Aldo Drudi: Famous and a Friend

Famous people.  Unless their last name is Kardashian or Hilton, they usually have a skill, or talent, or have accomplished something that other people respect or perhaps aspire to themselves.  They provide inspiration, even if your own goal is not the same as theirs.  They command admiration.

They are just like us.  But better.  At least in some aspect of their lives, be it leading a nation, playing a sport, singing, acting or working and creating for motorcycling's greatest racers.

Not everyone has the opportunity to meet the famous, accomplished person that inspires them.  Its a downside of being famous, of course.  You are forced to spend all of your time with other famous, accomplished people, isolated from such pleasures like taking a bus with the common folk.

And even fewer of us, when we do meet the person we have admired from afar, discover that the person behind all the skill, determination, and talent is even more deserving of admiration than his or her accomplishments.

In case you hadn't picked up on it, I am a longtime admirer of Aldo Drudi's experience and accomplishments: Drudi Performance.  And not just because I race motorcycles and am an avid racing fan.

Granted, Aldo Drudi is a walking institution for motorcycle racing.  But he has also succeeded at all levels, with all types and eras of racing personalities.  He has adapted to all of the changes in technology and gear, not only within the motorcycle industry, but within his own trade as well.  It would be impossible not to be inspired by all that he has done and accomplished.

Yet, after meeting Aldo Drudi, I am an even bigger admirer of the person.  It is amazing to me that the most famous designer in motorcycling racing, is so humble, generous, and well, (almost) ordinary.  And somehow still genuinely interested about the people in a small family-owned motorcycle shop.

A true gentleman and a truly great person.  I am honored that he calls me a friend.



George