Langbahn Team – Weltmeisterschaft

Andy Caldecott

The KTM on which Caldecott placed sixth in the 2005 Dakar Rally

Andrew David Caldecott (10 August 1964 – 9 January 2006) was an off-road motorcycle racer born in Keith, South Australia. He won the motorcycle division of the Australian Safari Rally four times consecutively (2000–2003) and was a competitor in the Dakar Rally in 2004 (DNF), 2005 (6th), and 2006.

Career

During the 2006 Dakar Rally he won the third stage, but later died from a neck injury sustained in a crash during the ninth stage, 250 km into the 599 km special stage from Nouakchott to Kiffa.[1] His death was the 23rd in the 28 years of the rally.

Even though he pushed himself to the limits he was known for his easygoing manner and humility.[2] Prior to his death he had operated a motorcycle shop in Keith. He was married to wife, Tracey, who was expecting their second child when Caldecott died and with whom he already had a daughter Caitlin of four years of age. A long-term capital investment trust[3] has been set up for the ongoing support and benefit of Caldecott's wife Tracey, and their children.

Tributes and awards

Prior to Andy going to the 2006 Dakar Rally, a video was done with him where he was discussing the death of another rider. It is titled "Andy Caldecott Memorial Tribute 2006"[4]

The Keith & Districts Motor Cycle Club along with the Keith War Memorial Community Centre Committee decided to erect a Memorial to him and it was opened on 14 August 2011 named the "Andy Caldecott Memorial"[5]

On Saturday 28 November 2015, Motorcycling SA Inc inducted Andy Caldecott into the Motorcycling SA Hall of Fame. With the help of key people from his career and life, a video was put together as a tribute to Andy.[6]

The Andy Caldecott display at the National Motor Museum, Birdwood, South Australia

References