One special day at Spa in 1985

25 years ago Freddie Spencer managed a magical feat by winning both the 250 and 500 Grand Prix championships in the same year.

Freddie Spencer tested his abilities to the upmost from jumping off the 250 to then line-up on the grid for the 500 race that followed. But what stands out alongside this remarkable act is the days where he took double victories. This happened four times that year at Mugello, Salzburgring, Le Mans and Spa Francorchamps. His performances at the legendary Spa circuit are demonstrated in the two videos.

However, the 1985 season wasn't a walk in the park for the American with big names to challenge in both championships. The 500s had reigning champion Eddie Lawson, Randy Mamola, Wayne Gardner and Christian Sarron. Whereas the 250s were loaded with former champions Carlos Lavado and Anton Mang.

Spencer was able to wrap up the 250 title with two races remaining, winning seven of the 10 rounds he completed in the 12 race season. The 500s would come down to the penultimate race between Freddie and Lawson at Anderstorp, Sweden.

The decision to take on this huge racing effort was decided between Spencer and the two-stroke genius Erv Kanemoto, but the price that was paid at the end of the season was difficult for former. Carpal tunnel syndrome hindered Freddie the following season and was possibly agrivated by having to complete in the two classes the previous year.

Spencer exhausted his gift and he would never win another race after that incredible season.

At the time I was just a growth in my mother's belly but it feels special to have an inkling of association with Freddie Spencer's great achievement.

By Robin Goodwin