Kurt Caselli dies after Baja 1000 crash

KTM rider Kurt Caselli has lost his life while competing in the famous Baja 1000 race through Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, after sustaining serious injuries while leading the 883 mile long race.
 
Early and unconfirmed reports indicate that the thirty year old hit a manmade booby trap at the 796-mile marker of the course. Sabotage to the rugged and remote off road course is common by spectators, who dig jumps and obstacles to provide more exciting viewing.
 
The widely liked American made his debut in the Dakar Rally last year, impressing from the off by winning two stages of the tough SouthAmerican race in his rookie year to finish 31st overall.
 
Caselli had said in the press conference after qualifying that winning the Baja was one of his big remaining goals. “Baja has always been on my list. A win (by KTM) is something that’s not just myself but a lot of other people have wanted to see it for a long time, and I will be very happy if I can be a part of that. I’m not trying to take any glory. I just want to be able to say that I was part of a winning team.”
 
Motorcycle News sends our deepest condolences to Kurt’s family and friends. He will be sorely missed.