The other cool Kawasaki at Indy

From Roger...

This is the other cool Kawasaki at Indianapolis for the mile. This bike belongs to a "keep at it because you love it" kinda racer you always root for. Jason Griffin didn't make the 32 rider field at Indy on his Kawasaki, but that's not the point.
I've seen him at Lima a few times too. The point is that his right arm is missing other than a bit of a stub. The right sleeve of is leathers is sewn shut after about 4 inches. (Read about Jason in Sideburn 4).
What impressed me is just how nice this guy is and what an easy-going manner he has. The pictures are of him with my girlfriend Patty, and two of his bike.
Now look at the bike and imagine how hard it would be to race it only left-handed. I'll even give you the benefit of guessing he's left-handed, as I never thought to ask him. Take your throttle over to the left and operate it simultaneously along with the clutch. That's simple, right? Your only contact point has a grip that turns freely. Let your other arm hang loose, no moving it for balance or leverage. Race (not ride) your 450 into a cushion half-mile turn like Lima at about 80mph, or a mile like Indy where you're over 100! Even when it bucks around, all you get is the one arm to control it while sliding. 10 laps at race speed. Tired yet? Crashing hurts and is expensive and likely dangerous too..
To me, this guy is one cool dude. A racer with enough passion to do it with a huge handicap. And a grin!