From a press release issued by Kawasaki:

KAWASAKI’S JOHN HOOVER ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

IRVINE, CALIF. – Following a career spanning more than 20 years with Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., John Hoover, Director, Product Management, has announced his retirement effective January 5, 2004.

Hoover joined Kawasaki in 1983 as a district manager, moving to the California corporate offices as Manager, Marketing Services in 1988. His contributions to the company have ranged from the implementation of InfoMIC, an aggregate data mining software package that provides sophisticated sales data to Kawasaki’s sales and marketing departments, to an integral role in developing and marketing the Vulcan® line of cruiser motorcycles, beginning in 1996.

Of special note is Hoover’s effort in orchestrating Kawasaki’s involvement with the AMA/Prostar drag racing series. With several years of dedication to the sport of motorcycle drag racing under Hoover’s direction, Kawasaki boasts more than 20 team championships and numerous Manufacturer’s Cup awards.

“John’s impact on product design, racing and the company in general has been felt throughout our entire organization,” said Tom Orbe, Vice President, Marketing for Kawasaki. “His passion for this industry has remained strong for two decades and Kawasaki’s heritage of building powerful, high-performance products will thrive thanks to his dedication to excellence.”

“John will be missed tremendously, and we wish him well in his future endeavors,” Orbe continued.


Editorial note: Hoover also represented Kawasaki on the AMA Board of Directors for several years.