Gregg Hansford, Australian motorcycle racer (d. 1995)

Gregory John "Gregg" Hansford, born on April 8, 1952, was an Australian sporting legend whose life was tragically cut short on March 5, 1995. Known as a formidable professional in both motorcycle and touring car racing, Hansford carved out a thrilling career that saw him compete at the highest international levels before making an indelible mark on Australian motorsport.

A Dazzling Motorcycle Racing Career

Gregg Hansford first rose to prominence on the global stage in the demanding world of motorcycle racing. From 1978 to 1981, he was a key competitor in the FIM Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championships, a testament to his exceptional skill and daring spirit. During this intense period, Hansford achieved the remarkable feat of becoming a two-time vice-champion in the highly competitive 250cc road racing world championships, showcasing his consistency and raw talent. His prowess on two wheels was undeniable, accumulating an impressive 10 Grand Prix victories throughout his career. This placed him in an elite group, ranking fourth for the most Grand Prix wins by an Australian racer, behind legendary figures like Mick Doohan (with 54 wins), Casey Stoner (38), and Wayne Gardner (18). His career on the international motorcycle circuits captivated fans and solidified his reputation as one of Australia's finest.

Seamless Transition to Touring Cars and a Unique Double Victory

Following his successful tenure in international motorcycle racing, Gregg Hansford returned to his native Australia, eager to tackle new challenges. He seamlessly transitioned into the world of four-wheel motorsport, establishing himself as a highly competitive driver in Australian touring car championships. From 1982 to 1994, Hansford was a fixture on the touring car circuit, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability across different disciplines. One of the crowning achievements of his diverse career came in 1993, when he secured a memorable victory at the iconic Bathurst 1000 race. This triumph at the Mount Panorama Circuit granted him a truly unique distinction: he became the only racer to win a major event at this legendary track in both motorcycle and automobile racing events. This unparalleled accomplishment underscored his extraordinary talent and passion for speed, solidifying his place in Australian motorsport history.

A Tragic End and Enduring Legacy

Tragically, Gregg Hansford's remarkable journey came to an end in 1995. He died in a fatal accident during a Supertouring race at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, leaving the motorsport community in shock and mourning. His untimely passing marked the end of a career that celebrated skill, courage, and an unyielding competitive spirit across two distinct, yet equally challenging, racing environments. Hansford's legacy as a dual-discipline champion, particularly his unique achievement at Mount Panorama, continues to inspire future generations of Australian racers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gregg Hansford

Who was Gregg Hansford?

Gregg Hansford (Gregory John Hansford) was an Australian professional motorcycle and touring car racer, renowned for his achievements in both two-wheel and four-wheel motorsport.

When was Gregg Hansford active in racing?

He competed in FIM Grand Prix motorcycle racing from 1978 to 1981 and in Australian touring car championships from 1982 to 1994.

What were his major achievements in motorcycle racing?

Hansford was a two-time vice-champion in the 250cc road racing world championships and achieved 10 Grand Prix victories, ranking him fourth for most Grand Prix wins by an Australian.

What was his most unique achievement in motorsport?

In 1993, he won a race at the Mount Panorama Circuit (Bathurst) in both motorcycle and automobile racing events, a unique distinction in the history of the circuit.

How and when did Gregg Hansford die?

Gregg Hansford died in an accident during a Supertouring race at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on March 5, 1995.