Motorsport mourns backer

Motorsport New Zealand says it is with regret that it acknowledges the passing of Greg Horne. President Shayne Harris says: “Greg, in his capacity as BNT general manager, has been a major supporter of circuit racing and rallying – he has sponsored series, individual events and a number of drivers. “His passion for the sport and his desire to support it at the highest level has been immense and has ensured the success of champions and championships. He will be greatly missed.” Horne competed as a co-driver in the national rally championship and through BNT supported national champions, such as Jason Richards, Richard Mason and Nick Cassidy. BNT also sponsored the NZV8 Gold Star championship, and a range of other events and series over many years. Peter Johnston, chairman of Rally New Zealand, says: “Greg was one of life’s gentlemen, a great ambassador and supporter of rally in New Zealand. He will be sadly missed especially at the end of NZRC rally stages when he was regularly seen taking times for Mason and an interest in other competitors.” Harris adds: “Our thoughts and wishes are with Greg’s family. He was a good man, whose actions benefited many involved in the motorsport fraternity.”