Most of the single-digit riders for the 1971 season line up before a Grand National race. Riders shown include Tom Rockwood (9), Chuck Palmgren (8), Mert Lawwill (6), Don Castro (5), David Aldana (3), Jim Rice (2) and Gene Romereo (1). Numbers that year were given based on where you finished in the Grand National points the previous season. The only single-digit riders missing from this photo are Mark Brelsford, who was No. 7, and Dick Mann, who would have been No. 4.
Most of the single-digit riders for the 1971 season line up before a Grand National race. Riders shown include Tom Rockwood (9), Chuck Palmgren (8), Mert Lawwill (6), Don Castro (5), David Aldana (3), Jim Rice (2) and Gene Romereo (1). (Neil Keen Collection)
Tony Montenegro says:
The Varnes are a real American racing family. Jim and his brother Ed helped me so much with my Dirt Track stuff.I remember all the old race stories and pictures and their old Yamaha shop.That place was great.
March 3, 2010, 1:16 pmadmin says:
Tony
I think you comment was meant for the Project 250 post, but I must say I was surprised by Jim Varnes’ success in road racing. I’d heard of him and knew he was a good racer, but I had no idea he was so good on a 250c road race bike.
Larry
March 3, 2010, 1:44 pmSteve Schwenk says:
Jim Varnes was not only an exception rider, he’s probably the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. I had the privilege of working in his shop at age 14 as the clean up guy and new bike assembler. 40 years later, I still value that experience and getting to know all the Varnes brothers as one of the highlights of my life. They are great people and know motorcycles and racing inside and out.
June 13, 2012, 10:03 pm