Y’know those ridiculous disclaimers at the bottom of car commercials saying, “Do not attempt?” Well, the reason they are there is because chances are that some knucklehead had already gone out and tried to reenact some stunt they saw in a Mountain Dew ad and ended up with a concussion or worse.
Unfortunately, when we see things like the Pro Watercross Tour adopting a new “Code of Conduct” for its athletes, teams and support crews, we know its because they’ve been forced to take such measures. And that’s really a shame…
As outlined in a statement by Pro Watercross Director AJ Handler, “A code of conduct is a signal to attendees that the Pro Watercross Tour organizers have carefully considered the issues involved with attending tour events, and that they want to make the tour welcoming and safe for everyone.”
He continued, “It is important for everyone to be respectful and when competing always compete in the spirit of fair play… understand that there are repercussions to negative actions and in order for the sport to move forward athletes need to be in control and behave in a professional manner.”
Sadly, actions both on and off the field of competition by athletes, their crews and teammates have forced organizers to insist that all agree to these statutes to ensure that only the most professional are present at Pro Watercross events. Fist fights, aggressive and even dangerous racing, drinking and lewd behavior has no place in professional racing – be it watercross or otherwise.
Seriously, folks. This a sad reflection on our sport. As AJ concludes, “We are all judged by our actions…”
