Naval Station Everett’s Safety Department held its first motorcycle rodeo at the Navy Support Complex in Smokey Point May 7.

The rodeo included range time for participants, a stunt ride demonstration and motorcycle vendors to answer questions.

“We wanted to get Sailors back into the groove of riding before summer,” said Fred Matazzoni, NAVSTA Everett safety specialist.

There was also an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) instructor on hand for interested Sailors. 

“ATV riders are not required to take a safety class like motorcycle riders, but it is highly encouraged,” said Dudley McNutt, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island’s Traffic Safety Coordinator.

One of the most exciting events of the day was the stunt demonstration.  Stunt rider Hines Staylem stressed that the tank-standing, no-handed riding and burnouts he performed are not normal, everyday riding.

“These are not easy tricks to do,” Staylem said. “I always practice on a closed course and never on the street.”

The rodeo was part of the station’s summer safety awareness campaign.  More Sailors will be out on the road during summer than at any other time of year. All Sailors who ride motorcycles are required to take safety classes.

“Motorcycle safety classes including the Basic Rider Course, Sport Bike Course and Experienced Rider Course, allow Sailors to focus on riding skills and apply them in a controlled environment,” said Matazzoni. 

All classes include classroom instruction and time on the range.  Sailors do not need to have their own motorcycles to take a class.

For more safety information, visit NAVSTA Everett’s Health and Safety Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 21 at the Commons.