Irish motorcyclist dies during Isle of Man road race
Louise Walsh
An Irish motorcyclist has been killed in the Isle of Man road races.
The popular and experienced rider from Co Meath was one of two fatalities from a serious incident during the qualifying session at the Southern 100 event on Tuesday evening.
The incident involved two riders, a marshal and a spectator. It is reported that the marshall was the second fatality.
Organisers made the decision to cancel the remainder of the event on Wednesday afternoon
They said: "The clerk of the course has taken the decision to cancel the remainder of the event due to the ongoing investigations and this continues to be the priority of the organisation
An earlier statement from the club said: "The Southern 100 can confirm that a serious incident occurred during tonight’s qualifying session on the Billown Course.
"The incident involved two riders, a marshal and a spectator, and it is with deep sadness that the Southern 100 regrets to announce that this incident has resulted in two fatalities.
"The Southern 100 pass on their deepest sympathy to the families, loved ones, and friends of those involved.
"At this time, the club is unable to provide any further details of those involved in the incident and the current focus of the organiser is to support those involved."
The Coroner of Inquests has been informed.
A joint statement from members of the Irish Motorcycling Road Race Committee, said: "In light of a racing incident at Tuesday's Southern 100 Road Races on the Isle of Man, the Road Race Committee can confirm that two people lost their lives, a southern competition licence holder and a marshal at the event.
"The Road Race Committee, and the entire sport are absolutely shocked and heartbroken at the news that came from the island in the early hours of this morning, that two people, a rider and a Manx resident had sadly and tragically lost their lives in a racing incident.
"The Committee and all the associated clubs would like to extend our heartfelt condolences and sorrow to their families and friends at this very sad time, as well as sending our wishes to all those involved in the incident and may be still receiving medical interventions at present.
"Our road racing community and committee would like to offer our support and sympathies to the riders’ family and friends at this time, as the rider involved was so well respected within the sport and was very highly thought of by so many right across all the paddocks of Ireland, and those beyond these shores."
They said further information and updates will be made available with the riders’ family’s consent in the days ahead.