Ballington to be inducted into MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame

Bengaluru, February 21: Four-time world champion Kork Ballington will be inducted into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame at the Australian Grand Prix on October 28.

The South African won double titles in 1978 and 1979, taking the crown in the 250 and 350 World Championships.

NEWS: Kork Ballington to become a #MotoGP Legend

South African set to be inducted into the Legends Hall of Fame at the Australian GP

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Ballington took his first podium in 1976, in the 250 World Championship, when he came second in the West German Grand Prix. And at the next event, Ballington took his first win - this time in the 350 World Championship - in the Spanish Grand Prix. 1977 saw more podiums and wins - his first 250 victory coming at Silverstone - before the South African made his charge for the crowns.

"This induction as a MotoGP Legend is a new high for me. It will be a pleasure to attend the Australian GP. I will bring my wife, Bronwyn who was an integral part of the whole journey. We have been together for 50 years and married for 40. It's a long time! Thank you very much. I am deeply touched," said Ballington.

The 66-year-old will join an elite club comprising other MotoGP legends like Giacomo Agostini, Mick Doohan, Geoff Duke, Wayne Gardner, Mike Hailwood, Daijiro Kato, Eddie Lawson, Anton Mang, Angel Nieto, Wayne Rainey, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Kenny Roberts, Jarno Saarinen, Kevin Schwantz, Barry Sheene, Marco Simoncelli, Freddie Spencer, Casey Stoner, John Surtees, Carlo Ubbiali, Alex Criville, Franco Uncini, Marco Lucchinelli, Randy Mamola and the late Nicky Hayden.

"To join the elite group already on the list is such an honour. I am deeply humbled that I am to become one of them. Throughout my career I never expected or made it a goal to become recognised. My focus was just on giving the best account of myself while honouring the true values of sportsmanship and respect for fellow competitors and those members of the GP fraternity who followed the values. Recognition became a by-product of success and this recognition of my achievements has followed me to this day," Ballington added.