JASON Richards was determined to live every moment of his life.

Just a day before succumbing to cancer, the V8 Supercar driver played in the Australian Masters Pro-am alongside professional Richard Green, Geelong footballer Tom Hawkins and rugby league star Braith Anasta. Green had specifically asked to be in the group with Richards, with the pair being close friends.

"They were such great friends. Richard will be devastated. Absolutely devastated," Green's manager, Paul Walker said.

"He obviously knew he was ill, but I don't think anything can prepare you for that moment.

"Greeny and Jason were perfect for each other. One wanted to be a racing driver and one wanted to be a pro golfer.

"Greeny used to ask him what sort of driver he thought he'd make. Jason used to joke about the equivalent of a 15-handicapper.

"We are just gutted for his family and his couple of young kids. It's been a tough time for them all, but it's especially hard right at Christmas.

"He will be missed."

Richards, who died peacefully surrounded by family and friends in Melbourne on Thursday night, used a buggy throughout most of the round but he seemed to cope well.

Anasta said the "golf tragic" could play, too.

"His short game was immaculate and he was still hitting the ball really well," Anasta said.

"My heart really goes out to his family. What a great bloke."

Hawkins said it had been "remarkable" for Richards to carry on living his life in spite of his battle.

"I loved hearing and learning about his story and his life ... it was pretty inspirational," he said.

Richards, who was born in New Zealand, had been looking forward to starting a new course of treatment for adrenal cortical carcinoma.

He was diagnosed with the cancer 14 months ago but continued to take part in motor racing while battling the illness.

In September, he piloted the Holden Dealer Team A9X Torana to an incredible win in the Muscle Car Masters in front of a packed Eastern Creek.

His family issued a statement, saying that it was appreciative of the many thousands of people who had offered their love and support during his battle with illness.

Richards is survived by his wife, Charlotte, and children, Sienna and Olivia.

A memorial service to honour Richards and his career will be held at Sandown in coming weeks.

Originally published as Motorsport mourns a great bloke