Tragedy occurred at round 4 of the 2005 Victoria Motorcycle Club Superbike Championships held over the weekend at Manfeild. An accident involving four riders, one whose bike was on fire, on the back straight of the circuit brought out the red flag to stop the Superlite (F3) race so that ambulance and safety vehicles could proceed onto the track to attend to the accident.

Following this, there was a collision at the start/finish
line as riders slowed to reform on the grid. Owen Brunton died at the scene.

Two riders were taken to Palmerston North hospital have since been discharged. A fourth rider was discharged that evening and others were treated at a local accident clinic.

A motorcycle enthusiast most of his life, Owen has long been invloved in competion including both motorcross and, more recently, road racing. He was a very well liked member and very supportive to those new in the sport. The club is looking at what it can do for Owen’s family. Members and friends are gathering to support each other. Police Detective Sergeant Ross Grantham will lead an investigation into the accident along with Motorcycling New Zealand, and the Victoria Motorcycle Club.

The motorcycling community send their thoughts and sympathies to the Mr Brunton’s family and the injured riders.