Racer Dane Westby Dies In Streetbike Accident

COSTA MESA, CA, MAR. 24 - MotoAmerica road racer Dane Westby passed away on Monday, March 23, as a result of injuries suffered in a streetbike accident in his hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Westby was 28 years old.

According to sources, Westby was en route to his parents' home at the time of the crash. Early reports indicate that he struck a utility pole.

Westby, who finished a career-best second in the 2012 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Championship, made his MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 debut last week at the Dunlop tire test at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. Westby was the fastest Superstock 1000 rider at the test as he rode his Yamahalube-backed Westby Racing Yamaha to the fourth best time overall.

"All of us at MotoAmerica are deeply saddened at the news of Dane Westby's passing," said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. "I watched him ride at our test last week in Texas and was impressed with his ability. He was a rising star and a rider with great potential. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, his team and his friends."

Westby is survived by his parents, Tryg and Jane Westby, his sister, Scarlett, and his girlfriend, Patricia Fernandez.