Wil Hartog

Wil Hartog (born 28 May 1948) is a Dutch former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer.

Hartog was the first Dutch competitor to win a 500cc Grand Prix race.

Born in Abbekerk, North Holland, Hartog became the first Dutchman to win a 500cc Grand Prix when he claimed a victory at the 1977 Dutch TT.

[1] When Suzuki factory team rider Pat Hennen suffered career-ending injuries while competing in the 1978 Isle of Man TT, Hartog was hired as his replacement to help their number one rider, Barry Sheene, defend his world championship.

[4] Standing over 1,80 meters tall, he was at a disadvantage against his jockey-sized competitors yet he still managed impressive results.

Hartog (30) competing in his first World Championship race, leads Walter Szabo (23) and Dieter Braun (11) during the 1970 125cc Dutch TT.