Steele remembers David Jefferies

By Carly Rathmell
May 30 2003

Isle of Man legend David Jefferies suffered a horrific accident in the TT practice yesterday (29th May). His injuries were fatal and DJ died at the scene. A true friend, character and a simply astounding man, DJ has gone but will never, ever be forgotten - by anyone who knew him or who met him.

Warren Steele heads to the Isle of Man tomorrow, to compete in the first two rounds of the ACU National Championships. Warren is extremely low after losing Jefferies, his close friend and fellow Supermoto competitor. Big DJ was an inspiration to the whole motorcycling industry. Not only was he superbly fast on a bike, but he was also one of the most likely and lovable blokes in the paddock.

He died in the sport he loved and at a place where he was so famous. The TT has taken many lives, but this is one that will have a massive impact on so many people. The TT was DJ, DJ was the TT, and it will never be the same without him.

Warren commented, “I just can’t believe it. He was one of the funniest and most genuine guys that you could ever meet. I can’t believe he has gone. You could never forget him - he wouldn’t let you do that! It will be very strange riding over there and never competing with Dave again. My heart goes out to his family, to whom he was so so close.

“People say remember the good times, but with Big Dave there were never any bad ones. I don’t know anyone who could eat and drink as much as DJ and be as quick on two wheels as what he was. He pushed me hard in the Winter Series last year, and I really got to know him well. Things won’t be the same without him, he was truly amazing.”

It will certainly put a downer on the whole week but DJ would have wanted the show to go on. We’ll never forget you Dave - you will always be in our hearts.