Motocross star dies aged 30 after horror crash just months before he was due to be a dad
Australian motocross rider Joel Evans has died after crashing his bike during a ProMX race in Adelaide and the 30-year-old's family have paid a touching tribute
Motocross star Joel Evans has tragically died at the age of just 30 after he was involved in a horrific crash. Evans passed away after he crashed while competing in the ProMX Championship in Adelaide.
He was rushed to hospital by emergency services, but South Australian Police have confirmed that Evans died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash. The Australian rider was due to become a father later this year with his fiancee Michaela.
"Yesterday we lost the most incredible person on this earth," wrote Evans' family in a touching tribute. "The most authentic, loved and kind hearted soul. He loved and devoted his life to this sport which brought him so much joy and he rode it out right till the end.
"We are so grateful for the outpouring of love and support for our beautiful man. He is such a loved partner, uncle, brother, friend and son but most proudly a father to our adored little boy who is joining us in October.
"Please share his name, share his legacy, this incredible man deserves to be remembered across the generations. We love you so much Joely."
Evans' sister Renae also paid tribute to her brother, adding: "Joel was the best brother a girl could ask for, and an even greater uncle for my girls. He used to joke about not wanting to get old, now he never has to.
"Joel was doing what he loved and was in one of the happiest eras of his life, but that doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. We love you so much buddy. More than you'll ever understand. Ride. In. Peace #81.
"And for those reading. Hug your loved ones extra today, and please don't ever take your time for granted. Tomorrow isn't promised for any of us."
Evans was previously involved in a horror accident in 2015 while racing in South Australia that left him almost paralysed after suffering a broken neck. "All I remember is coming up to the section — and then lying on the track," Evans recalled in an interview with Adelaide Now in 2016.
"I went to get up and nothing happened. I just remember the feeling of nothing, and how scared I was." However, he was back competing within a year of the accident.
"There was a bit of talk about 'Are you sure you want to do that?', especially from doctors," he added. "I had to weigh up the risk versus the reward. As long as I'm having fun and doing everything smart and don't push myself, there's no reason I can't jump back on."
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