Melbourne (AAP) Former world motocross No.2 Andrew McFarlane died as tragedy struck the national champsionship on Sunday.
Mcfarlane suffered severe head inhjuries in a practice lap crash as riders prepared for round three of the series in Victoria.
Paramedics spent almost an hour trying to revive the 33-year old Queenslander but he died at the track at the State Motorcycle Sports Complex in Broadford, north of Melbourne.
Event manager Kevin Williams released short statement on the event's live web feed.
"Ladies and gentleman, it is with great regret that we announce the passing of one of our own - Andrew McFarlane," Williams said.
Following a meeting,fellow riders rode three laps in each class in honour of the man who finished second on the world championship ircuit in 2005 before the day's racing was cancelled.
Mcfarlane is survived by his wife Natalie and their young daughter.
As the news filtered through professional motovcross riders paid tribute to Mcfarlane, who returned to Australia last year after nine years competing on the world motocross circuit in Europe and United States.
US based Australian motocross star Chad Reed was distressed by the news.
"I was just talking to Chad Reed a little while ago and he's extremely upset," said Reed's manager Matt Cousins.
"He and his wife spent a lot of time with him and Natalie in teh States and that's really blown everyone away.
"He had an illustrious carrer across three continents, a beautifull wife and daughter and I guess that's where everyone's thoughts are right now."
American motocross riders Sean Hamblin and Mike Sleeter posted tributes on their twitter feeds.
"Gone but never forgotten bud! Prayers for the family now!" wrote Habmlin.
Preneseno sa Australia today.
Tema: Tragedy hits world motocross (Posjeta: 1249 vremena)