Keith Amor retires from road racing

KEITH AMOR has decided to quit from road racing due to losing the strength in his shoulder.

The Scotsman injured his right shoulder after two crashes in the Isle of Man TT last June, crashing at Quarterbridge in practice and then falling in the controversial wet conditions in the Supersport 2 race at Union Mills.

Amor underwent surgery for the damage to his shoulder, but he aggravated the injury in a crash at the Ulster Grand Prix.

In an effort to return to racing action in 2012, the 39-year-old had major surgery in November, undergoing a complete shoulder reconstruction. However, the joint has gradually become weaker and after seeing his surgeon on Wednesday he made the decision to end his career.

“Unfortunately, even though I have had the first round of operations, there is still damage that is resisting treatment." Amor told the Belfast Newsletter.

“My right shoulder is proving difficult to keep under control. The left shoulder is less trouble but it’s painful and in need of more treatment. Because of my ongoing injury problems I’ve decided to retire completely.

“My decision has been a difficult one and one which I have agonised over for the past three months.

“I started my career in 2001 with an orange newcomers bib at Kirkcaldy as a novice and ended it as a member of Honda Europe’s TT Legends team.

“I’m a better man for my racing and it has kept me sharp, but I will leave it to the pack to chase the glory. I’ve had my wins and losses and I’ve a lot of terrific memories, but now it’s a case of cheerio and cheers – it’s been a pleasure.”

A popular road racer, Amor had five TT podiums, including second in the opening Supersport race in 2011, as well as victories in the 2010 North West 200 Superstock race and a Supersport win at the Ulster GP the same year.