Simon Andrews Dies in North West 200 Crash

British racer Simon Andrews succumbed to injuries suffered in a high-speed crash during 2014 North West 200 street race in Northern Ireland. The Penz13.com BMW racer passed away May 19 at the age of 29.

“In such moments I have no words. Road Racings are our live, our passion, our world, but days like these are the other side of the coin,” says Rico Penzkofer, Penz13.com team principal. “Words can’t heal the wounds today, but we all are wishing Simon’s family all the strength and power they need during this difficult time. Simon, mate, we all will never forget you.”

Andrews lost control on the fourth lap of the Superstock race on May 17. Andrews was treated trackside before being airlifted to the intensive care unit at Belfast Royal Victoria hospital. Andrews passed away two days later, with his parents Stuart and Dee, girlfriend Lisa and his friend, Breakers.

“Simon loved road racing and he loved competing at the North West 200. He has had a motorbike since he was 4 years old and started racing when he was 16,” says Stuart Andrews. “From that first race Simon progressed to riding for the factory Honda TT Legends team and his Mum and I are very proud of his racing achievements.”

In memory of Andrews’ charitable nature, his family donated his organs so that other lives could be saved.

Andrews started in the British Superbike championship’s Supersport class in 2004 before moving up to the Superbike class in 2008. Andrews also competed in road races such as the North West 200, the Isle of Man and the Macau Grand Prix.

“Road racing was in his blood and Simon preferred the roads to short circuits,” says Stuart Andrews. “He was fully aware of the dangers involved but he loved the challenge that that offered. Simon always said ‘Once you’ve been on the roads there’s nothing else to compare with it.”

By Dennis Chung