A public celebration of life has been scheduled for legendary flat track racer Mert Lawwill, with organizers announcing plans for an Aug. 30 memorial event in Carson, California. The event will be held at the Carson Center and is expected to bring together members of the motorcycle, bicycle, racing and adaptive riding communities to honor Lawwill's life and legacy.
Organizers say attendees will be required to pre-register once the official event website and RSVP system go live due to anticipated attendance limits at the venue. This measure aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
The celebration will also feature the inaugural 'Mert Lawwill Vintage Dirt Track Concours,' showcasing significant vintage dirt-track motorcycles from the 1960s through the early 1980s that reflect the era that defined Lawwill's racing career. Owners interested in displaying qualifying motorcycles are expected to receive additional details on participation soon.
A commemorative event T-shirt and a limited-edition pencil drawing by artist Mike Gorrano will also be offered through donations supporting event expenses. These exclusive items will serve as mementos for attendees, symbolizing Lawwill's enduring impact on the world of motorcycle racing.
Lawwill, the 1969 AMA Grand National Champion and a 1998 inductee into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, died earlier this month at age 85. His remarkable career was marked by numerous victories and achievements that cemented his status as a racing legend.
Born in Boise, Idaho, Lawwill joined the Harley-Davidson factory racing team in 1964 and captured the AMA Grand National Championship in 1969. He also gained mainstream recognition through his appearance in the iconic 1971 motorcycle film On Any Sunday.
After retiring from racing in 1977 due to an inner-ear disorder, Lawwill became known for his work in motorcycle chassis development, mountain bike innovation and adaptive riding technology. His contributions to these fields have inspired countless riders and paved the way for future generations of innovators.
Lawwill earned 15 AMA Grand National victories during his professional racing career and became one of the defining figures of American flat track racing during the sport's golden era. His legacy continues to be celebrated through this memorial celebration, which honors his life, achievements and enduring impact on the world of motorcycle racing.
Additional details regarding the memorial celebration and registration are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. As the event approaches, fans and fellow riders will have the opportunity to pay tribute to Mert Lawwill's remarkable life and career.
Mert Lawwill's contributions to motorcycle innovation and adaptive riding technology continue to inspire new generations of riders.
