Monday, May 5, 2025, will forever be etched as one of the darkest days in the history of British motorcycle racing. What was meant to be a thrilling start to the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship at Oulton Park turned into a harrowing tragedy when a devastating 11-bike pile-up occurred on the very first lap of the race. The incident claimed the lives of two young and talented riders—Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, 29—and left six others injured, casting a long shadow over the opening weekend of the British Superbikes season.
The crash unfolded mere seconds into the race, exiting Turn One at Old Hall Corner, a notoriously fast and technical section of the Cheshire circuit. In what has been described by MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) as a “chain reaction incident,” 11 riders were brought down in a catastrophic collision. Emergency medical personnel responded immediately, halting the race and deploying extensive resources in a desperate effort to save lives.
Despite their best efforts, tragedy could not be averted. Owen Jenner, a rising British talent riding for Rapid Honda, suffered a catastrophic head injury. He was treated at the trackside before being rushed to the circuit’s medical centre, where he succumbed to his injuries despite further resuscitation efforts. Just as heartbreaking was the death of Shane Richardson, a respected New Zealand rider competing for Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki. Richardson sustained severe chest injuries and was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital, but tragically died before arrival.
Both riders were beloved figures in the paddock. Jenner, only in his second year in the Supersport Championship, had shown promise and spirit, earning admiration from peers and fans alike. Richardson, more seasoned and ranked eighth in last season’s standings, was known for his gritty determination and sportsmanship on the track. Their deaths have sent ripples of grief through the racing community and beyond.
Tom Tunstall, 47, riding for SRG Specialist Risk Group Ducati, was also seriously injured in the crash. He was treated initially at the scene and then transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries. The latest updates indicate he is receiving critical care.
Five other riders—Carl Harris (#9), Max Morgan (#39), Cameron Hall (#48), Freddie Barnes (#78), and Morgan McLaren-Wood (#95)—sustained minor injuries and were treated at the circuit’s medical centre. Fortunately, their conditions did not require hospitalisation. Three more riders involved in the crash—Lewis Jones (#25), Corey Tinker (#37), and George Edwards (#90)—escaped without physical injury, though the emotional impact of the tragedy will no doubt linger.
As a mark of respect and due to the severity of the incident, the remainder of the British Superbike Championship event was cancelled. In the aftermath, MotorSport Vision Racing, the event organisers, confirmed that a full investigation had been launched in collaboration with the Coroner, Cheshire Constabulary, and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board.
The MSVR released a sobering statement detailing the sequence of events and reaffirming their commitment to uncovering the precise causes behind the fatal crash. Their words struck a deeply emotional chord:
“This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured, and another sustaining significant injuries.”
The loss of Jenner and Richardson has drawn tributes from across the motorsport world. Fellow racers, teams, fans, and governing bodies have all shared heartfelt condolences, emphasizing the risks these athletes take every time they line up on the grid.
Cheshire Police also confirmed their involvement in the ongoing investigation:
“Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park… The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident.”
As questions mount and the investigation continues, the motorcycling world is left grappling with grief. The safety of the sport will no doubt come under intense scrutiny once again. Yet amid the tragedy, there remains deep respect for the courage and passion that riders like Jenner and Richardson embodied.
On this painful day, the British racing family mourns not just the loss of two competitors, but two sons, teammates, and friends—lives lived in pursuit of speed, skill, and the undying spirit of competition.
May they both rest in peace.
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