We got up early on Sunday morning and made our way to the track, which is a military landing strip in Goliad, Texas. Bill is the kind of guy who likes to make a pass early, before the wind kicks up and the heat becomes oppressive. My cousin and I walked to the MPH board, which is close to the finish line. Many people were leaving and beginning their long trip back home. Suddenly, in the distance, a howl erupted. I focused my digital camera and strained my eyes to see the bike almost a mile away. It began as a small dot and quickly became a blurry bullet.

Holy Mother of God, he was on a serious pass. The bike rushed by me at such a speed that I got chills down my spine. I waited for the display to read the results........

278.6 mph.

I stood motionless for a second and let it sink in, then I began to scream and jump up and down. It was the fastest pass ever on a "sit-on" motorcyle. In the history of motorcycles, no human had ever gone that fast. 

Bill stopped at the timing booth and posed for eager journalists and with fellow racers. After a few minutes, he rolled past me on his way back to the pits. I couldn't help it, I let out a yell and pumped my fists in the air. He screamed right back.

What a day, a year, a life it is!