Why Eli Tomac Races with the Number 17: The Story Behind the Choice

 

Eli Tomac, one of the most successful motocross and Supercross riders of his generation, has built a legacy of speed, skill, and consistency. However, what many fans may not know is the story behind the number on his bike: 17. Tomac’s decision to race with the number 17 instead of 13 is rooted in personal superstition and the traditions of American motocross.

The Significance of Number 13 in North America

In many cultures, the number 13 is considered unlucky, a superstition that has long been ingrained in North American society. The fear of the number, known as **triskaidekaphobia**, is so pervasive that it often influences architectural decisions, such as skipping the 13th floor in tall buildings or omitting the number from hotel room numbers.

This cultural belief extends into the world of sports, and motocross is no exception. Riders who finish the season with the number 13 in the standings are given a choice by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA): they can either accept it or choose to race with a different number. Eli Tomac, a highly superstitious individual, opted not to race with the number 13, a decision rooted in the negative connotations associated with the number.

AMA Numbering System: The Right to Choose

In American motocross and Supercross, riders have the opportunity to choose their racing number based on their achievements. Following a championship victory, a rider can select a **single-digit career number** (from 1 to 9) or a **two-digit number**. Riders who perform well across both Supercross and motocross seasons, finishing in the top ten overall, are also eligible to claim a **permanent number**, which they can use throughout their career.

For riders like Tomac, who did not initially win a championship or wasn’t ranked in the top ten overall at the start

of his professional career, the option to choose a number was still available. When Tomac first earned the right to pick his number, he chose **17**, which was the first available number that wasn’t already in use by another rider with a permanent number.

The Influence of Superstition

Despite the opportunity to choose from a range of available numbers, Tomac’s decision to avoid number 13 was deeply personal. The superstition surrounding the number likely played a role in his choice, as he sought to avoid any negative associations that might come with it. This decision reflects the broader tendency of many athletes to embrace certain superstitions or rituals they believe will bring them luck or avoid bad fortune.

In Tomac’s case, the number 17 not only avoided the unlucky number 13 but also became synonymous with his identity as a racer. Over the years, fans and fellow competitors alike have come to associate Tomac’s career with the iconic 17, a number that has since become part of his brand as one of the most dominant riders in the sport.

The AMA’s Role and Permanent Numbers

The AMA’s system of awarding numbers helps structure the professional motocross scene. By allowing riders to select numbers based on their success, the association ensures that numbers like 1 and 2 remain reserved for the top riders, while other numbers reflect a rider’s individual standing or achievements. In Tomac’s case, his early choice of number 17 was made at a time when he hadn’t yet earned a permanent number or a championship.

It’s important to note that permanent numbers, which are reserved for riders who earn significant titles or consistently place in the top ranks, carry an extra level of prestige. For instance, riders who win national Supercross or motocross championships can select a career number, which becomes their permanent number. Over the years, as Tomac continued to achieve success, the number 17 became emblematic of his long-standing presence in the sport.