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David 'dj' Jones: In Memorium


Rich Pearson

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Five years ago to this day the global trials community suffered a devastating loss. Those that already know don't need to be filled in on the details as we all lived through the pain as it happened, but for those that don't:

David 'DJ' Jones was one of the brightest hopes this country had on the independent bike trials scene. An awesome street rider with massive potential, securing himself on the Base team in 2004. Aside from trials David was a gifted and talented student, preparing to get married to his girlfriend Emily, and one of the most recognisable and respected members of TF and the trials community.

On this day five years ago, the 14th of May 2004, David was involved in a serious road accident which cost him his life. All he did was cross the road at the wrong time, and had the misfortune of crossing paths with someone almost the total opposite of himself; thoughtless, careless, indifferent to other peoples safety.

Hundreds of phone calls, text messages, e-mails and forum posts were made that day. I'll never quite forget the sound of Sam Wheelers voice down the phone, or how Iain Plumb's text messages even felt sad.

The trials community faced a terrifying reality, that we were all mortal and all scared. It is one of the proudest feelings of my life to see how Davids family, close friends and his extended family of this forum rose not in sadness, but in tribute, to an amazing person, a bright light too quickly put out.

Every year for five years, two consecutive meetings of trials riders from all over the country have become an establishment in tribute to such a great man. The Abingdon Memorial ride, organised by Davids family to mirror the ride that followed Davids funeral, and the Portsmouth DJ ride, the ride on which five years ago DJ had himself been planning to attend.

Every year for five years we have all come together to remember him, and sadly, Davids name is no longer alone on the list of people whos names we will never forget, but so rarely will speak of.

This year will be the final Memorial ride in Abingdon, five years on and five years later. The Portsmouth ride I hope will always continue as our unabated tribute to those fallen from our ranks.

On the 6th of June, riders from all over the country will gather at Abingdon for the last time, not for the ride, not for the respect, but for the memory of friends we've lost and the joy of those we still have. If you're thinking you maybe shouldn't be there because you didn't know DJ, or because your worried you won't fit in, don't be. Come and see everyone who's still here. Go to the memorial garden at DJ's school and see the hard work people put in to remember someone. Enjoy the day and enjoy the company.

You are special, unique and wonderful, and this could have been you that I was writing about now. But as its not, take some time on the 17th of May, on the 6th of June, at 15:15 hours today, and remember the wonderful people who have been lost.

We won't ever forget.

Rich Pearson, friend



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Well written, great representation of him.

What is it, 15:10 (3:10pm ;) ) maybe have a posting silence? So no posts, no writing, we all just visit this thread and have it open for that minute?

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Thank you Rich :) . For me, that has hit so deep down and made me think about all the wicked times we had on street and rides and hampshire comps. Its amazing to think how one person has made such an impact in my life, and left that lasting impression that I will never forget. Ride those clouds with Pride Deej

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Well written Rich.

I was fully aware that today was the day and had thought about making a similar topic earlier but was unable to find the words that you have so thoughtfully put together.

I remember when I first heard about it - after coming home after a night of celebrations and logging on to MSN only to see the huge list of tributes in fellow trials riders screen names. A 19th I'll not ever be able to forget.

Stay safe everyone and ride in peace to all of our lost comrades.

Andy

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Very moving rich.

Having only ever been to the Popy ride once, i really looking forward for sunday, such a moving day, as well as fantastic people and riding of course. Although im hoping to try and get to the june meet im not hopeful, unfortunately.

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5 years today, and 5 years more. We will still never Forget.

RIP DJ, Forever missed.

This is the 1st and only time I will be missing the Portsmouth ride.

I wont be Missing the Abingdon Ride for Anything.

It still warms my heart to see FBM shirts worn at rides. DJ must be Smilling down on us, Knowing his Leggacy will Live on Forever.

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