We are deeply saddened to share the news of the loss of Bruce Allen, a beloved MotoGP columnist for Motorcycle.com. Bruce's unique brand of humor and wit illuminated our coverage of motorcycle racing, leaving an indelible mark on our platform and his personal blog, Late-Braking MotoGP.
A true racing enthusiast, Bruce called Indiana home and began his writing journey with us in 2008, when the Indianapolis Motor Speedway first hosted MotoGP. His passion extended to the Lucas Oil Indy Mile, where he enjoyed the flat track racing and the unique fan culture, including the infamous "Pedrosa Sucks" shirts.
Bruce's dedication to MotoGP was unwavering, and he became a regular contributor, providing insightful previews and recaps for every round. He was fortunate enough to cover international MotoGP rounds in Jerez (2010) and Sepang (2014), offering readers a front-row seat to the action and his signature analysis.
One of Bruce's most beloved features was his MotoGP rider tranches, which delighted fans year after year. I, for one, tried to reciprocate the joy by including as many photos as possible of Cal Crutchlow's legendary unhinged facial expressions.
Bruce's passing leaves a void, but his legacy lives on through his family. By his side for 46 years was his beloved wife, Nancy P. Gillespie, who passed away in 2021. Together, they leave behind three daughters, Liz, Ginger, and Cate, and six grandchildren.
To learn more about Bruce's life and to pay your respects, you can visit his obituary page here. Services will be held on December 20 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Carmel, Indiana.
And this is the part most people miss: Bruce's impact extended beyond the racing world. His writing connected with readers, offering a unique perspective and a much-needed dose of humor. His passing is a reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact one person can have on a community.
So, as we bid farewell to Bruce, let's celebrate his life and the joy he brought to so many. Rest in peace, Brucey.
What are your memories of Bruce's writing? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below. Let's keep his memory alive and continue to honor his legacy.
