Last weekend, former 500cc star Wayne Rainey rode a Yamaha YZR500 in front of a crowd at the traditional Goodwood Festival of Speed. Incredible emotions.
Once a year, the traditional Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place on the grounds of Goodwood House, a mansion in southern England. Every summer since 1993, thousands of fans have made the pilgrimage to this event, which is unique in Europe and features great legends of motorcycle and automobile racing.
This year, too, many former Grand Prix stars were there to offer the spectators a first-class show. Among others, Mick Doohan, Kenny Roberts Sr., Kevin Schwantz, Giacomo Agostini and Dani Pedrosa started with their former work equipment on the 1.86 km long track.
The highlight for motorsport fans, however, was clearly another driver. Californian Wayne Rainey, who has been paralyzed since his Misano accident in 1993, made his way around the racetrack on a Yamaha YZR 500. It was the first time in 29 years that the American steered his former World Championship motorcycle.
When the 61-year-old piloted the bike at the event, which is held like a mountain race, i.e. not a circuit, spectators and participants were transported back to the early 1990s. The three-time 500cc World Champion still exudes a special passion for the sport. Wayne Rainey, a true legend.