Today at 9:33 AM Western Australia Standard Time, motorcyclist Ivan Erceg succumbed to injuries sustained in a crash while competing in the 2013 Australasian Safari.
The Safari is an annual seven-day navigation rally not unlike Dakar featuring classes for motorcycles, cars, buggies, and ATVs that usually covers about 3,500 kilometers. Competition has been halted for the rest of the day, but is scheduled to resume tomorrow.
Race organizers report that "despite immediate intervention of emergency services" he died at the scene of the incident; Stage 1, 50 kilometers east of Minilya Roadhouse near Carnarvon (Western Australia.)
Easily recognizable by a trademark shaggy mane and beard, Ivan was a strong presence in the Australian motorcycle community and even has a biography thread on the adventure-motorcycle forum ADVRider. He is being recognized by fellow competitors as one who was deeply involved in the sport and considered "larger than life" by more than a few people who have left condolences on the Australasian Safari Facebook page.
RIP, Ivan Erceg.
Photo Credit: Australasian Safari
Motorcycle Racer Dies In Australian Rally