NATIONAL

An original screenplay by Dan Schmitt

The racer, the mechanic, their motorcycles, their trek across America

Copyright 1976, by Dan Schmitt

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

 I sat down and wrote this screenplay between 1974 and 1975. I typed this screenplay on a small portable electric typewriter, and then paid a good typist $100.00 to retype it. This screenplay is not in the proper format, it is in the format for a play. Someday, in the near future, I hope, I will rewrite this screenplay in the proper format. Do you have any advice for me? Do you want to make a movie from this screenplay? I hope to add photos to this screenplay.

BEGINNING:

Camera looking down straight away of a county half-mile. Focus is set on the far fence. Tranquil sounds. Camera moves backward and upwards, revealing two lines of motorcycles, six and six, at the bottom of the screen. Flagman is now in view. The sound of revving four-stroke motors is heard. The green flag is thrown and the race begins.

The bunch rushes to turn one and out of turn two and down the back-straight. Three bikes break away from the pack. A Harley leading; rider has team leathers, orange, white, and black. A Triumph is next with the rider in orange and white. A Yamaha is third, its rider with team colors of yellow and black.

 Camera. Above start line. Covers the first lap and a half from the beginning point. On the second lap, camera in turn three, inside, catches the bikes coming into the turn, set up sideways to scrub-off speed.

Camera inside turn four catches the full-lock power slides and spins to

Follow the front action, all focus is on the front runners. Lap four, turn one and two, the Yamaha drives under the Triumph and makes physical contact, passes and leads down the back-straight.

Triumph now begins to drive much faster and by lap six, driver passes the Yamaha out of turn four and is on the Harley down the back-straight. Triumph rider is tucked in and slip-streaming the Harley. With the white flag waving, makes his move and passes in one and two and holds his lead to the finish.

Page 1

SCENE:

Scene of the starship cruising down Interstate 94 at about 70 m.p.h. at night. The starship is a late model van with a pop-top. It is painted like an American flag in a breeze. Movie credits are shown as the truck "keeps on trucking". Music playing is something like, "Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd.

SCENE:

Inside starship.

 Camera focuses on the interior of the van. It has a custom interior with carpeting and leather with two full-deck chairs. The driver is Tom, a long-hair, mustachio, about 25 years old. The mechanic is also a long-hair, but clean shaven; appears to be a little older and more solemn looking. His name is Bowes. There is the aura of happiness.

Tom:

If I didn’t win, I would have protested that son of a bitch’s passing style!

Bowes:

If he hadn't hit you, you probably wouldn't have woke up and won it!

 Tom:

Hey, I had that race dialed in!

Bowes:

Bullshit! You would have let that turkey, Harley, win it! Half of the time I think you're day dreaming.

Tom:

Hey, I was just setting him up!

Bowes:

Man, that's your greatest weakness. Even when we were sportsmen, I used to be able to pass you because you took too much time.

Tom:

Yeah, I know, the minute you quit driving on the guy in front, there's always someone to get by you.

Bowes:

That's why the factories avoid you, you're too nice of a rider.

Tom:

Hey, I can win a race by skill and horsepower. I'd quit before I'd start running into people to win; my style is good enough. I won today, didn't I?

Bowes:

Sure you can win; but, when are you going to win a national? I give you enough horsepower; my motors are as good as anybody's. That's why I quit racing, isn't it, so I can give full time to tuning?

 Tom:

Well, I'd rather have you on my team than to be fighting you on the track. Look, we'll make it yet. We'll dial in a national yet.

Page 2

There is more nighttime driving.

SCENE:

Truck driving across the Mississippi River.

Morning. This shot taken from above bridge of Interstate 55-70. Camera is then angled to catch sight of the Archway of St. Louis in the background. Truck drives through St. Louis for a few minutes, finally turning into the driveway of a frame house on the outskirts of town. Tom and Bowes get out of the van and walk around to knock on the basement door. An older guy finally answers the door. He is short in stature and weighs about 140 pounds. Age is about 39 or 40, but he is dressed in jeans and a t-shirt.

Neal:

What brings you guys here so early in the morning, don't you sleep?

Bowes:

Neal, I got to use your torches to make a pipe.

Neal:

I knew you wanted something. How did you do in Michigan?

Tom:

I won it! That should put me on top in the region. I'm getting my shit together.

 Neal:

The only thing good about running the regionals is the purse money. You got to win nationals to get into the big money. When I was your age, I

won every race back in the old days of the Kansas circuit. I used to win a lot of races, but you got to make "grand national" champ before you can

cash in. Sure all the racers know me, but before you can cash in with big money sponsors, you got to win those nationals.

Tom:

If you could have seen me motor that Harley, I know we got the horsepower for "Indy". Bowe IS finally

 Neal:

If you’re going to win “Indy” with a Triumph, you’re going to have to ride all 25 laps wide open, those Harleys really got it on a mile.

Bowes:

If Tom can hold it open for 25 laps, that bike will win it. Anyway, where are those torches, I got to make a pipe for the short tracker.

SCENE:

Tom is unloading another bike. It is a 360 Yamaha in a chrome racing frame. He wheels it around to the back of the house. Bowes

is getting the cylinder out of the truck and meets Neal in the yard.

Bowes:

Look at those ports, Neal. (Neal looks in the cylinder.) I figure that I can get about 50 horse out of this motor.

Neal:

Yeah, but will the motor be able to handle it? What good is a ton of horsepower if it won't stay together?

Bowes:

Outside the house. With these new pistons and the pipe I’ve designed, I think it will stay together.

 Neal:

But all horsepower isn't worth a damn if you can't ride the bike. This isn't a roadracer. (Pointing to the bike.)

Bowes:

That's why I've designed a new pipe for the bike, I know I can get the power to the ground.

SCENE:

Showing Bowes working with sheet metal fabricating a pipe while Tom is mounting new tires on the Yamaha. Neal's wife, a nice looking lady in her mid-thirties, comes out of the house with beers for everyone, and they all stop and converse with each other. The scene is one of contentment and lazy days with mellow background music.

Page 3

SCENE:

At Granite City Racetrack Pits

The pits at Granite City are in the middle of the track. The track is a typical stock car track with a half-mile on the outside and a quarter-mile in the middle, both sharing a common front straight-away. Along the front straight is the location of the grandstands. They are of a good size, capable of holding at least 8,000 people. The corners on this track are banked and the surface is clay.

This scene takes place in the center of the track. There are about fifty vans of various brands and color schemes.

The time of this scene is during practice. There are bikes on the track, and there is much activity in the pit area.

The camera scans the area for awhile, and finally comes to rest at the 45 bike. The starship van is parked and the bike is sitting right behind it. There is a tool box next to it. Tom is now putting on his helmet and proceeds to get on the bike and Bowes pushes him to get the bike started. The bike starts and Tom pulls onto the track. He rides around the track high in the turns then low in the turns doing long slides then no slides, riding on the loose stuff, then down on the groove.

The camera follows this action from inside the track then outside. This is the beginning of the music that will end this scene.

Page 4

Tom now pulls into the pits and pulls over to the van. He gets off the bike and Bowes grabs it and puts it on the stand.

Tom:

You were right about the power. Man, this bike sure feels a lot faster. You were right about the pipe, too. She really feels good.

 Bowes:

Did she feel stronger down the straights? think it's faster than last week?

Tom:

Yeah, she really is faster than last week, and she sure does pull out of the turns.

Bowes:

Let's look at the spark plug.

 Bowes gets out the spark-plug wrench and begins to pull out the plug.

He holds the plug up to his eye and really inspects it closely.

Bowes:

This plug looks a little too hot; maybe we're pushing this motor to the limit.

Tom:

Do you mean that this baby might blow up at any time?

Bowes:

Let's just worry about winning. I'll enrich the fuel and see if that helps.

SCENE:

Scene shows the 45 bike coming out of the fourth turn and the flagman waving the checker flag. Tom then pulls off the track on the back-straight and pulls into the pits and drives to the starship van. Bowes comes up to Tom in a run. He looks very happy and holds his stop-watch to Tom's face as Torn takes off his helmet.

Bowes:

Look  at that time, man, you're only a tenth off the record. That motor must really be working. How does she feel to you?

Tom:

Super! She is super! But, will she hold up?

Bowes:

She better hold up, you made the trophy dash, also.

Tom:

Well, she better 'cause I'm going to win everything tonight. She really feels like a rocket ship.

Page 5

Bowes:

Don't worry about it. Just get out there and do it, OK??

SCENE:

This is the semi-race with the 15 bike leading, with the 45 bike right on his rear wheel. The 45 bike can't seem to get past 15. The two bikes are battling it out. The 45 would pick up on straights, but 15 would fly through the turns. Finally, on the fourth lap, 45 gets past 15 on front-straight and leads through one and two turn and really stretches out his lead down the back chute. Then disaster strikes. Coming out of turn three and four, the motor seizes and Tom is thrown over the handlebars.

The ambulance pulls out onto the track and drives over to the fallen rider. There is a small group of pit men standing by Tom and the camera catches Bowes running out of the pit area. After a moment, one of the ambulance attendants picks Tom up and holds him steady.

Tom:

Goddammit!! Shit!! That goddamn Yamaha.

Attendant #1:

You're sure you're ok?

Attendant #2:

Do you want to take a ride to the hospital to be checked out'?

Tom:

The only thing that's hurting me is my pride--besides my whole body. Shit! Tell that goddamn Bowes he tuned that motor too far.

Bowes just throws up his arms in disgust and walks away.

SCENE:

The starship traveling up Interstate 55 towards Chicago. This scene should show the van rolling down the highway in the middle of the night. The van is going about 60 miles per hour, and the background music is tranquil.

The camera zooms in on the van, and we can see there is a light on inside. Tom is driving and Bowes is standing up in mid-part of the van right behind the driver's seat.

Tom:

What are you doing back there?

Bowes:

I didn't expect the motor to break, so I'm checking it out. I think I found the problem.

Tom:

Well, what's the problem? Why did the piston seize?

Bowes:

It was clearance. We got to stop and pick up a piston tomorrow.

Page 6

Tom:

Yeah, just pick up a piston, and I can bust my ass

tomorrow night.

Bowes:

Look, do you want to win or do you just want to ride around out there?

Tom:

Sure I want to win, but you and your radical motor! Sometimes I think it breaks more than it wins.

Bowes:

Horsepower! Horsepower wins races!! When we find the right combination, we'll be a year ahead of the competition.

Tom:

But, maybe we have too much horsepower. What if I can't get it to the ground? What if the motor is not reliable?

Bowes:

They said that eight years ago when a few guys tried two-strokes. Don't worry, I'll get this motor reliable, and we'll be winning everything. Everyone thinks that Triumphs can't keep winning, but my tuning pays off.

Tom:

We're going to win that national with my Triumph. Yeah, you're right, but, I just get tired of working twice as hard just to beat those factory guys. Man, they've got everything, paid mechanics, parts,just everything.

Bowes:

We'll show them. Our combination has to win. That's why I quit racing, so I could give all my time to get these bikes working. We'll beat them out of sheer determination.

SCENE:

Outside a Yamaha shop in a Chicago suburb.

The starship van pulls into the parking lot and Tom and Bowes get out and enter the shop. The camera catches the expression on their faces because they are familiar with the surroundings, but things are different.

Tom:

Boy, look at this place. Old Howard must really be making the money.

Bowes:

Yeah, look at this. This place is completely changed around.

Tom:

I wonder how that old man is doing?

They go over to the parts counter and a young guy comes over to take care of them.

Page 7

Bowes:

I want one of those newer style Yamaha pistons for a 360 motor.

Clerk:

I'll check stock on that one, but what's the difference, new or old style, a piston is a piston.

Bowes:

Look, either you got that one or you don't. And if you don't, we'll go somewhere else. Anyway, what happened to Howard? He always had all the racing stuff.

 Clerk:

Yamaha pulled his franchise because he wasn't selling enough bikes. This is big business now. He was too old fashioned. He couldn't cut it.

 The clerk now leaves to go get the piston.

Tom:

Yeah, that old guy was probably too good. No body cares anymore. Buy the biggest bike at the biggest dealer--get all the gadgets on it. They might as well buy a car. People just don't have that gut feeling anymore.

Bowes:

Yeah, it doesn't pay to give a shit about things.

The clerk returns with a little square box and holds it up to Bowes and hands it to him.

 Clerk:

Here is the piston. That will be $29.50, plus 88.50 for the ring.

 Tom:

OK, what about our discount?

 Clerk:

What discount?

Bowes:

The old guy always gave us a discount. Look, do you know who we are? Tom is one of the top dirt trackers in the nation, and if it wasn't for riders like him racing a Yamaha, you probably wouldn't be selling all those new motorcycles. The reason people buy those bikes is because guys like Tom are out there winning races.

Clerk:

Look, I don't know. What will the boss say?

Tom:

Look, even if you give us a discount, he will still be making a profit.

You take care of us now, and I'll get you some free passes to the races tonight.

Page 8

Clerk:

OK, but where do I pick up the passes?

Tom:

Just meet me in the pits.

Bowes reaches into his pocket, gets some money, and pays the clerk. Tom and Bowes then leave the store and when they get 'Outside, Bowes grabs Tom by the arm.

Bowes:

Where do you think you are going to get free passes?

 Tom:

Look, if that kid got enough ambition to make it out there, I'll get him in, somehow!!

 SCENE:

Immediately outside the pit area at Santa Fe Park Speedway.

Daytime, sunny. Santa Fe is a typical stock-car track with very large grandstands. In fact, they surround the total track and are capable of holding more than 15,000 people.

There are a few vans parked in this area just outside the main pit entrance. The camera pans the area and stops when it reaches the starship. There are three bikes parked behind the van in a neat row. One of the bikes is just off to itself a little, and the camera angles should be used to shine a certain significance on this special Triumph.

Both  Tom and Bowes are working on the Yamaha. They are getting it ready for tonight.

Two other riders walk over to the starship area. They are both dressed in cut-offs and T-shirts. age of high school students. They both look the age of high school students.

 Blond kid:

Boy, you really put them away Sunday, but what happened to you last night? How come your motor broke?

Tom:

Well, we're still developing that Yamaha. Bowes will get the right combination, yet.

Bowes:

If my calculations are correct, Tom should smoke everyone tonight.

Dark-haired kid:

But do you really need all that horsepower? My stock motor works OK and doesn't break.

Page 9

Tom:

Yeah, you do OK at the local events. When it comes to the big buck races, that horse power edge really pays off. There is no substitute for horsepower.

Blond kid:

Don't you ever think maybe you're getting too old?

Tom throws his arms up in the air in total disbelief. He can't believe the question.

Tom:

Wow! Do you know I still remember when you used to bother me for my autograph when you were about ten, and I was still riding sportsmen events. What are you going to do when you grow up and finally get laid?

Tom and Bowes break up in laughter as the two youngsters walk away.

SCENE:

Santa Fe Speedway, Wednesday night.

Scene shows the start of the feature race. Tom's bike is really working; he gets a super start. The horsepower is very visible. He is totally dominating this event. Tom's bike is out-motoring everyone’s bikes down the straight-away. The 45 bike really is running away with this race. Tom finally finishes this race with a half of a lap lead on everyone. Tom pulls a gigantic wheelie across the finish line.

 SCENE: Pit area around the starship.

 Tom and Bowes and about twenty other people are gathered around the starship. They are all celebrating. Tom pops open a beer can and squirts Bowes.

Tom: Ha! Ha! Ha! Victory at last! Bowes, you finally got the horsepower dialed in. That bike seemed like it would pull forever.

 Bowes:

I've always told you to have patience. Stick around and I'll perform some more tricks.

Bystander #1:

Hey, where did you get all that horsepower? Did you guys get the factory to give you the tips?

Bowes:

What do you mean the factory? They send their spies around trying to find out our secrets. Take it from me, all it takes is determination and luck.

Bystander #2:

Well, you don't have to worry now, you have the fastest there is. You can take it easy now.

  Page 10

Bowes:

You can never relax. This week we have the edge. Maybe next week someone will have a better set-up.

While Bowes is conversing with a few bystanders, Tom is making small talk and signing autographs. Tom is also looking around and checking out the chicks walking around the pit area.

Suddenly there is an outstanding girl. The camera swings back and forth between the two. It's magic! She smiles, he smiles. Their eyes are on each other. Then someone grabs his arm and drags him around the side of the van.

Friend:

Tom, come over here. There is someone who wants to talk to you.

Tom:

Wait, not now.

Friend:

You got to, it's a reporter from the Times.

Tom:

But, but...

Friend:

No buts. You got to.

Tom looks over to this girl again, their eyes meet again and they smile at each other. Then she is interrupted by some guy she is with and turns and wanders on.

Tom is talking to the reporter for a couple of minutes t and you can see the anxiety in his eyes. You know he wants to get over to meet this girl.

He finally gets away graciously and walks over to where the girl was last. She’s gone. Tom starts walking around the pit area quickly, and the camera follows him.  He finally goes back to where he saw her last and calls to a rider standing by the closest van.

Tom:

Hey, Jim, who was that chick that was over here a minute ago?

Jim:

She's some chick that comes to the races usually with that guy. She is a photographer or something. She lives downtown in Chicago.

Tom:

Where can I get a hold of her? Does she come here every week? Will she be here Friday for the T.T.?

Jim:

She’s around. I don't know for sure.

Page 11

Tom:

Hey, look, I'm going to be here till Friday. Do you think that you can find out tonight where I can find her? I mean, she isn't married to that guy, is she? Look, I'll owe you a favor for life if you can fin d out.

SCENE:

Bright, sunny morning on Chicago's lake front.

Panorama view of Lincoln Park area from the air. There is traffic on Lake Shore Drive. It is about 9 o'clock in the morning. The camera pans the park and then zooms in on the starship. It is parked in the park next to the Lincoln Park Lagoon. Tom is sitting in the grass next to the bicycle path that runs through the park. Tom looks like he's been waiting awhile, picking at the grass.

After a few minutes, that seems like an eternity, we can see what he's been waiting for. In the distance a bike and rider appear. As the bicycle comes nearer, Tom gets up and looks more intently. As the bike and rider get closer, you begin to see and understand what's happening.

Tom:

Jan, hey Jan, remember me?

The girl on the bike pulls up and stops. She looks surprised. She looks beautiful; more radiant than the night before. daylight really brings out the beauty in her.

Jan:

Aren't you Tom, the motorcycle racer, from Santa Fe?

 Tom:

Yeah. Are you surprised?

Jan:

Surprised? I'm mystified.  What brings you here? How did you know my name? How did you know where I'd be? Have you been following me?

Tom:

Hey, look, I had to pull teeth to find out where to get a hold of you. Look, I just wanted to get to see you again.

Jan:

I still don't understand all of this. You caught me off guard. You simply amaze me. What are you doing in Chicago?

Tom:

Look, I've got all day to answer everything. are you doing today?

Jan:

I'm sorry, but I've got a 10 o'clock appointment to take a few shots. But then I'll be free all day. Can you meet me about 12 o'clock at Dearborn and North? It's just a few blocks that way.

Page 12

She points towards the south at some buildings in the background.

Jan:

I'll borrow a bicycle for you, and we can go riding and I can show you Chicago. Why don't you go for a ride up Lake Shore Drive and check out the beaches while I go to work.

Tom:

OK, I hope I don't get lost. I'll see you at twelve, sharp.

Jan:

Yeah, bye.

She rides off down the bicycle path. Tom gets into the van and starts to drive around Lincoln Park then he gets on Lake Shore Drive at Fullerton Avenue. All this time the camera follows the action from above and from the side. He drives north and finally exits at Foster Avenue.

He drives to the parking lot and gets out. He walks past the beach and to the rocks.

This scene should take about five minutes. It should show scenes along the lakefront, scenes that are never in movies. A summer day in Chicago.

 SCENE:

Dearborn Street and North Avenue

Tom is sitting in his van when Jan comes into view. Tom gets out and walks to her. They walk into the garage entrance of a newer apartment building. In a minute they come out with a bike for Tom. As they crosS North Avenue, they talk.

Tom:

Are you sure that he won't mind us borrowing it?

Jan:

Look, what are neighbors for? I'd lend him my bicycle if he wanted it.

Tom:

But this bike looks like one of those super exotic ones, very expensive.

What if I crash it?

Jan:

If you can ride one of those motorcycles on the edge, I think you can handle that bicycle.

Tom and Jan get on the two bikes and proceed north into the park. As they ride ,through the park, the camera moves in and their conversation is picked up.

Jan:

Page 13

Tom:

What do you mean different? I race just like everyone else.

Jan:

Yeah, but most of the guys I know race for fun and work full time or have factory support.

Tom:

I race totally for fun, that's the whole thing about racing. To me, the day that it becomes like work is the day I quit. Sure there isn't a lot of guys like me, but we're there. We're the ones that really carry on the ball game. We're no pampered prima donna of the sport. Sure I would like a factory ride, but to get that you've got to win a big race. You've got to win a national.

Jan:

I've read in the cycle news where you've won some regional championship races. Isn't that good enough?

Tom:

You’ve got to win a national. But, I don't let it totally bother me. My day is coming. It just seems that winning a national eludes me. Either I'm running strong and something goes wrong with the bike, or the bike is just fine and I mess up or get tired or something.

Jan:

What keeps you going? Don't you ever get disgusted?

Tom:

You got to look at the overall situation. In many ways I've got it made.

I am doing what I want. How many people get to do what they want? Some times I think of myself as an artist. Every different race track becomes my different canvases, and I draw different patterns with my slides through the turns.

Jan:

Man, you're really into your racing; but, I like that. Sometimes I feel like that about photography, too. Sometimes I can take it or leave it. With you it seems that you and your racing are one.

Tom:

Wow, you make it sound like a religion. Look at yourself; when you walk down the street you carry yourself, you have self-confidence, you know yourself. Racing is, well, just what I do best.

Jan:

Don't you ever get scared when you are racing? I mean you guys are always on the edge of falling down. Aren't you afraid of dying?

Tom:

Page 14

It seems like they've been riding for a long time. Now they have reached the zoo, and they get off their bikes and walk around the central area of the zoo (the area by the seal pond). Now they get on their bikes and ride towards the west.

The next scene finds the two in a pub on Lincoln Avenue. They are sitting at a booth next to the wall facing each other. It's an old rustic place with a fireplace, like a ski resort, and a long bar like only Chicago has. is an area in the back for small-play groups.

Jan:

You never got around to telling me how you got into racing?

Tom:

Well, I always have been fascinated by motorcycles; but, I got involved with cars, first. Uh! What a waste of time and money. Then I bought a Triumph. I fell in love. A bike is like a chick, unpredictable! Ha, ha, I'm just kidding! I rode on the street for awhile. Then one day I saw a race. Man, I thought it was the greatest. I had to try it. So I went back and tore into my bike, stripped it down, and went racing.

Jan:

Did you win your first race?

Tom:

No. In fact, all I did was fall down a lot. I looked around and saw all these young kids winning everything in sight. That is when I decided to stick with it, to work hard at it until I got to the top, to win a national.

Jan:

Don't you ever get tired of traveling around the country? Do you miss your people? I know I don't like living anywhere but Chicago. I've lived in a lot of places, like Colorado and California and Florida; but, I always came back to Chicago because there is always something to do here.

Tom:

Well, being on the circuit isn't too bad because it's always like one big family. Plus Bowes is always there. We don't disagree about hardly anything. We like the same beer and even the same type of women.

Jan:

Doesn't he race, also?

Tom:

No, Bowes gave it up. He really is a super mechanic. He found things worked out better if he just turned the wrenches and I did the riding.

Jan:

  PAGE 15

Tom:

No. We just found out we could make more money working together. In fact, Bowes never did give much of a reason. Boy, he was good. He always had more guts than me. You talk about getting it on, he would get it on at any track. He could ride any track fast. But one day he came over to me and asked if I wanted to ride his bike because he felt it would be better to spend all his time tuning.

Jan:

Where is Bowes now? How come he didn't come with you?

Tom:

Bowes is really dedicated. He is back at the motel working on the bike. He doesn't want to leave anything to chance. Even though the bike ran perfect last Sunday, he is going through the whole bike from top to bottom. He wants to make sure everything is right. Saturday night is the big one. Saturday is the Indy Mile.

Jan:

You make it sound like Saturday is the most important race of the year. Is it?

Tom:

Well, it's not the most important race, but this is our time. Everything is going right. I won last Sunday against just about the same caliber of riders and the bike is running great. I won last night, and now I really feel ready for Saturday.

Jan:

So now you feel that you are into a winning streak, right?

Tom nods his head agreeably and calls over a waitress to order another drink.

Jan:

You know, I have times like that. Sometimes I have more photo jobs than I can handle, and every session comes out very successful. Then all the jobs become much easier. You can really get into the work and enjoy it. Then all the running around and knocking on doors looking for work becomes really worth it. I always get a big kick out of seeing one of my pictures in an ad in a magazine.

Tom:

Yeah, I also get a big kick out of seeing my name in print. I even save the old newspapers with my name in them. Now, tell me something about yourself. Tell me about this career I know nothing about.

Jan:

In a lot of ways I’m a lot like you. I’m independent. There is an agency, but a lot is up to me. It's not as glamorous as you may think. You have to work, you have to put up with hot lights, and sometimes fickle models. Sometimes it's a big pain right where you sit. But, generally it is fun.

Page 16

Tom:

Have you ever been married?

Jan:

No, I never had the time. There is too much to do. How about you?

Tom:

Almost, to some girl back home. We even got as far as setting the date. Boy, did she change. She was totally set on changing my lifestyle. Straighten up, settle down, get a stable job, quit racing! Bullshit! I got out of that quick. Marriage is for growing together. Loving, living, and being together. Taking people for what they are, not what you want them to be.

Jan:

You really hit the nail on the head there. That's probably why I'm still single. I won't give up myself for anything. Are you going to do this forever? Do you want to do anything else?

Tom:

I never plan that far ahead. But Bowes really got his head together. When he can prove to the world that he's the best tuner around, he wants to open a race shop somewhere. Where it's always warm. But me, I don't really have to prove anything. I just want to live life to the fullest. Twenty-four hours a day.

The waitress comes over to see if anything is needed. Tom orders drinks and Jan gets up to put some coins into the jukebox. Soft music is heard in the background. Jan comes over and sits and they both sit back and relax.

SCENE:

Inside the garage of a building on Dearborn

This scene should be shot from inside the garage with the camera facing the garage door. The overhead door begins to open. Tom and Jan are now in view standing with their bikes. When the door stops its motion, they walk in. They walk up the ramp and chain the bikes at the bicycle stand. They then walk to the elevator. They stand there and begin to talk.

Jan:

Are you going back to the motel?

Tom:

Well, I really don't want to. I could think of better ways to spend the evening. Anyway, the night is still young.

Jan:

Maybe you would like to come up and have a cocktail, then I’ll be able to show you that view of Chicago I was talking about.

Tom:

Page 17

They enter the elevator as it arrives and the camera shifts to catch them as the elevator stops at the twenty-second floor. The door opens and they walk down the hall to a door with a big poster the size of the door saying “DOOR.” Tom begins to laugh as he sees this.

Tom:

This is it? Why the sign? Do you have a problem finding your door?

Jan:

I just think it's cute. Anyway, all of these doors look alike.

Jan now opens the door and they enter her apartment. It is a modern apartment, a three-room affair. There is a combination kitchen-nook area, a living room, and a bedroom off to the left. The window in the living room has a built-in bay and the area is loaded with plants.

The scenery outside is what catches Tom’s eyes. The whole city is lit up. Out of this window the whole downtown area can be seen. There is the Hancock Building with a lit white crown around its top. Next door is Playboy Towers with its revolving beacon. The hundred story white marble is Standard Oil. The two circular towers are Marina City. The First National Bank is seen as a lighted A-frame. And, finally, two short stems with a flashing strobe in between rest on top of the tallest of them all, Sears Tower.

Tom looks awe-struck. He looks all around.

Tom:

Boy, this is really something. Now I know why you don't need the mountains of the West. You got the mountains right here, and they're all lit up for you.

Jan:

You really got a way to look at things. Is that why you seem so happy? What is your trick?

Tom:

I have no trick. I make the best of every situation. It's like your window here. The view might seem the same. but it's always changing. You can spend all day looking out there and see progress being made. You can see the changes in the seasons and the changes in life. It's like my traveling. Someone once told me that if I can't handle all of the traveling, you can't make it on the national trail. Sometimes all the driving does get to me. so I just open my eyes. There is a great big world out there.

Jan:

I think I know what you mean. You're lucky because you are content. A lot of people get bored when they are content. buy you know what you want. simple for you.

 Page 18

Tom:

Not that it's so simple, but I make it simple for myself. I try to keep my desires to the minimum. Too many people try to get too much, and when they don't attain their goals, they frustrate themselves. Simplicity is the essence of life.

Jan:

But racing isn't simple. It's quite complex.

Tom:

That's the greatness of it all. Don't you see? Motorcycle racing really is the greatest sport in the modern world. Where else do you have man and machine working in unison? One totally depends on the other. No robot can replace us. Sometimes I feel like a ballerina out there, bending and shifting and sliding. Yes. Racing is the ultimate trip. Setting up a slide at 90 miles an hour, feet on the pegs, and gassing it is definitely the greatest experience in the world.

The camera now swings to the window and goes out of focus as it stops at a dark leaf. Now the leaf begins to lighten up and the camera focuses in again. The sunlight filters into the room and we see the breaking of a new day.

SCENE:

Jan’s bedroom, morning, sunlight filtering in

The camera views Tom lying in bed by himself half asleep. He reaches over and comes up empty-handed. He turns over and looks dumbfounded. Tom calls out Jan’s name but gets no response. He looks confused. He gets up and wraps the blanket around himself. He walks around the apartment looking for some sign of life. But, it is empty. Torn now walks into the kitchen area and spots a note on the little table. He reads it quietly to himself: "Tom, I had really nothing to eat in the house, and I also had to stop at the agency. I’ll stop at the store to get something. I'll probably be back before you get up. See you, Jan.”

A satisfied look comes over his face and he looks around and sees there is coffee made on the stove so he pours himself a cup. He walks back into the living room and gazes out the window.

Jan comes in the front door and has a happy look on her face. She goes over and sits next to Tom who is sitting in the window.

Jan:

You don't look surprised. How did you know I was coming?

Tom:

I saw you coming about two blocks back. Did you know that you can pick someone out that far away?

Page 19

Jan:

Well. I'm glad you are watching over me. I went to the agency to see if there was any work, and to get out of it. I told you last night I'd get off today. We can spend the whole day together. Let me make you some breakfast. then we can go out to the motel and see how Bowes is doing.

Jan goes over by the counter area and begins to get some eggs together for breakfast. While she works, they talk.

Tom:

Do you cook a lot here or do you eat out?

Jan:

That's a strange question. Why do you ask?

Tom:

Just because when the season is over, and I'm settled for the winter, I always cook for myself, or whoever, because eight months of eating on the

road really gets me down.

Jan:

Did you ever think of living in the Midwest, like around here? I mean, most of the races are around here.

Tom:

You see, Bowes has got a house out west where the sun always shines, and it's really super. But, you really got a good idea there. Maybe someday when I win a lot of money I'd be able to afford a setup like you say. It's really interesting.

Jan:

Tom, whenever you're in the area you can always call me and come over, and I'll cook anything you want because I love to cook.

Tom:

Do you really? What do you like to cook? All that exotic stuff?

Jan:

Anything, I'll try everything. It's a lot of fun. Staying here and making dinner is sometimes more fun than going out.

Tom:

OK, I'll remember that. Next week don't make plans after the races at Santa Fe, Wednesday night, and you can make me one of your exotic dishes.

Jan:

Is that a date? Are you sure you'll be back?

Tom:

If I'm alive and walking, I'll be here. I wouldn't miss it for the world. What kind of exotic eggs are you making now?

Page 20

Jan:

If I can turn them all over without breaking one, that will be exotic enough for me.

Tom:

Well, let's get done eating and get out by Bowes and see what's happening.

SCENE:

Starship traveling out Interstate 55 to LaGrange Road

This scene begins with the aerial view of the starship driving westbound on Interstate 55 and exits at LaGrange Road, north. The camera zooms in closer. The van travels about one mile and turns left at Joliet Road. It now goes one-half mile and pulls into a motel parking lot and we see Bowes working on the Triumph. There is also the other bike sitting there. It is the T.T. Triumph. It looks ready.

Tom and Jan get out of the van and walk over to join Bowes.

Bowes:

Well, well, what do we got here? I thought maybe you got arrested or mugged or something. But, this is much better. Is this her?

Tom:

Yes, out of eight million people, I found her. Jan, this is Bowes. Bowes, this is Jan, the mystery girl.

Jan:

Tom has talked so much about you that I feel I know you well.

Bowes:

Well, I'm happy you brought him back in one piece. He's got to work tonight, and the work's really cut out for him because a few of those T.T. freaks from Oregon are here. Those guys really make tracks on a T.T. Tonight isn't going to be a cherry picker.

Tom:

It's a regional tonight, so I didn't expect it to be easy. I got enough sleep. I'll be ready. Is the bike ready?

Bowes:

Yes, she’s ready. I had her ready this morning first thing. I’m finishing up this one now. (Bowes wipes the tank of the Triumph.) It is ready! Tomorrow night at Indianapolis she will show them all. You win that national tomorrow night and it will be all downhill then. A lot of things will be much easier then. Then we can get some outside money. We can get some sponsors.

Jan:

Is that national really that important?

Page 21

Bowes:

Winning a national and not winning one makes all the difference in the world. Tom can win all kinds of races, but a national is where you get recognition. Everyone on the circuit knows that I can build fast motors, but "Joe the weekend racer," he only finds out from reading the results. One of these days I’m going to open a race-motor shop, and if the whole world knows about my motors, then I'll have all the business I'll ever need.

Jan:

You mean that after you guys win this national, you are going to retire?

Tom:

No, no, I'll never retire. I'll race until I can't walk. Bowes is just looking to the future. During the winter months it's nice to have some motors to work on for extra cash. Bowes is the best there is.

Bowes:

You see, Jan, I'll always want to be around racing; but, it would be nice to have a shop with a couple thousand dollars worth of equipment in it. So, if we can get a good reputation now, it all follows. A national winning reputation can’t hurt a thing.

Tom:

It's like if you get your pictures in the right magazine and in the right ads. It all adds up. A lot of things are easy if you’re a winner.

Jan:

Yes, I know what you mean, then the jobs get bigger and better. That's where it's at. Just like the photography business.

Bowes:

You mean you're a professional photographer? Tom, you really pick them good these days. You make me proud to know you. Ha, ha, ha.

Tom:

If you would tear yourself away from the bikes long enough, there are a lot of women out there.

Bowes:

There's a time to work, and a time, to play. I'll work hard this week and play after the victory.

Jan:

I guess this racing is like a full-time job sometimes, right?

Bowes:

Yes and no. It's work, sure, but we don't have a clock to punch. The only thing that gets me mad is that we don't get enough money, really. Tom here is a top-professional athlete and he doesn't make the kind of money he should. He should be making the same money as a baseball or football star. But, it's just a matter of drawing in the fans. And they're out there, look at how many motorcycles there are. We just need the exposure. I believe we have the greatest sport.

Page 22

Jan:

Well, they have races on TV. Doesn't that help? There are a lot of races, right?

Tom:

Yes, there are a lot of races, and a whole lot of different types. But, I can’t get into everything.  There’s only us two, and we don’t have time or equipment to compete in all of them. Just running on the national circuit takes in five different flat-track events. We got three different bikes, and I don’t even own a roadracer, I have to borrow one.

Bowes:

The thing is, I feel we should have to race maybe only thirty events a year and still earn some good money.

Jan:

But, Tom told me that the money wasn't that important.

Bowes:

The money isn't that important. I could stay home and make more money building motors, but this is where it's at; it's better to have no money and have races than have money and no races.

Jan:

That's better. For a minute there I thought that you guys were money hungry like everyone else. There is nothing like dedicated athletes. There are too many mon y mongers in this world. If I ever let myself totally loose, I could make a lot more money. But, I want to determine my own destiny. Money's nice to have but freedom is the greatest. I don’t want to owe anyone.

Bowes:

Boy, this is getting, heavy, Jan. Why don't you take Tom over to the pool so he can do his exercises and relax so he can win tonight, and we can eat steak tonight instead of hamburger.

SCENE:

Tom and Jan by the pool

This scene has Torn and Jan next to the pool of the motel. Jan is lying on a chair facing~ Tom. who is on the concrete doing sit ups.

Jan:

You really do take this all that seriously, don't you? Do you always work out this hard?

Tom:

This isn't really that hard; it really helps my breathing. The more in-shape I'm in, the faster I can race. One of my big problems used to be my getting tired too early. Now I can run the last lap as fast as the first lap, and it has been paying off.

Page 23

Jan:

Well. what's in store tonight? I've seen a T.T. before. but I never got into it. They really look hard. Isn't it like a moto-cross?

Tom:

No, it's not like a moto-cross, the only similarity is the jump. T.T. is a race that really uses muscle. But I love them. To me I think it's great. You really got to work. In fact, the only time I relax is over the jump. But some of those boys from Oregon really go. I think that is all they ride up there. Yes, I really got my work cut out, but I’ll dig it.

Jan:

Come one, I’ll race you across the pool.

Jan takes off and runs to the pool with Tom in hot pursuit. Jan dives into the water and really takes off as Tom can't catch her and she wins the race. The camera backs up and away as Tom reaches her. We can hear Tom protesting her head start as he splashes her and the scene ends.

SCENE:

Poolside, about one o'clock

This scene has Tom, Jan, and Bowes sitting by the pool eating lunch. They are conversing casually.

Tom:

Boy, you should see her swim. She swims like a fish.

Bowes:

She may swim like one, but she sure don't look like one. Jan, do you have any girlfriends that look as good as you?

Jan:

Bowes, next week I promised Tom dinner at my place. Come with him and I'll have one of my friends over.

Bowes:

Yes, yes, for sure. I'll make it if she's as good looking as you. Anyway, next week we can take it easy because we only have to race twice.

Jan:

Tell me, where is home? Where do you guys call home?

Bowes:

Flint, that's where I come from.

Tom:

See, I told you he was a fast racer. Every one from Flint is fast. Bowes, tell her the story about that slow guy.

Bowes:

Oh yeah! You see there was this guy who lived in Flint, and he really wasn't fast…

Page 24

Jan:

So, what happened to him?

Bowes:

We made him move! Ha, ha, ha...

Tom and Bowes really start laughing. At first Jan doesn't get it, but she catches on and begins to laugh.

Jan:

Ha, ha, you made him move. Ha, ha, you guys are too much. Well, Tom, where is home? You told me Michigan and Kansas City.

Tom:

Home is Kansas City because that is where my people live. But, Michigan is where I got my education.

Jan:

What do you mean by that?

Tom:

You see I raced in the local scrambles around Missouri and Kansas, but everyone told me that you aren't fast until you can ride like the fast guys from Michigan. So, I packed up my bike and went to Michigan, got a job, and ran all the races I could. And that was only for trophies. No money.

Jan:

So, that's how you got. so fast? Is that where you met Bowes?

Tom:

I met him there but didn't become friends until the following year when I became a pro.

Bowes:

Yeah, I never thought that he would finish a race because he kept breaking. So, I gave him a hand so he could keep his motor together.

Tom:

And by the end of the year we started going to a few races together, sharing the gas money.

Bowes:

Back then we paid for everything out of our own pockets and made really nothing to speak of. At least now we have money to live sort of comfortably.

Tom:

Yeah, we can even splurge and get a bed to sleep in. Ha, ha, ha…

Jan:

Well you guys don't look like you're roughing it.

Page 25

Bowes:

At least we're almost there. One of these days we'll be able to stay at the Ritz. Ha! Ha!

Jan:

I don't think you'll like it there because they don't allow motorcycles in the rooms.

Tom:

When we can afford that, I imagine we can rent garage space.

Bowes:

Hell, we'll hire mechanics and fly to the races like the factory guys.

Tom:

Dream on, dream on.

Bowes:

Before we get hung up on dreams, let's get packed up and over to Santa Fe Park, you've got a race to run tonight.

SCENE:

Outside the pit area at Santa Fe Speedway

In this scene there are about seventy-five vans lined up outside the pit-gate. They are in three rows and there are about one hundred fifty people milling about and conversing with each other. The camera pans the area, and everyone looks very happy. The sky is clear and sunny. The camera now stops at Tom and Jan who are talking to an other rider. He is also about Tom's height, but looks a little older.

Tom:

I see that you made it here today. Why didn't you stay in Oregon? Now I'm going to have to work tonight!

Sonny:

I've got to make some money, and these regional T.T.'s are just my cup of tea. Anyway, I do much better at T.T.'s than at half-miles, like you. I heard you won last Sunday.

Tom:

Well, you don't really affect my point lead in the Midwest region too much; but, I'm still going to get you tonight.

Sonny:

Well, you're already the winner tonight, look at this good-looking lady you're with today.

Tom:

This is Jan. She lives in Chicago. I met her Wednesday night, sort of.

Jan:

 Page 26

Sonny:

Yes, I really like T.T’s. I seem to get around them pretty well.

Tom:

It looks like they're getting ready to sign up. I'll see you later.

Jan:

Nice meeting you. Good luck tonight.

Tom and Jan walk over to the sign-up line and Tom talks to the people he knows in the line.

SCENE:

Practice is going on and the camera zooms in

Bowes and Jan are behind the fence taking times on Torn as he laps the track. Tom now comes into the pit area and pulls up by the starship. Bowes and Jan walk over to the van and talk to Tom.

Bowes:

Tom, you're getting around the track really good, but you've got to get a little smoother. Try to relax a little after the jump. That Sonny really is looking in form  tonight.

Tom:

You're right, I do feel a little tense. But, after the start I'll get cool.

Jan:

Tom, this T.T. really looks hard from this ground level. But, you're looking good to me.

Tom:

Say a prayer for me because I'll need all the help I can get.

This scene has the twelve bikes lined up for the start of the feature event. The 45 bike is second on the pole with the 69 bike on the pole. The light turns green and off they go. The 69 bike jumps to the lead with the 45 second, but, Tom misses a shift and the pack roars past. Tom is running tenth through the first turn, but at the jump he starts moving out and passes another bike. The camera swings to the pit area and catches Bowes and Jan looking tense.

Bowes:

Damn, that's all he needs is a bad start! He really got his work cut out tonight.

Jan:

Can he catch up?

Bowes:

Like he said, say a prayer that he gets smooth and he can catch up.

Page 27

On the next lap Tom starts moving out and passes one rider in one turn and gets another in the next turn, but the front runners are really moving. Tom really gets going as the race progresses. By the sixth lap he is running fourth and is really catching up. He seems to be in the right line through every turn and just flies over the jump. On the eighth lap he passes the third place man, and at the jump he gets into second place, but his charge runs out of time as the 69 bike beats him to the checkered flag and wins the race with Tom second.

SCENE:

Starship driving down Interstate 65 at night

The starship is traveling down the highway through the night. The camera follows them for a few minutes with music in the background. The camera zooms in on the cab and Tom and Bowes can be seen with the latter driving. They both have serious looks on their faces.

Bowes:

Tom, you rode good tonight; but, that hole-shot really was too much to make up. Was it the bike or was it you?

Tom:

I don't know, but once I got started, I felt fast, but I just ran out of time. Maybe I should have used second gear instead of first, and maybe I wouldn't have blown the start.

Bowes:

Yeah, but no more mistakes. Tonight is the big one at Indy. The sooner we get there, the sooner I can get some sleep. What about Jan, didn't she want to go?

Tom:

She had to work this morning, and she couldn't get out of it. She has a friend who is a stewardess and she's going to see if she can fly down. She thinks she can make it before qualifying.

Bowes:

You really lucked out on that one, she's really something. Make sure you treat her right. She is one super-chick, believe me.

Tom:

You're right on that. She seems to be a continuation of this good luck streak I'm having.

Bowes:

Well, just continue this streak one more day, and win tonight. That's all we need. Break the ice and win that first national, and the rest will be a lot easier.

Page 28

Tom:

Yeah, I know what you mean; I. can still remember the first race I ever won. It's just winning the first one that seems to be the hardest. I hope Jan makes it in time to see me do it. You know, if I win and we make some of that big money, why don't we take a few days off. Jan said that the friend of hers, the stewardess, might stay in Indianapolis after the flight. We could stay there and have a ball.

Bowes:

Don't count your chickens. First win, then celebrate. But, do it because......

All of a sudden there is a pop sound from the rear of the truck. The truck lunges to the right. Bowes is fighting the steering wheel to gain control of the truck. The starship goes into a complete spin and goes off the highway into the median area in reverse. It finally comes to a halt about twenty feet from a creek that crosses under the highway. The camera zooms back into the interior of the van and everything is in total disarray. Both Tom and Bowes are unhurt.

They get out of the van and walk around the van to, survey what has happened. They find that the right rear tire is just about torn off the wheel. They look around in the moonlit darkness and observe their situation.

Tom:

Look over here, another twenty feet and we would have gone for a swim. I don't believe it. Look at that tire. The tire company better replace it or they'll never hear the end of it. What do you think happened?

Bowes:

I don't know, but I really don't like getting it sideways with a van in the middle of the night. I don't want to look in the back, I bet everything is allover the place. Why don't you go in front and turn on the interior lights while I start to dig out the spare.

Tom walks around to the driver's side and reaches in to turn on the lights. Bowes looks in the back and finds that everything is a mess, but the bikes seem to be OK. He climbs into the back and starts to dig out the spare. Tom comes around back and gives Bowes a hand.  Bowes hands Tom a few boxes and things. Finally he gets to the spare and throws it on the ground. He then gets out the jack and handle.

Tom:

Tell me. what is the plan? This wheel is really buried. The thing is lying on the axle. Take a look at it.

Bowes gets down on the ground with the flashlight and surveys the situation. After looking under the van for a few minutes, Bowes gets up and scratches his chin.

Page 29

Bowes:

Well, well. We got a problem here. But t I think I know what to do. First. we got to jack up the body; then. I think we'll be able to get the jack under the axle.

Tom:

This is all we need. Let's get this thing changed and get going. I'd like to get to Indy sometime today.

Bowes:

Let's get out the trouble-lights and get the show on the road.

Tom climbs into the rear of the van and retrieves two lights and sets them under the van while Bowes crawls under the van to get in position to set the jack. Tom then crawls under the van to give Bowes a hand. The camera angle should be from the front of the van, underneath, with the rear-end axle assembly in view with the two of them. behind it. Bowes is wedging the jack under the spring as they converse.

Bowes:

I 'm going to see if we can get the body high enough so we can fit the  milk crate under, then maybe I'll be able to get the jack under the axle.

Tom:

If we can get it this high, then I'll cram the crate under these springs. Just take it easy ‘cause the dirt seems awfully soft.

Bowes starts to crank the handle of the jack slowly and the van begins to rise. After it gets up about nine inches Tom begins to force the crate under the spring assembly. But as the van rises, it starts to lean.  Suddenly it slips off the jack and the weight of the van is on the crate. Tom makes a hurt sound.

Tom:

Ugh! Bowes, Christ!! My arm. Bowes, the fuckin' van is on my arm. Do something, Bowes.

Bowes:

OK, Tom, hold on a minute. I'll get it off. Try to relax, Tom, just try to relax.

Bowes grabs the fallen jack and starts to recoil it. Then, as quickly as possible, jams it back under the spring; and in a hurry starts cranking away to lift the van.

In a few seconds Tom finally slips his arm out and rolls out from under the van. The camera now catches Tom laying in the moonlight, his face in agony with sweat running down it. Tom is holding his right arm against his chest with his left arm. Bowes crawls out from under the van and comes to Tom's aid.

Page 30

Bowes:

Tom, just try to relax. Let me get you into the van and you can lay down. I'll get this fixed and we'll get going. We'll get to the nearest town and find a doctor.

Tom:

OK, I'll lay down. Be careful yourself.

Bowes helps Tom up and into the van. Torn gets in and lays on the floor. Bowes goes back under the van, and the van begins to rise again. Bowes gets up and begins to change the tire with the speed of a pro pitman. He spins the X-shaped lug wrench quickly and switches tires in a hurry. It takes only a few minutes to finish, then lower the van, and then be on their way to seek out a doctor. The starship speeds along the Interstate rapidly and at Remington, they exit. The van takes the two-lane blacktop into the town a few miles from the Interstate.

On the edge of town, Bowes spots a sign stating, "trauma center,” and stops to make a right turn. He comes to a small hospital and pulls into the emergency entrance. He helps Tom up and out of the van. They enter.

The emergency room is a small area, and they immediately encounter a nurse.  Bowes informs her of the situation.

Bowes:

His arm got caught under our truck. Can you get someone to look at it? I think it’s broken.

Nurse:

Please, tell me how it happened. I‘ll call the doctor now.

She reaches over to get the phone and dials. She asks for the doctor. Bowes begins to explain as she hangs up the phone and goes over to Tom. With a scissors, she cuts away Tom's sleeve and looks at his arm, which is an ugly blue.

Bowes:

You see, we had a blowout and we were trying to fix it when the van slipped off the jack. Tom was trying to cram a crate under the axle.

Nurse:

We'll have to take some X-rays. The doctor will be here in a minute.

Then, an older man, dressed in a white smock, the doctor, walks in.

He goes over by Tom and begins to examine his arm. As he handles Tom’s arm, pain can be read in Tom's face.

Doctor:

Tell me, can you move your fingers?

Tom moves his fingers, but it is very painful.

Doctor:

See if you can move your hand.

Page 31

Tom:

Yes, but it's killing me.  What do you think?  Is it broke?

Doctor:

Go with the nurse. After I see the X-rays, I'll know what's wrong.

Tom and the nurse leave the room by the rear door.

Bowes:

Well, doc, what do you think? Will he be OK? Today is the national at Indianapolis. Tom will die if he can't ride. Is there any chance to have it patched up? Will he need a cast? Do you think it's broke?

Doctor:

Hold on a minute there, son. That boy's arm may not be broke, but he won't be able to use it for a few weeks, at least. It is in very bad condition. He'll have to take it easy for awhile. I'll know more after I study the X-rays.

Bowes:

Thank God; it could have been much worse.

Tom and the nurse return after a moment.

Nurse:

Doctor, the X-rays will be sent down in a couple minutes. I'll check his blood pressure and condition. He asked for something for the pain.

Tom:

Yeah, doc, the pain is terrible. Could I have a shot?

Doctor:

I'll give you some pain pills after I see the X-rays.

Nurse:

I have to fill out a report for services. Do you have insurance?

Tom:

Yes, my card is in my wallet. Are you going to need any other information?

Nurse:

Just be still as I take your temperature and check your blood pressure.

The nurse begins to check his blood pressure and sticks a thermometer in his mouth.

Nurse:

You're in pretty good condition for having that bad of an injury. You should be OK, I don't think we'll have to keep you tonight.

Page 32

The doctor goes over to a little door, a dumbwaiter, and retrieves the X.-rays. He puts the two of them on the light screen and begins to study the film. In a moment, he turns to Tom with his report.

Doctor:

Well, son, I don't see any cracks or fractures, so you won't need a cast; but, I'll wrap it up and put it in a sling. You'll have to keep it immovable. I'll release you, but I want you to promise me you'll see another doctor within the week.

Tom:

OK, doc, I’ll do what you want; but, you mean I can't use my arm? Today was it. Today was “the race." I can't believe this has all happened to me.

Doctor:

Son, you better take it easy or you could do more damage. Take care of your arm now and it should be good in a couple weeks.

The nurse wraps up Tom's arm and makes a sling. Then Tom and Bowes start to leave.

Bowes:

Thanks for everything. Don't worry about Tom, I’ll make sure he takes care of his arm. Thanks, doc. He'll see a doctor in a couple of days, for sure!

They leave the hospital and walk to the van.

SCENE:

The starship traveling down Interstate 65 outside of Indianapolis

The Starship is seen from above coming into the 1-465 circular highway, about twenty miles outside of the city. After a moment, the camera is switched into the van and Tom and Bowes are sitting in silence. The incident has totally destroyed their plans. All that can be heard is the hum of the motor and the Sound of the wind . Finally, Tom breaks the silence.

Tom:

Well, well, well, look at this predicament I put us in. I don't even know what we can do for a week or two.

Bowes:

Look, we'll just go to Indy and watch, and we'll see if Jan comes down. Then, we'll take that week off. You wanted to take time off, didn't you?

Tom:

Yeah, I wanted to take time off, but not like this. This is terrible. I'd rather not even go; but, I'm already entered and we won't have to pay any money and Jan might be there. But, this is too much. Bowes, you've worked so hard on the bike, for nothing.

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Bowes:

Tom, don't blame yourself for what has happened. It'll pass now. We'll just go to the races and take it easy. There is nothing we can do about it, and nothing to get up-tight about. So, just take it easy, old buddy, there are plenty more races.

Tom:

But, Bowes, don't you see, this is the end of the good luck streak. We were so ready. I don't believe it.

There is a moment of silence. Tom is thinking very heavily about the situation. He finally comes up with an idea.

Tom:

Bowes, I got an idea. It's crazy, but what the hell. We got nothing to lose. The bike is ready, right? And, it's your bike, right? And, you can ride it as good as me, right?

Bowes:

No! No! No! I see the picture you are trying to draw; but, forget it. I quit racing, and, don't even have a professional license anymore. No, I don't want any part of your scheme.

Tom:

Bowes, I'm only saying, why don't you just ride to find out if all your work is right. I mean, where else can you tryout the bike? The track there is perfect, and you always said that Indy was your favorite track, right?

Bowes:

But, Tom, that's against every rule there is, you know that. You know what would happen if we got caught. Man, they would suspend you for a year. You wouldn't be able to race for a long time.

Tom:

Look, the way I feel now, I don't even care. You know what the doctor said. If I miss two or three weeks of racing, the season will be just about over. We won’t hae to be caught, it’s a night race and, anyways, with the helmet on, who can see faces? Look, we'll just try. You can ride a couple of practices, then try to qualify. If you make the program, then it's your decision. But, they already got my entry money, and you kmow we won't get that back.

Bowes:

Tom, you're nuts. But, what the hell, I'll give it a try just because of the work I got in that bike. We could use the money, and I also hate to spectate. But, if we get caught, don't look at me, I'll tell you--I told you so.

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SCENE:

The starship reaching the INDIANA STATE FAIRGROUNDS

This scene should begin with the starship driving to the entrance of the fairgrounds. The camera should be from above and follow the van as it drives around the track past the grandstands to the rear entrance. This view should be used to show the magnitude of the one-mile track. It is huge. There is a panoramic view of the total area. You can tell the importance of the race, of the total area.

The starship pulls up to the short line of vans. They park and get out.

They walk over to the sign-up table and Tom's arm is not in the sling. In fact, there isn’t any bandage at all.

Tom:

Hi, everyone. How are all you doing?

Woman:(In an Indiana drawl)

Howdy, Tom. I heard you been doing pretty good, lately. How you all gonna do today? You gonna get them factory boys? Well, good luck.

Tom signs in and it is apparent that he is in pain; but, he is cool. Tom and Bowes finish up and tell everyone they'll see them later. They walk over to the van and get in, start it up, and drive into the pit area. They get out and walk around the van to the rear and begin to unload. They take out a bunch of tires and pile them neatly. They then unload the Triumph. It is beautiful. The bike is shining so, that it looks like a show bike. As they unload, another rider comes over and talks to them.

Rider:

Aren't you guys going to move your stuff into the bike area?

Bowes:

No, we're going to stay here just in case we have to work en the bike, I'd rather be by the van. I feel more comfortable here.

Rider:

The way that bike ran last week, I don’t think you'll have to do too much unless it just blows up, then you can just pack it up.

Tom:

Pack it up! This motor is great, I don't think it would blow. At least, not today, it's ready.

Rider:

It may not break, but, are you ready? Do you think you can win today? Do you think you can ride that bike wide open for twenty-five laps?

Tom:

If today is my day, I’ll win today!

Bowes:

If today is our day, we’ll make it!

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Rider:

Well, good luck. I'll see you later.

Tom:

Good luck to you, too. See you later.

The rider leaves and Tom and Bowes talk.

Bowes:

I don't know, I really don't think we can get away with this. There are too many people around. We don't have enough cover.

Tom:

Look, once the practice starts there won't be this many people around and I think it will be OK. Any way, just one thing at a time. First, try practice and see how you feel.

Bowes:

OK, but I'm not going to promise anything. If I don't feel good enough, that's it, OK?

Tom:

Just give it a try. I won't be able to help you in line, I'll hide in the van and try to keep track of your lap times.

Bowes:

It looks like they're getting ready to start practice, so, I'm going to get suited up.

Tom:

I'll just get in the van now and wait. My arm is starting to bother me now, so, I'll just take it easy.

SCENE:

Practice

The camera in the first turn catches the bikes being let out on the track for practice. After about ten bikes go by the 45 bike comes out. The cameras around the track begin to pick up the bike as it races around the track. It is evident that Bowes is increasing speed with every lap.

The camera now swings over to the pit entrance and we see Jan with another girl talking to an official trying to get into the pit area. The roar of the engines drowns out the conversation; but, he waves them through. Jan now watches the track and she finally spots the 45 bike. She points the bike out to her friend. They watch the bike as it circles the track, and they are impressed by the sheer speed and grand style in the turns.

Jan and her friend find the starship parked and walk up to it. Jan is totally surprised when Tom opens the door and says "hi."

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Jan:

Tom, I thought you were out on the track? What’s going on?

Tom:

We had an accident on the way down. Look at my arm.

Tom pulls up his sleeve and his arm is an ugly blue.

Jan:

Then who is riding the bike?

Tom:

Bowes is riding the bike, I talked him into it.

Jan:

I don't understand, I thought that he didn't have a license anymore? You're going to have to explain everything to me. Tom, this my friend Joan, she got us both some plane passes.

Then the 45 bike pulls into the pit area and stops behind the van. Bowes gets off the bike and without removing his helmet he climbs into the van. The camera is in the van in the cab area, and Tom and the girls are sitting in the van.

Bowes:

(Removing his helmet)Hi, Jan. Did you just get here? Is this your friend? Hi, I'm Bowes, substitute motorcycle racer and tuner.

Joan:

Hi. This is all a shock to me. I really don't know what is going on, but, this is crazy and I like it. It's all new to me.

Jan:

They're both crazy even when there is no problem.

Tom:

Well. Bowes, how do you feel out there? Your first few laps were slow, but that last lap was a thirty-nine five, and that is probably fast enough to qualify.

Bowes:

Tom, to tell you the truth, I love it. It's great, but this is it. I will never do it again; but, I will definitely try to qualify that motorcycle.

Tom:

Bowes, you definitely do look good out there. I always had faith in you, old buddy.

Tom hands a bottle of Gatorade to Bowes as he removes the leather jacket. Bowes now finds a place to sit down and they begin to converse.

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Bowes:

So, this is your stewardess friend. Don't bother to try to understand this situation. This is totally mad. But, what the hell! We're here and we are racing. That's what matters.

Joan :

But the thing I don't understand is that I expected to find Tom here racing and you working on the motorcycle. But, this is really more than I thought. This place is incredible. This racing is really neat. But give me time to absorb it all.

Jan:

All the way down here I was telling her about both of you and how well you both work. But this is all crazy. Well, Tom, is your arm going to be OK? Why don't you come back to Chicago with me, I know that I can find room to put both of you up.

Tom:

Boy, that is the best offer I've had in years. That doctor wanted me to take it easy for a few weeks. Sure, Jan, it's fine with me as long as it is OK with Bowes, if you don't think it will be any bother.

Bowes:

Jan, that's great, I accept. You won't get any argument out of me.

Jan:

Good. Now get out there and qualify that bike so ,we can have someone to cheer on.

Joan:

What is qualifying?

Tom:

You see, there are about a hundred experts who make it here, but the program only calls for forty-eight riders. So, the fastest forty- eight make it and the rest go home.

SCENE:

Qualifying

The camera is at ground level, about twenty yards behind the flagman as the action begins. In the distance, coming out of the fourth turn, the

45 bike comes into view. The flagman is waving the green flag. The next camera catches the 45 as the long sideways is set up to scruff-off speed.

The next camera is set in fence on the outside of the fence. This camera is in position to catch the bike sideways in a full power slide, it is apparent that the bike is being ridden wide open. Now, the next camera, also on the outside but in the middle of the straight-away, catches the 45 coming out of the turn. The rider is tucking down behind the number plate with both feet on the pegs, true art.

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Another camera on the inside of the track catches the rider of 45 finally sitting up at the end of the back-straight-away and pitching it sideways to get through the last turn. The next camera is right in the middle of the turn and catches the complete slide. It spins to follow the action all the way out of the turn where the first camera catches the bike exiting the final turn and speeding down the front-straight as the flagman is now waving the checkered flag. The 45 bike crosses the finish line.

Now the camera switches to the interior of the van and Tom seems happy as he looks at his stopwatch.

Tom:

Great, it's not official. but, I'll bet my last dollar that he makes the program. I got him at thirty-nine point six and there were only a few riders that were faster.

Jan:

He did it. I had faith in him. But, what now? Do you think he'll return to racing?

Tom:

I don't know, you'll have to ask him yourself.

Joan:

This is really exciting. I never thought racing was like this. Why don't you both race if you're both this good?

Tom:

It's up to Bowes. You'll have to ask him. But, don't be surprised, if I know Bowes...

Just then the bike pulls up to the rear of the starship. In a moment Bowes is in the van and they close the door right behind him.

Bowes:

Well, what time did I have? Did I make it?

Tom:

Sure did. I know you did because you turned in a thirty-nine and that is as fast as anyone.

Bowes:

Help me out of these leathers, I know some of the snoops will be around. So throw some water on your self so you look sweaty, and mess up that hair.

Tom helps Bowes get off the jacket, and Bowes gets down and starts to untie his boots.

Tom:

Jan, go up front and see if there are any people around. I don’t want to seem to suspicious to people with us in the van.

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Bowes:

I got to get out there and change the tire if I made the program. Boy, this is too much work. I'm getting too old! Ha, Ha.

Jan:

You can depend on the two of us to help you two out. Whatever has to be done. We will do anything to get this done.

Bowes:

One thing for sure is we are going to have to change faster. You can help out there. We are going to have to be the fastest quick-change team in the world.

Joan:

Sure. Will we get any trophies for that?

Tom:

No, but if we pull this off, I will buy the biggest dinner they have in this town. Win, lose, or draw, if we get away with this, we will definitely celebrate!

Joan:

This is the greatest thing I've eve~ been involved in.

Tom:

Why don't you write a song, then we all could get rich. We'll get the Stones to record it.

Bowes:

Do your small talk later. Come out here and give me a hand changing the tire.

Tom:

Could you girls try to find something to eat. We haven't had anything all day and now I'm starved. How about you, Bowes?

Bowes:

Yeah, me too, but not too much, I've got a case of butterflies like you wouldn't believe.

The girls start off in the direction of the grandstand as Tom and Bowes start to work on the bike. There is a group of people starting to mill around. One young guy comes up to them and tells Tom the time.

Boy:

Tom, you really looked good out there and your time of thirty-nine point eighty-s even might even give you a front-row start.

Tom:

That's great, how about it Bowes? That's just great!

Then another rider walks over by the van. He is wearing just the bottom half of his leathers and a T-shirt.

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Rider:

Tom, you looked fast out there and that motor really looks strong. But, what do you think of those ruts in the third turn? Did you have any trouble with them?

Tom is caught by surprise by the questions, but he acts cool.

Tom:

Well, you see, I had to keep that baby wide open, and I was up in the cushion, so I really didn't hit those ruts. I noticed them, though, and I'll watch out for them in the heat. How did you do? I didn't you’re your time.

Rider:

I'll be in the same heat as you. They posted the heat. We'll be in the third heat, both of us on the front row.

Tom:

Yeah, I just heard. I hope this other tire will hold up in the heat, then I'll know what to use in the feature, if I make it. We'll just have to wait and see.

Rider:

I got to make it. This has been a lousy season, I could use the money. But, at least we made it.

Tom:

Good luck. I'll see you on the line.

The rider walks off in the direction of the official pit area. The two girls now come back by the van with two cardboard trays with food on them. Tom sees them coming and calls all of them together in the van.

Tom:

Let's all get together in the van. We've got to have a meeting.

Jan:

OK, Tom, what's up?

Tom:

We've got to talk this out. Come on, Bowes.

They all go to the van. The camera in the van picks them up as they enter. They sit around the make-shift table (the workbench ).

Tom:

It has come to mind, now that Bowes has made the program, that he has a good chance to make some money, correct? And, there is a chance that what we are doing might not be what everyone will accept to be right, correct?

Bowes:

So, what's the difference? We all know that.

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Jan:

We all know.

Tom:

Well, that's just what I'm getting to. Joan, reach over behind you in that cabinet, and grab that bottle of wine, Bowes, get some cups. Make sure the door is locked.

Joan turns around and brings out the bottle of wine from the cabinet as Bowes reaches up above and gets the paper cups. Tom takes the bottle and opens it, and pours out four cups of wine.

Tom:

I feel that this is the appropriate way to make a pledge. I think that over this wine we will have a promise that we need never to tell a soul. This is very important because Bowes might make some money, maybe a lot of money.

Bowes:

Tom, I might not make anything if I don't do good in the heat.

Tom:

Anyway, in case you do make it, and there is a lot at stake, then I feel we should make a toast to total silence.

Joan:

Sure, I think it's grand. I’ll drink to that..

They all hold their glasses up in a toast.

SCENE:

The heat race

The camera is facing the line-up of riders from eye-level in the middle of the track. The camera moves from right to left. It stops for a moment at each rider's face. Finally, at the eighth rider the camera lingers for a longer time. There is a full-coverage helmet with a clear shield. There Is a bandana covering the nose so that only the eyes are visible. It is Bowes. The camera now reverses back so that there is a panoramic view of the entire line-up. The flagman is now in view. He stands in front of the line-up, and then moves to the right and gets on the starter's box. He pauses for a moment, then he starts the race. There is an explosion at the line and the bikes catapult forward, towards the camera.

The two rows of bikes charge the camera and spread inches to avoid the camera. Then, the rest of the cameras around the track pickup the action during the race (eight laps).

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During the first lap the close competition is followed around the track as no particular bike is picked out. After the pack passes the starting line, again, the cameras pick out the 45 bike that is running in sixth place. The camera, in the first turn outside, shows the different styles of riding wide open as Bowes rides the outside cushion. The other bikes ride more on the inside of the track, closer to the inside guardrail. The high-riding style of Bowes slingshots past another bike into fifth place as he exits the turn.

The camera now is in the van and Jan sticks her head in the window to tell them. The starship is parked facing the front straight, and Tom is watching the action through the windshield. The girls, outside, watch the back-straight.

Jan:

He did it, he passed that guy and now he's in fifth place.

Tom:

Great! He's got to keep it up and get into at least third to get into the national.

Jan:

Here he comes, but, he's got a lot to catch up to get that guy in fourth.

Tom:

He'll get him, just watch.

The camera on the front straight catches the riders as they pass. First and second are tight; one hundred feet, then third place; fifty feet, then fourth place; and, another hundred feet comes Bowes followed closely by the bike that he just passed.

The cameras around the track follow the action for the next two laps and the positions don’t change at all.

The camera behind the flagman catches the flagman signal the halfway mark by displaying the green and white flag, rolled up, and crossed. The 45 bike is still running in fifth but closing the distance as they pass the flagman.

The camera moves to the van.

Tom:

Come on. Bowes! Let's get going. Jan. it's halfway now. He's got to get moving!

Jan:

He'll make it. Keep the faith.

Page 43

The camera on the back-straight catches Bowes drafting down the straight. and the next cameras (in turn) see him slingshot wide through the turn and pass the other bike. He is now running fourth and in good position for the third place. Bowes chases the third place man down the front-straight, through the turn, and down the back-straight. He is picking up distance by drafting, but, time is running out.

Through the third and fourth turn. the 45 bike rides right on the outside, almost hitting the hay-bales and exits the turn almost even with third place. The camera behind the flagman catches them neck-in-neck as they both get the white flag, meaning one more lap.

The camera on the inside of the first turn sees them simultaneously setting up their slides with one on the inside and Bowes on the outside. The camera on the outside shows that they are still even. The next camera shows them exit the turn with Bowes dropping inches back and drafting down the back-straight. The front rider sits up at the end of the straight and sets up his slide as Bowes holds on a split-second longer and swings wide in the turn, wide open. It pays off as Bowes gets hooked up and motors down the front-straight and gets to the checker flag and finished in third place! He makes the last transfer to the national.

The camera in the middle of the track follows the 45 bike as it goes through the first turn and starts slowing down. As it reaches the back-straight, it makes a sharp left turn and cuts through the infield, while the rest of the bikes drive down the whole length of the back-straight. The camera follows him to the van. Bowes gets off the bike and slips into the back door.

The camera in the van is now on. Bowes takes off his helmet as Jan starts to untie one boot and Joan unties the other. Tom is unzipping the jacket and pulls it off and starts to put it on. Bowes starts to take off the pants as they get off the boots.

Tom:

Hurry with those pants, we only got a moment.

Jan:

Here, Tom, just put them over your cut-offs. Do you need a hand? How is your arm? Take it easy, we'll get you dressed before anyone gets here.

Joan:

Give me your right foot so I can get this boot on.

Bowes:

Here is the jacket. No, no, don't bother. Let's throw some water on you so you look sweaty.

Tom:

Jan, let's get that left boot on. Don't bother tying it all the way up, just zip my pants over it.

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There is almost a comic routine going on as they just about fall over each other. It is amazing that Tom gets dressed before people start to gather around. First the girls get out of the van, then Tom and Bowes emerge as a few friends come over to congratulate Tom.

Rider:

(Wearing leather pants) Great rider there, Tom. I almost thought you would run out of laps. Do you think your motor will hold together wide open for twenty-five laps?

Tom:

Boy, I hope so. She didn't miss a beat in the heat race, so I think she'll go all the way in the feature.

Bowes:

Yeah, she's really got the power. She just has to be held open to do it.

Stand-by:

But how do you feel? Will you be able to stay with it? You look kind of pale, Tom.

Tom:

I'm a little tired now, but, I’ll go the twenty-five.

Another stand-by:

Yeah, but those factory bikes are really flying down the straights, you've got the work cut out for you. Can you handle it?

Tom:

They've got to ride the same track as me. My chance is as good as theirs.

Bowes goes over by the bike with two wrenches in his hands and begins to remove the rear wheel. Tom goes over and gets another tool from the van and goes to the bike to help Bowes. The two girls pull up chairs and move' closer to the bike and they talk among themselves.

Bowes:

Look at this edge of the tire. I don't think the new edge can go the twenty-five laps.

Tom:

Just get out in front and you will be a little easier on the tire. Anyway everyone else’s tires will be wearing out just as fast.

Joan:

What are Bowes' chances of winning this race?

Jan:

Twenty to one. There are twenty other riders out there who want to win this one, and they all have as much of a chance. Some of it depends on the bike just holding up, but they all have to go the same distance.

Page 45

Tom:

I think that Bowes has a good chance also. He 'a still as good as ever.

Bowes:

Thanks for all the praise. I'll tell you one thing, though, this will never happen again. They are crazy out there, period! Now I realize just why I quit. It's not that I was getting slower, but that they're nuts!

Joan:

I don’t understand. Tom, what does he mean? How do you feel?

Tom:

Let Bowes explain. He's never told me any of this before.

Bowes:

Tom, you know what I mean. This is also one of your problems. Like last week, some of those guys will do anything to win. You know, the crash and burn artists. Sometimes I think they want to die, but Tom is conscious of life. He won't kill himself on my bike. I know it, and that's why I love seeing him ride my stuff.

Jan:

Tom is as fast as the other riders I see. I don't see the point you are trying to make.

Bowes:

The big difference is probably these nationals. There is a lot of money and prestige involved here. I don't mind taking this money today, even if we're cheating a little. We both paid our dues over the years. But, I won't knock anyone down to get it. To me, life is much more important than the money. Some people might not agree with my thinking, but that's it.

Joan:

So why did you walk away? When did you make your final decision to quit?

Bowes:

I think it was that time when some hot dog knocked me off at a short track. Man, I was so mad that I was going to knock his head off in the pits. But, he was such a squirrelly-looking character that if I would have punched him out, I probably would have killed him with one punch. So, I just walked away and asked Tom if he wanted to ride my bikes.

Tom:

Bowes, I never thought that was the reason you quit. How come you never told me before?

Bowes:

I never thought anyone would look at it like I do, I thought you might think that I was just chicken or afraid of getting hurt. But, that wasn't it. I just figured that I wasn't going to end it on some race track somewhere just to turn on some blood-thirsty fan out there.

Page 46

Tom:

You're not that bitter about racing, are you?

Bowes:

Bitter? No.I could never be bitter at all. I love racing, it has been the greatest thing in the world to me. I mean, where else can you have so much freedom? Where else can you go as fast as you want? No. I love everything about it. I just don't feel like racing. We got the greatest team in the world. We make more money working together than apart, so what more do I need? Tom, the way I look at it is that maybe right now we've got everything we've ever wanted.

Tom:

What do you mean?

Bowes:

Here we are at our favorite track.

Tom:

Yeah, so?

Bowes:

We have the two most beautiful girls in this entire place; you'll get that vacation you wanted; we've been invited somewhere to stay; and, finally, I'm getting this racing out of my system for good.

Joan:

But Bowes, you're doing so good. How can you say that?

Bowes:

Because, I sometimes wish that I were still out there, just once in awhile; but, after today I will never again miss it. I am totally satisfied.

All during this time Bowes has been changing the tire around so as to have the new edge facing the left side. This process involves switching the gear with the disc-brake. A special tool and hammer is all that is needed, and it only takes a few minutes.

Now that they are done changing the tire around, Bowes goes over the complete motorcycle with a fine tooth comb. Both Tom and Bowes totally inspect everything. They touch and feel every nut, bolt, and stud. They can't leave anything to chance. Their hour has arrived and they have to face the challenge that lies ahead. The girls just sit and watch as they can tell the seriousness of the situation.

After a moment, Tom gets up and goes over to the van. Jan follows him. They both climb to the roof to watch the semi-final now being run.

The camera zooms in on the two of them as they talk.

Page 47

Jan:

Tom, how do you feel? You don't look too good to me. What is bothering you?

Tom:

Well, it's just this thing with my arm. It really pisses me off. I really wanted to race tonight.

Jan:

I know how you feel, Tom. What do you think Bowes’ chances are? I mean, he really looks good out there; but, during the national, when they get going, do you think he'll have it?

Tom:

The one thing you've got to remember is that Bowes has no real pressure on him. Just making it to the national is enough to make money; in fact, last place pays pretty good. I think he'll love it.

Jan:

Yeah, he does look happy. You know, Tom, I'm really looking forward to you staying with me. There are a lot of things to do, and I think I can get off work. We can just take it easy and lay on the beach all day.

Tom:

I'm looking forward to it, too. You are just what the doctor ordered.

Jan reaches over and gives Tom a kiss on the cheek.

Bowes is still looking at the bike. Joan comes a little closer to him as he inspects.

Joan :

Bowes, what do you think? Do you feel like a winner today or not?

Bowes:

To tell you the truth, I feel the best that I have ever felt. In fact, everything is going great. If everything holds up, I'd give myself a chance. But, there are all the fastest guys in the world out there. So, Jan was right, my chances are twenty to one.

Joan:

But, you didn't expect to get this far. I think the odds might be in your favor.

Bowes:

Thanks for the moral support, I hope you're right, I've never won a national myself. Winning would be the proper way to finish my career.

Joan:

You are serious, aren't you? You mean that if you did win, you wouldn't get back in it?

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Bowes:

No, this is it. If I do OK, that in itself will be a fitting good-bye. I mean, it isn't as if I'll never get on a bike, I'll always ride motorcycles. There's a million things to do besides racing.

Joan:

Then, promise me that you will teach me how to ride and take me trail-riding or something, OK?

Bowes:

I promise. If I get through this night, I'll teach you everything I know.

SCENE:

Inside the starship...before the national

The camera inside the van is following the preparation of the foursome for the big race. Bowes is half dressed with his T-shirt on and leather pants and his boots. Tom is there with   a T-shirt and a pair of cut-offs. The girls are both in white cut-offs and different T-shirts.

Bowes:

Tom, hand me the steel-shoe, will you?

Tom:

Here you are. What do you think? Do you got butterflies?

Bowes:

No, just one, about the size of a bird. Man, am I nervous!

Joan:

For being so nervous, you sure don't show it. Where do you get your cool?

Bowes:

When I can feel the bottoms of my feet sweat, then I know I'm nervous. Man, this is really neat being able to ride a national again; but, don't get your hopes too high. There is going to be some really fast guys out there.

Tom:

I know that you can handle them. Just don't forget the plan, make sure you get back here. There’s too much money involved to mess up now.

Jan:

Yes, Bowes, we are all ready at our battle stations. All you have to do is drive back here, and we'll do the rest.

Bowes:

Just hope I don't fall off. That would really mess up everything.

Tom:

Don't worry about that. I think you have forgotten how to fall, it's been so long.

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Joan:

Here's the scarf that you wanted, turn around and I'll tie it for you.

Bowes turns around, away from Joan, and they tie the red scarf around Bowes’ face like a bandit in an old western. Tom hands him the jacket and Bowes finishes dressing by first putting on the helmet, then the gloves. He is all ready.

Tom:

Good luck, old buddy. Get them!

Joan:

This is for good luck.

She opens the tear-off laden face shield and kisses Bowes’ face. Then the three of them leave out the backdoor, leaving Tom inside. The two girls watch as Bowes kick-starts the bike and drives off in the direction of the starting line. Joan climbs onto the roof of the van and Jan stands by the passenger side door.

The camera is off to the right of the starting line. The motorcycles are facing backwards, lined up so the announcer can introduce each rider. The sound of the grandstand and the announcer are mixed as Bowes is sitting there with flashbacks going through his head. The announcer's voice is heard and the rider waves to the crowd. “Kenny Roberts." The roar from the grandstands is deafening. The announcer goes on and Bowes can see the van spinning on the interstate... "Gary Scott. The roar again.. .Bowes can see the van slip off the jack... "Corky Keener.” The roar of applause...The rider waving...The hospital emergency room... "Jay Springsteen." The wave to the grandstand. The grandstand clapping and hollering...Bowes sees himself running the qualifying lap, getting the checkered flag... "Steve Morehead." The deafening rear from the crowd. Bowes seeing the final pass in the heat to take third... "Dan Kirkland." The pitch of the applause is getting greater and greater. The sound is louder and louder--the sound is deafening. The scenes are switching around quicker and quicker... "And number 45, Tom"... The sound is totally deafening. The roar of the motorcycles has now taken over and the bikes are lined-up. They are all posed. They are all waiting—watching for the flagman to move a fraction.

The flagman throws the flag and twenty motorcycles leap forward in a great lunge and a greater roar of horsepower. All twenty go into the first turn wide open, all within inches of each other. The camera is at the inside of the turn before the straight catches them swarm past. The camera in the middle follows the group around the lit-up track and by the front straight they are spread out in groups of four or five. The leader comes into the first turn and they ,are two and three wide and positions are changing. Down the back-straight the riders draft each other and into three and four they slingshot around each other. The camera on the inside keeps swinging back and forth to follow all twenty bikes as they race by.

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The camera is at the van and Jan sticks her head in the window.

Jan:

Joan says that it looks like Bowes is in seventh. What do you think? Will he make it?

Tom:

Yeah, I thought that was where he was at. Sure, he is still in good position. All he has to do is last it out and not get tired.

Jan:

But do you think he could win it?

Joan starts knocking on the roof of the van and tells them to watch.

Joan :

He's coming now. I think he's going to pass that other bike. Watch him!

All eyes are on him as he flies down the front-straight, tucked in tight and drafting. In the turn he holds on just a little longer and swings wide up to the hay-bales and hooks up better and passes into sixth. The race for first is really ferocious now as the front four are switching positions on every lap. The camera follows the action for the next three laps as the lead changes many times. with the fifth place bike about two hundred feet back and Bowes another hundred behind that. There is a gap of about four hundred feet with a small group of riders fighting it out for position. There are only seventeen bikes left after nine laps as three have dropped out with motor trouble.

Tom:

What the hell is he doing out there. is following now. All he's doing is following now.

Jan:

Maybe he's tired now, or do you think something happened to the bike?

The camera now follows the 45 bike and the style is changed from wide-open riding high next to the hay-bales to a more conservative style of riding on the groove that has formed on the inside of the track.

The race is still anyone’s as the crossed flags are displayed, meaning the halfway point. Through consistent riding Bowes has moved within striking distance of the fifth place man and also the leaders as the gap has shrunk to about one hundred feet.

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The camera, on the inside of the first turn, is watching the front-runners as they finish the seventeenth lap. In slow motion, the second bike is right at the end of the straight and the bottom of the motor blows away and the bike and rider are in a hundred mile per hour slide as everything locks up. The next bike is within inches but manages to avoid crashing. But, the next bike is not as fortunate as he picks the wrong way to go and hits the bike and the two of them slide to the outside of the track with one of the bikes flipping into the outside fence at about the eight-foot level.

The fifth place bike gets into a wild slide as it hits the spilled oil, and Bowes looks like he is heading to disaster as he goes into the turn, high.

The outside camera catches Bowes near hit as he bends the bike in the middle of the turn and misses one downed bike by an inch. This also allows him to regain his composure sooner and he passes the fifth place man and finds himself running third.

Back at the van:

Jan:

Did you see that? Oh, my God!!! I don't believe..

Joan :

Hewww! I never was so scared in my whole life. That was too close.

Tom:

Yeah, I felt my heart in my mouth, I can just imagine how he feels.

Bowes is about one hundred feet behind the two front bikes, who

are within inches of each other. But, the fourth place man is right on Bowes’ tail.

Through the third and fourth turn Bowes is on the pole. Down the front-straight the positions remain the same as the camera in the first turn outside sees the yellow flag being waved at the passing bikes. The two downed riders are up on their feet; but, they don't look too good. The rest of the bikes zoom past and the track is finally cleared as the leaders come back again and the positions are the same, but the yellow is put away.

Back at the van:

Tom:

He better make his move now or time will be up. There are only five laps left. I wonder if the tire is holding up or if he's just tired.

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Jan:

Don't give up yet, he looks faster every lap now. He could shock us all.

Now, a close-up of Joan's face as she is half yelling and half whispering.."Come on, Bowes, you can do it. Come on baby.”

This time around Bowes had a chance to see the track being clear, and, figuring that it's getting towards the end, going into one and two he swings wide, high, and wide open--getting a good drive out onto the back-straight. He is now in striking distance of the lead. Tucking in down and getting the draft, Bowes is on the heels of the second place bike and he holds on that split second longer. Coming onto the grandstand straight-away he is dragging even as they get the white flag, ONE LAP TO GO.

Bowes is now holding onto the last second, and setting it sideways up at the hay-bales and wide-open through one and two and pulls even with the leader out of the turn. Burying his head, feet up, and drafting down the back-straight--again, holding on and wide-open through three and four, he drags the leader to the finish and beats him by inches.  HE WINS!

He wins the national. The place goes up for grabs--there is a thunder from the grandstands--the scene at the van is totally crazy. Joan is jumping up and down--half laughing and half crying.

Tom calls to Jan.

Tom:

Jan, get her down and get in here, he'll be here in a minute.

Jan:

Joan get down. He's coming.

Joan:

I see him. I'll be down.

The camera in the center of the track follows the 45 bike as it makes the hard left and cuts through the infield. The 45 bike stops at the van. Bowes gets off and just lays it against the van and he climbs in.

The camera in the van catches the action of changing for a half of a minute and then the camera, viewed at the rear-door, waits at the van as a crowd of people gather. Nothing. It seems to take forever. Then, Bowes opens the door and shouts to the crowd..

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Bowes:

Get the ambulance. He's hurt. Please get the ambulance.

The word is out and finally the ambulance turns on the flashing lights and makes its way through the crowd.

The camera is in the van. Bowes turns to Tom as he throws some water on him.

Bowes:

Tom, lay down and act like you're passed out. That will give us more time.

Someone opens..the door and the attendants and some officials in striped shirts look in.

Bowes:

He's passed out. I think that he's hurt. Get out of the way and get a doctor. Let those attendants in here.

Torn is just lying there and not moving. One of the paramedics runs to the ambulance and gets a large case. The other paramedic starts to check-out Tom, who is still. Finally, Tom is acting drowsy and starts to say, “my arm, ouch, my arm."

They remove the jacket and see that his arm is a bluish-reddish color.

Paramedic:

Can you sit up?

Tom:

(Moving) Yes, it's my arm. I must have hit the fence . Uh! It’s killing me!

2nd paramedic:

Can you walk to the ambulance? Let’s take you in.

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They emerge from the van together and the crowd lets out a cheer as they see Tom is walking.

They walk over to the ambulance and Tom is helped into it by the paramedic; then, Bowes and the girls also get in. The ambulance makes it way through the crowd and starts around the track and is leaving.

Just before it reaches the gate on the outside of the track, it swings a u-turn and heads back to the start-finish area. The grandstand lets out a roar and everyone is standing. The ambulance stops and Tom gets out. He is holding his arm, but manages to give a wave. Everyone is congratulating him and wishing him well. He thanks everyone. Bowes, Jan and Joan help him to the tri-level stand and help him up. The second and third place men are there and look at his arm and joke with him. The race-officials hand him the champagne bottle and the third-place finisher helps him open it. Everyone gives a cheer. But, instead of drinking the champagne after the cork is popped, or drenching his competitors in victory, Tom holds the bottle over Bowes and totally drenches him in a victory salute.

The film turns into a still picture. Across the screen this appears....

"SEE YOU AT THE NEXT NATIONAL"

NATIONAL

An original screenplay by Dan Schmitt

The racer, the mechanic, their motorcycles, their trek across America

Copyright 1976, by Dan Schmitt

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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