Sam "Morgan" Storm & Paul "Sonny" Pelaquin

Riding the Edge: The Legacy of Sonny Pelaquin and Samantha Morgan Storm

When board tracks were outlawed in the mid-1920s due to safety concerns, thrill-seekers turned their attention to a new adrenaline-pumping spectacle: motor dromes. Known more commonly as the "Wall of Death," these portable wooden racetracks, designed in a bowl shape, captivated audiences with their thrilling performances. Today's motor dromes have evolved, featuring walls banked at an astonishing 90 degrees, pushing the limits of what riders can achieve.

A Family Legacy

Sonny Pelaquin was born into a family of wall riders who incorporated an unexpected twist into their act—lions! Picture this: majestic lions riding in sidecars, speeding around a vertical wall. It was a family tradition steeped in excitement and danger. With his exceptional skills and daring spirit, Sonny quickly made a name for himself in the world of motor drome riding, even landing a unique opportunity to perform stunt riding for Elvis Presley in the 1964 film Roustabout.

As Sonny took over the family business, he recognized the decline in motor drome popularity. To keep the sport alive, he understood that change was essential. His insistence on professionalism, safe riding, and high-quality showmanship allowed him to extend his career longer than most of his predecessors—only one other rider had achieved such longevity in the sport.

Mentoring a New Generation

Among Sonny's most promising protégés was Samantha Morgan Storm, affectionately known as Sam. Joining Sonny at just 14 years old, she was eager to learn from the master. Under his watchful eye, Sam harnessed her passion for riding, learned to control her adrenaline, and honed her skills with relentless dedication. Sonny, a perfectionist who prioritized safety, meticulously guided her through years of rigorous training, helping her build the confidence needed to thrive in such a demanding environment.

Sam grew up in the motor drome, living the life of a performer. She slept in the drome, helped set up and tear down the equipment, and maintained her vintage bikes—all while juggling four shows a day and putting in grueling 16-hour workdays. Despite the physical toll it took on her, including three broken backs and numerous harrowing tumbles, nothing could extinguish her passion for riding the wall.

Carrying the Torch

Even the death of her beloved mentor, Sonny Pelaquin, on March 1, 2002, could not deter Sam from her path. Instead, she channeled her grief into her performances, traveling the world and sharing her unique talent and love for motorcycling with audiences everywhere. Her dedication earned her the respect of her peers and solidified her reputation as one of the top extreme sports performers in the motor drome business.

Sadly, Sam's illustrious career came to an untimely end on April 24, 2008, when she passed away from complications related to her many injuries. Yet, her legacy as a trailblazer in the sport endures, inspiring new generations of riders who dare to push the boundaries of what is possible on two wheels.

A Lasting Impact

The stories of Sonny Pelaquin and Samantha Morgan Storm serve as a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience, and unwavering passion that define the world of motor drome riding. As audiences continue to flock to see the thrills of the Wall of Death, they carry with them the indelible mark left by these two extraordinary individuals—a testament to the spirit of adventure that will never fade.