Motorcyclist dies after Dundrod crash

Published Friday, 10 August 2012

A motorcyclist has died following a high speed crash at the Dundrod 150.

Lee Vernon prior to the crash at the Dundrod 150. (© Pacemaker)

Lee Vernon, who is from Stoke on Trent, was travelling at high speed when he lost control during the Superbike race on Thursday evening.

The race was stopped and the 24-year-old was taken to the Royal Victoria by an ambulance with a police escort in a critical condition.

Mr Vernon died in hospital.

In a statement, Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club said: "It is with much sadness that the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club confirm that Lee Vernon has passed away in hospital following an incident during the Dundrod 150 road races on Thursday."

Mr Vernon's family have thanked everyone who has offered support, and asked for people to respect their privacy and give them time to come to terms with what has happened.

Clerk of the Course Noel Johnston said: "I am deeply saddened by the news of Lee's death.

"He first came to Dundrod as an 18 year old novice and has been back every year since. He was lovely lad and a credit to the sport and to his family. He will be sorely missed."

Comments

8 Comments

Stickyblade in Belfast wrote (310 days ago):

My thoughts go out to Lee's family, friends and the Biking community. This road racer died doin the thing he loved best, at least thats something. Speak to any road racer, they know excatly what can happen; watch the film closer to the edge, you have plenty of racers confirmin this. Road Racing is brilliant and they have a skill that most people can only dream of havin and experiencin!

Reply to John Lock in South Belfast wrote (311 days ago):

John Lock - would you ban rock climbing, eventing, extreme marathon running... any other sports you want to ban? What about cars, overseas travel and other increased risk activities!? We have a big enough Nanny-state without people like you dictating other people's recreational pursuits. I am thankful for having the pleasure to watch Lee Vernon compete at something that he loved and was so talented at.

Michael in Kendal wrote (311 days ago):

Think John needs to open his mind a bit more. Nobody is making these racers take part, everyone on the gird is there because they want to be and love to do it. They all know the risks they are taking, who are you to say they can't. Should we ban people climbing mountains or owning horses? Both have a much higher injury and death toll.

John Locke in Littleborough, Lancashire wrote (312 days ago):

Need to ban these death races straight away - another young life gone because of the 'need for speed'.......so sad!!

stephen in omagh wrote (312 days ago):

Tragic news. May my sympathies be with teh family at this sad time.

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