A 15-year-old motorcycle racer has died in a horrific accident at the event.
Amelia Kotze was seriously injured during the Central Coast Cup race on May 25 and died in hospital.
Motorcycling New South Wales confirmed Ms Kotze’s death in a statement, describing her as a “rising star in the dirt track world”.
Emergency services were called to Allen Park Racecourse in Somersby, near Gosford, at 2pm on Saturday and she suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Westmead, Sydney.
She was treated in intensive care but died on Tuesday, May 28th.
A 14-year-old boy was also injured in the accident, but his injuries were not serious.
“She was an example of talent, determination and sportsmanship and her incredible achievements speak to her dedication to the sport,” Motorcycling New South Wales said.
The young rider won the Victorian Junior Girls State Championship in November last year and also won the New South Wales Junior Track Championship as well as competing in the Australian Dirt Track Championships.
The Belmont Christian College, Lake Macquarie, student was awarded the title of Junior Female Rider of the Year last year.
A GoFundMe account has raised more than $14,000 to help the family.
Before her passing, organisers wrote: “Amelia was a 15-year-old young woman who was an absolute inspiration to all who met her and a phenomenal champion on and off the track.
“Amelia needs our support. Let’s come together and help her family with medical expenses, accommodation for her family, and any unexpected expenses that may arise during this difficult time.”
“We ask that anyone who is able to help Amelia and her family do so – no matter how big or small the amount, every dollar helps a lot at this incredibly heartbreaking time.”
After her death, the page was updated to say: “Our little track champion has finished racing here with us and earned her wings to race in heaven.
“You were an inspiration to all and you will be missed dearly. Hold the throttle, fly high and run hard, beautiful girl. Kisses forever #789,” the post continued, paying tribute to her racing number.
Friends and family paid tribute to the young woman on social media.
“Keep riding our little pocket rocket. We are so blessed to have you in our lives and part of our family. Our hearts are broken but you will be loved forever,” one person wrote.
“My heartfelt condolences to everyone in the horse racing community and Amelia’s family on this tragic loss of a young, beautiful woman. May Amelia rest in peace,” wrote another.
