A few Words

[Marine_393]

I'd would just like to say thank you to all of you who came out for the race this year. It means the world Mr. Berg and others. I had the privilege of meeting many new faces this year and seeing some I hadnt seent in quite a few years. I would also like to thank everyone who has been to a GMB race before and couldnt make it this year, as I have said, this helps a lot of people more than you could imagine.

This wasn't my first race, but it was my first race in 5 years. It was a great time. I enjoyed spending time and talking to some magnificent people and sharing stories. But for me, this race was very special. You see, Saturday was the first time I had ever ridden Garrett's YZ450, well the first time I truly rode it. The day of the accident I was the first person on scene, and rode the bike back to the truck to load it up, but there was a lot more going through my head then what an awesome bike it was. I have been asked to ride it a few times in the past but always turned it down for other reasons.

This year I was bestowed the honor of piloting the bike this year and decided to take it since I though it would be enjoyable for a special big guy I know to see.

Saturday at the track, I geared up fired the bike up and rode around the pits to get a feel for it, rode over to the tree and headed out onto the track. I have been off a motocross bike for about a year now, but was instantly at home on this bike. I took the first lap slow because I had tears in my eyes and couldnt make out the lines. I felt closer to Garrett than ever before and it felt just like old times when we would follow each other around the track, roosting and laughing all the way. It was truly an amazing feeling, a feeling which stuck by me all weekend. Sunday was even better, and as the 20 minute motos shredded my arms and my back ached and I got tired and would make a mistake, somehow the bike would just find the rut, power through and and have me doing the best I can to hang on. The bike even wanted to slightly whip itself. It was an awesome day, one I will never forget. Riding with an old friend.

I know everyone else had a great weekend, and many more memories were created this year. I am just glad to say that I got to be part of this years memories. I look forward to seeing you all again in the future and the many more memories we will have.

Semper Fidelis
Matt Sandt

[DRGSin393]

Very well said Matt. It was a pleasure and an honor to meet you. I understand why Mr. Berg loves as if you were his own son.

[Keetoman393]

What an awesome write up, Matt. It was really great to see you again. You rode that bike like Garrett would have wanted you to.


I told you at Mr. Berg's house Friday night and I'll say it again, thanks again for what you did for our country. You have grown up to be the kind of man that many never will be.

[mxmama393]

That was a great post! Thanks for sharing that.

You rode awesome and I would have never guessed it had been that long

[crfjedi393]

Thanks for sharing the experience, Matt. I don't think I introduced myself to you by my screen name but we had a short visit. I truly appreciated you looking me up to shake my hand before you left. You're a good man and I feel your loss.

[Motodad393]

Matt,

What an incredible write up. I cannot begin to tell you how it felt to see you riding Garrett's bike. At this point, I have no words that would be adequate. It was also very touching and special to a young lady who is the "apple of my eye."

I was hoping and as I thought Garrett would show up while you were riding. I know this experience - it is why I rode every weekend for darn near three years. That feeling is beyond description to "know" Garrett is riding with you. For me this has been the ultimate of feelings a dad can experience after loosing a child. I am just glad you too experienced it.

Matt, as I said before and I say it again - the 393 bike is yours to ride anytime you want, anywhere you want - with or without me being present. I know that you won't be riding alone! Matt I remain very proud of what you have done in your short 24 years and this world is a better place with "Men like you!" Someday, you will be an excellent Dad.

Until we meet again - "Watch your top notch!"

[yzernie]

Very nice post matt. We spoke briefly and I respect anyone who has served our country and especially those who have served in combat. It is people like you who make our world a better place to live in. I enjoyed seeing you piloting the 393 bike around the track. You have a great riding style and I would have never guessed you were off a bike for a year.

May God continue to keep his protective hand on you...you deserve it.

[Macho393]

Matt, If I had known you was going to be there. I would not have missed it.

[The Kimster]

Matt, What an awesome post! Thanks for sharing it and thank you for helping keep our country safe! It was great meeting you!
Take care! And hope to see you next year!

[MotoMan]

Wow, awesome post bro....awesome.

[pragmatic393]

Very nice post, Matt! Your feelings come through very effectively. Nice to finally meet the man I hear so much about.

Garrett and Mr. Berg sure know how to pick good folk

[Marine_393]

Thanks to everyone for the kind words, they are far from neccessary.

Macho, I sure missed you this year, It has been quite some time, but that is OK. I'm sure I will see you again.