New Zealand Motorsport Community Mourns the Loss of Young Rally Driver and Co-Driver in Tragic Accident

The motorsport community in New Zealand is in deep mourning following a devastating accident at the Arcadia Road Rallysprint in Paparoa. The incident claimed the lives of promising teenage driver Brooklyn Horan and his experienced co-driver, Tyson Jemmett, leaving fans, family members, and fellow competitors in shock.

The tragedy unfolded during what was meant to be an exciting day of competitive rally racing. Both men were taking part in the popular rallysprint event, which draws enthusiasts from across the country, when their vehicle veered off course and into a flooded river. Despite the immediate response from first aid teams and emergency services, both competitors were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Details of the Accident

According to a police investigator who attended the scene, the accident occurred when the rally car left the gravel road surface and plunged into the river. The crash happened on a section of Arcadia Road that had been officially closed to the public for the event under the authority of the local Road Controlling Authority.

The water levels in the river were reportedly high at the time of the accident, contributing to the severity of the incident. MotorSport New Zealand, the governing body for competitive motorsport in the country, confirmed that Horan was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash, with Jemmett seated beside him as co-driver.

The organization also stated that an investigation is already underway to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal accident. While officials noted that it was too early to identify the main contributing factors, they emphasized that there was no indication the road surface was unsafe or in poor condition.

Who Was Brooklyn Horan?

Brooklyn Horan was a rising star in New Zealand motorsport, admired for his natural talent and determination despite his young age. Although New Zealand law sets the minimum age for a driver’s license at 16, the country’s motorsport regulations allow drivers as young as 12 to participate in competitive events under specific conditions.

Through MotorSport New Zealand’s junior driver program, young competitors can obtain a competition license after completing training and meeting safety requirements. This program has helped nurture the careers of several notable drivers, giving them the opportunity to develop skills early and progress into higher levels of competition.

Horan was widely recognized as one of the most promising junior drivers in the country. Friends and mentors say he had a remarkable focus on his craft, spending countless hours studying tracks, perfecting driving techniques, and working closely with his co-drivers to improve his performance.

Remembering Tyson Jemmett

Co-driver Tyson Jemmett, aged 35, was a respected figure in the rally community. Known for his calm demeanor, attention to detail, and commitment to supporting his drivers, Jemmett brought years of experience to the sport.

Friends and fellow racers describe him as not only a talented co-driver but also a devoted family man. His passion for rallying was evident in the time he invested both in competition and in encouraging younger participants, making him a beloved figure among peers and fans alike.

Statements from MotorSport New Zealand

Following the accident, Wayne Christie, President of MotorSport New Zealand, issued a heartfelt statement expressing condolences and solidarity with the victims’ families:

“Our thoughts are with the families and friends of these two competitors and everyone involved with the Arcadia Road Rallysprint. This terrible tragedy will, without a doubt, shock and upset everyone in the motorsports world. We will be offering support to all those involved in the coming days.”

Christie also emphasized that the sport remains committed to safety, noting that while motorsport carries inherent risks, all sanctioned events are held under strict safety regulations.

Tributes from the Motorsport World

The deaths of Horan and Jemmett have prompted an outpouring of grief from across the motorsport community and beyond. Fellow drivers, teams, and fans have taken to social media to share memories, condolences, and messages of support for the families.

World Rally Championship driver Hyden Paddon wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

“What a sad event yesterday! Two great people were taken too soon. Tyson was a huge rally fan and family man, and Brooklyn Horan was one of the most exciting young rally stars who was going to make it big. Your career may have only just been starting but you had already left your mark.”

Winger Motorsport shared:

“On behalf of the team at Winger Motorsport, we send our condolences to the friends and family of Brooklyn Horan and his co-driver Tyson.”

From 1Eighty Racing:

“Such a natural talent! Your family is in our thoughts and you will be missed on the track.”

And from Hodgson Motorsport:

“It was with a heavy heart that we heard the breaking news that Brooklyn died while doing the very thing our families loved together. It’s times like these that you remember that the sport we chose comes with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Brooklyn, you were an amazing, kind, loving, happy kid and that hadn’t changed years later when we crossed paths again back at off-roading last year. The cheeky smile was still the same — you had just grown a wee bit taller.”

Family and Community Grieving

The loss is especially painful for Jemmett’s family, as his wife, Lucy, is currently expecting their first child. Friends and former coworkers have organized a fundraiser to provide financial and emotional support for her and the unborn child during this unimaginably difficult time.

For Horan’s family, the tragedy has cut short the life of a teenager whose future in motorsport seemed limitless. Loved ones describe him as cheerful, humble, and fiercely passionate about his goals. His death has resonated deeply in the small but close-knit rally community, where drivers, co-drivers, mechanics, and fans often form lifelong bonds.

The Risks and Realities of Motorsport

While rally racing is known for its thrilling speed and technical challenges, it also carries inherent risks. Drivers and co-drivers work under intense conditions, often navigating unpredictable terrain at high speeds. Safety measures, including roll cages, helmets, harnesses, and track regulations, significantly reduce the risk of fatal accidents — but they cannot eliminate it entirely.

MotorSport New Zealand has reiterated its commitment to reviewing safety procedures following the accident. Officials have pledged that the findings of the investigation will be used to strengthen safety protocols and provide additional training resources where necessary.

How the Junior Driver Program Works

For many young New Zealanders like Brooklyn Horan, the junior driver program provides an entry point into competitive motorsport. The program allows participants aged 12 to 16 to gain experience under controlled conditions, with strict supervision and safety standards in place.

Supporters of the program argue that early exposure helps young drivers develop critical skills and discipline. Critics, however, have raised questions about whether such young competitors face higher risks in certain racing formats. The current investigation may prompt discussions about whether further age-related restrictions or additional safeguards are needed for rally events involving junior drivers.

A Community United in Support

In the wake of the tragedy, motorsport clubs, teams, and sponsors across New Zealand have rallied together to offer emotional and financial assistance to the families affected. Memorial events and tributes are being planned, with proceeds from some upcoming races expected to go toward the fundraiser for Jemmett’s family.

Local communities in both drivers’ hometowns have also stepped in, organizing candlelight vigils and remembrance gatherings to honor their lives.

Final Reflections

The passing of Brooklyn Horan and Tyson Jemmett is a sobering reminder of the risks that come with the sport they loved. While their lives were cut short, their passion, dedication, and contributions to the rally community will be remembered for years to come.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring their memory and supporting the loved ones they leave behind. In the words of one rally fan who left flowers at the event site:

“They left doing what they loved, and they inspired us all to chase our passions — no matter how steep the road.”