Racing is a dangerous sport, we all know that. But it doesn't diminish the sense of loss and heartbreak we all feel when a racer loses their life to this beloved sport. Sadly this past weekend we lost not one, but two racers during the AMA Pro Flat Track race in Santa Rosa, California.
Charlotte Kainz and Kyle McGrane were involved in separate racing incidents during last weekend's AMA Pro Flat Track race at the Santa Rosa Mile. Emergency responders were on the scene within seconds of each incident and the riders were transported to Memorial Hospital in Santa Rosa where they succumbed to their injuries.
"The flat track community is tight knit, and today we are all mourning," said Michael Lock, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. "Charlotte and Kyle were talented competitors with bright futures. Our deepest condolences go out to their families and friends in this time of need."
Charlotte Kainz, 20, from West Allis, Wis. earned her professional license in Pro Flat Track in the GNC2 class during the 2015 season. The beloved rider won her first GNC2 Semi this year at the Black Hills Half-Mile and brought smiles to the faces of everyone she met in the paddock.
Kyle McGrane, 17, joined the Pro Flat Track ranks in the GNC2 class last year and showed promise both on and off the track. McGrane was born in Gap, Penn. but had a growing fanbase nationwide with Main event appearances and a Heat race win at the 2016 Law Tigers Arizona Mile.
The staff at Motorcyclist and AMA Pro Racing are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Charlotte Kainz and Kyle McGrane, and extend heartfelt condolences to their families.