15-Year-old dirt bike prodigy Amelia Kotze dies after tragic mid-race crash

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By Nasima Khatun

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Amelia Kotze has tragically passed away after a dirt biking accident aged 15.

Australian organization Motorcycling New South Wales announced the rising star's death after she sustained life-threatening injuries during a race.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the tragic passing of rider Amelia Kotze," they wrote in a statement. "Amelia, a beloved member of our motorcycling community, succumbed to injuries she sustained during the Central Coast Cup held on May 25th. She passed away last evening at the tender age of 15."

According to reports, emergency services were called to Allen Park track in Somersby - which is located about an hour north of Sydney - after Kotze was involved in a serious accident mid-race.

Screenshot 2024-05-31 at 17.58.43.jpgCredit: Instagram / ameliakotzeracing

She was flown to the Children’s Hospital at Westmead in Sydney and placed in the intensive care unit, where she died on Tuesday, May 28, as per 7 News Australia.

In their statement, Motorcycling NSW remembered the competitor as “a beacon of talent, determination, and sportsmanship.” 

“Amelia was a favorite among peers and competitors alike,” they continued. “Her loss is deeply felt across our community, and she will be remembered not only for her incredible achievements on the track but also for the joy and inspiration she brought to all who knew her.

“In this time of immense sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with Amelia’s family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” the company added. “We extend our heartfelt condolences and support to her loved ones during this difficult period.

“Rest in peace, Amelia Kotze. You will be dearly missed," they concluded.

Screenshot 2024-05-31 at 18.01.25.jpgCredit: Instagram / ameliakotzeracing

Kotze was an upcoming superstar in the dirt bike world, having secured the Junior Girls State Titles in Victoria, Australia in November 2023 and having previously competed in the NSW Junior Track Championships and Australian Dirt Track Championships.

Posts on social media showed the 15-year-old dedicated to her craft, updating her fans on her journey to becoming a professional.

Screenshot 2024-05-31 at 16.42.44.pngCredit: GoFundMe

A GoFundMe was set up by her family to help support them when she first got injured, but in an update posted to the page at a later date, they confirmed that their daughter had succumbed to the injuries she sustained.

"Our little champion of the track has finished her race here with us and has gained her wings to now race in heaven. You were such an inspiration to everyone and you will be dearly missed by all... Hold the throttle on babe, Fly high and ride hard beautiful girl. Forever #789 xoxo," they wrote.

Our thoughts are with Kotze's family as they grieve the loss of their loved one.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram / ameliakotzeracing