In a tragic turn of events during the opening race of the 2025 British Supersport Championship at Oulton Park, two motorcycle racers lost their lives following a devastating 11-bike crash. The incident, which occurred on May 5, 2025, claimed the lives of 21-year-old Owen Jenner from East Sussex and 29-year-old Shane Richardson from New Zealand, while several others sustained injuries.
As the race began, chaos erupted at the first turn, Old Hall corner, when a rider lost control, leading to a chain reaction that saw multiple competitors fall. Eyewitness Morgan McLaren-Wood, who was racing just a few rows behind the victims, described the scene as “just chaos.” He recounted, “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.”
McLaren-Wood himself suffered a sprained wrist and bruising to his back and knee. He expressed his sorrow over the loss of his fellow racers, stating, “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.”
Richardson was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe chest injuries, while Jenner succumbed to a catastrophic head injury after being treated at the circuit medical center. The race was immediately halted, and the remainder of the day's events were canceled as medical personnel rushed to assist the injured riders.
Tom Tunstall, another rider involved in the crash, sustained significant injuries, including a broken bone in his neck, and was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital for further treatment. His condition has been described as serious but stable, with doctors evaluating whether he requires surgery.
McLaren-Wood paid tribute to both Jenner and Richardson, highlighting their positive impact on the racing community. He noted that Richardson, who ran a joinery business alongside his racing career, was a supportive figure who often offered advice and encouragement. “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,” McLaren-Wood said. “He was such a loving dad. I can't imagine what they're going through right now, it's so sudden and unexpected.”
Jenner, who had a promising career ahead of him, was in just his second year of racing in the Supersport Championship. He was signed by Rapid Honda after achieving notable success in the superstock category, including winning the 2020 and 2023 titles and the GP2 championship in 2024.
The British motorcycle racing community is mourning the loss of these two talented riders, and tributes have poured in from fans and fellow competitors. A fundraising campaign has been launched to support the families of both Richardson and Jenner, raising over £45,000 to date.
In light of this tragic incident, the Motorcycle Racing Control Board (MCRCB) and Motorsport Vision Racing (MSV) have announced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. A spokesperson from Cheshire Constabulary confirmed that they are working in conjunction with the Coroner and racing authorities to examine the incident thoroughly.
McLaren-Wood acknowledged the inherent risks of the sport but emphasized the need for ongoing improvements in safety. “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,” he remarked.
The 2025 British Supersport Championship season had just begun, with the next event scheduled for Donington Park on May 16-18, 2025. As the racing community reflects on this heartbreaking loss, the focus remains on supporting the families affected and ensuring the safety of all riders moving forward.
