November 04, 2003 "Thanks Again, I Had A Wonderful Time"

Dear Jason:

I just wanted to tell you what a great time I had on the track yesterday. I was the lady with the blue BMW. You know me as Shelly Morefield. You and your staff did an incredible job of making me feel comfortable, safe and the instruction was excellent. As a 43 year old female who has hardly ridden on the street at all, your class has given me a great deal of knowledge and technical skills to feel safer on the road.

I would recommend your class to anyone, especially females. It can be quite intimidating to be on a track with a lot of Testosterone flying by you.

Jason, your style of teaching is very good, you are very humble and it is not ego driven.

Congratulations to you in all of your accomplishments in your career and best of luck in coming back from that broken leg. I can relate very well, I have had both of my ACL's reconstructed and it is a long recovery time, but worth it.

I have to say the best part of the day was the ride with you. My husband asked me to do it for him and it definitely is an updated version in the 21st Century of an "E" Ticket. I would equate it to the first time I went skydiving.

THANKS AGAIN, I HAD A WONDERFUL TIME.
Special kudos to James and Mark for their help and patience with me.

Sincerely,
Shelly Morefield

October 23, 2003 "It was unforgettable entertainment and education."

Hello,

I attended the two day class in August at Barber Motor sports Park. It was without a doubt the best motorcycling experience I've ever had. I wrote up a very lengthy article about my experience on SportBikes.com that can be read here...

http://www.sportbikes.com/wwwthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=central&Number=505363&
Forum=All_Forums&Words=BobPurdom&Match=Username&Searchpage=5&Limit=25&Old=
allposts&Main=504268&Search=true#Post505363

Here is the final conclusion in the write up....

"I cannot begin to tell you how very cool the entire weekend was. Every instructor road flawlessly and practiced everything that Jason and James talked about. It was simply a matter of following and mimicking the instructors to see how to get through any particular area of the track. The instructors, unless they were catching someone, which they seemed quite capable of doing to anyone, even while riding an SV650, were circulating the track at a slower pace than the class riders. They were looking for people to help, and there was never a time when passing the pits that I didn't see 2 or 3 instructors with someone pulled in the pits teaching. Good stuff, all --The instruction, the information, the stories. It was unforgettable entertainment and education."

I will definitely be attending class again next year. But, what I wanted to ask about was the CSSS license. Jason had mentioned that the Star School was an accredited school for a CSSS racing license. What do I need to do to get my racing license?

Bob Purdom

September 28th, 2003 Thunderhill

Jason,

What a fabulous experience I had at Thunderhill this past Monday and Tuesday. This was my first school ever, and only my 10th or so time on the track- all of them at Thunderhill. I’m just an aging street rider who finally figured out that the track is actually accessible for chumps like me, so I’ve been spending as much time out there as I can afford to with a club I joined. (By the way, it was in Cycle News that I saw the ad for your school at Thunderhill, which prompted me to sign-up. I know as a businessman you must be interested in how effectively your advertising dollars are being spent.)

I sure missed you on Monday, but Lick filled in pretty well, and your instructors are all great guys! I had the opportunity to work one on one with Roger and Lance, and they both had good stuff for me to work on. Lance was really awesome…he packed so much info into my head that I had to make lots of quick notes back at the trailer to make sure I didn’t lose all of it trying to hang on to any of it. After things were winding down on Tuesday I had a nice conversation with Jon about his personal journey into your fold. As a 42 year old who’s constantly struggling with finding my niche in life I’m always curious about the real experiences of guys like you and your team who us Joe’s live vicariously through for a few days at a time in your school or over a race weekend.

I never can muster up the gumption to speak up in a crowd, so each time you were asking if anyone had any questions I was busting at the seams. I did take one opportunity to talk to you after a class session about right hand cornering and tire wear indications, and your tip about keeping my right arm tucked in tight was valuable. The things I picked up from the school which made the biggest difference at my experience level were: 1) Mark’s talk on keeping 90% of your weight always on the pegs- this immediately changed how comfortable I was in negotiating the body shifts across the seat. 2) Up-shifting without the clutch- what a concept! It amazing how many things do we do automatically in our life just because we always have and never question them? That was great! 3) Your talk about tires. Ever since I was a little kid riding dirt bikes with my buddies and experiencing the difference between new knobbies and worn out knobbies, I’ve come to let myself be psyched into believing that the tires make all the difference, and one must be better than another- even for us weenies. Hearing from a pro that all these new-tech tires are better than anything I’ll likely ever need is good information. Again, if I wasn’t such a crowd-coward, I wanted to ask your opinion of Pirelli’s Corsa and Super-Corsa, although I realize your Dunlop sponsorship might temper your remarks. I’ve been staying with the Bridgestone E code 010 and 011’s because I got convinced that if Suzuki put the money into Bridgestone’s R&D, then they must be the best thing for my 1000. I’ve been thinking about trying the Corsa’s because some of my buddies are raving about them. Do you have an opinion? 4) Hearing your talk about throttle vs. lean angle- after a few low-sides and even 1 high-side, it really hit home, even though I sort of understood the physics of it prior to the class. 5) Looking far out ahead of my bike- while I’ve always tried not to tunnel my vision or target fixate, when I’m on the track I’m usually looking just beyond the bike in front of me, or maybe 40’-50’ out. Looking way out does slow things down like you say, although not running off the inside was a challenge as I tried to make that adjustment!

I do wish that Dean could have done a talk on suspension setup after Lick let us know he was the resident expert, but I know how time slips away. Maybe at the next school.

Although you must certainly hear this all the time, I want to tell you that I think you are one of the great ambassadors of this sport Jason. Guys like you set such a positive example for the rest of us! My hat’s always off to anyone who can excel at what they do, (whatever it might be), and remain gentle and humble about it. To do it in the high-stakes, ego-centric world of motorcycle racing, well, that’s really cool. Of course I was terribly disappointed for you after the VIR events, but even in the face of that blow to your promising standings for the year, you remain gentle, humble, and introspective. You are the man!

I’m hoping to join you at Laguna next March, but if not then, than certainly shortly thereafter. I’ll keep an eye on your website for the 2004 schedule.

Thanks again Jason,

Jeff

September 8, 2003 "STAR SCHOOL LOUDON, NH"

Dear Jason,
Congratulations on the race in Germany and I hope that you recover quickly from you incident @ VIR and can compete and win the World Endurance Championships.

RE: STAR- thank you for a fantastic and wonderful experience at Loudon. This was my first time at a track and I was nervous..to say the least. You and your team made the 2 days exciting, relaxing and educational.

As I mentioned to you...my brother and I took my father to the Skip Barber school for his 70th birthday. We attended the 2 day school and walked away from that experience extremely pleased with the experience. Their staff was first rate and the course was great...my father said that in life there are a few choice memorable experiences and the Skip Barber course with his sons was for him. The reason I tell you this story is because the Skip Barber school has been going on for years. They have been able to develop and refine their customer experience. Your school , in only 5 years , is certainly on par if not a better experience than Skip Barber. Your staff is friendly, helpful and reassuring. The knowledge you and your team shared with us was easily understood and applied on the track. My riding improved more in the 2 days than in the years I have been riding.

Thank you to all of the instructors. I would like to thank particularly you, James, Mark and Roger for you 4 gave me specific things to think about and work on. Roger pulled me over just after the first FTL session. He told me to relax, ride my own pace and work on some simple things...thank you Roger .... your perception of me on those early laps was spot on...your words stuck with me throughout the school and beyond. Mark worked with me on body position so it seems more natural. James gave me some very good advice about throttle/brake control and to use different parts of the track...I was being too polite to the faster riders. As for you, Jason, your knowledge/teaching/words were great to hear and easily understood.

At the end of the 2 days I can say I am a more confident rider...in fact the hot laps with you were almost the best teaching tool because I really had no idea you could brake that hard into a turn, accelerate that quickly but oh so smoothly out of a turn and shift so quietly....that ride was on the Disney scale a Z ticket ride....certainly one of the most exciting things I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. As my father would say,"This school was certainly a memorable and special moment".

Thank you to all of the sponsors of the school. I own an SV 650 and decided to rent so that I did not have to trailer or deal with the bike at the track. The rental bike was great with no problems at all. Your support of the STAR school is a huge part of the their success..so thank you.

Thanks to Josh for showing us around the track and sharing his stories at lunch....Was it that Seagull's cousin that got him in Germany?

Thanks to Lincoln for driving around the country and prepping the rentals and then ripping up some hot laps.

Thanks also to your Mom and your wife for their prompt responses of email and telephone calls....a quality school/program starts with customer interaction and they were great.

Now if I can convince my wife that I need to go again (o:

....I can't wait for next year....

Lyle Fulkerson

Wellesley, MA

August 25, 2003 "WORLD ENDURANCE "
Don't miss the "On Track With Jason" portion of our web site for this and other current stories relating to Jason's Racing Career.

August 22, 2003 "Thanks"
I just wanted to write & thank all of the instructors, and especially Jason & Mark, for an Excellent 2-day course on the 18th and 19th at Loudon NH. Everything was extremely well organized, very safe and an excellent value. I learned quite a lot, had fun, and I can't wait to do it again next year.

The instructors really know their stuff and are great to work with. I really appreciated their patience, interest in the students and their dedication to making the course an enjoyable experience. A great team. Thanks again, and I hope Jason and his team win in Germany.

Sincerely,
Rob McDaniel

August 20, 2003 "WOW"
Jason and crew,

I just got done with the NH school and I cannot say enough good things about this school. After two days of your help my riding took huge bounds forward. On top of that it was a great time. I was never just a face, I had a name, and I really got the help I needed. I am looking forward to going again next
year.

Colin Kelly

August 19, 2003 "Thanks"
I'm sitting here at work the day after completing the first day of the Star School at Loudon and kicking myself for not quitting my job so I could attend both days.

The school is at the same time both humbling and inspiring yet never intimidating. While I had to go slower to try some of the techniques, once I got comfortable with them I eventually went faster around that track than I ever have before. I can see where the second day would help solidify everything into my riding style. Next year I will be there for both days. Thanks a lot. You guys are great!

Another thing that really impressed me was when my friend lightened up his Ducati by grinding down both sides your staff found an SV650 for him to ride so his whole day wasn't lost.

Peter Rollins

August 12, 2003 "Barber School"
Jason and gang,

I just wanted to drop you a note and let you know how much my son and I enjoyed the school. This is our third school and we previously attended schools at Texas World and at Cresson.

Congratulations on a great racing season and we wish you continued success both with your racing career and track school.

One of the things that impresses me whenever I have attended your schools is what genuinely nice people you have, from the time your mom answers the phone, to on track registration and at every school. I have found in dealing with other small organizations that the employees take on the personality of the boss and you have a good group of people who have taken their clues in how to deal with the public from you. Great job! I may even have to change my opinion of Mladin.

Mike Gilliland

August 11, 2003 "School Feedback"
Jason,

I have attended your school twice this year, once in Hallett and this past week in Alabama. Both times you have made me feel very welcome and wanted. I was not sure how a professional rider would treat your "average Joe" off the street. But you have made me feel good about my riding and the time and money I have spent at your schools. I have learned more about proper riding skills in the two days I have spent with your organization, than the entire time I have ridden on my own. I can honestly say that I am amazed how far I have come in just 2 days on the track. The only track time I have ever had is at your school, but I feel that I am now equipped to go to my local track days and competent enough not to be a hindrance to the other riders.

I can say that any and all of your sponsors should be grateful for being allowed to associate their name with your school. You do nothing but make them look more appealing to the people who buy their products. I will forward this to ALL of your sponsors so that they can be assured that you represent them as well if not better than their own reps.

I was given the opportunity to be interviewed by Speed Channel to comment on the "two up" ride that I took with you. That was without question one of the most fun things I have done in my life. I know that you may look back and say "I don't get what they see in this" but when you have never been on a bike being ridden like that, it is the thrill of a lifetime. After that ride I was able to GREATLY improve my own riding skills by relating my experiences on the track to how you handled yours. As I said on the interview, where else will a world-class racer take you for a ride on the track? I am so glad that I listened to my friends and took the ride.

Your staff is very professional and really takes the time to let you know that you are improving and what else you need to work on. Mark taught when I went to the school in Hallett during the afternoon class. He was funny and informative, and his examples of body positioning were some of best tools I have ever learned pertaining to motorcycle riding. His advice really helped me get to the next level. I feel fortunate to have been at the school where Mark taught.

I live in the Dallas area and drove 1400 miles round trip to attend your school. My only regret is that I did not spend the extra money to attend both days. But lessoned learned and I will not make that mistake again. I look forward to hopefully seeing you in Texas in Sept. 2003. If not then, I will certainly attend the next time you come through the south.

I will continue to attend your schools as often as possible.

Thank you again for a wonderful time.
Steve Pharr

JUNE 23, 2003 "Thank You So Much"
I just wanted you to know that you changed my life! I took your class at the Mid-America Motorplex in Iowa last weekend and had the best time of my life. The track was amazing. I have to give it to the owners. They did an amazing job of creating a track that is at the top of its class. I can't wait to get to race on it again.

To Jason and his crew:

You are all a very hard working and a very approachable bunch. I felt like you were all one big family and really enjoyed doing what you were doing. That made the atmosphere very comfortable and welcoming to someone like myself who has never attended a riding school. I honestly believe I have become a much better rider as a result of attending your school. I know I have! You all helped answer all my questions and took the time (no matter what) to make sure that I understood what you were teaching. As a matter of fact I was completely astonished when I came around the corner of the trailer about 40 min after the school was over and Mark was still helping someone with there body position. That is dedication. Being a former general manager I know that kind of dedication is almost impossible to find.

Every aspect of your school is amazing! I can't stress that enough. From the phone call from your mother to the last goodbye from the crew I felt like I was at home. You are all top in my book! Can't wait to see you again. You've made a believer and a loyal participant of me from now on. Be safe and the best of luck this season.

You really have changed my life!!!
David Weigand

JUNE 13, 2003 "Thanks for a Great School"
Hi there,

I was at the 2-day class at Laguna Seca last month. It was my second track school ever (the previous one not a STAR School) and I learned a lot more at your school than the other. You guys are the best I've experienced!!! JT and Mark were very nice to me and went out of their way to improve my skills. They each gave me some key pointers that I worked on during the sessions.

My riding improved each day an I feel a lot more confident on my bike now. I highly recommend the Star School to anyone looking to improve their riding and have a good time. When does next year's schedule come out?

Cheers,
Larry Young

JUNE 9, 2003 "Jason's Racing - Road America"
I Just wanted to say it was great to see Jason in 3rd at the early part of the race and that his continued strong charge to maintain his place to the best of his ability was great to witness.
Good luck Jason and we’ll be watching you.

Alvin Alejandro

JUNE 6, 2003 "Just Wanted to say THANKS!"
Dear STAR Team;

My name is John S. Lewis from Great Falls, Montana, and I am writing to thank the entire STAR team for providing the friendliest, most helpful motorcycle instruction available to anyone out there!!!

My friend (Brian Black) and I just came back from Second Creek Raceway, Denver Colorado on June 2nd, and at the risk of putting words in his mouth, we had about the best time ever! The techniques and presentation taught by STAR school are definitely second to none!! We were able to attend another 'non-STAR' motorcycle school three years ago, and although it was enjoyable, it just didn't have the personal touch that STAR has in volume!

As a returning STAR student, I had yet to meet Jason as Richie Alexander was at the reins last year at Road America. (I think Jason was endurance racing in Europe) I knew as soon as the day was over, that I was hooked. My track instructor (I think it was 'Buzz'(?) back then) was really helpful, and got me back on the track working on new drills almost immediately. You can only imagine my surprise when my track instructor this year at Second Creek, had the name 'Pridmore' sewn on the back of his leathers!!

I joined the street group like I did last year, as this is only the 3rd time I've actually been on a track. I also kept a pretty conservative pace during the morning as I was still working out some confidence issues I had from a minor crash about a year and a half ago. Even though I had been in the street group last year, the classes were still great as Jason has his own distinct style of instruction. I felt as though I didn't know how to even properly choose a line until this year's class, like last year, when I learned how to downshift correctly!! (not bad, after only 30-some years of motorcycling!!)

Jason led me around the track at a pace that was surely my quickest all day. There were probably the same amount of turns I nailed, as there were turns I needed work on, but I kept up for the most part. I thought I was ready for the 'master's critique' by the time we pulled into the pit area.

I was absolutely dumbfounded when Jason told me I was looking all right and could move up to the advanced group if I wanted to!! That was about the last thing on earth I expected to hear!! I remember shaking his hand, grinning like an idiot and saying something dumb like, ' well if I'm doing it right, I have STAR to thank!'

Superstitious me, I stayed in the street group for the last two sessions. Everything felt dialed in and all the pistons were firing (no pun intended) so I didn't want to jinx myself. Jason had told us early in the morning to leave all our distractions off of the track, and I sure would have been distracted by the advanced group!!

As I look back, I do have STAR to thank! I could not do the things I do with my motorcycle without the training and skills I have learned from your school!! Keep up the good work, and expect at least one return student whenever I have the time and funds to return (God forbid; I win the lottery or something!!) Special thanks to Jason, Mark Gallardo and his fun classes, Richie and 'Buzz' from last year, "BS" from this year (from my helmet)(you guys need bios on your website!!), Dean Mizdal and his suspension advice, and all the drivers and administrative people that make STAR work! Thanks also to Mat Mladin for stopping by and chatting with the class! STAR is definitely the way to go!!

-J. S. (Lew) Lewis

JUNE 6, 2003 "Denver STAR School"
Just a quick note to say thanks for the track day in denver. I learned a lot and had a great time. Looking forward to next time. Thanks Jason and crew.

Rick Goerndt
Rapid City SD.

JUNE 5, 2003 "Thank You STAR SPONSORS"
I've just returned from Jason Pridmore's Star School at Second Creek Colorado and I want to convey to you how thoroughly pleased I am to have had the opportunity to attend such a professional, organized and focused program.

Jason and all the instructors were fantastic at firstly calming everyone down so they could have a safe, enjoyable and productive session. Then they honed in on each of us to help with those things which we needed to work on the most. They all continued to give amazingly individualized coaching throughout the weekend with not only our riding skills but even with bike set up.

Jason arranged to have Mat Mladin stop by on the first day to talk to us on riding technique, safety and some of his many riding experiences. It was obvious that because of his long standing
friendship with Jason that he felt very comfortable sharing and giving back to those who share a passion for the sport.

I came away from the school with much higher confidence level in my riding skills and a set of techniques on which I will continue to work. I can't imagine why I haven't taken this course before and I'm already planning when I can coordinate the time to take another school from Star. I've told several of my riding pals that they can't go another year without doing this....if for no other reason than for personal riding safety.

I salute you for sponsoring such a great program. It speaks volumes about your commitment to the sport.

Best regards,
Jay Rose
Northern New Mexico Trail Riders

JUNE 5, 2003 "Second Creek Was Great"
Thanks Jason, Mark & Guys/Gals. Second Creek school was GREAT, especially the way you taught my wife, Susan. She only had one year of riding, but with your help has climbed another rung, I watched some of her last two sessions, and she passed one rider and defended her line with another! Clearly, you all took a lot of time with her, especially MARK - great job! This was my second school, and like others not my last!

YOU ALL (including Suzy) ROCK!!! Great luck to all of you this year.

Alex Van
Disco

JUNE 5, 2003 "Denver at SCR was GREAT! - Thank you"
The class in Denver at SCR was GREAT, I never knew how smooth one could be while racing or riding at speed. The exercises were spot on! I can't wait to apply what was taught at the next MRA race.

TC
MRA #124

JUNE 3, 2003 "Thanks Jason!"
Jason

Thanks Again!!! to you and your staff for a fantastic day in your school yesterday. I was extremely impressed by the professionalism and friendly environment you set from the start.

While I found the school more geared to the track rather than street I still learned a lot that will help me on the street. Also until your class I had no introduction to the racing side of motorcycling at all but I really enjoyed hearing your stories and listening to Matt talk about his experiences. So much so I believe I would enjoy attending the races and will try to make the next one at PPIR. I also hope to attend your school again, but on a more suitable bike for the second time around as the BMW K1200 was fun but I have to believe it would be that much more enjoyable on a sport bike.

Thanks again, for taking the time and energy to pass along your tremendous amount of knowledge and passion for motorcycling to the mass's.

Hope to see you in another class
John Somers

MAY 28, 2003 "My Time at STAR"
My two days at Star were beyond words. At first I was scared and very unsure, but Jason and all the instructors made me feel more confident about myself and my riding.

It was my first time to ever attend a track day or even a motorcycle class of any sort. After the 2nd day was over, I hated having to go home. This was my high school senior trip, thanks for making it a blast.

Mark Barkley

APRIL 24, 2003 "Streets of Willow"
STAR Motorcycle School:

STAR at Streets of Willow on April 21 was a wonderful experience. I have nothing but praise for Jason Pridmore, the instructors, staff and school. I sent the following message to each sponsor:

"Thank you for sponsoring Jason Pridmore's STAR motorcycle school. I attended this school on April 21 at Streets of Willow. Jason Pridmore and his instructors were very impressive -- friendly, accessible and immensely knowledgeable and talented. I learned a lot at STAR and will remember the sponsors."

Verle Nelson
Cedaredge, Colorado

APRIL 23, 2003 "Streets of Willow"
I just wanted to take a moment to tell you what a great experience I had last Monday. First of all, Jason taking my 10 year-old son for a few laps was so awesome, he can't stop talking about it (and thanks for my lap too, it was something I will never forget!). The training was fantastic, just the right combination of track time vs. classroom talks. Getting to listen to Jason talk about riding, things like body position, cornering lines, etc. was really the best. From someone that has raced and been successful all over the world at the top levels, that really gets my full attention. It was a privilege to be getting direct training from the reigning Formula Extreme Champ. The entire day was great, the staff was great, and Jason is a very special person. Always taking the extra time to make it personal. He is a true gentleman and a credit to the sport. Thanks again for everything, I will be back.

Sincerely, Paul Straub

(See attached file: Jason_Trev1.jpg)
APRIL 22, 2003 "Thanks"
Jason and the rest of the STAR Staff,

I just wanted to thank you all again for an enjoyable and productive day at Pahrump on April 11th. STAR provides a forum to work on motorcycling skills in a non-threatening environment with excellent instruction. Unlike an open track day or race practice, it is okay to go slow at STAR to work on the skills to go faster.

I received personal instruction from both Ritchie and JT that was informative and useful. The video tape Ritchie made of my riding was especially enlightening. This was my 8th STAR class and I have taken away useful information from each class. Thanks again to all your staff for a very rewarding day.

Wayne Petersen
Las Vegas, NV
WSMC #709 CCS am #709

APRIL 17, 2003 "Awesome Crew"
Dear Sponsors of Star Motorcycle School,

I have attended 3 Star Schools now and plan on attending more in the future. I'd just like to express my gratitude to Jason and all of his staff for making my learning experience at the school a lot of fun! Jason and his staff are a first class organization who seem genuinely concerned with helping their students improve their riding abilities.

We (students) were treated like fellow motorcycle enthusiasts by Jason and his staff. I felt like I was learning from a friend rather than some people from a business. Every member of the staff from the classroom instructors to the motorcycle mechanics were very approachable and willing to answer any questions I had.

I would also like to say a special thank you to Jason Pridmore and his Mother Sheila for responding to emails I sent to Star School when I had specific questions regarding downshifting. I look forward to my next school with all of the Star School crew!

Sincerely
Terry Chaney, Pleasant Hill California

APRIL 11, 2003 "Thanks"
I have been an instructor for 12 years in the martial arts industry and I just want to say I am, once again, more than impressed with the professionalism that Jason and his staff continue to provide. In any teaching environment, is imperative that the staff is punctual throughout the daily operations and they teach with sincere passion, energy and patience (regardless of how they feel). Jason and his staff have mastered these qualities. I'm looking forward to future events. Thank you.

Continued success,
Greg Jones

APRIL 9, 2003 "April 8th School"
Hi there, Just wanted to say that yesterday was really enjoyable. I'm not a big 'school' guy, and since I'm pushing 40 I don't have any delusions of being a great racer, but your whole attitude made the school sessions interesting, and I probably am a little better rider after practicing what you preached. I'm going to try to schedule another session or two with you.

Thanks to Sheila for working with me while I was traveling to get me signed up, she's sooo nice.

Steve Foley

APRIL 8, 2003 "Jason Saved My Hide"
Jason,

At the March 2-day school at Thunderhill you related an anecdote that saved me from crashing yesterday. The gist of your discussion was staying in the game & keeping your focus. You shared what had happened when you lost a bunch of oil at Road Atlanta.

Well yesterday at Thunderhill I lost a bunch of oil (I didn't know it yet) between turns 13 and 14. With some oil hitting the tire the back end started slide-whipping as I turned into 14. Very quickly your discussion came to mind and I looked deep across the turn and kept my hands "baby chick" light. (Thanks Mark.) The bike settled down and I was able to ride safely off the track. It helped tremendously to have set up my body position and gearing very early for the turn...had much less mental baggage going into that upset.

You saved me hundreds, perhaps thousands, of dollars of bike damage and some possible pain. To tell you how ugly my bike is, though, when my friend rode back to the pits after the session, seeing me back in my street clothes, she looked at my bike and asked, "Did you crash?" My feelings were just a little hurt that it wasn't obvious that the bike had not indeed gone down.

Thanks & keep up the good instruction,
Dennis James

March 26, 2003 "The Best School"
Dear Jason, Mark, Ritchie, James, and all of you guys,
I attended your Thunderhill March 2003 school, which was maybe my 4th or 5th occasion. I want to express my intense appreciation to all of you at the Star Motorcycle School. It’s my strong opinion that you run the best school in the country (and I’ve been to nearly all).Your team has hit the right combination of professionalism, analytics, practical applications, sincere concern for attendees’ improvement, safety, and simple fun.

I’m an AFM racer reaching a level where improvement in my riding comes with more difficulty. Every time I attend your school I find something new to improve, and I reiterate skills and practices that I may have let slip. I see the results in improved lap times, passing confidence, and safety margins. I’ll continue to attend Star and look forward to your Pro School.

Thanks for a great start to the week!

Lynn Smull
AFM #633
SV650