Fellow New Zealand rider Morgan McLaren-Wood, who suffered minor injuries in the crash, paid tribute to Richardson on social media.
“Struggling to find the words for what happened,” he said. “Rest in peace Shane and Owen. My heart goes out to both of their families during this heartbreaking time.”
New Zealand Hutt City councillor Brady Dyer posted on Facebook: “Shane was proud to be from Wainuiomata and was admired both locally and abroad for his skill and passion.
“This is a heartbreaking loss, and I know many in our community will be feeling it deeply.”
Fellow New Zealand rider Cormac Buchanan said Shane was “truly one of the best people I ever had the privilege of sharing the track with”.
Writing on Instagram, Buchanan said: “You never failed to put a smile on all of our faces. You were someone I could look up to and learn from and I am so lucky to have had your guidance in my first year in the UK.
“I cherish all of the track walks with you and Damo, the hard battles we had, bumping bars and swapping paint. I’m grateful to have been able to consider you a competitor, rival, and a friend. I always felt your support no matter what the situation, race, or outcome was”.
