Speed Dating: July 6 - 12

July 11

Happy birthday to Yuki Takahashi (JP), who was born on this date in 1984. The past week has not been kind to the Japanese racer, who learned upon arriving in the United States for the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix that he would no longer be riding for the Scot Racing Honda MotoGP team. Because of limited funding and a limited allotment of motorcycles from Honda, Takahashi was dropped in favor of premier-class newcomer Gabor Talmacsi, who brought with him personal sponsorship. Takahashi rode full-time in the 250cc class from 2005 until 2008, finishing fifth in last year’s championship.

Ben Spies (US) was born on this date in 1984. The three-time AMA Superbike championship and RRX columnist is currently competing in the World Superbike championship for the Yamaha WSB team. Spies has made waves in his debut WSBK season, scoring eight of nine poles and ten race wins. He is currently second in points behind Ducati Xerox rider Noriyuki Haga, and though the 2009 season is far from over, speculation is rampant as to where Spies will race in 2010. As silly season winds up before the upcoming MotoGP summer break, a move to MotoGP within the next two seasons is considered a very real possibility.

July 12

On this date in 1982, Eddie Lawson (US) gave Cagiva its first Grand Prix victory during the Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring. Lawson finished the season ninth in the 500cc standings, one of six Americans in the top ten in points.

On this date in 1969, Bill Ivy (UK) was killed in a freak accident after a practice session at the East German Grand Prix. Ivy, the 1967 125cc world champion, was riding back to pit lane on his Jawa at the conclusion of the 350cc practice session. Ivy removed his helmet while riding, placing it on the tank, but his engine seized without warning and tossed Ivy from the bike. Ivy sustained massive head injuries in the fall, and he later died at the hospital.

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