Rider Dies During Motorcycle Track Day at Lydden Hill

A man in his 50s has died during a motorcycle track day at Lydden Hill circuit.

The track day took place at the Kent venue on 4 May 2024, and the man, in his 50s, has since been identified as Stuart Donnelly, from Australia. He was riding a Kawasaki ZX-10R supersport bike at the time of the crash.

Since the incident happened, Kent Constabulary has opened an investigation, and has called on witnesses to come forward. It is believed, though, that no other riders were involved in Mr. Donnelly’s crash.

No Limits Trackdays, the organiser of the event, posted to social media the day after what it called an “unfortunate and uncommon incident” (5 May). The post reads: “It is with deep regret that we must announce an unfortunate and uncommon incident involving a solitary participant during our track day event held yesterday at Lydden Hill.

“The matter is currently being handled by Kent Constabulary, and out of respect for the rider’s loved ones, we will refrain from providing further details at this time.

“We express our sincere gratitude to those who were present at Lydden Hill yesterday and demonstrated exceptional understanding during this difficult situation.”

Following Mr. Donnelly’s death, a crowdfunding campaign has been set up on GoFundMe to help his family cover the funeral costs, as well as those involved with flying Mr. Donnelly’s family to the UK from Australia. At the time of writing, the campaign has already exceeded its £5,000 goal, and is currently at £5,581.