A man is in hospital with critical injuries after a crash at Ruapuna Speedway. Photo / Facebook
A person has been flown to Auckland with burns after a crash at Christchurch’s Ruapuna Speedway, with staff reporting they’ve “never seen anything like it”.
Police responded at 7pm on Saturday to the speedway venue in Hasketts Rd, Templeton after the single-vehicle crash.
“One person was taken to hospital in a serious condition,” said a police spokesperson.
Bridget Roxburgh from Ruapuna Speedway told the Herald she had “never seen anything like it” in all her years in speed racing.
In a statement shared with the Herald, the speedway company said it is investigating the “freak accident”.
“Saturday night at Ruapuna Speedway, a serious incident occurred during the first Sprintcar heat race ... The driver involved in this accident has suffered burns from fuel igniting during the crash,” it said.
The competitor underwent surgery on Saturday night and has been taken to Auckland’s Middlemore Hospital. He remains in serious but stable condition.
“His family would like to express their heartfelt thanks for the support and kind words from friends and the speedway community.”
Ruapuna Speedway staff said they have initiated a “full investigation into this freak accident” to gain an understanding of what happened.
“Our thoughts remain with the driver and his family, and we are providing support where possible,” they said.
They have advised anyone struggling with the events they witnessed to seek help and continue talking to those who can offer support.
“Please remember, this was an abnormal accident and not typical of speedway racing.”
Andrew Bayly stepped down after grabbing a staffer's arm in an 'animated' discussion.