Kiwi Rider July Vol.1 2023 | Page 14

Former New Zealand champion passes away in the UK
OBITUARY

DAMON STEWART REES

30.03.1995 – 30.06.2023

It was with incredible sadness that the New Zealand motorcycling community learnt of the passing of one of its brightest young stars . Bay of Plenty man Damon ‘ Damo ’ Rees passed away while in hospital in England , struck down by a medical tragedy totally unrelated to the sport he loved and from which he drew so much pleasure . The 28-year-old from Whakatane passed away in the United Kingdom on June 30 , 2023 , with family at his side . The governing body for the sport in this part of the world , Motorcycling New Zealand ( MNZ ),

Former New Zealand champion passes away in the UK

wished to express its heart-felt condolences to his family and wife of sixth months , Talia , at this time of hurt and reflection . “ We ask that our motorcycling family take a moment to give respects to an engaging , competitive young man who still had much to give to the sport of motorcycling ,” said MNZ general manager Mike Kerrisk . “ The sudden passing of Damon will , without doubt , shock and deeply sadden the motorcycle community both here in his home of New Zealand and on a wider-global scale . “ I have known the Rees family both professionally and personally for some time now and I wish to extend my great sorrow and support for them at this time . “ All who knew Damo would agree that he was such a grounded and respectful young man , as
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