Stanton, MI – In celebration of the late Josh Lichtle and his legacy as a 27-time Amateur National Champion, Valley Motocross of Stanton, Michigan recently hosted a ride-day benefit called “Ride with Wings” on August 11, 2011.  Proceeds exceeding $4,500 were donated to the new 811 Foundation: a non-profit organization dedicated to spreading awareness for injury prevention in motocross racing.

The event was held on August 11^th—Josh’s birthday, and a date (811) that adorned his number plate since he began his quest for motocross greatness at the humble age of 4.  Motocross racers, friends, and families gathered to reminisce and remember the fun-loving and inspiring personality that so many of them had come to know and love:

“Seeing everyone there and the smiles that emerged from conversations about Josh made things very emotional for me” said Josh’s brother Billy Lichtle.  “Even for people who didn’t know Josh personally, but were there in support of the event, were shedding tears.”

The day started on a somewhat somber note, with over 160 riders pouring onto the track for a parade lap.  Riders revved their bikes and threw one-footers over the front section of the track (as a salute to Josh) while “Heaven’s Calling 811”, a song written and produced by friend Brandon Mays, played on the loudspeakers.

“Brandon Mays was really close with my brother, and what he did by writing that song is just incredible”, said Billy.

After a respectful parade lap, the event steadily transformed into a birthday party synonymous of Josh Lichtle and his wild-child persona, with events like the 125 two-stroke open, holeshot contest, and pitbike race.  The “one-footer” contest was a fan-favorite as well—a race-celebration maneuver that Josh was known for demonstrating throughout his amateur career.

Throughout the day’s events, Valley Motocross staff and the Lichtle family members reached out to over 300 people in attendance, asking for their support to help the new 811 Foundation and their cause.  The call was answered with over $4,500 in proceeds going to the Foundation and their mission for proactive injury prevention.

“The event was a great success”, said event promoter Buck Riggie.  “Sponsors contributed product as part of a silent auction, Josh Lichtle shirts were sold, and the winner of the 50/50 raffle actually donated his winnings back to support the 811 Foundation… people really stepped up for Josh.”

To find out more about the “Ride with Wings” Josh Lichtle Benefit at Valley Motocross, go to http://www.valleymotocross.com/

To find out more about the 811 Foundation and its effort to increase rider safety awareness, please visit http://www.godspeed811.com/