Motocross rider Joel Evans dies after ProMX Championship race crash as family pays tribute

Motocross rider Joel Evans has died after crashing in the top-level MX1 race at the ProMX Championship event in South Australia on Sunday.

The 30-year-old was injured in a single-bike incident at Gillman Speedway, with Motorcycling Australia (MA) declaring the meeting was abandoned with the accident requiring “the complete attention of trackside medical resources”.

Emergency services were called and Evans was rushed to hospital, with MA on Monday confirming the “incredibly sad” news that he had died on Sunday night.

Evans’ sister Renae mourned the family’s loss as tributes flowed from his competitors on Monday.

“What do you say when you have no words? Yesterday our lives changed forever,” she wrote.

“Intuitively I woke with a deeper calling for presence. My heart’s daily reminder was ‘appreciate what you have, don’t wait until it’s gone’.

“Eight hours later I got the phone call that no one wants to hear. I could never have imagined that it was going to be the day that my little brother took his final breath.

“Joel was doing what he loved and was in one of the happiest eras of his life, but that doesn’t make saying goodbye any easier.

“He used to joke about not wanting to get old, now he never has to.”

Evans, who also raced in Asia, had previously overcome a serious crash in 2015 that nearly left him paralysed.

After a week-long induced coma he learned how to walk again and returned to riding within a year.

“The best brother a girl could ask for and an even greater uncle for my girls,” Renae said.

“We love you so much buddy. More than you’ll ever understand. Ride. In. Peace #81.

“And for those reading.. Hug your loved ones extra today, and please don’t ever take your time for granted.

“Tomorrow isn’t promised for any of us.”

Race winner Kyle Webster wrote that he was “lost for words”.

“You were an absolute legend and a huge part of our sport. Rest in peace,” he said.

Regan Duffy shared a devastating tribute as he recounted a conversation with Evans before the race.

“One minute you’re talking s*** on the line and the next they are gone, a situation I truly hoped I wouldn’t see again,” Duffy wrote.

“Joel was telling me of plans to go race in America and just seemed so happy beforehand. Rest in peace to a great bloke, until we meet again.”

Nathan Crawford wrote: “An extremely heavy and confusing day for our sport yesterday! Wishing nothing but love for Joel’s family and everyone close to him. Rest in peace.”

Luke Clout said: “My condolences go out to all of Joel’s family and friends. The sport we all love can be so cruel. RIP Joel, a guy that loved the sport more than most, you will be missed.”

Brandon Steel said: “Still can’t believe this is real. My heart goes out to Joel’s family, loved ones and his friends. Ride on up there mate, rest in peace.”