Two riders tragically lost their lives, and another suffered significant injuries following a devastating 11-bike crash during a British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park in Cheshire. The crash occurred on the first corner, Old Hall corner, at the start of the opening lap of the race. Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, 29, both sustained fatal injuries in the catastrophic incident. Tom Tunstall, 47, was transferred to a hospital after suffering severe back and abdominal injuries. Five other riders were treated at the track for minor injuries, while three riders escaped the crash unharmed.
The crash was described as a chain reaction involving multiple riders as they exited the first corner of the race. Medical teams were quickly deployed, and the race was immediately halted. The severity of the incident led to the cancellation of the remaining events for the Bennetts British Superbike Championship that day. Due to the extreme nature of the accident, an investigation was launched by the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board, in collaboration with local authorities and the coroner.
Tom Tunstall, who was one of the riders involved in the crash, was initially treated at the track and then moved to the circuit’s medical center. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital for further treatment. The severity of his condition has raised concerns about the risks involved in such high-speed races. Five other riders, including Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood, were treated at the medical center for minor injuries and later released. Fortunately, three other riders Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker, and George Edwards were involved in the crash but managed to escape without injury.
The race organizers, MotorSport Vision Racing, issued a statement regarding the tragic accident, acknowledging the extreme severity of the situation. They expressed their condolences for the families and friends of the riders involved. In light of the events, the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are working alongside Cheshire Constabulary and the coroner to determine the cause of the accident.
The crash has highlighted the inherent dangers of motorsport, particularly in events that involve high speeds and close-quarter racing. Riders participating in such events face substantial risks, and this tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures and the potential consequences of accidents at speed.
Despite the efforts of medical staff and the quick response of trackside services, the nature of the crash left no chance for survival for Jenner and Richardson. Their deaths are a stark reminder of the risks associated with motorcycle racing and have shaken the racing community. The loss of two talented young riders has left a deep impact on their families, fellow competitors, and fans alike.
The British Supersport Championship, along with other motorsport events, will continue to evaluate safety protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future. The ongoing investigation aims to identify any factors that may have contributed to the crash, with hopes of improving safety standards across the sport.
As the racing world mourns the loss of two promising riders, their memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew them and in the motorsport community that supported them throughout their careers.
