I think that for most people who have followed racing closely for the last 25 years, the date September fifth is one that each year has them staring at the calendar when they realize it's "that day". Seventeen years ago, I can remember where I was standing on September fifth, struck and in disbelief.

After today's tragic events at Misano, the fifth of September will be no less painful.

Moto2 rider Shoya Tomizawa was killed today at Misano. Shoya Tomizawa won the first Moto2 race ever held, back at Qatar this season. He was a colorful and well-liked man, and a very talented rider.

A facet of his death is that it is the impetus for a sad coincidence. On September 5, 1993, Wayne Rainey crashed while racing for the lead in the 500cc race at Misano. He was paralyzed in the crash, bringing an end to the near-decade long rivalry between he and Kevin Schwantz.

Reached in Italy, 1993 world champion Kevin Schwantz said, "I'm not too big on dates, but if that's the case, I'm not getting out of bed next September fifth. It's very sad here, and I give my wholehearted condolences to the family of Shoya Tomizawa.