From Wayland Mass, Jack Stites was a top NETA rider in the 1970s. He, in many people’s opinion, was second only to Donny Sweet in natural ability plus Jack probably did more for the sport in general than any other New England rider. Like Don Sweet, Jack was consistently in the NATC top three even making it to national #2 behind Bernie Schreiber.
Jack was responsible for setting up the first “stadium” trials here in the states which evolved into what is today X-trials in Europe. He achieved fame riding in National and World Trial Series events and became a BBC color commentator for the sport in England. He also co-hosted the extremely popular British TV series “Kick Start”.
Jack was a very personable and interesting person. His father invented a system of marking railroad cars that evolved into today’s bar code system. His mother was a commercial airline pilot. Although Jack didn’t lack for money, he spent a year of his youth riding railroad cars to experience the hobo life. In addition, he was an excellent jazz drummer and all around musician. Another one of his skills was restoring classic wooden powerboats. As if that isn’t enough, Jack was recognized for many environmental projects and accomplishments in the state of Florida.
Pulling up his New England roots in the early 1980s, Jack moved to Florida and managed the Tryals Shop where he imported trials bikes from around the world and engaged in events, produced instructional videos plus conducted personal training worldwide.
In 1987 Dale Malaseck (the original US Gas Gas importer) produced a training video on behalf the Tryals Shop.
Jack was an original founding member of the Florida Trials Association and multi-time Florida state champion. His positive impact on the FTA is reflected in their highest annual award – the Stites Cup.
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Sadly, Jack passed away in 2019 and will always be remembered fondly by everyone who knew him.
Jack Stites was inducted into the NATC Hall of Fame in 2017.
Just met the wife at a animal hospital because I had a 2018 gas gas txt contact
Jack, myself and another friend bought three 247’s and rode our first trials together in Connecticut in the early ‘70’s.
For whatever reason I was his practice partner after work (until dark) and in 1977 we went west in an overloaded VW bus to do the nationals in northern California and Oregon/Washington.
Close to the finest memories of my life.
I quietly miss him.
Excellent, thank you