He's become such a superstar in parts of Europe — overcoming a disdain there
for American racers — that Hayden couldn't wait to return to the U.S. this
weekend for a brief return to anonymity.
In his home country, Hayden can go almost anywhere without being noticed.
Competing in a sport that draws little national interest, his hometown is the
only place in America where Hayden is considered a star.
That's just fine with Hayden.
"I don't want to be a rock star. I just like the racing," he said. "I am
pretty passionate about it. I like going toe-to-toe with my rivals, and that's
enough for me. Paying your bills by riding a motorcycle is pretty cool, and it
was definitely my ticket out to really do something."
Despite living in a city full of "pretty die-hard NASCAR fans," Hayden said
he and his two brothers were drawn to motorcycles because their father was into
them and occasionally raced. Oldest brother Tommy was the first to give them a
spin, and Nicky and Roger Lee soon followed.
Nicky had turned professional by the time he was 16, and was picked up by
Honda a year later. It helped him break into the European market, and Hayden is
now the lead rider for Repsol Honda.
Tommy, 28, and Roger Lee, 24, are top riders in the AMA Superbike series, the
American version of MotoGP. A year ago, they punctuated Nicky's USGP victory by
finishing fourth and sixth in their earlier race.
The Haydens want to celebrate the anniversary with another strong weekend at
Laguna Seca. And even if most of America isn't watching, the sport still has its
fans — including NASCAR points leader Jimmie Johnson, who grew up racing
motorcycles.
"Those guys — you think we're crazy — those guys are going as fast as we do,
if not faster, without a roll cage. They're nuts," said Johnson, who grew up
with MotoGP rider Colin Edwards and keeps tabs and has been rooting for him and
Hayden to succeed.
"When Nicky went over to carry the American flag, he really did an amazing
job. I've been paying close attention ... and I'm stoked for him leading the
championship," he said. "I hope he can do it. I know over in Europe, people
frown on U.S. riders and drivers, and I'd love to see him go over there and kick
some butt and represent us."
