Public speaking.
Yeah, we all remember in grade school when we had to get up in front of everyone and make five minute speeches, or in high school when we had to do ISU presentations and talk in front of everyone. For some of us those memories are much fresher than they are for others, but I'm sure we can all agree that we each have a horror story or six about public speaking.
Perhaps this is why so many motocross and off road riders perform wonderfully on the track, but then come to a screeching halt as soon as they get on the podium. There are some super stars out there, many of the American teams and Europeans have people who work with them specifically to make them more friendly and presentable while in the public eye. Here in Canada, that luxury isn't available to most riders, and certainly not to the amateurs.
There are three people who come to mind, personally, when I think of excellent podium presence. Now, remember, I'm an off road specialist, so they are all enduro riders, from the Canadian Enduro Championship series. Jason Schrage, Shane Cuthbertson and Guy Giroux are all wonderful on the podium, and all for different reasons.
Jason Schrage on the microphone. He has a natural style and friendliness that people like.
Schrage is highly marketable; he's a PR person's dream! Aside from being attractive in a non-threatening way, and a fire fighter (read: Hero Job!), he is well spoken and articulate. When he gets on the podium, which is often, he never forgets to thank the organizers, his competition, his sponsors, and perhaps most importantly, his wife Rochelle. He speaks clearly, and audibly into the microphone, when there is one, and doesn't mutter or stare at his feet. While the other riders are saying their piece, he is either smiling to the crowd, or smiling and listening to what they have to say. Cuthbertson is another good podium personality, as I like to call them. While he might not have the Gerber Baby dimples that Schrage has, he is witty on the podium and presents himself, and his list of sponsors, well. I can remember one particular presentation where he poked fun at a fellow racer who had troubles remembering his sponsor list the day before. “I'll show you how it's done,” the good natured barb started, and Cuthbertson whipped out the race series program, which had all of the top riders, and their sponsors, listed in the front. He then went on to read his sponsor list right from the program. For those of you who follow off road, the Corner Grass Racing Team, of which Cuthbertson is a member, have a lot of sponsors. The crowd, and the rider, laughed.
E2 podium, with Wojnarowski, Schrage and Cuthbertson.
Sometimes making memorable podium speeches, ones that are remembered for good reasons rather than how horrible they are (I'll bring up three examples of riders who, while extremely talented on their bikes, could use to learn a few things about being on a podium later). Guy Giroux is an example of that. While no one speech stands out, one does get the feeling that he's talking to everyone in the audience as if they're a personal friend. Much like I pointed out in my last article, where I used Giroux's press releases as an example, his style is very intimate. Without being too critical, there are also some pretty bad examples of podium speeches in the CECs, and I can think of three riders, all at different points in their lives, from whom lessons on what not do to can be learned.
Being prepared is important; know who your sponsors are and have a rough idea of what you'd like to say. “Hmm...” “Uh...” and “Aahh...” don't make you look like a winner. You're on the podium! Clearly you're fast. Being shy and overly quiet isn't an option at this point. If you've won a spot in the top three, assume you've earned it. Speak up, be prepared and know what you're going to say. If you have to, practice your podium speech if you have to.
Another pet peeve of mine is when I see a rider stare at their feet while they speak. What this tells me is a) the rider is uncomfortable with the spot light and b) doesn't feel like they deserve to be where they are. Look into the audience, with your head held high. You're in the top three, you should be proud. Again, sometimes this is caused by nervousness. I know some riders who have found wearing sunglasses while on the podium helps with this problem. It allows them to focus on an object, a loved one in the crowd or a tree in the distance, without looking like a creeper or space case.
Also, be aware that there are probably cameras in the audience; don’t be surprised if you make a funny face and it ends up on the internet.
You don't want to look like this.
This is better. Notice they're all smiling, all faces are turned towards the crowd.
Guy Giroux is certainly happy with his first E3 and overall victory; he conveys his excitement to the crowd.
Finally: Keep it short. There’s a big temptation among riders to thank everyone who has ever helped or smiled kindly upon you. This is all well and good, but it makes for a very boring presentation. There are certainly people who should be thanked: organizers, land owners, family and, obviously, your sponsors. Other than that, don’t worry about Mr. Johnston your neighbor growing up, or the guy who pumps your gas. Forgetting your sponsors is a big no-no. One can be forgiven, but after that, don’t make the mistake again. Do what Cuthbertson did if you have to, have a small note card with your sponsors listed on it. Just something small, 4 x 6 inches is a good size, with your sponsor’s names, or better yet, their logos, on it.
A final thought: Remember, everyone you’re speaking to is a potential friend and supporter. The crowd is there to watch you, there is no reason to be afraid. And, just like they said in grade school, practice makes perfect.
Thanks to Adam Millson, Brian Wojnarowski, Chris Van Hove, Julian Cerny, Jason Schrage, Lee Fryberger, Guy Giroux and Geoff Nelson for letting me use their sometimes funny faces. Thanks, Gentlemen.
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