Former MotoGP legend and current WSBK Honda rider Nicky Hayden succumbed to injuries following a tragic bicycle crash five days back in Cesena, Italy. The man is known for his wide smile, true professionalism and a calm stature. His loss deeply sorrows the motorcycling and racing fraternity, also leaving a big void for American racers. We make this exclusive article citing the Official MotoGP legend's career high points and growth. Nicholas "Nicky" Patrick Hayden was born on 30 July, 1981 in Owensboro, Kentucky, USA. Commonly known as "The Kentucky Kid", Nicky had a long MotoGP career of 13 years with Honda and Ducati.
It was a treat to watch Nicky Hayden sliding his rear through the corners, as he had tremendous experience from the dirt track. Nicky Hayden reached the pinnacle of his career in the year 2006 when he outperformed Valentino Rossi for a World Championship title, also breaking his continuous 5 year winning streak.
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Nicky started off with the AMA Superbike Championship, eventually winning the supersport title in 1999 and Superbike title two years later. 2003 saw Nicky Hayden immediately join MotoGP with the then number one team, Repsol Honda. Nicky marked his strong arrival to MotoGP going on to win the Rookie of the year title. First 3 years were utilised in learning the tricks of the Premier class, which he used later in acquiring his World title in the year 2006. Nicky Hayden was one of the firsts to prove consistency is the key for a World title.
*** Nicky in his happy tears after winning the 2006 MotoGP World title
In 2009 Nicky Hayden parted ways with Repsol Honda to join the Borgo Panigale team Ducati Corse. In that period, Hayden became teammate with Valentino Rossi for the second time after 2003. At the end of 2013, Hayden returned to a satellite Honda with Aspar Racing Team on a two year contract. At the end of 2015, Nicky Hayden decided to end his glorious MotoGP career to move on to World Superbike Championship with Honda WSBK team for 2016.
Nicky finished the 2016 season in fifth place with a race win at Malaysia, and is currently in 13th place in the current 2017 season. Losing such a great motorcycle racer and a good person off the track is really devastating.
*** When could we see such uber cool wheelies for the next time?
We at BikesMedia share our deepest condolences to the Hayden family and his fiancée Jackie. Ciao mate!! Please tell a Hello to Marco Simoncelli and Luis Salom up there. Hope you continue to conquer race tracks up in the heaven. Gone but not forgotten, rest in peace Nicky Hayden 69.
By: Aravind Rb