Tragedy at the North West 200 - Robert Dunlop killed
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TT winner Robert Dunlop has died at the age of 47 after suffering severe chest injuries in a crash in Thursday’s practice session at the North West 200. The accident happened in the 250cc qualifying session in County Antrim.
Dunlop had been riding a specially adapted bike after he returned to racing following an horrific crash at the Isle of Man TT in 1994.
The North West 200 event will go ahead as planned, organisers have said.
Dunlop’s brother Joey, a legendary figure in British motorcycle circles, died while racing in Estonia in 2000. Another Northern Ireland rider, Darren Burns, suffered a suspected broken leg and concussion in the accident, but is said to be stable in hospital.
Burns was following behind and was unable to avoid hitting the Dunlop. He is said to be stable in hospital.
Denver Robb, was behind both motorcyclists when the accident happened.
Coming up to Mathers (Cross), Burns was leading and I was second, just sitting in his slipstream,
Then Robert - it was one of the Dunlops - came past me and as soon as he did he just shot off into Mathers and the bike seized.
There was a puff of smoke and the bike locked up, she went sideways, and I think Robert must have grabbed the front brake.
He went out over the top of the bike and landed on the road. Then Burnsy had nowhere to go and he clipped him and he went straight on.
This news comes shortly after another Irish road racer, Martin Finnigan, was killed at the Tandragee 100.
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May 16th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Tragic news, another great racer gone. RIP
May 16th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I havnt been in the racing game that long but our hearts go out to the familys of Robert and Martin, I question our sanity more and more everytime an event like this happens especially the guys in road racing proper. I hope jay never gets the urge. I feel this is a very dangerouse sport that the great men who play it dont even remotely receive there reward. please tell me why we do this for little more than a Tin Trophy.
Such a sad Loss
Sincere condolances
S Dunn
May 17th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Well said Steve, tragic loss and my condolences to the families of Robert and Martin.