William Dunlop (1985-2018) – a true racing hero

The road racing world is still reeling from the death of 32-year-old Irish hero William Dunlop.

He died following a crash on Saturday, July 7, during practice for the Skerries 100 road race, organised by the Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters’ Club in County Dublin.

The accident occurred at the Sam’s Tunnel section on the third lap of the 2.9-mile circuit, and the race was immediately red-flagged.

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The Irish and Isle of Man racing scene will never be the same again following the passing of William Dunlop after a racing accident at the Skerries 100 on July 7.

It was the third racing tragedy for the Dunlop family, after William’s uncle Joey lost his life during a race in Estonia in 2000, and Joey’s brother Robert, William’s father, succumbed to injuries received in an accident at the North West 200 in 2008.

As soon as the news of William’s death broke out, members of the public began visiting the Dunlop Memorial Garden in Ballymoney to remember another one of their own and lay floral tributes.

Following discussions with the Dunlop family, sponsors and fellow riders, it was agreed that the Skerries would go ahead in tribute to William as a non-championship event on Sunday, July 8, with the entire prize fund going to his family.

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