Old Glen Helen

[Lloyd Boland]

Paul's discussion on team races reminded me of a race I did in 1973.  It was the same location as the current Glen Helen racetrack, but it wasn't called Glen Helen back then.  When they dropped the flag, you had to run about 50 yards to the bike, start it and go.  I was so tired from running in those boots I could hardly kick the bike over.  You wore a banner around over one shoulder that wrapped around the other side of your waist.  When your would come in to switch riders, you had to exchange the banner with your team member.  I hadn't thought about that race in years.  

Does anyone remember what the name of the track was before they called it Glen Helen?

Lloyd

[sixdazed]

Arroyo Cycle Park...i raced a CMC race there once in 72 or so.
                                                                 Ric

ric emmal

[Lloyd Boland]

Thanks Ric.

The first 125cc Motocross National, held at Arroyo Cycle Park in 1973 (now Glen Helen), was won by which Penton rider?

(I just learned this today.)

Lloyd

[jeff greenberg]

Could that be a racer named Ray Lopez?  I was under the impression that the first official 125 national was at the original Hangtown in Plymouth, Ca. April 8th, 1974? This was a race that I participated in. Drove all the way out from Ohio with a buddy as a 16 year old. Yikes !
Jeff

[firstturn]

Ray Lopez.

Ron Carbaugh

[Larry Perkins]

It was indeed Ray that won at Arroyo.

Larry P

[Lloyd Boland]

Yes, it was Ray Lopez.  I was just on "The Early Years of Motocross Museum's" web site.  This is the museum set up by Tom White of the White Bros.  They have a 1973 125 Penton at the museum and a nice little article about the Penton, and Penton riders on the website.  This is were I found out about Ray.  Some day I hope to visit the museum, but it is only open on special occasions.  It looks like a special place.
Lloyd