It is with sadness that we learn of the passing of Sam Fenech, a professional drag racer from Sydney at the age of 55. On Saturday January 7, 2023 Fenech’s Chevrolet Camaro crashed into a camera tower. He was a much-respected figure in the racing community. Keep reading to know more about this tragic car accident
Who was Sam Fenech?
Sam Fenech had been driving drag cars since the early 2000s and had become well known within the racing community as one of Australia’s fastest drivers. His passion for drag racing led him to compete in events throughout Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. He was a member of Sydney Dragway and a regular competitor in its Street Series events, where competitors raced street registered cars built to strict rules.
Fenech’s love for drag racing extended beyond competing himself; he also owned and operated an engine building business called ‘Sam Fenech Motorsport’. Through this business, he helped build engines and provide advice on performance upgrades to other aspiring racers who wanted to get involved in motor sports. His commitment to the sport was unrivalled; it’s clear from his success that he truly loved what he did.
How did Sam Fenech die? What was the cause of his death?
Sam Fenech was competing in the New Year Nitro race at Willowbank Raceway in Ipswich, west of Brisbane, Australia when he lost control of his Chevrolet Camaro and crashed into a camera tower. The camera operator was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital for treatment for non-life threatening injuries. Tragically, Fenech did not survive the accident. Fenech leaves behind a wife, two children and countless friends who will remember him fondly as an incredible racer who dedicated much of his life to making drag racing safer for everyone involved.
Tributes Pour to Sam Fenech death
Raffyago@RaffAgostino
Unbelievable and very rare crash tonight at Willowbank Raceway. Absolutely heartbreaking.
RIP Sam Fenech ❤️🏁 🙏🏼 Sam’s family, pitcrew, friends and all involved. The camera man has minor injuries and is being monitored in hospital. Drag racing can be a brutal sport.
Todd Hazelwood@Todd_Hazelwood
Absolutely lost for words. RIP Sam Fenech ❤️🏁 To witness this tragedy at Willowbank Raceway tonight is absolutely heartbreaking. My heart goes out to Sam’s family, pitcrew, friends and supporters. Also wishing the cameraman a fast recovery too. 🙏🏼
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder that even with all the safety measures taken by race organizers, accidents still happen on the track—and they can have devastating consequences. Our thoughts go out to Sam Fenech’s family during this difficult time; may they find comfort in knowing how much joy he brought to others through his passion for drag racing. Rest In Peace, Sam Fenech – you will be remembered always by those whose lives you touched through your love of speed and motorsports.