Posted August 10, 2005

Former astronaut to host Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum Induction Ceremony

Former NASA astronaut and AMA Life member Duane "Digger" Carey will serve as master of ceremonies for the annual Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, to be held October 7-8, the Museum has announced.

Carey, an avid motorcyclist, served as pilot aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on mission STS109 in 2002. Each member of the shuttle crew is allowed to carry one personal item aboard, and Carey volunteered to carry an AMA banner into space. He later delivered the banner in person to AMA headquarters and donated it to the Association.

In recognition of his contributions to the AMA and his work on behalf of motorcycling, the AMA awarded Carey the Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award. He was also issued a new AMA membership card, with AMA number 109 to commemorate his flight in space.

Carey has since retired from NASA and recently visited the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, along with his wife, Cheryl, while touring the country.

During the Museum Induction Ceremony, nine motorcycling legends will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, including racing greats Doug Henry, Scott Russell, and former rider of the famous “Hogslayer” drag bike, Tom Christenson.

The Hall of Fame Weekend begins with Friday, October 7, evening reception at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, followed by the  annual Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance on Saturday, featuring over 100 rare vintage machines. The Hall of Fame induction banquet and ceremony begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Attendance to all events is open to the public. Reservations are required for the Museum reception and the induction ceremony and dinner.

© 2005, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum