July 7, 2018
RIP William dunlop
Road racing star William Dunlop has died following an accident at the Skerries 100 Road Races this afternoon.
The 32-year-old Ballymoney man had pulled out of the recent Isle of Man TT, and was making his return to racing when he was involved in a crash during practice at the North Dublin circuit earlier today.
A statement on behalf of the organisers read:
“The Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club, organisers of the Skerries 100, deeply regrets to announce that competitor William Dunlop of Ballymoney, Co. Antrim, has passed away following injuries received in a tragic accident that occurred during practise which took place today 7th July 2018.”
“The Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club extends their heartfelt sympathy to William Dunlop’s family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very sad time.”
William has been a familiar fixture on the Irish road racing circuit for more than a decade, often competing with and against his brother Michael, He enjoyed a distinguished career on Ireland’s national road racing scene, accumulating 108 wins, including four victories at the North West 200, seven at the Ulster Grand Prix and fifteen wins at the Skerries 100 circuit since beginning his career in 2000.
A spokesman for the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club which was William’s home club said “The Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club are beyond devastated to learn of the death of our club member and local road racing legend William Dunlop, after he was involved in an incident in today’s practice sessions at the Skerries 100.
“Our deepest sympathy goes to his partner Janine and daughter Ella, mother Linda, brothers Michael and Daniel, Granny May, the Dunlop family, William’s friends, team and wider circle.”
Another tragedy for the Dunlop family, R.I.P William.