(From left) Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology founder, vice-president, and editor John Ulrich, ASRA/CCS President Kevin Elliott, Jody Barry, AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant, and Dustin Apgar. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
On Thursday, 18-year-old Pro road racer Jody Barry was given the first Racing Hero Award presented by Roadracing World in conjunction with ASRA during the MotoAmerica riders meeting at Circuit of The Americas.
Barry earned the award when he selflessly helped fellow racer Dustin Apgar get free from his crashed and burning motorcycle during the 76th Daytona 200 March 18 at Daytona International Speedway.
Shortly after the start of the race, Apgar nearly highsided off his Yamaha YZF-R6, landed on his motorcycle awkwardly and crossed paths with Barry, causing them both to crash. In the incident, Apgar’s left foot became stuck in his chain and sprocket and he was unable to free himself from his burning motorcycle. Barry ran to Apgar’s aid, freed his foot, and dragged him away from his burning motorcycle seconds before a pool of fuel spilled onto the ground ignited in a huge fireball.
Barry was presented the award by Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology Founder, Vice-President and Editor John Ulrich and ASRA President Kevin Elliott. Apgar, who suffered the loss of two toes on his left foot and a deep laceration in his left thigh in the incident, also attended the presentation.
Barry received a standing ovation from the group of MotoAmerica riders, crew chiefs, team managers and officials in attendance.