SCORE Journal

INTERVIEW JANO MONTOYA Montoya also suggests an additional safety measure that might benefit all racers. He'd like to see medical personnel at various points on the course, with vehicles that can respond in an emergency for minor injuries or when the helicopter might be in use or unable to fly or land because of conditions. "I think it would be comforting for riders to know that in ten or twenty miles there will be a medical post where they can get help or tell them someone has been hurt. In the remote areas, you know if something were to happen to you that it would be hours before anyone can come to get you." Montoya would definitely like to see more motorcyclists in SCORE races and feels that increased promotion will help increase interest and participation from both competitors and sponsors. SCORE's Moto Liaison, Andy Kirker, is working hard to see that happen, and Montoya has appreciated the increased social media coverage from SCORE. He's hoping that will lead to more contingency prizes for the motorcycles, as well as a return of larger support from the manufacturers. Cost is another factor holding motorcycle racer participation down in Baja, according to Montoya. Between the entry fees and overall associated costs, without sponsor support and prizes, it's just too difficult for many dirt bike racers to run, even though they'd like to. "I know from talking to people that there's a lot of them that can't race in Baja because they can't afford it. If it was half of the price for the registration, I think you'd get twice as many or more riders, and that in turn will bring more interest from the public and sponsors." "Racing in Mexico is awesome," he says. "It's a beautiful place to go racing. The people, the atmosphere, the terrain, is all great, and a lot more people will go do it if there's support from the top." For those who are hesitant to go to Baja to race because they don't know the language and don't know where to start, Montoya suggests talking to veteran racers who can help guide them through what they need to know and find the resources to challenge Baja. SJ SCORE JOURNAL 16

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