Toriano Wilson succumbs to injuries

By John Hopkins

Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup racer Toriano Wilson succumbed on Monday to injuries he had suffered in the seventh round of the series at Virginia International Raceway.

According to a statement from the series, the 14-year-old native of St. Davids, Bermuda fell on the first lap of Sunday's race and was accidentally struck by another rider while trying to get out of the way. He was airlifted to UNC Medical Center for treatment but was pronounced dead Monday morning.

"Toriano was a great kid and a hard rider," said Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup coach Kevin Schwantz on the series website. "As the season progressed, he harnessed his riding style and started garnering some really good results. On any given day, it could be the #26 bike at the front. He was that talented. Toriano will be missed."

Wilson had three top five finishes in the U.S. Rookies Cup this season, with a best result of fourth in the season opener at Barber Motorsport Park.

Luciano Ribodino and Garet Tomlinson were also involved in the accident. Ribodino was taken to Duke Medical Center in Durham, NC and Tomlinson escaped the crash relatively uninjured, according to a report from VIR. A cyclenews.com report said Ribodino is currently in stable condition with a broken left arm and broken left femur.

"The AMA and Red Bull have a long history in racing and every effort is made to create the safest possible environment for all participants," said a statement from the Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup. "Unfortunately, racing also carries inherent risks. This was a tragic accident and our thoughts are with both families at this time."

Inside Motorcycles extends its condolences to the family and friends of Toriano Wilson.