FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I’m very happy to see some of the U.S. riders getting to go up against the best in the world , but I’m disappointed in not seeing the best 250cc rider in U.S. history–Rich Oliver–not included. Yes I realize that he is retired but occasionally makes his return at Willow Springs. His abilities are unmatched and would represent the U.S.A. well! I always wanted to see him race on the world level on equal equipment. If I could sponsor him for this one race I would do so without question. Are you out there, Rich? Ashley Peterson Fort Smith, Arkansas FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I asked Rich Oliver about a possible wildcard ride at the Indy GP last October while attending his Mystery School. He said that Yamaha wasn’t willing to step up and fund an effort like that, and since he is a dyed-in-the-wool Yamaha guy, a ride on a competing brand was out of the question. It’s too bad given his talent. Carl Jensen Sacramento, California FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I, too, would love to see Rich out there but for the most part 250cc racing is a young man’s game for up-and-coming racers. As well as I’m sure Rich could do, he has had some time racing GPs in the past at Laguna Seca. In fact, his best finish there was on a 500cc bike in 1991. Rich Oliver USGP Results: 1988 – 250cc – 23rd 1989 – 250cc – 20th 1990 – 250cc – 13th 1991 – 500cc – 11th 1994 – 250cc – DNF Jim Race Former AFM #250 Gold River, Califorhia