In protest of the unacceptable treatment of the 1993 Grand Prix Champion, racing school master, Texan and all-around promoter of motorcycling and motorcycle racing, a volunteer group of motorcycle, MotoGP, motorcycle racing and Kevin Schwantz fans have organized an official FreeKevin34 weekend – April 19-21, 2013.
Here is their statement:
Kevin Schwantz has been blocked from attending the Grand Prix race in his own home state due to pending litigation with the track. As a group of motorcycle racing enthusiasts, we are disgusted by that fact that the track management cannot put aside their differences for the greater good of the sport that they are capitalizing on, and peacefully respect a weekend of “no comment on the matter,” so that Mr. Schwantz can attend the very race that he assisted in promoting and bringing to Texas.
The FreeKevin34 event encourages motorcycle racing fans around the globe to wear their Kevin Schwantz riding gear, hats, tee-shirts and apparel on the race weekend (April 19-21, 2013) to show their support for a Grand Prix World Champion, whose racing number was retired out of respect for his competitive spirit. An official “FreeKevin34” design has been developed, and is for sale, with all proceeds going to the Marco Simoncelli Foundation – one of Kevin’s chosen charities. Simply log onto www.freekevin34.com to place your order and show your support for #34. Sales of merchandise emblazoned with the official FreeKevin34 logo will benefit the Marco Simoncelli Foundation.
In addition, those wishing to enjoy the race who choose to do so away from the track are invited to view the race with your fellow fans at The Gypsy Lounge at 1:00 p.m. in Austin, TX. Sponsors including Leo Vince Exhausts, PJ’s Parts and Motovation have all donated door prizes to also benefit the Marco Simoncelli Foundation and show support for Kevin and the sport of motorcycle racing. The Gypsy Lounge will feature motorcycle-only parking for the event and is the unofficial post-race hangout, with a motorcycle friendly staff and owner. For directions log onto www.gypsyloungeaustin.com.
This is an independent event, run by a volunteer group of motorcycle, MotoGP, motorcycle racing and Kevin Schwantz fans. All proceeds will be donated and all sponsorships will go toward the goal of raising funds for the Marco Simoncelli Foundation. You can read (in Italian) more about the Simoncelli Foundation at www.marcosimoncellifondazione.it.
To stay updated on details concerning the FreeKevin34 party – please refer to the Facebook link below, and help spread the word that motorcyclists are the first to step up for those who promote the sport, and that we feel “respect” is not a buzzword – it is an action.
Twitter account holders hashtag: #freekevin34
The Free Kevin #34 Facebook event page is public at: https://www.facebook.com/events/164128707076166
Sponsors:
LeoVince USA / www.leovinceusa.com
Motovation / www.motovationusa.com
PJ’s Parts / www.pjsparts.com
Logo Design / www.motoinsider.com
Gypsy Lounge / www.gypsyloungeaustin.com