Remembering Nicky Hayden: One year on
It’s been one year since we lost the great Nicky Hayden and the WorldSBK paddock continues to remember the American legend, holding memories of The Kentucky Kid close to our hearts. 2017 saw Hayden take on his second season in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and his charisma, charm and smile lit up the paddock which is still missed today as the legend of the #69 lives on.
WorldSBK race winner, 2006 MotoGP™ World Champion and overall racing legend, Hayden won the hearts of many throughout his short racing career with his charming charisma and pure love of motorbike racing. Breaking onto the MotoGP™ scene in 2003, Hayden first tasted glory in front of his home fans at Laguna Seca in 2005 before becoming a championship contender in 2006 – taking the title at the final round in Valencia.
Making the move over to WorldSBK in 2016, the American’s passion shone through and he had some sensational highlights to remember from his time in the series. Bringing his superstar status to the paddock, he certainly didn’t bring a superstar attitude and he was very much at home in WorldSBK.
Taking four WorldSBK podium’s in his first season – his first around TT Circuit Assen – the Honda rider quickly found his feet in SBK®, and was beginning to get a true taste of WorldSBK glory. Securing the victory in just his sixth round at a wet Malaysia in 2016, Hayden took the P1 trophy home from Sepang International Circuit in one of the most popular victories of the season. On top of this he was able to give his adoring home crowds at Laguna Seca what they wanted upon his return to the Californian circuit with a podium finish in race one. The American’s passion for racing seeped through to his fans, and motor racing fans in general.
Taking on the brand new Honda Fireblade CBR1000RR SP2 in 2017, it was a tough start to the season for The Kentucky Kid, but he greeted every round with a smile as small steps were made with his Ten Kate squad. Competing in his final ever race weekend around the historic Imola, Hayden was making progress with his Honda which lives on today.
As Leon Camier (Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team) made the move to the Ten Kate squad this year, we saw the Brit begin his season with the same set-up used by Hayden. And with a front row secured in his second race for the team, it stood him in good stead.
A much loved figure in the motorcycling world, there have been some heartwarming tributes planned for Hayden as we reach the anniversary of his passing. Italian photographer Mirco Lazzari put together an exhibition of 69 photos of Hayden, which was unveiled in Imola – the last WorldSBK circuit Hayden raced around before his tragic accident.
In Misano, there are plans to open a memorial garden around the area of his accident, which was approved by the local council. Officially opening on the anniversary of his death, it will be a tranquil and picturesque way to remember The Kentucky Kid.
Whilst at the Circuit of the Americans in Austin, Texas, Turn 18 of the circuit has been named 'Hayden Hill', in honour of the American.
Honoring Nicky in a phenomenal gesture, his home town of Owensboro, Kentucky are set to reveal a Hayden statue and will name 9th June (6/9) Nicky Hayden Day, keeping his memory alive forever.
WorldSBK sends out it’s best wishes to all friends and family of Nicky Hayden, as we continue to remember the much loved American.
