Tuesday 10th August 2004

Tragedy at Silverstone

Mini racer died on Sunday

---

Statement from the organisers:

It is with the greatest sadness that the organisers of the John Cooper Challenge record the death of competitor Darren Needham during an accident at Silverstone on Sunday (8 August).

Darren's car impacted with the barriers at Becketts corner on the opening lap of the ninth round of the championship. The race was halted whilst the emergency services attended the scene and, in agreement with the drivers, was not re-started.

The thoughts and sympathies of everyone involved in the John Cooper Challenge are with Darren's family and many friends over this tragic loss.

The championship organisers would also like to record their gratitude to the officials and marshals at Silverstone for their professionalism throughout the incident.

No other statement can be made at this time.

[DontLift]

Sadly this is not the first time there have been fatalities in mini racing, when i was racing in Tasmins there were 2 at a silverstone meet we were at, due mostly to standing water.

My condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the family.

[mark a]

Been involved in Mini based motorsport for a few years and lost some friends, unfortunatly this is probably the 1st in a new Mini.





Condolences to family and friends.

[carl_w]

I know that "motorsport is dangerous" but the John Cooper challenge is supposed to be motorsport for novices and amateurs.

A very sad day

It's one thing when a professional driver loses their life, but for someone who's probably scraped the money together to have a bit of a laugh over a season of racing, it seems more tragic to me.

>> Edited by carl_w on Tuesday 10th August 21:01

[RB Will]

yeah im with you on that one carl

[toppstuff]

That is just tragic. And surprising.

The new Mini is a strong and heavy lump which scores well in crash tests. With the added roll cage it will be a pretty tough little thing.

Goes to show that accidents can still happen, and that no amount of modern cars and crash testing can guarantee protection.

Very , very sad.

[PetrolTed]

John Cooper Challenge

Press statement: 16.08.04

Darren Needham


A celebration of the life of Darren Needham will be held on Friday 20 August for family and friends.

No flowers are requested, but donations would be welcomed for ‘CLAPA’, c/o Motorsport Office, The Old Bakery, 55A Belmont Road, Wallington, Surrey, SM6 8TE. (Cleft Lip and Palate Association).