(From left to right) Destry Abbott, Russell Bobbitt, and Kurt Caselli goofing off at this year’s ISDE. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK KARIYA
The motorcycle racing community was shocked with the death of off-road racing star Kurt Caselli and soon after his passing messages from the two-wheeled racing community from around world flooded social media feeds. Not surprising considering the caliber of a person Caselli was – both off and on the bike. Below are some of the words shared by his friends, colleagues and others around the industry.
Mike Brown via Instagram
Today was a sad day in our sport, losing one of my great friends, teammates, captains… Have had some good times with him and a lot of laughs. Going to be missed greatly! Love you bud! RIP KURT #66 #1 #bestoffroadracerever #gooddude #bestteamateever http://instagram.com/p/gxRqcGktiX/
Taylor Robert via Instagram
This guy right here was hands down one of best guys I’ve ever met. Not only has he been one my biggest competitors for my entire professional career, but an amazing friend and mentor. I have looked up to Kurt more than anyone else in this sport. He has always been there for me when I needed advice or help. It’s going to be hard to accept the fact that we will never line up next to each other again, but I’m glad he got to. http://instagram.com/p/gyWJ-qrfxj/
Ivan Ramirez via Facebook
I don’t know how to express my feelings right now, but Kurt you will always be my best friend, best teammate and my hero. Thanks for all the great times! I Love you my friend! #KC #1 #kurtcaselli #myprayerstothecasellifamily https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151979617008555&l=0e389ef998
Russell Bobbitt via Instagram
My heart goes out to the Caselli and White families and I am truly saddened with the loss of my great friend @kurtcaselli66. Kurt was one of the best people I knew and has inspired me to be a better person in every aspect. http://instagram.com/p/gx4DuOqztn/
Cyril Despres via Facebook
I was really shocked and saddened to hear of Kurt’s accident. He was a great guy and a really talented rider who loved riding. My heart goes out to his family and friends… R.I.P. Kurt https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152352651679045&l=05fb9577b6
Marc Coma via Facebook
I am spending hours in front of the computer watching videos, photos and trying to write some words, but it is so difficult… Kurt Caselli left us… One of the best and certainly a very good friend. He was very professional in and out of the track; loved for everybody for his friendliness and honesty. We spend a lot of moments together and I have only great memories, which will remain on me forever. We will miss you. My condolences to your family, friends and KTM Team. RIP my friend.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=668736213147588&l=f2b3cc4ebb
Mike Alessi via Instagram
Words cannot express how heartbroken I am to loose such a great friend. He was one of the best. He will be deeply missed. This was my first WORCS race in Havasu. He told me to wear a camelback. I told him he was crazy. For the entire three hours I cursed myself for not wearing it. Please keep his family in your prayers. Godspeed Kurt #RIP
http://instagram.com/p/gxsZClNqWg/
Destry Abbott via Instagram
Today is one of the saddest days in my life! Lost one of the best racers in the world @kurtcaselli66 and a great friend! Tragic accident at the Baja1000! Love you and we’re going to miss you! Way to young! Please pray for his family and friends! #kurtcaselli
http://instagram.com/p/gw8JlzRY7D/
Donnie Emler Jr. via Instagram
My true American Hero! I’ve known you since you were 16 and watched you accomplish so much in such a short span! We lost a true Legend and I will NEVER forget your smile and laugh. So genuine and pure. Thank you for being a part of the family and my heart goes out to Sara and the Caselli Family.
http://instagram.com/p/gx_-u4k83L/
Justin Hill via Instagram
I was heart broken to hear the news today… So bummed I never got to meet this guy, but I was still a big fan #rip Kurt Caselli
http://instagram.com/p/gy5-nsLrVg/
Josh Strang ?via Twitter
Kurt, you will be missed buddy! Lost for words. #kurtcaselli #Legend
Tommy Aquino ?via Twitter
RIP #KurtCaselli. Don’t know what to say really… Gutted, comes to mind. Thoughts and prayers to his friends and family.
Etienne Lavigne (Dakar Director)
This news saddens me even more because back in January, the Dakar had discovered a rider of great talent, but especially a likeable character, humble, who was so enthusiastic. After earning a superb reputation on the tracks of the American off-road races, he admitted been conquered by cross-country rallies.
