TWO times Isle of Man TT winner Shaun Harris is back in the bike racing business, despite massive injuries which previously forced him to announce his retirement from road racing.
After being brought back from the brink of death following a horrific crash at the TT, Harris has again strapped on his leathers.
The New Zealand rider - who won two TTs in the 2003 meeting - has relocated to Australia and hit the raceway at Morgan Park, Brisbane over the weekend, in what was just his fourth race since that fateful day in 2007.
Harris had a huge 100mph crash in the centenary 2007 TT at Union Mills on the last lap of the Superstock race. He spent several weeks in intensive care with both his legs were shattered - into nine pieces altogether.
His pelvis was in nine pieces, all of the ribs on his right side were broken, his elbow and humerus were smashed and four teeth were knocked out. Harris also suffered a brain injury from which he took months to recover.
He has made a number of media comments about a possible return to racing - including a return to the TT - over the years but his injuries were so severe it made the dream impossible and he made the “official” announcement of his retirement from racing in 2009.
But the desire to race again was clearly too strong and he won his very first race back. He said there was no fear as he prepared for his return and said it all came back to him as he waited at the start line for the green light.
"Racing is something that I have done for so long that it feels unnatural not to do it." Harris admits he was no angel in his younger days, but said the months following the accident allowed him to see the light.
"It's like I need to say thank you to the big man upstairs," Harris said. “I'm very, very lucky and I think I am here to do something still."
He now plans to use his skills and life experience to help encourage teens to make the most of their opportunities in life. His dream is to travel around schools and motivate young people to be the best.
No average 47-year-old, Harris's impressive racing career and friendly demeanour are sure to make him a hit with the kids he hopes to help. He was always a big favourite with the fans at the TT.
"If you want something bad enough in life, then get off your butt and go get it," he said.
