Community devasted by death of young motocross rider
January 02, 2008
KAI Weeks was only 11 years old but he lived to ride. Tragically, it was while riding his beloved 65cc dirt bike that the Gold Coast youngster was killed in an accident near Warwick on New Year's Eve.
Kai started racing two years ago after joining the Gold Coast Motocross Club.
An official from the club, who did not wish to be named, said shocked club members were last night still coming to terms with the death.
"Every time Kai came past you on the bike, he would have a big smile under his helmet," he said. "He was one of the happiest kids you would meet . . . Nothing was a problem for Kai.
"A lot of people are shattered by this."
Another club member said Kai was passionate about riding.
"He was a great little kid just starting out and his mum was proud of him. He just loved it and got off on it," the club member said.
Kai, of Mudgeeraba, died while riding with two others on a track at their family friends' property at Goomburra about 3.20pm when he changed direction and collided head-on with another rider and was then hit by a third rider. He sustained severe head injuries in the accident, and the RACQ Rescue Helicopter was sent to help, but Kai died before it arrived.
A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman said another child was treated at the scene for shock.
Kai was believed to be staying on the property with his mother, Peta, who was taken to Warwick Hospital with her son's body. She was being comforted by family members in Brisbane yesterday.
The owner of the property, who wished to remain unnamed, said his children were riding with the boy at the time and were shocked and upset by the tragedy. He said Kai often came to ride on the property.
Police said the boy was wearing full protective clothing when the accident occurred.
Warwick Mayor Ron Bellingham said the community was deeply saddened by the death, coming only a day after an 18-year-old man was killed near Laidley when he lost control of his mountain bike and collided with a tree.
"It is extremely sad when young children have accidents such as this," he said. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the family members, and the others involved."
News source The Courier MailSend this article to a friend
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