Rumors seem to be picking up steam that he's not riding due to personal reasons not the rib. Ryder alluded to it here: http://superbikeplanet.com/2008/Aug/080829t.htm Some of the Italian media is reporting it as well.

Supposedly Ashley's not at the track which suggests marital trouble. That'd be a shame if he's having such a tough time of that that he's not feeling up to riding. It's been a tough year all around for him but I don't feel too sorry for him, seeing as how he's the second best paid rider in the paddock (AFAIK).

Which brings me to another point. As far as I know, there are only maybe 5 married riders on the grid (Guintoli, Capirossi, Edwards, Stoner, and Hopkins). I imagine that the intensity of a sport like Moto GP puts a lot of stress on relationships. I'm sure plenty of people here have gotten into it with women over even club racing.

That can't be the real problem. If it is, he should be fired immediatly.

Got to be something else. Maybe he got one of his earrings caught on a fence post.

"twas beauty that killed the beast"

joe_b - 29 August 2008 03:29 PM

That can't be the real problem. If it is, he should be fired immediatly.

Got to be something else. Maybe he got one of his earrings caught on a fence post.

Now there's a hilarious visual

I wouldn't fire someone over something like that but I can't see it being taken well by the powers that be. And of course this would indicate mental weakness to would-be rivals. I suppose that's the danger of having a spouse so close to your racing.

But it could always be something else, who knows. It sucks after finally showing signs of life at Brno to have a setback like this.

joe_b - 29 August 2008 03:29 PM

Maybe he got one of his earrings caught on a fence post.

I think the guy is a great rider, but that's still a funny quote

Remember Ben Bostrom fired his girlfriend at the track and was immediately faster. I can't remember her name but she was very beautiful. Anyway, I thought going for a ride was a great way of clearing your head. Maybe Suzuki found some "pictures" and told him if he goes out they will publish them

hornet1 - 29 August 2008 07:05 PM

Remember Ben Bostrom fired his girlfriend at the track and was immediately faster. I can't remember her name but she was very beautiful. Anyway, I thought going for a ride was a great way of clearing your head. Maybe Suzuki found some "pictures" and told him if he goes out they will publish them

LeAnne Tweeden

<edit> i'm sorry i got involved in this one. i had no idea there was a loss in the family when i posted. i'm out of this one.

tweeden is hot as hell, anyways i feel for hopper, he has had such a rough season he does not need anymore #### in his way, i cannot even understand marital problems, but i hope he does well, you guys are being too harsh right now.

One of the old F1 guys left his wife to concentrate on racing as well. I think it was Jean Alessi(sp) when he drove for Ferarri.
It doesnt seem to affect some people though. Stoner became faster and more consistent when he got married and Bayliss doesnt seem to be bothered by it.

From what I heard he shagged a stripper, which his wife wasn't too happy about.