Harry Van Hemmen was in his time as a motocross journalist one of the best, and also great friends with many of the riders. Van Hemmen was also a major part of the growth of Sinisalo, bringing many major deals for the leading riders around the World. Here is a nice message from Harry about his old friend Andre Malherbe.

Adieu, DéDé,

Not so long ago, after seeing his photo, I thought, well André is still among us.
In my time as a Grand Prix journalist I spent 17 years near the best of the pack. André he was the star for several years with his Ferrari Testarosso and striking wife. After a mediocre first GP moto I heard him say to Sabine  “J´áttaque” on his way to the start of the second moto. (I'm going to attack). After the race, he asked her to “give me my jewelry,” as he got ready for the podium.

Three 500cc world titles on Honda followed. After the first title August 10, 1980 there was total chaos in Ettelbrück, I tried in vain to get close to the newly crowned champion for some quotes. Pointless.

 Some time later I saw him leaving in a car full of guys who kept fans away from the hero. I ran as fast as I could with cameras and lenses flying and luckily the champion saw me. He rolled down the window and stopped the car and that's how I got his quotes. Moments you’ll never forget.

In a accident January 6, 1988 in the Dakar, Andrés world was turned upside down. Paralyzed from the neck down, the great champion had to continue his life with the helo of others. The last time I spoke to him was at Helsinki airport. I waited for our Belgian importer, “I brought a friend with me” Johnny called out to me. The doors opened again ... André Malherbe came riding towards me in his wheelchair. I was shocked but didn't think twice, sank to my knees and came eye to eye level with DéDé who wanted to know what was going on in the sport he enjoyed so much.

Goodbye DéDé, you will remain in my memories. Rest in peace champion.

And thank you Jean Claude Lacquaye for taking good care of the hero of many. JC you have stayed near André Malherbe since that horrendous and sad accident. Respect!