New Zealand has been the country to breed some of motorsport's fiercest competitors, whether it be rallying or touring car races, even Formula 1 has produced a Kiwi driver. However there was one driver that in many people's minds stood above all the rest, maybe not for his achievements, but more his bright and sparkling personality. Jason Richards was one of New Zealand’s greatest ever touring car drivers, having been famous for his number 8 Holden, Richards captured the love of fans all around the world.
The Career of Jason Richards
Jason Richards began his motorsport career at the age of 8, when he began racing in karting events in his home country of New Zealand. After a stint in the Mini 7 series, Richards went on to the Canterbury Racing School where he honed his craft and quickly became recognised for his obvious talent in a racing car. After participating in the English Formula Ford Championship, Richards returned home to New Zealand to sign with BMW Motorsport as a junior driver and won the 1995/1996 Class 1 Touring Car Championship for the team.
In 2001 Jason Richards joined the V8 Supercars championship, the pinnacle of motorsport in Australasia. Following solid performances for Team Kiwi and Team Dynamik, Richards would join Tasman Motorsport in 2004 and developed as a front row contender in V8 Supercars. The standout moments of his career were when he finished second at Bathurst in 2005 and his victory at Sandown in 2003. Both these high points occurred behind the wheel of a Holden Commodore, which was believed to be Richards' favourite brand of car.
Battle With Cancer & Death In December 2011
Last year the motorsport world was shocked with the news that Jason Richards had been diagnosed with cancer. Over the next year Richards would be involved in a brave battle with Adreno Cortical Cancer with which he was first diagnosed in November 2010. After achieving an emotional podium at Albert Park in March 2011, Richards announced he would step down from full time V8 Supercars racing due to his health.
With much support from other drivers and fans alike, Jason Richards entered a long battle to try and get back behind the wheel. We last heard from Richards during an interview at the recent Sandown event held in November, the second to last V8 Supercars round of 2011. At 8pm on December 15th Richards died in his home surrounded by loved ones.
A memorial service is due to be held at Sandown in the coming weeks.
