Rider Matsushita killed during Isle of Man TT qualifying

Filed under: Motorsports, Motorcycle, UK



The 2013 Isle of Man TT has been darkened by the death of Japanese motorcycle rider Yoshinari Matsushita. During qualifying, 43-year-old Matsushita crashed on Ballacrye corner and passed away due to his injuries. In 2011, Bill Currie and Kevin Morgan died after their sidecar machine crashed in the same location. An investigation into Matsushita's accident has been launched.

Auto Cycle Union Events, the organizing body behind the Isle of Man TT, said in a statement that it passes its deepest sympathy to Matsushita's family and friends. Autos.ca quoted Gary Thompson, Clerk of the Course for ACU as saying, "Yoshi was a really popular competitor who had a large number of friends in the TT Races paddock. He was a genuine and friendly character who always had time for everyone. He will be sorely missed."

Matsushita is the 240th fatality attributed competing in the Isle of Man TT since the race began in 1911. A total of 21 people have died in competition since 2000.Rider Matsushita killed during Isle of Man TT qualifying originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 May 2013 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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