SIX TIME MOTORCYCLE CHAMPION DIES IN ROAD ACCIDENT

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (8/10/98, 700pm PST) - Three-time NHRA Winston and three-time AMA Prostar Pro Stock Bike champion John Myers, 40, of Birmingham, died Sunday afternoon as the result of injuries suffered in a tragic road accident. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest in motorcycle drag racing competition, Myers was the second winningest Pro Stock Motorcycle rider in NHRA history with 33 national event wins.

The accident occurred as Myers was leading a group of friends back to Birmingham after a visit to Talladega on their motorcycles. A small animal apparently darted in front of Myers as he entered a curve, and trying to avoid an accident his bike impacted an Armco guardrail, spilling him over it. Arriving moments later, his friends began immediate first aid, and an ambulance was summoned. Through a combination of ground and air ambulance, John arrived at Carraway Methodist Hospital in less than 45 minutes, but despite heroic medical efforts, died shortly after. Doctors reported that his internal injuries were so severe that had the accident occurred directly in front of the hospital it's "unlikely he would have survived it".

When not competing in 180 miles per hour drag racing competition, Myers was the owner/operator of John Myers Turbo Specialties in Birmingham, an aftermarket turbocharger re-manufacturing facility and automotive repair shop specializing in custom turbocharger installations on exotic cars and motorcycles.

Myers is survived by his wife, Kerry, and his 22-month old daughter, Christina.

A special memorial fund has been setup. Donations may be sent to the John Myers Memorial Fund (Account #48845175) in his daughter, Christina's name in care of South Trust Bank, P.O. Box 2554, Birmingham, AL 35290 or to John Myers Turbo Specialties at 117-H David Green Road, Birmingham, AL 35244.