I know this is a huge topic of controversy at the moment but I really feel compelled to speak up and say something. In this video you will see the finish of the 2012 MASH ALLY CAT RACE that took place this past Thursday night in beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada. The first rider that clearly comes in first place is wearing the black Engine 11 kit who is followed by a rider wearing the CHROME COVETED JERSEY and another rider which is wearing a black jersey with a white helmet. In this finish take notice to the first two riders I mention and pay close attention to when they try to hand their manifests to the person at the finish line. You will notice after the first two riders attempt to hand off their manifest the third rider to finish has no problem because his is clearly grabbed from his hand. These riders were all coming in fast but it was very clear the order they finished in. Technically what was witnessed at the finish was Bud Abille coming threw the finish line first, who was followed by 2nd. Place Alvin Escajeda and 3rd. Place Hern Montenegro. I know this is not what was awarded when all was said and done so this is why I am speaking up. I know Bud Abille raced his heart out that night and clearly won this race. So if anyone has not congratulated him yet then I would like to be the first to congratulate Bud on his victory. In the end their was two sets of “winners” awarded. There was the the “technical winners” and the “physical winners”. This was very unfair to the riders that clearly finished first and second place. So great job to all of these guys and to all the racers that came out to make this event so special. I am really sad to hear this is the last year that the MASH race will take place because the last race should not be one of controversy. Mike Martin needs to be thanked for all the things he has done for the bike community because I think we can all agree and appreciate all of his hard work. In the end we all share the same love and we all need to work together and stay positive.
Just some food for thought….
Maybe it is the fact that I grew up playing different sports like Golf in which integrity is a huge part of the game but from what I have witnessed at races this past month is a bit sad. Most of the racers are also friends outside of riding and with that said I think it is very important that we really think about that in regards to how we treat one another. Just be humble and pay respect when it is due. You all work super hard so do not let your talents be overshadowed by controversy because we are all adults that know what is wrong from what is right and if you don’t, then I suggest you pick up a bible and relate your lives to the stories in it so you have some guidance in life on what is the right thing to do when you are not sure. If you are wrong or dishonest people will see that but if you can catch it before others call you out then it makes you that much more of man. When people look up to you and what you do then you can consider yourself to be a “Leader” whether you want to be a “Leader” or not, but as a “Leader” you also have the responsibility to do things right and lead by example so that those who look up to you can follow your lead. It only takes one influential person to stand up and say what needs to be said and it will pave the way for many others to do and say the right thing when need be. We are all big boys and it is up to us and not the race organizers or volunteers to do the right thing when we already know whats good. #YOUKNOWwAZGOOD
