The Rickman brother (Don and Derek) were well known for their motorcycle brand and their racing results in Europe. What they weren't known for is racing in the deserts of California. Given that they had a US distributor in Southern California they had justifiable reason to travel the UK to visit and to explore the riding terrain and interests of the US market.

In 1968, Don Rickman entered the Rams MC Hare and Hound (desert race), which typically drew hundreds of participants who were very familiar with traveling at high rates of speed, over terrain they had never seen, in dust clouds larger than most small towns. Don's rookie status did little to deter his curiosity and enthusiasm for this new form of racing a dirt bike. At the finish of the event, he was first in the 500c Expert class and an astonishing 4th overall out of hundreds of experienced riders.

His award for risking life and limb in a foreign country was a trophy with a built-in clock. One that still works to this day, although may be a bit slow. If you are a fan of the Rickman brand this is an extrordinary opportunity.