Tragedy at Oulton Park: Two Riders Killed in British Supersport Championship Crash

Two riders, Englishman Owen Jenner, 21, and New Zealander Shane Richardson, 29, have tragically died following a significant 11-bike pile-up during the British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park on Monday.

The “major chain reaction” incident occurred on the opening lap of the race as the riders exited the first corner. The race, the third of the weekend, was immediately halted. Series director Stuart Higgs described the incident as “severe and catastrophic” and subsequently announced the cancellation of the event.

In a statement released on Monday night, Motorsport Vision Racing (MSVR), the operators of Oulton Park circuit, confirmed the fatalities and reported that another rider, Tom Tunstall, 47, sustained “significant injuries” in the multi-bike crash.

Shane Richardson was competing for the Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki team, while Owen Jenner was racing for Rapid Honda.

MSVR detailed the tragic circumstances: “Owen Jenner, 21, was initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit medical centre, where despite further resuscitation treatment he died from a catastrophic head injury.”

Regarding Richardson, MSVR stated: “Shane Richardson, 29, was initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit medical centre before being transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with severe chest injuries. He died prior to arrival.”

The statement also provided an update on the injured rider: “Tom Tunstall, 47, was initially treated on the track and was taken to the circuit medical centre. He was later transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries.”

MSVR and the Motorcycle Racing Control Board have confirmed that a full investigation into the incident is underway, in collaboration with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary. This tragic loss of life has cast a pall over the British Superbike Championship community, with tributes pouring in for the two young riders.