My Friend John

by Al Born

From the “John Penton” book

I have known John Penton since back on the day
That I became the owner of my first BSA.
That started a freindship that lasts still yet;
He's as interesting a person as I've ever met.
John began riding enduros back in his prime.
He was one of the best in staying on time.
Neither trees nor swamps could slow him down;
Once he started the engine, he “just went to town!”
Of the major enduros, he has won almost all.
Though he always went fast, sometimes he would fall.
But that only happened once in a while,
Because he knew in his heart he had to make that last mile.
Then John built a cycle that bore his own name.
It took thousands of riders to glory and fame.
Tom, Jeff and Jack; Dane, Leroy, and Paul
Won many enduros, and just had a ball.
So, John's been inducted in the great Hall of Fame;
Autographs and photos are a part of his game.
He'll sign pictures, caps, t-shirts, and gas tanks too;
But don't stand too close, or he might sign you.

Visit Al Born's rider profile page.

By Bob Wentzel

If you own a dirt bike, you should know his name,
And of course, he’s in the AMA Hall of Fame.
His life’s career and work span decades.
On a motorcycle, in the woods, is where he played.
First family of off-road racing, no doubt.
When he set his mind to something, he went all out.
His love for friends and family has been undying.
When it comes to making things better, he was always trying.
Hare scrambles, Enduros, Qualifiers, and Six Days.
The racing family would always amaze.
Our sport could never have been the same without his foresight.
He engineered, tweaked, cut, and welded to make it right.
That motorcycle was called a Penton.
If you saw the movie, the rest I don’t have to mention.
At ninety years old and going strong,
His love of the sport and his dedication has been lifelong.
We honor this man, for what he has given us.
In our community and lives, it has been a plus.
Now, I’ll end this poem, but can I have your attention?
This great man’s name is John Penton.