Motorcycle Racer Simon Andrews Died From Fatal Crash

"Justin Young" (jus1029)
05/19/2014 at 14:08 • Filed to: RIP

Official statement from the Northwest 200 organizers:

Following a crash at Saturday's Vauxhall International North West 200, Simon Andrews has passed away in Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital today. The 31 year old, from Evesham in Worcestershire, was riding for the Penz13.com BMW team when he crashed on the approach to Metropole corner on lap 4 of the Superstock race. No other riders were involved in the incident. After immediate medical care at the trackside, Simon was airlifted by helicopter to the intensive care unit of the Belfast Royal Victoria hospital where he died today with his parents, Stuart and Dee, his girlfriend Lisa and best friend Breakers, by his bedside. "Simon loved road racing and he loved competing at the North West 200." his father Stuart said. "He has had a motorbike since he was 4 years old and started racing when he was 16. From that first race Simon progressed to riding for the factory Honda TT Legends team and his Mum and I are very proud of his racing achievements." "Road racing was in his blood and Simon preferred the roads to short circuits. He was fully aware of the dangers involved but he loved the challenge that that offered. Simon always said 'Once you've been on the roads there's nothing else to compare with it." "Simon made his road racing debut at the North West 200 in 2011. He loved the racing, the relaxed atmosphere and the fans he met there. Simon always said that the North West fans were the most knowledgeable in the world as they knew everything about the sport and the bikes." "Ireland had a special place in his heart as he scored his first ever championship point in a meeting at Mondello Park." "Simon loved children and I always remember how he would kneel down to be at the same height as the kids who asked him for his autograph or picture. Throughout his career Simon has always been involved with various charities and that is why we have made a donation of his organs today. Simon always wanted that to happen." North West 200 Event Director Mervyn Whyte said "This is a very sad day and I want to offer my condolences to Simon's family and friends and to his race team." "Simon was a superb rider and a great character in the paddock. He was a huge asset to our race. It was an absolute pleasure to work with him and he was always very helpful when we asked for his assistance. He will be sadly missed by everyone at the North West 200."

DISCUSSION (5)

Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. > Justin Young
05/19/2014 at 14:46

I just saw a gif of what I think was the impact that did him in. It isn't gory, and I could post it, but I'm not sure anyone would want that.

Goshen, formerly Darkcode > Justin Young
05/19/2014 at 14:49

Tragic, in the same day Brabham died.

Dusty Ventures > Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast.
05/19/2014 at 15:19

I'd say hold off

Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. > Dusty Ventures
05/19/2014 at 15:32

As a member of the two wheel good community and a fan of things that go fast, it's a tough watch. Like I said, there's no gore, you don't even see him hit anything. The thing is he is skidding on the ground fast enough to where he gets launched in the air when he goes over a curb. (not the flat part, the graduated part for access. It looks like an old Evel Knievel video.

BurningDinosaurs > Justin Young
05/19/2014 at 16:00

Really rough news. Tragic loss. But a part of life with road racing I suppose.. I highly recommend the Honda TT Legends documentary series to anyone who hasn't seen it. Best to remember someone for their life, not their moment of death: TT Legends Part 1