The New Zealand motorcycling community is in mourning today with the sad news of the passing of popular Canterbury motorcycle ace Cameron Jones.

Jones had been in a coma and in critical condition in Christchurch Hospital following his high-speed crash at Levels Raceway on January 15, where he was competing at round two of the New Zealand Superbike Championships.

The 19-year-old former national 125GP champion –  New Zealand’s youngest ever road-race champion – crashed his 600cc superstock bike at Levels during the warm-up lap before the day’s first 600cc race at the track.

He was taken from the track to the Timaru Hospital intensive care unit and later airlifted to Christchurch Hospital, where he remained under constant watch until passing away peacefully earlier today.

“Day 26 (since arriving at hospital) and very appropriate that, at 8.06am, Cameron chose to leave us all,” said Patrick Jones, one of Cam’s three elder brothers.

Cam Jones raced with the No.26 on his bike and, in recent weeks, many of his friends and family in the wider motorcycling community had shown their love and respect for Cam by displaying the No.26 on their bikes also.

“His passing was very peaceful, painless and quick and (his father) Peter was with him. He has fought a brave fight but over the last few days we have seen him deteriorate.

“He has had so many wonderful people around to say goodbye to him this week. As a family, we have valued your support.

“We were truly blessed to have such a kind and loving young man as part of our family and his memory will always be very much alive. Our thoughts are with you all as you grieve Cameron in your own way.”

His funeral will be in Christchurch on Wednesday.

© Words and photos by Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com