Dunlop dies after practice crash

11:49am Friday 16th May 2008

Former Isle of Man TT winner Robert Dunlop died on Thursday night after a horrific crash during a practice race in Northern Ireland.

The Co Antrim rider, brother of the legendary Joey Dunlop, who was killed in a similar accident in Estonia in 2000, was competing in the North West 200 in Portrush.

His bike appeared to seize at the Mathers Cross section of the course. He was rushed to the Causeway Hospital in Coleraine, Co Londonderry, where he died from his injuries shortly after 10pm.

Overnight, tributes were paid to the motorcyclist from the highest level of the Stormont power sharing executive.

First Minister Ian Paisley and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said they were deeply saddened by his death.

"This is a tragedy that will be felt deeply by the people of Northern Ireland," Mr Paisley said.

"Robert was one of our greatest sportsmen and will be sadly missed.

"My prayers and thoughts are with his family and loved ones."

Mr McGuinness added: "Robert, like his brother Joey before him, was a tremendous ambassador for his sport.

"I also offer my sincerest sympathies to his family."

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