Australian Motocross Championship promoter Williams Event Management and the sport’s governing body Motorcycling Australia have remembered Andrew McFarlane after the former world number two and JDR Motorex KTM team rider lost his life during practice at the State Motorcycle Sports Complex at Broadford, Victoria, in a tragic turn of events at the third round of the 2010 Rockstar Energy Drink MX Nationals last weekend.

After an illustrious career, the 32-year-old was undoubtedly one of Australia’s greatest ever motocross stars, with WEM director Kevin Williams touching briefly on his own relationship with ‘Sharky’.

“To WEM Andrew was more than just a Championship competitor, he was a personal friend to the Williams family and a rider who we all admired,” Williams said. “As a rider he was calculated and concise – he was a good Aussie bloke who represented the sport and Aussie ideals all around the world.

“You only have to glance at the messages online to know that Andrew touched so many lives throughout his career and that is something that his wife and little girl can be very proud of.

“To commemorate his extraordinary life, 350 limited edition Andrew ‘Sharky’ McFarlane shirts will be available for sale at the Toowoomba round for $30 each, with the aim of raising $10,000 to support his family in their time of need.”

As tributes continue to flow in from around the world, MA CEO David White expressed his sadness at the passing of one of Australia’s motorcycling greats.

“Andrew’s passing is a huge loss to the entire motorcycling community,” White said. “Having witnessed his career unfold over the years I have no doubt in my mind that he was, and will remain, one of the sports finest – a true professional whose dedication and achievements are a testament to his character.

“Seeing Andrew ride at the grand prix at Broadford in 2000, bringing tens of thousands of people to their feet was a privilege and a memory I will hold onto forever. Throughout his career, both at home and abroad, Andrew became an inspiration to many, and I’m sure that he will continue to be for many years to come.

“On behalf of MA, my deepest sympathies go out to the entire McFarlane family, Andrew’s friends, teammates, and fellow riders, all of whom have been touched by this tragedy.”

The funeral for Andrew McFarlane will be held at the Cleveland Baptist Church, 240 Bloomfield Street, Cleveland, Brisbane, Australia on Monday, 17 May at 11:00am.

The fourth round of the 2010 Rockstar Energy Drink MX Nationals will be held one day at the Toowoomba Motocross Club in Queensland.