Sad news from Manfeild

[Mitch]

Thanks for the update Garry!!! We had all been told Rob had smashed himself up badly so it is really good to hear he is ok!!!!!!!

[Beemer]

When we heard who had died, my husband was shocked as he had just been introduced to Owen last week in PN and said he seemed a really nice guy.

As I used to regularly photograph and report on the race meetings in the past, I was called by a journalism colleague who was looking to contact those involved for today's paper. Without getting into the rights and wrongs of the media's actions at this sad time (they are doing their job, albeit an unsavoury one at times - but look at how many people were here, looking for information), I told her I was unable to help for a number of reasons. Most importantly, I was not there so was not willing to speculate or comment on what happened. Also, it's been about five years since I was actively involved, so I doubt I would know most of the riders taking part today. Even if I did, I would not be prepared to pass on their contact details without talking to them first. I explained that she would find most people unwilling to talk to her at this time too.

I was just glad it wasn't me who had to do this job - I've had to in the past and believe me, it never gets easier, nor does it ever become pleasant.

Owen's funeral is on Thursday in PN - details in today's Manawatu Standard for those who will be attending.

[svs]

Went to see Murray last night. Was in good spirits and talking about fixing the bike up. Was being discharged so should be at home now

[Sparky Bills]

Went to see Murray last night. Was in good spirits and talking about fixing the bike up. Was being discharged so should be at home now

Good news.
Glad to hear hes wanting to fix the bike and get back out there too.

[Marknz]

Good to read that most of the rest of the field have come through relatively unscathed.

Mitch, how are you doin'?

Craig formerly of Sawyers... you were the first guy I got to after the incident... how is your leg?

[Extend-a-slide]

Hi Marknz.
Sorry about the delay, no interweb at home for a couple of weeks.
Thanks for helping me off the track that day, I'm just glad the you also avoided any of the mayhem going on so you could.
My leg is not the greatest I have a torn ligament and quite a bit of bruising (still!) in my knee, calf and ankle. I'll be out of action for a while yet.
But I'm one of the lucky ones!
How are you doing? I know it's a hard thing to try and cope with after what happenned but we all have to move on and try and grow from the whole experience.

Mitch how's your hand? I hope you didn,t spend hours sitting in A&E like I did on the Sunday, so much for avoiding the injured Saturday Rugby players. Get in touch and let me know.