**Heartbreak for Partner Who Has Now Lost Two Loved Ones to Motorcycle Racing Tragedies**
A woman who lost her boyfriend in a harrowing Oulton Park motorcycle accident earlier this week is enduring unimaginable heartbreak, having previously lost another partner to a similar racing tragedy nine years ago. The latest incident at the Cheshire circuit has once again brought the inherent risks of the sport under scrutiny, with the wider motorcycling community uniting in shock and mourning.
The fatal collision took place during Monday’s British Supersport Championship race. As riders approached the treacherous Turn One, a competitor lost control and was thrown into the path of his rivals, triggering an 11-bike pileup. In the chaos that ensued, one of the bikes caught fire and emergency crews responded with urgency. Despite their rapid intervention, two young riders would lose their lives: 21-year-old Owen Jenner and 29-year-old Shane Richardson, who raced for Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki.
Shane Richardson, originally from New Zealand, leaves behind two children and his partner, Hannah James. Ms James, a former grid girl, is no stranger to the perils associated with high-speed motorcycle racing. Heartbreakingly, she previously lost another boyfriend, Billy Redmayne, to a racing accident at Oliver’s Mount in Scarborough in 2016. Mr Redmayne suffered fatal injuries during the Spring Cup, passing away at the age of 25 with Ms James and his loved ones at his side.
Monday’s tragedy at Oulton Park marked the second time in less than a decade that Ms James has lost a partner to the dangers of competitive motorcycle racing. The toll of such incidents on families, friends, and the broader racing fraternity is incalculable, with memories of similar past tragedies resurfacing in the wake of each serious crash.
The circumstances of Monday’s incident reflect the unforgiving nature of the sport. Organisers explained that a sudden loss of control at Turn One resulted in carnage, leaving several riders requiring immediate medical attention. While five of those involved suffered minor injuries and were released following assessments, others were not so fortunate. Tom Tunstall, aged 47, sustained significant back and abdominal injuries and was taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital for further treatment.
Among the survivors, Morgan McLaren-Wood shared his sorrow through a heartfelt social media statement: “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.” Such messages have been echoed across the paddock and beyond, highlighting the close bonds formed within the racing world.
The incident prompted the immediate suspension of all remaining races for the day, with the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event being abandoned as medical teams and officials focused on the aftermath. In a statement, the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB) and MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) detailed that the magnitude and severity of the crash necessitated such action, while investigations into the precise sequence of events are now underway in collaboration with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary.
Cheshire Police further confirmed that they are investigating the two fatalities on behalf of the Coroner, underscoring the seriousness with which the matter is being treated. Both the MCRCB and MSVR have pledged to thoroughly examine the incident and reiterated their commitment to ongoing safety measures in the sport.
Despite continual improvements to circuit safety and advances in rider protection, Monday’s crash is a sombre reminder of motorcycle racing’s inherent dangers. For loved ones like Hannah James, who must now navigate another devastating loss, the risk is tragically clear. The motorcycling family will mourn together, continuing to support those affected as they seek answers and strive for safer racing in future.
The deaths of Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson will be felt deeply by the sport and the many fans who follow the drama and excitement of British Superbikes. As investigations continue, the racing world has paused in collective grief, paying tribute to two young men who pursued their passion on the track and the woman whose life has been indelibly marked by loss.