Matthew Marker dies in a crash at Olympus Rally
The Rally Car driver from Elk Rapids, Michigan, Matthew Marker died from injuries after an accident at the Olympus Rally in Ocean Shores, Washington, on April 30.
The weekend was featuring the third of the six rounds in Rally America’s National Championship. Representing the Suba Roots rally team, the 31-year old was driving in the sixth competitive stage of the event when his car went off the road while rounding
a right turn. The car got out of control and skidded 40 feet down an embankment before the driver side of the car smashed into a tree.
The medical personnel quickly got to the site of the accident, but it turned out to be too late for Marker. They could not revive him and pronounced him dead a little while later. However, his co-driver, Christopher Gordon of Brooklyn Park, managed to walk
away from the crash without suffering any serious injuries.
Following the tragedy, the organizers of Olympus Rally and Rally Car officials decided to cancel the remaining Rally American National Championship event. Points were to be awarded to the drivers according to their position at the time of cancellation.
According to the officials, failed safety regulations had nothing to do with the unfortunate accident that took place. According to them, the tragedy was a reminder of the danger that exists in the particular sport and the constant peril that the drivers
have to face. Though the risks can be minimized through security measures, they cannot be completely eliminated. It must be noted though that the Rally in North America had not seen a casualty since 2003.
The Washington law enforcement has already started investigating the incident according to the recent press release from Rally America.
The news of the rally-star came as a huge shock for the rally racing community. The managing director of Rally America, J.B. Niday, remembered Marker as, “a generous, lovable personality that wouldn't think twice about offering parts to other drivers. He
loved the sport and was a unique character from the first day he showed up at the Sno*Drift Rally four years ago.”
Jake Blattner, a Team 600 co-driver who was also close to the Michigander, described him as, “a very passionate, energetic, hip gearhead that used to turn up with glowing neon lights under his car on the night stages which the fans loved. . . . It's a dangerous
sport but that's what sets it apart. It's you against the wild open road and the clock.”
Marker had been participating in Rally America's National Championships for five years and had earned himself a really impressive reputation at both the local and regional level.
We offer our deepest condolence to the family and friends of Marker.
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