By Tony Wall
Family and friends of a speedway driver who died in a crash at Western Springs Speedway in Auckland are struggling to come to terms with what they describe as a freak accident.
Robert Leonard, aged 38, of Kumeu, suffered fatal head injuries on Saturday when his midget car flipped
and threw him out.
The car has been impounded and the death is being investigated by police and Speedway New Zealand.
Mr Leonard's business partner, Geoff Harper, who was taking part in the same race, said his friend's death had sent shockwaves through the speedway community.
It was a mystery how Mr Leonard had been thrown from the car because he was strapped in with a five-point harness, which included arm restraints and seatbelts.
"I've never seen anyone come loose before ... Nine times out of 10 guys just get up and walk away [from such accidents]."
Mr Leonard had run a mechanical repair shop with him in Birkenhead and racing was his passion.
Mr Leonard's wife, Dora, and two daughters were not at the track on Saturday because they were preparing for an equestrian event.
"I'm glad I wasn't there to see it," said Mrs Leonard.
She said her husband was well aware of the dangers of the sport but was big on safety.
