The first thing you have to do is pre-register by May 15, 2008. This means a medical report, a membership fee and an entry fee all must be submitted to the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) by May 15. After that, the bike had to be readied to pass their tech inspection, and my leathers, boots and helmet also needed to pass the SCTA rules.

I was very fortunate to have Engle Motors, Ralph Blackmore, Slim's Cycle Seats, and Phil Oldham assist me with cash, boots, helmet, and seat. It made it easier for me to get qualified.

In 1998, at the age of 20, Steve was involved in a motorcycle accident and suffered a thoracic vertebral incomplete spinal injury leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. His dreams of joining the service and entering law enforcement were quickly shattered, but at the same time he was given a new outlook on life. After a seven-month hospital stay, including rehabilitation, Steve learned to overcome his limitations. With grueling effort and a supportive family, Steve was able to transfer himself from his wheelchair to the driver’s seat of a car and was once again able to drive. In his words “The ultimate freedom of being in my chair is driving!”