CCS racing on the North Course at VIR is on hold due to an ongoing investigation of a plane crash that happened around 5:30 p.m. EDT Friday. 

According to CCS President Kevin Elliott, the plane ended up in a ravine between the North Course and the South Course and track workers have cut a route through heavy underbrush to allow investigators to access the crash site more easily. The access route cut through the underbrush is reached by crossing part of the North Course.

Elliott said that authorities have allowed CCS to deploy Airfence provided by the Roadracing World Action Fund to prepare the North Course for racing but don’t want bikes actually on course as they come and go from the crash site.

“As much of this event that can be run, will be run” when the hold is lifted, Elliott said. 

The plane crashed after racer, TOBC Racing team owner and pilot Jon Couch made a slow, low-altitude barrel role over the registration line. Couch and his mother, passenger Frances Gene Couch, both died in the incident.

A car event being held on the South Course is not affected by the investigation and is not on hold.

This just in from Kevin Elliott:

“Remaining races from today move to Sunday a.m.; Team Challenge is shortened to 65 laps from 89; practice on Sunday will start at 8:00 a.m. instead of posted 8:30 a.m.”