Danny “Magoo” Chandler was one of the most talented and fearless motocross racers of his era. He was known for his aggressive and spectacular riding style, which earned him many fans and victories. However, his career and life were cut short by a tragic accident that left him paralyzed and eventually claimed his life. This article will explore the cause of death of Danny “Magoo” Chandler, and how his legacy lives on in the motocross community.
Contents
The Rise of a Motocross Star
Danny Chandler was born in Sacramento, California, on October 5, 1959, into a racing family. He started riding when he was 4 years old and first competed when he was 9. Chandler earned his pro license in 1976 and his first factory ride in 1979, with Maico. His breakout year was 1981.
In 1982, he joined the American Honda factory team and achieved some of his most memorable feats. He won the 500cc U.S. Motocross Grand Prix at Carlsbad, beating the best European riders on one of the toughest tracks in the world. He also became the first rider to win both motos of both the Motocross des Nations and the Trophee des Nations, leading the U.S. team to victory in both events. He was nicknamed “Mr. Motocross” by the European press.
Chandler continued to dominate the AMA Supercross and Motocross championships in 1983 and 1984, winning several races and titles. He also won the AMA 250cc National Championship in 1984. He was regarded as one of the fastest and most exciting riders of his generation.
The Crash that Changed Everything
In 1985, Chandler left the Honda team and moved to Europe to compete in the Motocross World Championships. He was riding for KTM at the time. On November 17, 1985, he was participating in the Paris Supercross, a prestigious indoor event. During the race, he attempted a jump over a triple, but came up short and landed hard on the face of the third jump. He was thrown off his bike and hit the ground with tremendous force. He suffered severe spinal cord injuries that left him paralyzed from the chest down.
The crash was a shock to the motocross world, as Chandler was one of the most popular and respected riders of his time. Many of his fellow racers and fans expressed their support and sympathy for him. Chandler was airlifted to a hospital in Paris, where he underwent several surgeries and treatments. He spent months in intensive care and rehabilitation, fighting for his life and his recovery.
The Struggle and the Legacy
Chandler never gave up hope and tried to adapt to his new condition. He remained involved in the sport, promoting races, safety, and spinal cord injury awareness. He also became a mentor and inspiration for many young riders, including Jeremy McGrath, Ricky Carmichael, and Travis Pastrana. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999.
However, Chandler also faced many challenges and difficulties in his life after the accident. He suffered from chronic pain, infections, depression, and financial problems. He relied on the help of his family, friends, and fans to cope with his situation. He also had several health complications and hospitalizations over the years.
On May 4, 2010, Chandler passed away at his home in Yuba City, California, at the age of 50. He died from illnesses related to his paralysis. His death was mourned by the motocross community, who remembered him as a legend and a hero. He was buried at the Sierra View Memorial Park in Olivehurst, California.
Danny “Magoo” Chandler was a motocross icon who left a lasting mark on the sport and the people who loved it. He was a fearless and passionate racer who pushed the limits of his abilities and his sport. He was also a courageous and generous person who faced his adversity with dignity and grace. He inspired and influenced many riders and fans with his spirit and his skills. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest motocross racers of all time.
