On Air:
Kerry PETERSON
Legendary Hill-Climbing Rider and USA Team Manager

Over The Top:
Kerry what do you think about events like "Hill-Climb des Nations" or "World Trophy"?
Kerry PETERSON:
The Hillclimb des Nations and World Trophy events have been the most significant Hillclimb events in the world. A true World Championship competition bringing the Hillclimbing nations of the World together in one great battle for our sport's top prize.

OTT: What's the position of hillclimbing in USA?
KP:
Motorcycle Hillclimbing in the U.S.A. is going through a large scale reorganization in an effort to bring a greater awareness of our sport to mainstream America.
The N.A.H.A., which sets the standard for professional Hillclimbing with the sport's best riders, has gained great exposure in the last 5 years utilizing television and media coverage as well  large corporate sponsorships.
The A.M.A Pro Hillclimb Series, the World's longest running Hillclimb competition, has adopted the N.A.H.A. rules and class sizes in an effort to encourage riders to compete in both series, giving additional exposure to our riders and the sport.
Our country's 2 Pro Hillclimb Series are now working diligently together like never before, with exceptional results and satisfaction on both sides.


OTT: What future for Hill-Climbing ?
KP:
Motorcycle Hillclimbing continues to grow around the world with a continued emphasis on professionalism and the overwhelming desire to unite our sport across the globe to raise recognition and exposure for all.
I believe there needs to be a definate separation between Amateur and Professional events in Europe to enable the sport continued growth. 
The Amateur events need to provide a program to enable all ages of competitors an introduction to the sport as well as providing all sizes and classifications of motorcycles a place to compete.
The Professional events need to resemble the N.A.H.A. and A.M.A. Series with only the top level riders providing a level of racing like that provided in any other form of Professional Motorsports.
Adding an additional class or two would also help promotion of the sport at the Pro level as well as help gain the attraction of the motorcycle manufacturers for possible sponsorship when they see production looking bikes in competition.

OTT: US riders are the most faster in the world, but in all the international hillclimbing events, USA have difficulties to win
why? 
Les pilotes US sont réputés être les plus rapides et les meilleurs pilotes au monde, et pourtant, même s'ils ont remportés pour l'instant toutes les épreuves en Europe, ils semblent avoir du mal à placer tous leurs pilotes sur les podiums, pourquoi?
KP:
I believe are winning streak in France has been exceptional since our first visit to Arette in 1990, however the French riders have stepped up their programs every year and now it is always a great battle on their home turf.
As I have said many times, the biggest difference has been the hill conditions in France, specifically the rocks, which we do not have in the U.S. The N.A.H.A. bikes and riders are setup to go very fast over generally rough terrain with some man made obstacles and jumps.
This style of Hillclimbing has proved very popular with the fans and less dangerous for the riders. The A.M.A hills are generally straight uphill drag races with multiple large jumps, requiring completely different bike setup and riding style.
The speeds are excessive and there are many injuries, such as the unfortunate tragedy with Dave Watson.

OTT: 12 Countries, European riders on their home turf, spectators and medias who are looking for the battle between USA and Europe... it's not too much pressure for you?

KP:
There is always pressure when you are defending your title, however we are confident in our riders and our bikes to get the job done!

We are very grateful to have the opportunity to compete for The World Trophy in France and look forward to sharing another wonderful experience with our friends from many nations.