The Amateur Riders Motorcycle Association was formed in 1968 as an organization dedicated to promoting motorcycling activities. It was incorporated in 1969 in the state of Minnesota as a non-profit. Over the years we’ve grown to include ATV events and points paying competitions as AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) district 23, having become a chartered AMA organization in 1974.
Motorcycling is a family sport, which you can see reflected at any ARMCA event, whether it’s a competition like a motocross race, or a non-competitive trail ride day. We work with motorcycle clubs and promoters throughout Minnesota (and beyond), as well as state and local government agencies, to encourage the support and growth of motorcycling in a safe, responsible manner – for the riders, their neighbors, and the environment.
ARMCA administers and supports youth and amateur competition by managing the rules, numbering, points and award systems, as well as event calendars and rider advancement, for all AMA-sanctioned events within the D23 area.
Non-competitive events, like trail rides, dual-sport rides, and road rides, are also central to the mission of ARMCA – we seek to support and promote all forms of motorcycling, recognizing that each type of activity is of great importance to the overall motorcycling community. We also realize that public trail systems are crucial to the long-term future of off-road motorcycling, and that rider involvement through organized clubs is essential to the development and maintenance of public trails.
We work with agencies such as the DNR and lawmakers at our state capitol to preserve access to public resources and facilities for motorcycle and ATV recreation. Through our efforts we help to maintain appropriate and fair regulations for usage of public and private lands for all citizens of Minnesota. ARMCA was instrumental in passing Minnesota’s Off-Highway Motorcycle (OHM) registration and funding bills in 1993 and 1994, and is the only statewide organization recognized by the DNR as the voice of dirt bike riders in Minnesota.
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Celebrating Floyd’s Life
By: D23 Chairman Mike Quinn
On August 15th members of his family, D23 and the Norsemen MC celebrated the life of Floyd Martineau at the Stompin’ Grounds in Akeley MN. Following a ceremony at the start finish area of the Akeley Enduro we proceeded to the Martineau Trailhead to inter his ashes at one of the most important places in his life.
Most of you didn’t know Floyd so in his memory I will recap a little of his life. Floyd joined the Norsemen MC in its early days. He became a key member of the club. He dedicated his life to off road riding in those early days. Few people know how many hours, days, and weeks that Floyd spent cutting in trail and establishing the trail used for Akeley Enduros. This trail system is now named after him. Floyd was also an integral part of the Norsemen club establishing, maintaining and refurbishing the Cambridge MX track. In the early 70’s MX was new to Minnesota and the Cambridge track was the biggest baddest track in the state. As an organization we owe Floyd a debt that is impossible to repay. His work for all of us as riders and racers, the hours living in his van in the woods, the hours spent working with the DNR to achieve the first state recognized trial in the state is an immense accomplishment. Check out some of the photos included and say a thank you to Floyd’s spirit. I know most people do not care much for history but it is important to recognize the people that have worked to build D23 ARMCA. Bottom line we would not be here and enjoying our sport without the hard work, effort, and unending dedication of people like Floyd. His legacy is the Martineau Trail System just north of Akeley, a legacy that is one of kind. Godspeed Floyd.
This marble plaque is now hanging under the DNR sign at the Martineau Trailhead. The picture etched into it includes not only Floyd but also some of the people that founded our district.
Big Thanks to Rex Greenwald for putting this tribute together
Some of the many people on hand to celebrate the life of Floyd Martineau
How many people could have cut in and laid out this much trial. Floyd had some help but most of this is the work of that one super dedicated member. 100 + miles.
Members of Floyds family attending the tribute. Seen here gathered at the trailhead where the marble plaque in now on display. Stop in and see it. Hiway 64 just north of Akeley
A few of the people that knew Floyd well and spent time with him. In particular Floyd and John Martin spent many hours together on the road while Floyd drove around the country with John in the days of the National Hare Scrambles and National Enduro Series
From the left Rex Greenwald, Mike Larson of Larson Cycle, Mike Quinn D 23, Greta and John Martin all of whom spent many hours with Floyd. We miss him as does all of D 23.
What an incredible honor for the man that was the key factor in this trail system.
Pay a visit to this trailhead and pay your respects to a true dedicated volunteer and great guy. While you are there thank him for all he did for us.