HEAD TRAUMA CLAIMS RISING KIWI STAR

A Zealand cross-country and motocross scene , Helensville ’ s Eli Hankins has died after he suffered a serious head trauma while racing motocross . Hankins was airlifted to Starship Children ’ s Hospital on February 16 , where he was placed in an induced coma after suffering “ serious head trauma ” during a club day at Auckland ’ s Pukekohe Motorcycle Club . In a statement , The Pukekohe Motorcycle Club said Hankins was placed in an induced coma before he died . “ It is with broken hearts that we say Eli passed away surrounded by his family and love overnight on Tuesday ( February 25 ),” it said . The club has set up a Givealittle page for Eli ’ s family “ in the hopes that we can alleviate the financial pressure and responsibilities of everyday life as Eli ’ s family come to terms with the loss of their much loved , moto mad little boy .” “ The motocross world is one big family – it ’ s what makes our sport so special ,” the club said . As news of Eli ’ s death spread , other clubs paid tribute to the young racer online . The North King Country Motorcycle Club said members with thinking of the family “ at this heartbreaking time ”. A family friend wrote Eli “ was the best ”. “ He was awesome to watch ride . And was a great mentor always helping and kind and encouraging towards others learning motor cross . A great friend and young man , outstanding in every way ,” the friend wrote . “ Anyone who has been around Eli and his awesome family know that they are a special loving kind family .”