David Jefferies facts for kids
Quick facts for kids David Jefferies |
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Jefferies (r) with Joey Dunlop at the 1999 Ulster GP
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| Nationality | British | ||||||||||||||
| Born | 18 September 1972 Shipley, West Yorkshire, England |
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| Died | 29 May 2003 (aged 30) Crosby, Isle of Man |
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Allan David Jefferies (born September 18, 1972 – died May 29, 2003) was a famous English professional motorcycle racer. He was known for his incredible speed on road courses. Sadly, he passed away after an accident during practice for the Isle of Man TT races in 2003.
David Jefferies' Early Life
David Jefferies was born in Shipley, West Yorkshire, England. Racing was in his blood! His father, Tony Jefferies, was also a famous motorcycle racer. Tony even won the Isle of Man TT in 1971. David's uncle, Nick Jefferies, was also a TT winner. David went to Salt Grammar School when he was younger.
David Jefferies' Racing Career
David Jefferies was a very talented motorcycle racer. He competed in many different types of races. He even raced in the Grand Prix world championship in 1993. He also took part in the World Superbike Championship in 1993 and 1995. David was so good that he won the British Superstock 1000 title twice in just three years.
David was especially good at racing on street circuits. These are race tracks made from regular roads, like the famous Isle of Man TT and the North West 200 in Northern Ireland. He won the North West 200 four times!
At the Isle of Man TT, David Jefferies made history. He was the first rider to complete a lap at over 125 miles per hour (about 201 km/h). He was also the first person to win three races in a single week at the TT for three years in a row! In 2002, he set an amazing lap record on the Isle of Man TT course. He finished the lap in just 17 minutes and 47 seconds. This meant he was going at an average speed of 127.29 miles per hour (about 204.85 km/h).
Remembering David Jefferies
David Jefferies passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2003. This happened during a practice session for the 2003 Isle of Man TT races. The accident occurred at a part of the course called Crosby. This is a fast left-hand turn where riders go about 160 miles per hour (about 257 km/h).
After the accident, the race organizers released a statement. They confirmed that David Jefferies had been in an accident and had passed away. Other riders, like John McGuinness, who was a friend, described the scene as very difficult.
Later, a special parade lap was held in David's honor at the end of the TT weekend. Thousands of motorcycles took part. They filled the entire 37-mile (about 60 km) race course to remember him. It was a huge tribute to a beloved racer.
