Jun Maeda, 1967-2006

Jun Maeda, the most successful Japanese motorcyclist to ever compete at the Isle of Man TT, has died of injuries sustained in a crash during last week's TT practice. It was Jun's eighth visit to the event, and he had hoped to build on progress made in 2003 when he got significant coaching from top road racer Martin Finnegan. Alas, it was not to be, as Jun and Irishman Seamus Greene collided with each other during Tuesday's practice session. Greene remains in critical condition. On days like this it's hard to get excited about the sport of real road racing. I'm in no hurry to visit the TT right now.

Deepest sympathies go out to Jun's family and friends.