Local resident wins state motorcycle safety award

CORVALLIS, Ore. – TEAM OREGON Motorcycle Safety Program recognized Don Sutherland of Lyle for its Rookie Instructor of the Year award Saturday, November 4 in Salem. The award honors a first-year instructor who has distinguished him or herself among peers through actions, passion, persistence and dedication to safer motorcycling.

TEAM OREGON Director Aria Minu-Sepehr points out, “Mr. Sutherland was well ahead of the curve for a first-year instructor. His journey from range apprentice to full instructor happened at breakneck speed and with accolades we seldom see.”

Sutherland taught 19 safety courses – more than 200 new riders – in his inaugural year as an instructor. “Don’s teammates in the Gorge are jazzed about having him onboard, and we are humbled by his immediate and thorough dedication to the craft,” said Minu-Sepehr.

TEAM OREGON is a cooperative partnership between the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon State University. More than 1,400 rider training courses are offered at 24 locations statewide February – November. For more information, visit http://team-oregon.org or call 800-545-9944.