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Daily Mirror
07-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
'I was one row behind tragic riders in fatal crash - this is what happened at Oulton Park'
Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson passed away in tragic circumstances due to a devastating crash involving 11 riders at Oulton Park in Cheshire and one rider has now spoken out A racer involved in the devastating 11-bike crash that saw two British Superbike stars pass away, has spoken out on the chaos seconds before the horrifying incident. Morgan McLaren-Wood was among those injured as Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson died in the tragic scenes at Oulton Park. The first lap of the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race saw a chain reaction crash in which 11 riders fell from their bikes with Jenner and Richardson suffering fatal injuries. A further rider, Tom Tunstall, was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital and suffered a broken bone in his neck. And McLaren-Wood has now recounted what transpired ahead of him on the track. The New Zealand national detailed how it was impossible to escape the havoc in front. "I was maybe a row behind Shane and Owen, maybe five or six bikes behind them - maybe a bit more," McLaren-Wood told BBC Sport. "It was just chaos - there was nothing anyone could do. There were bikes everywhere. There was nowhere for anyone to go - it's such a tight track and there's not really any run-off on it either." He added: "I think there are always ways to improve in safety in elite sport. Maybe there were too many riders out there, I don't really know. I'm not a safety expert, but I think it was mostly a tragedy." McLaren-Wood has paid tribute to his countryman, Richardson following his tragic death aged just 29. Richardson had helped his fellow Kiwi settle in to life overseas. The Astro JJR Hippo Suzuki rider ran a joinery business alongside his racing career. He leaves behind his partner Hannah James and children, Maddie and Max. Paying tribute to his compatriot, McLaren-Wood said: "Shane was such a lovely guy. After every race he'd always have a chat back in the pits, he'd ask me how my race went, I'd ask about his and he'd give me advice on how to get better and where to improve. "He was such a loving dad. I can't imagine what they're going through right now, it's so sudden and unexpected." Jenner, 21, was riding for Rapid Honda when the crash happened on the exit from turn one, Old Hall corner, on the opening lap. The young Brit died due to a catastrophic head injury at the circuit's medical centre. From Crowborough in East Sussex, Jenner was in just his second year racing in The Supersport Championship. He was signed by Rapid Honda after becoming a superstock champion in 2020 and 2023, and winning last year's GP2 title with 18 wins out of 20 race finishes. In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy McLaren-Wood, who escaped the crash with minor injuries, said in a post on social media: 'Struggling to find the words for what happened today. "Rest in peace, Shane and Owen. My heart goes out to both of their families during this heartbreaking time.'
The Sun
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Who was Owen Jenner and what happened to the British Superbike rider at Oulton Park?
OWEN JENNER sadly passed away after a devastating crash at a British Superbikes event at Oulton Park. The 21-year-old was involved in an 11-man 'chain reaction' collision after the first turn of Monday's race in Cheshire, killing him and fellow rider Shane Richardson. Owen, from East Sussex, raced for Rapid Honda and became British GP2 champion in 2024 after winning 18 out of 20 races. Rapid Honda has previously said: 'Owen has impressed us all at Rapid Honda over recent seasons and his career is on a clear ascendancy. 'He should be a title challenger in British Supersport in 2025.' What happened to Owen Jenner? The incident happened at the first turn when one rider lost control and skidded across the tarmac into another, resulting in a 'chain reaction' crash. One bike caught fire within the pile-up, which saw medics race onto the track before the event was abandoned. Owen, racing under number 86, initially received immediate medical attention trackside before being rushed to the circuit's medical centre. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, Owen passed away due to a 'catastrophic head injury'. New Zealander Shane Richardson, 29, also died as a result of the crash while fellow Brit Tom Tunstall was taken to hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries. Five other riders were treated for minor injuries but did not require additional medical assistance. 2 In an official statement, MotorSport Vision Racing, who are responsible for circuit operations at Oulton Park, confirmed the heartbreaking news about Shane and Owen's passing. It read: 'At the start of this afternoon's Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park, exiting turn one, Old Hall corner on the first lap, there was a chain reaction incident involving 11 riders falling. The race was immediately stopped and trackside medical services deployed. "Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled. "This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured, and another sustaining significant injuries." Fellow British Superbike rider Glenn Irwin posted on social media to pay tribute to Owen and Shane. He said: 'Owen you were always smiling, just a young kid chasing your dream and having fun along the way. 'Shane, I didn't know you personally but watching videos and photos of you and your little family I can see how much of an amazing dad and partner that you are along with being a top rider. "Rest in peace boys - life can be so so cruel. We will continue to offer support to your families in the coming times ahead, my thoughts go to the entire British Superbike team of organisers, Marshals, medics and the wider community.' Isle of Man TT race winner and British Superbike rider Peter Hickman said: 'Gutted beyond belief. Our sport can be so cruel sometimes. 'My thoughts are with all the families of everyone involved in that tragic accident yesterday. Ride in peace boys.' National Superstock rider Kam Dixon said he 'lost a brother today'. 'There really wasn't anyone like our OJ [Owen Jenner]. This kid was such a talent and will always be in my heart, he was the best mate. 'Not many people can say they have won three British Championships. Love you mate.' Why is Owen Jenner's death being investigated by police? An investigation has been launched by Cheshire Police following the tragic crash. Cheshire Police said: 'Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon. 'Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries. 'The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Police.' Owen Jenner's racing history Owen had a prolific racing career, being crowned Superstock champion in 2020 and 2023. The Brit also became GP2 champion in 2024, winning the title with 18 wins out of 20 race finishes. The 21-year-old was predicted by many, including his team - Rapid Honda, to reach the top of British Superbikes.
Daily Mirror
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Dad of rider killed in Oulton Park tragedy posts heartbreaking social media message
Owen Jenner, a 21-year-old rider from East Sussex, tragically lost his life in a serious crash involving 10 others in a British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park on Monday The father of Owen Jenner has shared a heartbreaking photo of his son with his favourite pet after he died in a horrifying crash on Monday. Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, 29, both passed away after sustaining catastrophic injuries in the 11-bike incident at Oulton Park. Jenner was riding for Rapid Honda at the British Supersport Championship race when the crash happened on the exit from turn one, Old Hall corner, on the first lap. The young British rider died of a catastrophic head injury at the circuit's medical centre. Richardson died on the way to Royal Stoke University Hospital of severe chest injuries, while Tom Tunstall, a 47-year-old rider, sustained significant back and abdominal injuries and remains in hospital. The race was stopped immediately and the rest of the event was cancelled. Motorsport Vision Racing (MSVR), who are responsible for circuit operations at the Cheshire track, and the Motorcycle Racing Control Board are "investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary". Tragically, Jenner's final post on his public Facebook page was a tribute to his father Michael. The picture shows the two of them beaming while celebrating a race victory on the podium with the caption: "Happy birthday to the old boy. Wouldn't be where I am without him and I know he wouldn't wanna be anywhere else on his special day!" Posting after his son's death, Michael shared a photo of a young Owen smiling while holding a cat. "The love of his life," the caption reads. A reply from a friend read: "I'm completely lost for words Numb to the core and can't imagine what you guys are going through right now.. I only have good memories of all the times we rode on track or got to watch Owen take his championships… "There's nothing that can be done to bring him back but just know he brought so much happiness to so many others… God speed Owen." A reply under Owen's own post added: "One of the most genuine lads I've had the pleasure of knowing, no words will bring you back, you've left your mark on so many people. You'll live on in people's memories pal." Jenner, from Crowborough in East Sussex, was in his second year racing in The Supersport Championship. He was signed up to Rapid Honda after becoming a superstock champion in 2020 and 2023, and winning last year's GP2 title with 18 wins out of 20 race finishes. Tributes poured in from the world of motorsport on Tuesday, with a succession of riders posting emotional messages on social media. Rory Skinner posted: "Progressed today but don't have a lot to say… Gutted is an understatement. The sport can be too cruel at times. Thoughts and condolences to everyone and their families involved in today's incident." Jamie Davis wrote: "What a horrible day for racing. My thoughts are with every family and or friends." Blaze Baker added: "Absolutely devastated, very sad day today. My thoughts are with both families in this very tough time." "Is a black day for motorsport with terrible losses. Ride in peace my friend," Jaimie van Sikkelerus wrote. Storm Stacey posted: "I have nothing to say this evening, forget the results. Thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of the 2 riders that passed today."
Daily Mirror
06-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Girlfriend of British Superbikes rider who died in Oulton Park crash suffers double tragedy
The partner of one of the motorcyclists who died at the age of 29 in a devastating 11-bike crash on Monday, sadly, lost another boyfriend to a racing tragedy nine years ago The partner of British Superbikes rider Shane Richardson, who sadly died in an 11-bike collision at Oulton Park, also lost her previous boyfriend to a separate motorcycle crash nine years ago. Tragedy struck the Cheshire circuit on Monday when one British Supersport Championship rider lost control at Turn One and was flung into the path of his fellow competitors. A pileup ensued, and as one bike caught fire, medics were quick on the scene. Sadly, two riders lost their lives: Owen Jenner, 21, and Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki racer Mr Richardson, 29. The race was eventually abandoned. Mr Jenner was taken to the circuit medical centre and given further resuscitation treatment, but died from a "catastrophic head injury", the organisers said. He became the 2024 British GP2 champion and was signed to Rapid Honda. Mr Richardson died of severe chest injuries whilst being taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital, having been treated trackside. The New Zealander leaves behind two children and his girlfriend, Hannah James, a former grid girl. In an agonising twist, Ms James has lost a partner previously to a separate race accident, reports the Mail. In 2016, at the Oliver's Mount Spring Cup, rider Billy Redmayne suffered an accident on track in North Yorkshire and was airlifted to hospital. However, he later passed away, surrounded by family and loved ones, including Ms James, who was dating the rider at the time of his death at the age of 25. The incident at Old Hall corner on the first lap of the British Supersport Championship on Monday, which claimed the life of Mr Richardson, now marks the second time in the space of 10 years that Ms James has heartbreakingly lost a boyfriend to the sport. A third rider, Tom Tunstall, 47, sustained "significant injuries" near the village of Little Budworth, and, alongside his two competitors, was treated on track before being transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with "significant back and abdominal injuries". Morgan McLaren-Wood was another rider involved in the incident. He was one of five riders who escaped with minor injuries, including Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, and Freddie Barnes. After the collision, he took to social media to convey his emotions. "Struggling to find the words for what happened today," posted Mr McLaren-Wood. "Rest in peace, Shane and Owen. My heart goes out to both of their families during this heartbreaking time." After the incident, the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing released a statement, which read: "At the start of this afternoon's Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park, exiting turn one, Old Hall corner on the first lap, there was a chain reaction incident involving 11 riders falling. "The race was immediately stopped, and trackside medical services deployed. Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled. "This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another sustaining significant injuries. The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary." Cheshire Constabulary also released their own statement, as a spokesperson stated: "Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park - Monday 5 May. "Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision, which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries. "Due to the severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the event was cancelled. The two riders who sadly died have been named as Owen Jenner (21) and Shane Richardson (29). "The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Police."
Irish Independent
06-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
‘A black day for motorsport' – Tributes paid after two riders die in 11-man bike crash
Owen Jenner, in action at Brands Hatch last year, died in an 11-man crash yesterday. Photo:Tributes have been paid from fellow superbike riders after Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson tragically died in a British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park on Monday. Police have launched an investigation following the 11-man crash at the first corner of the opening lap. The race was immediately stopped and the event was cancelled. Jenner, 21, was treated trackside and taken to the medical centre but died from a catastrophic injury to the head. Richardson, 29, was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with severe injuries but sadly passed away before his arrival. Tom Tunstall, 47, is being treated at Royal Stoke University Hospital for significant back and abdominal injuries. Five other riders, Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes and Morgan McLaren-Wood were treated for minor injuries while three other riders escaped unharmed. Fellow superbike riders quickly paid emotional and heartfelt tributes on social media later on Monday. 'Is a black day for motorsport with terrible losses, ride in peace my friend,' said British Superbike rider Jaimie van Sikkelerus. Rory Skinner, 23, posted on Instagram: 'Don't have a lot to say… gutted is an understatement. 'The sport can be too cruel at times. Thoughts and condolences to everyone and their families involved in today's incident.' Isle of Man TT multiple race winner and British Superbike rider Peter Hickman said on Tuesday: 'Gutted beyond belief. Our sport can be so cruel sometimes. My thoughts are with all the families of everyone involved in that tragic accident yesterday. Ride in peace boys.' South African rider Blaze Baker posted: 'Absolutely devastated, very sad day today. My thoughts are with both families in this very tough time.' Jamie Davis posted: 'What a horrible day for racing. My thoughts are with every family and or friends.' Jenner, who was from Crowborough in East Sussex, won the 2024 British GP2 championship and was signed to the Rapid Honda team. Richardson, from New Zealand, was in the Astro JJR HIPPO Suzuki team. Whites Powersports, a sponsor of Mr Richardson, said on Instagram they were 'extremely saddened' by the news of his death. Motorsport Vision Racing (MSVR), who are responsible for circuit operations at Oulton Park, and the Motorcycle Racing Control Board said in a statement on Monday night that they are 'investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary.' The Supersport Championship, which started its 2025 season at Oulton Park over the bank holiday weekend, is a support class to the main British Superbike series. Superbikes are highly modified vehicles, and the organisers said they are 'both quick and powerful' with engines up to 200bhp (brake horsepower). A Cheshire Police Statement read: "Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon. "Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries."
