The Real Heroes

Who should be the hero at a dealership? Putting the customer at the center of a dealership’s story is the one of the best things a retailer can do, according to former dealer Jared Burt of Herohub, Ian Riley of Fredericktown Yamaha

Three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion and the winningest female in NHRA history, Angelle Sampey joined Suzuki VP Kerry Graeber for the keynote address at AIMExpo. Sampey spoke about her passion for motorcycling, for racing, battling stereotypes, and serving as an inspiration to many in front of a full house last Wednesday night.

“I was struck by the whole stigma of who it is who rides motorcycles since I was six years old,” she said. “That’s been very tough my whole career to get people to believe in me... whether it’s sponsors, team owners, crew chiefs or fans. When I started, there were no females out there. Now at some races we have almost as many females as men. So it’s changing, but it needs to change even more.”

Also on stage with Sampey and Graeber, senior vice president, division manager, sales & marketing at Suzuki, was a 400 horsepower Hayabusa drag bike. “I do 100 miles per hour in less than two seconds,” Sampey said.

“It’s three and a half Gs,” added Angelle. “Almost 203 miles per hour is my best. It’s definitely one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done. It’s something I wish everybody could feel. I’m the lucky one that gets to do it.”

Sampey’s stirring presentation was followed by the Annual Industry Party hosted by Tucker Powersports. Former Dealernews publisher Don Emde also presented a toast to industry icon Fred Fox (see our salute to Fox in this issue).