'A dark day': motorsport pays tribute to pair killed in 'chain reaction' crash with 11 riders

The world of motorsport yesterday paid tribute to two riders who were killed in a crash involving 11 motorcyclists during a British Superbikes event on Monday.

- Sean Ingle

Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, 29, sustained fatal injuries after a pile-up at the first corner of the race at Oulton Park in Cheshire, which is the subject of a police investigation.

Jenner, from Crowborough in East Sussex, was treated at the trackside but died of a head injury despite attempts to resuscitate him at the circuit's medical centre.

Richardson, from Wainuiomata in New Zealand, was treated at the course before being transferred to Royal Stoke University hospital with chest injuries. He died before arrival.

A third rider, Tom Tunstall, 47, remained in hospital yesterday with what organisers said were significant back and abdominal injuries. Five other riders were treated at the track for minor injuries, while three more escaped unharmed.

Riders in the British Superbike series paid tribute to Jenner and Richardson on social media. Morgan McLaren-Wood, who was treated for minor injuries after the crash, posted: "Struggling to find the words for what happened. Rest in peace, Shane and Owen. My heart goes out to their families during this heartbreaking time."