In a special ceremony on Friday, the City of Owensboro revealed a statue celebrating the life and accomplishments of the late MotoGP™ Legend Nicky Hayden, who was born and raised in the city. Held on the front lawn of the Owensboro Convention Center, the ceremony was a part of a regular summer event called Friday After 5. Attended by locals and Nicky Hayden fans from as far away as the U.K., the ceremony included a speech by Mayor Tom Watson, who also proclaimed Saturday Nicky Hayden Day, the date, June 9, referencing Nicky’s racing number in American format – 6/9.
“We were proud to unveil the statue honoring Nicky," Mayor Watson said. "He was not only a world-class motorcycle champion, he was a world-class person, and we are proud that he called Owensboro home. We know his legacy will live on forever.”
Brother. You are so loved! #alwaysinourhearts pic.twitter.com/vlUxFe6seR
— Kathleen Hayden (@Kath_Hayden) 8 juin 2018
Commissioned by the city and the Hayden family – Nicky’s parents, siblings, and fiancée, as well as members of his extended family – the bronze sculpture was created by Loveland, Colorado’s George Lundeen, who was in attendance with the Haydens.