Megumu Morohashi, a 49 year old Japanese domestic keirin professional with almost 30 years experience, has become the second rider this summer to die following a racing crash.
Competing in the S-class semi final at Nara, just over a week ago, the 2017 Kyodo News Cup (G2) winner crashed hard as riders came together in front of him.
Race video has been removed from official sources, but clips circulating on YouTube appear to show his front wheel collapsing as he came into contact with the rider ahead of him.
He was rushed to hospital at Nara, but succumbed to ‘major organ failure caused by cervical spinal cord injury’ in the early hours of Monday 21 September.
Morohashi had recorded over 400 career wins since making his debut in 1997. His success in the Kyodo News Cup helped secure his place in that year’s Keirin Grand Prix, his only appearance in the year-end showpiece; but he was disqualified, held responsible for causing a crash in the final bend.
Earlier this summer, two-time Keirin Grand Prix winner Toshiaki Fushimi died after crashing at Matsusaka.
In comments reported by Nikkan Sports, Japan Keirin Players Association chairman Mitsuyoshi Yasuda said (translated): ‘Following the accident that occurred in July of this year, this association has been working with relevant organizations to verify the accident and consider preventing it from happening again. We take extremely seriously the loss of a member’s life once again in the midst of this.
‘We will work hard to further accelerate our deliberations and create an environment where athletes can race with peace of mind.’
There was also a fatal accident at Japan’s Keirin Training School, back in March, resulting in the death of an unnamed male trainee just two weeks before his graduation.
