American Honda announces that effective Oct. 1, its motorcycle division’s senior vice president, Ray Blank, will retire. Robert Gurga has been promoted to the position of vice president, motorcycle division.

“After nearly 30 years with the motorcycle division, I have made the decision to step down,” said Blank. “American Honda has been wonderful to me over all these years, and I am very proud of what the people at American Honda have all achieved together through both the good and bad times. I never thought I would have the good fortune to be involved with so many great motorcycles and industry friends during my time here. I want to thank everyone I’ve worked with for memories I never dreamed possible.”

Robert Gurga has been with the motorcycle division for 34 years, and previously served as assistant vice president of marketing. “Ray Blank has been a great leader here at American Honda and for the industry as well,” said Gurga. “We look forward to taking on new challenges as our business continues to evolve and our industry experiences new growth in the years to come. These are very exciting times for the powersports industry, and American Honda will continue to create opportunities for our sport to grow through innovative products and programs.”