In a recent and tragic event during the British Supersport Championship race held at Oulton Park in Cheshire, two motorcycle riders lost their lives following a devastating crash. The incident, which occurred on the first lap of the race, involved an 11-bike collision that left both Shane Richardson from New Zealand and Owen Jenner, a 21-year-old British rider, fatally injured. In the aftermath, heartfelt tributes have poured in from across the motorsport community, reflecting on the impact these talented riders had in their short lives.
Shane Richardson was a father of two who hailed from Lower Hutt, just north of Wellington in New Zealand. He had built a dual career as both a joiner and a racing professional, demonstrating a commitment to both his family and his passion for motorcycle racing. Richardson’s racing journey began in 2013, and within a mere four years, he was competing at high-caliber international events, including the prestigious MotoAmerica championship in the United States. His resilience and determination saw him establish a notable reputation in the sport, particularly after moving to the UK in 2019, where he formed a family with his girlfriend Hannah James, ultimately welcoming two children into their lives.
Owen Jenner, also a promising talent, began his journey in racing on the Junior Moto-cross circuit. He quickly made a name for himself on tarmac, clinching titles like the 2018 Team Green, the 2020 Junior Supersport, and the 2023 Junior Superstock titles. His talents caught the attention of the Kramer Team, leading to a significant victory in the 2024 British GP2 season where he secured a remarkable 18 wins out of 20 races. Following this achievement, Jenner signed with the Rapid Honda team in November 2024. His sudden death has left the team in mourning, expressing feelings of “sadness beyond words” in their statements.
Furthermore, the tragic accident also saw fellow rider Tom Tunstall enduring serious injuries, prompting ongoing medical treatment at Royal Stoke University Hospital. While Tunstall grapples with significant back and abdominal injuries, five other riders were reported to have sustained minor injuries during the crash.
The loss of Richardson and Jenner resonates deeply within the motorsport community. Colleagues, competitors, and fans alike have spoken fondly of both riders. Morgan McLaren-Wood, a fellow New Zealand rider who was involved in the crash but emerged relatively unscathed, expressed his sorrow through social media, stating he struggled to find the right words in light of the tragedy. In heartfelt messages, various individuals highlighted Shane’s vibrant character and the mentorship he provided to others, notably sharing anecdotes of camaraderie shared on the tracks.
Brady Dyer, a city councillor in Hutt City, took to Facebook to affirm Richardson’s pride in his roots from Wainuiomata, emphasizing the admiration he garnered both locally and internationally for his racing prowess. The sentiment of grief was echoed by Cormac Buchanan, another rider from New Zealand, who described Shane as “truly one of the best people” he ever raced alongside and reflected on the joy and pride Shane brought to his experiences on the track.
This tragic incident not only highlights the inherent risks associated with motorsport but also serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stories interwoven within the fabric of competitive racing. As the motorsport community seeks to heal, their collective shock and grief serve as a testament to the deep connections formed through shared passion and pursuit of excellence in the sport.