Military Veterans Form Racing Team

Military Veterans Form Racing Team

© 2011, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

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SANTA ROSA, Calif. — “Uniform Speed,” a new motorcycle racing team of all-military veterans, has formed to race the 2011 Season at various West Coast racetracks with both the American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM) and Western Eastern Roadracing Association (WERA). Uniform Speed is comprised of current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including active duty, Reservists, and Guardsmen. Eight racers are riding 10 different race bikes in various classes supported by the pit crew who are also current or former military members. The “one team, one fight” concept of an all-military race team with members from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines was formed late last year after team founder, Robert Swafford, reflected on his 2010 race season. “I had the privilege of being on a race team during my first year of racing in 2010,” said Swafford. “It was an educational and rewarding experience, and made me want to form my own team for 2011. The combined efforts of crew and riders seemed a natural fit for us military types, because in the military the mission relies on every single Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine doing their part or the mission will not succeed. Racing is no different…the success of the race weekend is dependent upon the actions of all involved.” Swafford, a 27-year veteran of the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserve, had plenty of help with the daunting task of organizing a team such as Uniform Speed. “From creating a name for the team to logo design and obtaining sponsors, we have been busy but there still remains much to do,” said Swafford. “Each member of the team, both racers and pit crew, brings something to the table, just like a military unit.” Team member Robin Geenen, an Army Reservist and racer, created the logo and overall appearance that the team has adopted. Victor Perez, a Marine who will begin his first season of racing in 2011, lent his skill with painting to give the team’s race bikes a uniform appearance. Navy veteran and aspiring racer, Nick Davis is the team’s photographer and videographer. Air Force military journalist and racer, Rick Williams, helped organize the team’s literature. “Racing with a large team such as Uniform Speed will likely be more expensive than each of us racing alone, but we all feel the extra cost will be worth it to share the pit with our comrades in arms,” said Swafford. “We feel that with Uniform Speed, we are starting something very good and meaningful. Besides, we are no stranger to personal sacrifice for the greater good of all. For further information or to sponsor Uniform Speed, see the Team’s website at ~http://www.uniformspeed.com~ or email: [email protected]

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