By Tom Steinert
He rode his first bike at the age of 18, and now at 62, he not only continues this pursuit but also holds two land speed records in the United States.
He set the first record for the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) at Bonneville Salt Flats last year. At the Utah speedway, Daly broke the land record at 135 mph on his motorcycle. This past May, with his 1000cc engine, he rode at a record-setting speed of 149.8 mph for the East Coast Training Association.
There-s a great sense of achievement with these records, Daly noted. I enjoy riding in a vast open area with my only competition being the clock, he said. While the rush I get on the bike is intense, I try to be as laid back as possible while I-m riding.
The East Coast Training Association in North Carolina hosts five motorcycle events each year, and for this upcoming Labor Day, Daly hopes to add another record to their books with a top speed of 165 mph on his Harley Davidson.
Daly admits that he takes many precautions before competing. Dictated by the AMA, each cyclist is required to wear a full leather racing suit with armor, along with approved helmets. As for his bike, two technical inspectors exam it before each race.
Daly also said that he doesn-t like to compete in any one-on-one motorcycle races. For his events, rather than having to focus on a particular opponent, he admits that his major concern is on engine management so that it doesn-t break down or overheat.
He enjoys riding Harley Davidsons more than any other brand of bike, and Daly currently owns four motorcycles at home. He also recommends that anyone starting to take up cycling should start slowly and begin by riding on a safety course.
It-s important to take into account your well-being first, so that if something does go wrong, you-ll minimize the damage, he added. Fortunately for Daly, he has suffered no serious motorcycle accidents in the past.
Married with three children, Daly-s son Joe Jr. has taken an interest in motorcycling. He currently races stock cars at Riverhead Raceway.
For a living, Daly works as a facility manager for American Airlines at JFK Airport. In addition, he also restores antique carousel horses.
A resident of Franklin Square since 1997, he previously lived in Elmont and is a graduate of Sewanhaka High School.
