By: DAISY SAMPSON
CRAIG JONES, the former Parkalgar-Honda rider who died tragically on August 4 following a race at Brands Hatch, was commemorated at the inauguration of the new Algarve Motor Park on Sunday.
The 23-year old British World Supersport Championship racer was a rising star in the motor racing world and an integral part of team Parkalgar-Honda, as was demonstrated in a moving tribute made in honour of Craig Jones by Parkalgar CEO Paulo Pinheiro.
 Parkalgar CEO Paulo Pinheiro delivered an emotional speech in honour of Craig Jones |
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“Craig was courageous, he was a fighter,” said Paulo Pinheiro to the small crowd that had gathered on the main roundabout at the entrance to the Algarve Motor Park.
“I am sure he is up there in heaven now looking down on today and is happy,” he added.
Paulo Pinheiro was joined on the muddy roundabout by members of Craig Jones’ family, where it had been hoped a statue of the Parkalgar rider would be unveiled.
Unfortunately for all involved, the statue commissioned in memory of Craig Jones was not ready and instead the bike used by Craig Jones had been wheeled into the centre of the roundabout in front of a fabric poster of the rider as a makeshift focal point.
Despite the confusion surrounding the tribute, including a change in schedule, it was a clearly emotional moment for all those affected by the death of Craig Jones, especially Paulo Pinheiro who wept throughout his speech to the crowd.
“We wanted the statue of Craig to be ready for today but unfortunately it has not been possible. The picture behind us is what the statue will look like when it arrives within the next 60 days,” said Paulo Pinheiro.
Steve Jones, Craig’s father, spoke on behalf of the family. He said: “He was a winner and is still a winner to us. We hope that the Parkalgar team go on to be winners because that is what Craig would have wanted.”
“We want to thank the Parkalgar team and all the boys for everything they did for Craig and everything they have done for us.”
One of the most technical corners on the track has also been named after Craig Jones in recognition of his talent and skill.
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