McGrath to honor Earnhardt

First and foremost, the motorsport community lost one of our greats this past weekend when "The Intimidator" Dale Earnhardt passed away at the Daytona 500. Team Mazda Yamaha will be racing in his memory this weekend in Atlanta and in his honor, I will be wearing a commemorative all black uniform and a new Troy Lee painted black bell helmet with Dale's No. 3 on each side.

Dale is a man that defined his sport, and brought so much to the motorsport community. He will be missed by all, and I send my condolences to his family. It will be an honor to race in his memory.

Racing is a dangerous sport. Every rider knows the hazards involved with racing, and we just hope that our training and safety precautions will pay off. The fact I have a great mechanic and support team assures me that my bike is always in its best condition.

I try not to think about getting hurt, but it happens. Our passion for the sport keeps those types of thoughts out of our heads. The fact of the matter is that I do what I love. I have the greatest job in the world, and there are hazards that go along with that. I wouldn't trade my job for any other, and I am sure Dale felt the same way.