Today, March 29, 2013, Geoff Duke
celebrates his 90th birthday. The legendary British rider, who
dominated the scene in the early 50s with six world titles between 350
and 500 cc (including the ‘double‘ in 1951 with Norton
and three titles in the premier class with Gilera) and was one of the
first true ‘characters’ in the history of motorcycle racing, will
celebrate with his family at his home on the Isle of Man, where he made
his debut in 1948 at the Tourist Trophy.
In Manx Duke is regarded as a sort of
demi-God: in his career he collected six victories at the TT (including
3 Senior TT) while setting numerous on the mighty Mountain Course,
part of which now bears his name. In MotoGP Duke has won 33 of the 89
races he started, finishing his career in 1959 after a brief spell in
auto racing. Never forgetful of his numerous fans, Duke issued for the
occasion the following message:
“As I celebrate my 90th birthday on Good Friday, I just wanted to thank you all for your kind messages, cards and gifts. It is always a pleasure to receive a letter from a fan and wonderful to know there are so many of you out there who remember fondly my racing days.”
“Although I can’t make it to as many meetings as I have in the past, I am looking forward to the 2013 season, especially the Isle of Man TT, which, as many of you know, takes place not far from my home.”“As I mark my 90th birthday with my family, I will be recalling my career and remembering all the fans who played such a large part in it. Thank you all.”
Foto © Getty Images - Tutti i diritti riservati
via twowheelsblog
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