Igor Plechanov

[jimblanchard]

I learned today that top Russian rider from the 60's Igor Plechanov has suffered from a stroke and is paralyzed down one side. Also he is unable to speak.

Such a shame. I had the pleasure of meeting him at the talk we did in Coventry in 2004.

In this shot we recreated the podium from the World Final at Ullevi, Sweden in 1964. Ove Fundin is on the left, Barry Briggs to the center and Igor on the right. (Ronnie Moore is the one looking on).

We borrowed the replica of the famous winged wheel trophy from Neil Collins who had it given to him by a fan.

Ove told me that to get to England Igor had to travel for 3 days on a train across Russia before getting on an aircraft for England.

The other top Russian rider from that era Boris Samorodov who is two years older than Igor still works as a coach for the Russian Moto Cross team.

[Deleted]

Heard news that unfortunately Igor passed away today

R.I.P Igor

[admin]

Yet more sad news. It really hasn't been a very happy year for the sport. I'm deeply saddened by the news of Plechanov's passing and send condolences to his family and friends.
Just as Russian fortunes were on an up-swing as well.

[jimblanchard]

Sad news,

It was nice to have met you kind Sir.

RIP Igor.

[Deleted]

The year was 1964, the event was the world individual world championship held in Sweden.
The meeting was held in spite of heavy rain, "They don't cancel meetings over there" someone said.

The meeting was held up for a while to put sawdust down, and then they were off.

Barry Briggs won with a full house. There was a run-off for second place between Ove Fundin and Igor Plechanov.

Ove led all the way.....up to the last bend... and then Plechanov swept around the outside of him to snatch second place.


From memory I think it was Eric Linden who described that ride as "The greatest ride that never won a world title" and that is my everlasting memory of this fine rider.

R.I.P. Igor Plechanov.