View Full Version : Speedway rider, Stead, paralysed


CHAIRBOY
10-06-2007, 13:03
http://www.thestar.co.uk/viewarticle.aspx?sectionid=58&articleid=2935153

It is 25 years and more since my involvement with speedway reporting. In that time many things have changed but one thing that certainly hasn't is the danger element. I once saw a Brit become world champion, only for him to lose his life shortly afterwards. As in the jumping code of horseracing, we are inclined to take the participants for granted. A stark reminder that this must not be the case comes with the tragic news (in the above thread), that 35yo Sheffield Tigers rider, Garry Stead has met with a dreadful injury which has resulted in paralysis and will confine him to a wheelchair. I am more fortunate, reliant upon one - not confined.
I don't know Garry but can guess that with all his steel and resolve he can pull through this dreadful ordeal when his whole family life will seem as though the world has turned on its head. I trust that his friends and family will show their strength and help him through what seems to be a very dark tunnel. It does improve Garry, I assure you. One never has to look far to find someone who would willingly swop places.
As for the future, there is no better motivation to cast an eye on than Formula 1 boss, Frank Williams. I wish you all the very best mate and commend the following book to you and your family; "A Different Kind Of Life", written by Virginia Williams, Frank's then wife.

medusa
10-06-2007, 13:14
I wish Garry Stead well too. I'm sure he understood the risks that he took every day he competed and will be grateful that he is still alive to see his children grow.

This has been a tough month for bike racers, since one rider (and two spectators) died and another rider (and several spectators) have been seriously injured in crashes at the TT meet on the Isle of Man.

Shaun Harris critically injured (http://www.iomtt.com/News/2007/06/06/TT-winner-Harris-critical-after-crash.aspx)

Marc Ramsbotham killed (http://www.utvinternet.com/newsroom/indepth.asp?id=37825&pt=s)

CHAIRBOY
10-06-2007, 13:37
I wish Garry Stead well too. I'm sure he understood the risks that he took every day he competed and will be grateful that he is still alive to see his children grow.

Yep, that's the best way of looking at it - and it's so very true!

fredsredhat
16-06-2007, 18:33
This is horrible news. Dont know if he will read this but keep your chin up Garry, We're all with you.

CHAIRBOY
17-06-2007, 16:43
Garry is to have a benefit meeting on August 23

http://www.thestar.co.uk/viewarticle.aspx?sectionid=5869&articleid=2945213

CHAIRBOY
06-08-2007, 18:27
Gary's testimonial at Owlerton on August 23.

http://www.thestar.co.uk/viewarticle.aspx?sectionid=5869&articleid=3084196

SpeedwayDan
12-08-2007, 18:16
i'll be sending a donation as i can't make it to the meeting due to work commitments.
He was a good rider who always gave it 100%, a true racer, he's even said if he could do it all again he would, every rider knows the risks and they're willing to take them, but you always think it won't happen to you.

CHAIRBOY
24-08-2007, 19:01
http://www.thestar.co.uk/speedway/Complin-triumphs-on-a-great.3144259.jp

http://www.thestar.co.uk/speedway/I39ve-no-regrets-says-paralysed.3135990.jp

That's the spirit Garry - all the best.

utah
27-08-2007, 14:43
Pity Speedway doesn't get much publicity, its a good family sport. Me and my daughter went to the Gary Stead meeting. Great night, glad it went well for him.

We were cheering on local lad Simon Stead, but well done to all for appearing.
:)