Tributes are pouring in for well-known stock car driver Paul Simon after he was killed in a high-speed crash at Beachlands Speedway, near Dunedin, on Saturday night.
Emergency services were called to the Waldronville track about 7.10pm after a two-car collision during night two of the ‘Modified Thunder’ event, a clay-track meeting that had recently returned after an eight-year break.
Police said one person died at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.
In the days since, messages from across New Zealand’s motorsport community have painted a picture of a widely respected competitor and mentor.
Dad’s Army – Streetstock State of Origin said Simon’s death was difficult to comprehend, describing him as both a fierce racer and a man of strong character.
They said it had been a privilege to race alongside him and called him “a legend of a family man” who carried mana in everything he did.
Gooch Motorsport remembered him as “a true legend of the sport and an even better bloke off the track”, extending condolences to his partner Leanne and whānau.
Houghton Racing Team also paid tribute, offering condolences to Simon’s family and those closest to him.
A fellow competitor described Simon as one of the standout drivers of his generation - an “ace builder” with great banter who was generous with advice.
He said it had been an honour to race “door to door” with Simon and described him as a “fantastic mentor” both on and off the track, adding that his loss would be felt across Beachlands Speedway and the wider sport.
Other teams competing on the night also acknowledged the shock of Simon’s death.
Woftam Motorsport said its thoughts were with Simon’s family and friends, while McIndoe Racing said, “No words can describe the shivers that were sent through the speedway that were to come last night.”
“We didn’t know Paul Simon but knew a lot of people that did know him ... A legend of his grade,” they wrote.
Daz McGrath wrote his thoughts went out to Simon’s immediate family, the club, and all who were at Beachlands.
“Like many, I have woken a bit on the numb side, just thinking of the family, their loss and a big loss in the speedway community. With such a love for speedway, and any motorsport, we know the perils are there, we know the risk, but this outcome is one that no one wishes to see,” he wrote.
“Like all motorsports, and other sports as well, there are risks and for all who put their helmets on, belt up and hammer, for our entertainment and their victory, I take my hats off to them. When the chequered flag falls for the last time, let’s turn them black and white chequers into the wings of a man living his dream, loving his sport.”
Clubs from around the country also shared their condolences, with Nelson Speedway Association Inc. extending support to Simon’s family, friends and the Beachlands Speedway community.
“May you find comfort in the memories shared and strength in the support of your speedway family,” the club said, remembering him as “forever 7D”.
A teenage witness told the Herald he saw the crash unfold from the end of the back straight and believed brake failure may have played a role.
He said the driver exited turn two at speed and appeared to lose control heading into turn three.
“It looked like he lost his brakes and tried to slide around the corner, but clipped another car and went straight into the wall head first, very violently,” the 17-year-old said.
He estimated the car was travelling well over 100km/h and said the impact was clearly severe.
“No one could have survived that impact. I could tell from 60m away it was very serious,” he said.
The police Serious Crash Unit has examined the site and inquiries are ongoing.
General manager of Speedway New Zealand Zoe Irons said the death is under investigation.
“Speedway New Zealand extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, as well as to our wider speedway community during this difficult time,” Irons told the Herald.
“At this time, our thoughts are with the family affected and everyone within our speedway community.”
Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has footage to come forward.