OFF THE WIRE
Hollywood film and television star Perry King will host the 2010 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 19, at the Red Rock Casino and Resort in Las Vegas.
King, whose career spans more than 40 years, is perhaps best known for his portrayal as Cody Allen in the popular 1980s television series "Riptide." King rose to prominence alongside up-and-comers Sylvester Stallone and Henry Winkler with the 1974 release of "The Lords of Flatbush," in which he played the character Chico Tyrell. Today, his list of roles numbers in the hundreds and, most recently, he has appeared in the HBO hit "Big Love."
King hosted last year's Hall of Fame induction ceremony, and is a natural fit for the role of emcee. Not only is he a seasoned professional actor, he is also an avid motorcyclist and a member of the AMA Board of Directors.
"Perry lends the perfect blend of consummate professionalism with down-to-earth approachability to our ceremony," said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. "We are really thrilled to have someone as talented and as passionate about motorcycling as Perry for our emcee, and we're very fortunate that his schedule allowed him to return this year."
"I'm really honored to demonstrate my support for the Hall of Fame in this way," King said. "Last year, there were several moments when everyone in the room was choking back the tears during the inductee speeches. I was one of them. Their words were genuine and heartfelt, and they touched all of us deeply. That's what I love about motorcyclists. We're like a huge family, and if you love to ride you're welcomed with open arms, no questions asked."
The Hall of Fame Class of 2010 includes legendary two-stroke engine tuner Eyvind Boyesen, dirt-track racer Don Castro, sidecar roadrace champion Larry Coleman, off-road rights activist Clark Collins, AMA 250cc Roadrace Champion David Emde, off-road gear pioneers John and Rita Gregory, desert racing champion and team manager Bruce Ogilvie, and championship team owner Mitch Payton. Also honored will be legendary motocross hero and Hall of Famer Bob Hannah. Hundreds will attend, including inductees' families, friends and fans, dozens of Hall of Fame members, industry leaders, and AMA and AMHF (American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation) board members.
In addition to the induction ceremony, the three-day AMA Legends and Champions Weekend features a full slate of activities. On Saturday, Nov. 20, the 2010 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Concours d'Elegance will showcase some of the country's most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles. Then at noon, the AMA honors the best of the amateur racing community at the 2010 AMA Racing Championship Banquet. Saturday evening marks the Las Vegas début of the movie "Carlsbad USGP: 1980," a look at an iconic motocross race that some have dubbed "the Woodstock of motorcycling." Sunday caps off the weekend with self-guided rides in the surrounding area.
For more information, including tickets and reduced-rate accommodations, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com/LegandsAndChampions.
