Khan Thoroughgood dies of bone cancer, those who loved him pay tribute

The Queensland speedway family is in mourning following the death of an inspirational young driver, larrikin and “absolute soldier” who has died just shy of his 17th birthday.

Kahn Thoroughgood was diagnosed with the osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in his right leg a week before his 15th birthday in October, 2022. He fought the disease with courage for almost two years.

A 16-year-old rising sports star diagnosed with bone cancer a week before his 15th birthday has lost his courageous fight against the disease just shy of turning 17.

Former James Nash State High student Khan Thoroughgood was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his right leg in October, 2022.

He was then in and out of the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane, undergoing chemotherapy and surgery, but back racing whenever he got the chance, winning silver in the Gympie Saloon Car Club Junior Sedan Point Score last season, despite everything he was going through.

Khan was also a competitive athlete for Gympie Devils junior rugby league and Valleys cricket club, but speedway was his passion from the age of 10.

His brother Kaleb posted a heartbreaking photo of he and his brother to Facebook on Wednesday, August 22, along with the words “I’ll see you around buddy”.

Khan Thoroughgood was diagnosed with the osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in his right leg a week before his 15th birthday in October, 2022. He fought the disease with courage for almost two years. His big brother Kaleb posted this photo to Facebook on Wednesday along with the words, “I’ll see you around buddy”.

Gympie Speedway posted this message:

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Khan Thoroughgood, one of our dedicated Junior Sedan drivers who has left an indelible mark on our community.

“Khan’s journey was nothing short of inspirational.

“Even after the amputation of his right leg due to cancer, he continued to compete at the highest levels, showcasing incredible resilience and determination which showed with his 2nd place finish in last season’s Gympie Saloon Car Club Junior Sedan Point Score.

“Khan’s courage on and off the track inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

“He will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of sharing the track with him. Rest in Peace Khan #forever51”.

Gympie speedway 2019 - Khan Thoroughgood.

The Maryborough Speedway community made this post to Facebook:

“The speedway community comes together in grief over the loss of Khan Thoroughgood, a shining star in the world of SSA Junior sedan racing.

“Vitwood Maryborough Speedway offer our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow drivers.

“May his memory inspire us to live life to the fullest and cherish the moments we share with those we love. #Forever51”

Tyler Burnham Racing added its own tribute.

“Unfortunately I was told today that one of our old competitors from junior sedans lost his fight with cancer this morning.

“Khan was an absolute soldier and never failed to make people laugh, he definitely made a positive impact on a lot of people’s lives including mine and we will forever be grateful for that.

“Our condolences are with his whole family as well as the speedway community during this tough time. Our very few memories racing together will forever be remembered, Rest easy now mate.”

Khan Thoroughgood, Gympie Speedway. Photo: contributed.

Ashlea Bates posted:

“Today the whole speedway community is mourning the loss of SSA Junior sedan driver Khan Thoroughgood.

“A Larrikin, Down to earth kid with a heart of gold.

“It is with a heavy heart I pass my sincere condolences on to the Thoroughgood family. All their relatives, friends and every driver who got to know khan. A legend taken way to soon. #Forever51”

Harry Fowler Motorsport posted:

“Harry Fowler Motorsport are saddened by the news that sadly Khan Thoroughgood passed away today.

“Another fellow Junior competitor Harry met through the love of racing.

“Our heart goes out to Khan’s friends and family. Such an inspiration and a young man with so much ahead of him, a life taken way too soon. #Forever51”

Former James Nash State High student Khan Thoroughgood was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in his right leg a week before his birthday in October, 2022. Photo: contributed.

The Queensland Saloon Car Association posted:

“The speedway family is feeling saddened by the loss of Junior Sedan competitor Khan Thoroughgood yesterday. Condolences to Gavin, Toni and family.

“Khan was the pilot of his trusty #51 Datsun Sunny - a front running rear wheel drive amongst so many front wheel drives.

“Khan’s passing is felt by all the speedway family but particularly his fellow Junior competitors.

“Fly high Khan - speedway in the sky has gained a great guy. RIP Khan #Forever51”

Kahn Thoroughgood was diagnosed with the osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in his right leg a week before his 15th birthday in October, 2022. He fought the disease with courage for almost two years.

Kingaroy Speedway posted:

“Ian Boettcher Race Parts Kingaroy Speedway offer deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to the family and friends of Khan Thoroughgood.

“Remember life is so very short. Hold your loved ones close. Remember the ones we have lost & their memories will live on forever. #Forever51”