Mert Lawwill, a legendary figure in American motorcycle racing, has passed away at the age of 85. The 1969 AMA Grand National champion and star of the iconic documentary On Any Sunday, left behind a legacy that continues to inspire riders today. Born into a family of modest means, Lawwill's early life was marked by a restless spirit and a passion for speed.
Lawwill's introduction to motorcycle racing came at a young age, courtesy of his brother Roy, who put him on the back of a motorcycle when he was just a teenager. Despite initial concerns from their parents, Lawwill quickly fell in love with the thrill of racing and began competing at local tracks in Boise, Idaho.
As his skills improved, Lawwill expanded his racing efforts to cross-country events called hare scrambles, which took him throughout the Northwest region. His success caught the attention of Harley-Davidson dealer Dudley Perkins, who offered him a factory contract in 1964.
Lawwill's professional racing career was marked by numerous podium finishes and eventually earned him his first AMA Grand National victory at the Sacramento Mile in 1965. He would go on to win the championship in 1969 and was voted AMA 'Most Popular Rider of the Year' for that season.
The 1970 documentary On Any Sunday, which featured Lawwill's AMA Grand National title defense, cemented his status as a motorcycle icon. The film showcased Lawwill's skills and helped change public perception about motorcycles and their riders.
Despite his many achievements on the track, Lawwill's career was not without its challenges. He suffered numerous injuries, including broken bones and sprains, which forced him to retire from racing in 1977 due to an inner-ear disorder that affected his balance.
Throughout his career, Lawwill captured 15 AMA Grand National victories and amassed 161 AMA Grand National finishes. His impressive record also included completing the prestigious dirt track grand slam, winning at least one race in all four disciplines of dirt track racing.
After retiring from racing, Lawwill shifted his attention to designing and building frames for motorcycle race bikes. He was inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame in 1997, a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.
The passing of Mert Lawwill serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and dedication required to succeed at the highest level in motorcycle racing. His contributions to the sport will be remembered for generations to come.
The passing of Mert Lawwill marks the end of an era in motorcycle racing.
