his talent, his bike brand, his event, or anything else. I wish him the best becuase he is a wonderful person that can ride the wheels off a motorcycle.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Yamaboy
So am I a Travis fan, hell yes. Do I care about his contract, no. Am I going to think everything he does is smart, no. Am I going to cheer him on while he's doing it, of course.

I wish Travis the best not because of his talent, his bike brand, his event, or anything else. I wish him the best becuase he is a wonderful person that can ride the wheels off a motorcycle.

Damn boy... you said everything I wanted to say better and in less space

I was in Atlanta too... we probably shared some of the same space that day.

Ivan

Posted by: Yamaboy---------------------

Just ordered my tickets for next year. I hope they still set up all the pits in the same area indoors. I'd like to see some privateers rigs too. I wonder what Kenny showed up in last year?
Looking forward to the event even 6 months in advance.

Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Yamaboy
Just ordered my tickets for next year.

supercross is fun to watch... but i hope you're not planning on seeing travis race.

Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

A quote from Roger D regarding the fact that Travis is now completely out for the season:

Quote:

“Our disappointment continues,” said team manager Roger DeCoster. “For us, the important thing is the racing path. I feel that we have very a competitive bike this year, but it’s not being raced. My hope is that Travis will be back healthy for next season and we will for once have a full season without missing events because of injury.”

I think we can see where The Man stands on the issue. :D

Posted by: super rat---------------------

I know my opinion is BS, but anyone who can see beter than Ray Charles knows whats going on here. Travis is doing a good job for the company that made him a rich boy. Maybe D'coster dosen't know the details of his deal either.

I like the kid and I wish him the best but he needs to snap out of this and remember where his bread is buttered.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by super rat
I like the kid and I wish him the best but he needs to snap out of this and remember where his bread is buttered.

He is smart enough to know he'll get his bread buttered just as well if he leaves Suzuki and does what he wants. Suzuki has to either live with it or get rid of him. Either way Travis is in the drivers seat.

Ivan

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

Ivan - so you are saying that there are lots of sponsors out there willing to pay Travis as much as Suzuki does? Tell us more!

Publicly ignoring the needs of your employer is not usually considered a good career move. Other employers tend to notice, and will use that as leverage even if they still want to take a chance on you.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
Ivan - so you are saying that there are lots of sponsors out there willing to pay Travis as much as Suzuki does? Tell us more!

All I know are the rumors and the stuff and the comments TP made to Racer X about how when they heard about the Suzuki meeting he had a lot of outsides sponsors contacting him.

I do not think he is publicly ignoring the needs of his employer.

The bottom line is he has worked it out with his boss so he can do it. I am not saying Suzuki should allow him to do what he wants. I'm saying that they are allowing him to do what he wants and it is none of our business.

Nobody is coming to you saying you aren't living up to your potential where you work are they? That is between you and your employer.

Why can't Travis have the same opportunity not to hear about people who don't know what is going on commenting about how he should do his job?

Ivan

Posted by: dad80---------------------

im sure suzuki isnt happy but evidently they are ok with it as he is still doing both but i agree he should stick to one or the other as i dont see how you can train for sx or mx by doing back flips and when you are supposed to be recuperating from injuries you are practicing back flips i thought he was injured that was why he wasnt racing the natinals but no he has been practicing backflips somethings not right if i was roger i would be very pissed

Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

I read this over on the Devil's Own site (MXA online):

Quote:

. . . just talked to Travis Pastrana’s agent on the severity of the Factory Suzuki rider’s injury suffered . . . in the Step Up competition after approaching the jump wrong and catapulting himself over 30 feet up in the air. Pastrana had no choice but to jump off his bike . . . the impact Travis sustained caused his knee to give way, and in the process tore three ligaments. Rumors have been floating around that Travis will be out for four months, but Pastrana’s agent will not confirm how long it will take before Pastrana will be back racing. Travis will undergo surgery on his knee in the next two to three weeks, and then we will know how soon he’ll be back racing. In the meantime, Pastrana will attend the X Games in Philadelphia doing commentary during the Freestyle Motocross events.

It doesn't look good for our tender daredevil.

Posted by: tx246---------------------

there is always a new rider that is the "next big thing". i dont think his replacement rider is doing too bad a job on that 99 bike. if i were suzuki, i would make him choose. as it is, travis is not 100% at either. if he wants fmx, give him a factory ride for that. it isnt fair to his team on the sx/mx side. the level of talent and commitment needed to excell at either mx or fmx is crazy. do one and do it well. i wont think less of him if he picked fmx. as far as decoster goes...........most pro athletes have restriced activities in their contracts. they are put there to protect the people who pay the athlete to perform his job. you dont find nfl quarterbacks being smokejumpers in the off season for a reason.

Posted by: txvintage---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Truespode
Why can't Travis have the same opportunity not to hear about people who don't know what is going on commenting about how he should do his job?

It's called the price of Celebrity. It's peoples interest in how well he does his job that "warrants" the size of his paycheck. If he wants to earn a living in anonimity, bag groceries.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by txvintage
It's called the price of Celebrity. It's peoples interest in how well he does his job that "warrants" the size of his paycheck

I agree to a point but what I see here is mostly jeolousy. People can't have it all and they see Travis trying to have it all so they are upset and want to knock him down and tell him to do this and do that. Sounds like armchair quarterbacks to me.

If everyone here was so smart on what Travis should do they would be where Travis is don't ya think?

The only people that try to shoot down other peoples dreams are the ones that have given up on their own.

Ivan

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by Truespode

I agree to a point but what I see here is mostly jeolousy. People can't have it all and they see Travis trying to have it all so they are upset and want to knock him down and tell him to do this and do that. Sounds like armchair quarterbacks to me.

If everyone here was so smart on what Travis should do they would be where Travis is don't ya think?

The only people that try to shoot down other peoples dreams are the ones that have given up on their own.

Ivan

I see people trying to share their own hard learned lessons and life wisdom, not trying to knock anyone down.

Are you trying to say that anyone who is not in exactly the same position as Travis cannot be as smart as him? :silly:

Some may live in a world where its all about the dreams, but in my world there are things that are right and things that are wrong, as well as somethings that are gray.

Here are some examples:

It is WRONG for a factory TEAM's top MX racer to risk injury in another professional sport during the MX season.

It is RIGHT for an injured factory team racer to focus his rehabilitation on returning to MX ASAP.

There is more to life than following your personal dreams. There is also living up to your responsibilities to those that depend on you.

If we become a world where everyone's first instinct is to follow their own dreams, heaven help us all. I prefer a world where we can rely on people to do their jobs, whether it is their dream job or not.

Think about dreams vs. responsibility next time you are having someone put tires on your wife's car. If the guy tightening the lug nuts decides to pursue his dream of a cold Sobe and forgets about his responsibility to tighten the lug nuts, you will be happy he lived his dream. I will be mad he endangered your wife.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
Think about dreams vs. responsibility next time you are having someone put tires on your wife's car.

Your example is so far fetched and ludicrous it barely deserves a response.

The fact is he has it worked out where he can do both. His bosses let him and he gets away with it.

It is up to him to learn the lessons b/c he has a unique opportunity that none of us can honestly relate to.

The advice here that I have seen has been sour grapes in my opinion.

But, everyone is entitled to their opinions. I just think that if his employer isn't making a fuss it isn't our job to pretend we know the details of the contract and make a fuss for them.

Ivan

Posted by: James---------------------

I'll be sure and pass the word on that all young celebrity types should consult the Dirtrider Council of Wisdom and Hard-Learned lessons before pusuing such frivilous occupations as Freestyle motocross, freestyle bmx, snowboarding, etc. I guess we should even add acting, and music to the list...you know...because those people are pursuing what they want to do and not necessarily what might pay them the most money. What about all of those Olympic athletes that might be better off pursuing higher paying activities rather than risking injury in non-profesional sporting events.

Posted by: dirt bike dave---------------------

James - I have the same advice of fulfilling your responsibilities before pursing your dreams whether you are a celebrity or a not. No double standard here.

Ivan - My negative opinion of Travis participating in FMX while too injured to race for Suzuki are independent of whether Suzuki publicly 'makes a fuss'. Of course factories rarely criticize a rider in public - it would demoralize him for the remainder of his contract and make replacing that rider harder. Because Suzuki has good business sense does not make what Travis did OK.

I have not read Travis contract but I'm fairly certain it does permit him to do freestyle. IMO, Suzuki would be wise to prohibit future factory riders from competing in FMX mid season.

Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by dirt bike dave
IMO, Suzuki would be wise to prohibit future factory riders from competing in FMX mid season.

I have no problem with that statement at all.

Ivan

Posted by: TechKid---------------------

I think travis will never be fast again. Remember Ezra Lusk?A super fast kid ot of nowhere, wins a bunch of stuff, than gets hurt a few times.Hes never been able to win and dominate ever since.

Posted by: High Lord Gomer---------------------

HEY, Georgia is SOMEWHERE! :o

(Looks like it's time to move this to the Flame Forum)

Posted by: Tod---------------------

Quote:

he has it worked out where he can do both

Ain't doin' either one now. :silly:

Text Version Home

This is the text version of DirtRider.Net Click Here for the Full Version

Pastrana Injured at Gravity Games

This is the text version of DirtRider.Net
Click Here for the Full Version