The grieving father of the Finke Desert Race rider who lost his life during competition has thanked first responders who tried to save his son.
A competitor was riding the first leg of the race from Alice Springs to Aputula/Finke on Sunday when he crashed just after midday, Northern Territory Police said.
Police provided first aid until paramedics arrived but the rider died at the scene.
“I would like to thank everyone so far for their condolences with the passing of my son during the racing of the Tatts Finke Desert Race. Tough times ahead but we will be strong. Thank you all,” the rider’s father wrote on social media.
In a second post on the official social page of the race, the South Australian man also thanked attendees who played their part.
“As the father of the rider who passed, I would like to thank the campers who tried to revive my son at the crash as I’m sure it has affected them as well and not what they wanted with their Finke experience,” he said.
“As much as things are tough right now, it’s people like that that make the Finke experience. With a heavy heart I say thank you.”
The heartbroken father has been flooded with hundreds of messages of condolences, including from Australian off-road and enduro motorcycle racing world champion Toby Price.
Another well wisher said: “My heartfelt condolences to you and the rest of the family, friends and everyone affected by this tragic loss. In the midst of unimaginable pain, your gratitude towards those who tried to help speaks volumes about your strength and character. My thoughts are with you all during this incredibly difficult time.”
A crime scene was declared and crash detectives started preparing a report for the coroner after the incident.
Finke Desert Race NT Police Commander Michael Budge said the incident was a tragedy for all involved.
“Our thoughts are with the rider’s family, friends and all involved with the event at this difficult time,” he said.
Race authorities have extended their deepest sympathies and condolences to the rider’s family and friends and are providing ongoing support at both ends of the event route.
“The Finke Desert Race mourns the loss of a rider during Race Day 1,” their statement reads.
“A competitor died at the scene along the first half of the route from Alice Springs to Aputula/Finke.
“The committee are deeply saddened by this loss and extend their deepest sympathies and condolences to the rider’s family and friends.
“We ask all to respect the privacy of the family, friends and those who have been impacted by this incident.
“We appreciate the efforts of all emergency services, first respondents, officials and volunteers.
“The Finke Desert Race is providing ongoing support at both ends of the route.
“A police investigation is underway.”
The race resumed on Monday for the journey back to Alice Springs, with Travis Robinson and Paul Currie winning the cars title.
