When I was building my car (with Hayabusa engine) and deciding how to modify the engine, DaveO in the USA was very helpful and gave me some useful tips.
He’d been modifying and building bikes for years, was a great engine builder and racer and held a number of top speed records in the USA. Well respected, nice bloke and no bull.
Sadly he died in September whilst attempting another top speed run on his busa.
At 11:05 on Saturday, September 27, 2008 we lost a fierce competitor and a good friend, Dave Owen. Dave died of injuries sustained in an accident in the shut down area. The investigation is ongoing.
Dave has been a member of the East Coast Timing Association since April, 2004 and also became a member of the 200 MPH Club in April, 2004. Dave had not only set many of his own records, but he had helped many fellow competitors achieve their own goals. One of Dave’s proudest moments was welcoming his son, Josh, into the 200 MPH Club as a result of his own tutelage.
Not only was he a racer, but Dave’s skills included bike building, engine building and tuning. Dave was an avid drag racer competing in the AMA Pro Star Racing Series.
Dave leaves behind his best friend Lauren Owen, his two sons Josh (20) who was also competing at the event, and Jake (12) who was the apple of his father’s eye. He also leaves behind his mother and father, Betty Lee and Dave and sister Sue.
I know I speak for myself, as well as the entire ECTA membership when I say that we are all deeply saddened by Dave’s untimely passing and would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Owen Family. He will be greatly missed.
Joe Timney
President
East Coast Timing Association
