New York’s Motorcycle Safety Classes Halted by Bureaucratic Delays: Riders Suffering

Celebrating Excellence: 2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards

Update The AMA Honors 2025’s Best: A Year of Racing Excellence On January 20, 2026, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) celebrated its stellar year by recognizing outstanding contributors to the sport through the presentation of the 2025 AMA Racing, Organizer, and Volunteer Awards. This prestigious affair highlights the champions and unsung heroes who propelled competitive and recreational riding within the AMA framework. Acknowledging Community and Collaboration in Motorcycling With the words of AMA Director of Racing, Mike Pelletier, echoing through the hall, "We are so grateful to all of the racers, riders and organizers that made 2025 another successful year for the AMA’s racing and recreational riding pursuits," the organization took a moment to appreciate individual and group contributions that truly made an impact. Among the standout figures was 14-year-old Charlie Walter, honored as the AMA Volunteer of the Year, whose spirit in volunteering despite being sidelined by injury reveals the resilience and camaraderie that runs deep in the motorcycle racing community. Celebrating Athletic Excellence The 2025 award ceremony was dotted with remarkable achievements in the motorcycle racing domain. Steward Baylor Jr., Bodie Paige, and Syler Padusnak each secured the esteemed Athlete of the Year titles in their respective categories, reflecting not just personal dedication but also the drive to elevate the sport itself. Baylor’s remarkable season as the National Champion is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence in a competitive field. Outstanding Contributions by Clubs and Organizations Recognizing the pivotal roles played by playing that significant role in community engagement, the AMA awarded various organizations that exemplified excellence in organizing events. BCMX earned the title of AMA Motocross Organizer of the Year, whereas J Day Offroad was distinguished as the AMA Off-Road Organizer of the Year. These accolades demonstrate how impactful effective organizational leadership is in enhancing participant experiences and expanding the sport's reach. The Importance of Participation and Recognition Voting by AMA members contributed to the selection of some award recipients, fostering a sense of community ownership within the organization. This participatory model enriches the awards, as stakeholders have a direct hand in recognizing traits they value most in racing culture. By including community input, the AMA bolsters the relationship between the organization and its members, ultimately leading to a healthier ecosystem where both competition and camaraderie can thrive. What’s Next for the AMA? As the dust settles on a remarkable 2025, the AMA is already gearing up for the challenges and excitement that await in the next racing season. The focus on inclusivity and recognizing emerging talents ensures that the sport continues to evolve. This foundational support for racers across all age groups ensures that budding athletes and seasoned veterans alike receive the validation and encouragement to pursue their passions. For those enthusiastic about the future of motorcycle racing, the AMA's ongoing commitment to fostering talent and recognizing achievement serves as a robust framework. The awards not only honor individual accomplishments but also lay the groundwork for the next generation of motorcycling enthusiasts, setting the stage for even greater heights in the sport. In conclusion, the AMA’s celebration of 2025 leaves an indelible mark, not just in the history of motorcycle racing but within the hearts of its community. As we move forward, let us rally around these champions and ensure the continuous growth of motorcycle racing for years to come.