Gavin Ramsay dies doing what he loved – family speaks
Gavin Ramsay (53), a passionate motorcyclist who lived in Springs his whole life, died on Saturday at 4.30pm at the Killarney race track in Cape Town.
Gavin was participating in his second race of the day, the Passion for Speed, International Isle of Man TT race, when his motorcycle skidded on an oil spill caused by a motorcycle that had crashed moments before.
Gavin collided with the first motorcycle and died on the scene.
He placed fifth in the first race on Saturday, but the rest of the day’s racing was cancelled after the tragedy.
His wife of 22 years, Debbie (45), who was present at the race, says he was a fantastic husband, father and friend.
The race on Saturday was the second leg of the Isle of Man TT race. The first took place last week at Zwartkops Raceway, where Gavin placed first overall.
One of his best friends and racing teammates, Iain Pinkerton, also took part in the race in which Gavin died.
“My dad was part of the Springbok racers who raced against Scottish racers,” says Samantha (21), Gavin’s daughter.
Gavin’s son Luke (17) is currently in matric at Springs Boys’ High School.
“We have an entire room full of his trophies and accomplishments. He was a five-time South African champion, had Springbok colours in motorcycling and played SA masters squash,” Samantha says.
The two women became emotional when they spoke about how humble Gavin was.
“He always helped other people, always.
“He didn’t even know he was famous,” Samantha says.
She adds that racing is in the family’s blood, as Gavin’s father, Derek Ramsay’s ashes were strewn at the Kyalami racetrack.
Gavin was part of the Springs Wheelers as well as the Springs Squash Club.
“Our roots are deep in Springs,” says Debbie.
Wendy Murphy, a close friend of the family, says, “He was a real idol, a true hero and someone you could always look up to.”
Gavin leaves behind his wife, Debbie, his two children Samantha and Luke, his mother Olive Botha, sister Jenny Joubert and brother, Mike.
The family is busy arranging a memorial service in celebration of Gavin’s life, which will take place on Friday at the Riverside Country Estate, Haasbroek Road at 2pm.
A Facebook page, Tribute to Gavin Ramsay, has been created in Gavin’s memory. More information can be found on that page.
Renowned motorcyclist Gavin Ramsay, multiple SA Champion, was killed during 'Passion for Speed International race’ on Saturday #RIPGavin pic.twitter.com/sTF3OpwkOH
— South African Heroes (@SA_Heroes) February 5, 2017
Another Rider Down RIP GAVIN RAMSAY…….#HelmetsUp
— Rochelle vanRensburg (@rrroulette) February 6, 2017
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