Motocross legend Ricky Carmichael, regarded as the greatest of all time, took the stage to wrap up day two at AIMExpo and he shared stories about growing up as a young racer, working hard to honor his supportive parents, and what it takes to have the mind of a champion.
“It was always give it 100 percent,” Carmichael said. “And being honest with yourself. And never giving up.”
A holder of many off-road racing records and a factory rider for Kawasaki, Honda and Suzuki, the five-time AMA Supercross champion and 10-time AMA Motocross champion recalled epic battles with other racing greats – Jeremy McGrath, James Stewart, Chad Reed – and talked about what he believes it takes to be the best.
Carmichael said to do things right or not at all. Have realistic expectations. Respect your competitors and treat everyone around you the same. And have no regrets after putting in a 100-percent effort – there are no do-overs.
That said, he did admit to some regret about not celebrating his race wins as much as he could have at the time. So he added one more thing about success – enjoy it.
Following his address to the AIMExpo audience, Carmichael had a meet and greet on the show floor, signing autographs and taking pictures with fans.
While maintaining his schedule as a TV commentator for the AMA Supercross series, Carmichael is doing even more industry work, having recently joined the Triumph family – as a brand ambassador and partner in both bike testing and preparation for the manufacturer’s upcoming off-road racing program.
