I think MotoGP, Rossi and Edwards will return in Valencia. We'll see heartfelt tributes to Marco. I think the feelings expressed will be genuine. Once that has taken place, I believe the show will go on. I also believe it should!
Every individual who was involved in or even witnessed this accident was aware of the risks. In that sense, there were no victims, no innocents. Those who shared with Marco his victories and successes were acutely aware of the risks taken to achieve them. Marco himself had surely decided that the rewards justified the risks. I think its fair to say that every rider on the grid has come to that very same conclusion. We should take this as fact and press on. To do anything less is to infer that we weren't aware of the dangers in the first place. I think everyone involved was, and that's why I believe Valencia will run as scheduled.
"Safety is acceptable risk where risk depends on the probability and severity of injury."(Lowrance, W) This is the calculation that takes place in the minds of everyone involved.... the organizers, participants and even the fans. We're all aware. I offer that we must be to find the spectacle so moving in the first place. Unfortunately, in the coming weeks we'll witness the gnashing of teeth and the public proclamations of "blame determination." This is what makes the assessment of blame such an absurd exercise in the first place. I believe it's disingenuous. There is no blame. Or, if you will, the blame lies squarely with the participants, organizers and fans. This is our spectacle, our gladiator arena. Every so often, we lose our battle with acceptable risk. We're made aware of the consequence of daring choices (to race). We should digest this and move on.
What should we take from this? That racing is spectacular and dangerous. That riders race for intangibles represented by trophies and money. The are victims only of their motivations, passions and talents. We should applaud them and admire them, completely. We should forgive them their petty indiscretions and shower the sport with our patronage and admiration. We should not participate in the placing of blame and responsibility. We all knew what we signed up for. It cannot be denied. Own it, and get on with the racing.
Marco will be remembered for his skill and charisma. We do not honor him by deciding that his risks were too great. To do so would be to call him a fool. To do so would be to indict ourselves of the same charge for watching. I do not believe that he squandered his life, quite the opposite!
I look forward to the tributes and remembrances.........I also say bring on Valencia!
