One of Britain’s best youth racers Jude Morris tragically passed away following a crash during the first MXY2 race in the British championship at Duns on Saturday. The two-day event was immediately abandoned.

Jude was lying second in the MXY2 British championship series. No other riders were involved in the incident and medics were on scene as quickly as possible to give assistance.

Jude, son of Mark and Lucy from Corfe Castle in Dorset, was one of the leading youth riders in the UK and had the potential to be a future adult British champion or GP star.

The world of motocross has been shocked and saddened by this tragedy and many people have paid tribute to the young rider.

Race Director and Chairman of the ACU Motocross Committee Steve McCauley said: “An incredibly sad day for everyone. Jude was always smiling and lived for competing in Motocross. An extremely talented young lad, he was one of the most dedicated and hard-working young riders I have ever had the pleasure to meet. At this very sad time our thoughts are with Jude’s parents Mark and Lucy and their family”.

British championship contender Jake Shipton said: “My little mate. From seeing Jude grow older, he used to come into the sport centre where I used to train in the gym, school hours just to say hi, the local track, cycling, mountain biking, running up our local woods.

“I saw myself in Jude, just a chubby kid from Dorset who was so determined and by far put his all into this sport, the last couple of years he really trained hard and become such a professional and a personality I’ll always miss.

“I will never forget that face, never moaning, always smiling, even when he’s upside down out cycling.

“At just 16 years old he had a lot more grit than many top riders in this sport and that’s not easy to find. I had every hope he was going places and would’ve love to of seen it.

To all you younger riders, Jude Morris was everything a top professional athlete of the sport should be. Polite, hard working and didn’t take anything for granted.”

Former British championship rider Ashley Wilde helped train Jude. He said: “RIP Jude Morris. Yesterday the Motocross family sadly lost a true champion, a role model to the younger generation and a racer at heart! Heaven you gained an angel.

“For me, I lost one of my crew, but I also lost a friend.. I am so lucky to have spent so much time with you over the last 4 years and experience so many great happy memories together. I couldn’t be more proud of everything we have done and achieved together! I’m so glad you and your dad chose me to coach you all those years ago and I was able to experience this journey together with you both..

“Your hard work, dedication and persistence to learn and become a better athlete was something I will never forget. The hours you and your dad spent together travelling to train and ride all over the country was admired by many. The bond between you and your dad was something very special! You both worked so hard together as a team to achieve the best results.

“Jude, you have been an absolute credit to the RMJ Academy. You went from strength to strength year to year and become a major role model to all our riders, not only on the track but off the track also. It was an absolute pleasure to see you grow and mature into the young man you became.

“It’s going to be so difficult for me and all of my crew without you Jude, you was a massive team player! We will stick together like the team we are and get through this and never ever forget the 101! We will all miss that Jude smile tho..

“Mark and Lucy, I am so so sorry for your loss. You both should be very proud of the polite,well mannered young man you raised. He was a credit to both of you. I feel very lucky and privileged to have been a small part of his life.

“I will never forget all the banter we had, the good times and the respect you had for me as your coach! Thank you for the memories Jude Morris 101. Uou will be missed, but never forgotten.”

Race mechanic Gary Finch said: “Having been in our sport over 45 years I have to say yesterday was the most heartbreaking. Jude was the loveliest lad in the paddock as is dad Mark. Jude was not only super talented on track but an inspiration to us all off track. Always had a smile even on the tough days. We lost one of the good guys yesterday and you will be in our hearts and thoughts forever young man.

“All you young riders out there remember to enjoy your racing even on the bad days, and dad’s give them a hug win or lose. Jude Morris 101 god bless and rest in peace.”

Former GP rider Rikki Priest said: “Absolutely devastated yesterday after hearing the very sad news of Jude Morris. Certainly one of the most talented riders out there.

Let alone being such a humble, respectful and polite kid. I had the pleasure of working with him for some times in his youth days. His bond and team work with his dad mark was nothing but perfect.”

British championship racer Martin Barr said: “Jude you were one for the future, your speed, style and professionalism really stood out! My thoughts are with your family and friends – RIP.”

Our thoughts go out to Jude’s family and friends at this very difficult time. Godspeed Jude.