Sadness as rider dies after NW200 race

Published Saturday, 19 May 2012
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Tributes are pouring in for Scottish rider Mark Buckley, who died following a crash at the North West 200.

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The 35-year-old Loch Lomond based rider died in hospital after the incident, which took place near York Corner, outside Portstewart, during the Superstock Race on Saturday.

North West 200 Event Director Mervyn Whyte said: "We are devastated by the news that 35-year- old Scottish rider Mark Buckley has died in hospital following an incident during the Superstock Race at today's International North West 200.

"There were no other riders involved in the incident."

Organisers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, along with the Motorcycle Union of Ireland.

The rider was taking part in the NW 200 event with the Splitlath Redmond Racing team.

He was due to compete at the TT races in the Isle of Man in June.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Jayne and we extend our deepest sympathies to the entire family circle.

North West 200 Event Director Mervyn Whyte

First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said they were "deeply saddened" to learn of the fatal crash.

In a joint statement, they said: "We understand that Mark was a regular competitor at the North West and we offer our deepest sympathy to his wife Jayne, his family and close friends. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time."

Sports Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín, has also expressed her sincere condolences.

"I was very saddened to learn of the accident involving Mark Buckley and I would like to express my sympathy to his family and friends.

"The circumstances surrounding this incident are a matter in the first instance for the organisers of the race and the MCUI to investigate and I would encourage all concerned to co-operate fully with that investigation.

"Encouraging organisers of road races to address public concerns about the safety of such events remains an important priority for me as Sports Minister."

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy and Health Minister Edwin Poots attended the event on Saturday.

They have also expressed their deepest condolences to Buckley family following the crash, which occurred in the third race of the last day of the international race series.

A book of condolence for Mark Buckley has been opened on the NW 200 website.

© UTV News
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27 Comments
John Browne in Ballymoney wrote (393 days ago):
Hi Objective, the study you quote suggesting equestrianism is more dangerous the motorsport counted all injuries including sore thumbs and a bruised elbow. there was one death in 35 equestrian events included in the study. The NW200 kills and/or permanantly maims on average one man every year, so not really comparing like with like. The study you quote is wheeled out again and again as an excuse to justify the carnage. What evidence there is ( and it is surprisingly scarce) suggests Motorsport, particularly motorcycle racing has over three times the rate of serious injury or death per participant than any other sport. Time to stop on this circuit and move it to a proper track with run off areas. Or just stop
Jun in Belfast wrote (393 days ago):
It wasn't a book of condolence, it is a forum to leave comments in response to news.
George Broaddus in Cocoa, Florida wrote (394 days ago):
My heart goes out to the Buckley's and their friends. I am so sorry about Mark's death competing in the sport he must have loved greatly. We here in the US do not have any road racing, so we are thrilled and supportive of all those who compete. May he rest in peace. George Broaddus Cocoa, Florida USA
Harvey in newtownabbey wrote (394 days ago):
First off all my thoughts are with the family at this time.Rip mark. I can't believe what im reading.ban road racing???? The guys are girls know the risks at of the sport.i know this cause i am an ex road racer an my son is thinking about it now.i don't want him to do it but i can't stop him but he also knows the risk. The north west 200 is the biggest sporting event in northern Ireland and to ban it would be crazy
Anon in Co. Antrim wrote (394 days ago):
My thoughts go out to Mark's family and friends. Another sad day for motorcycle racing. It is a dangerous sport, death and injury are all too common. But I feel the MCUI medical team deserve a mention, and should be commended for their continued effort to provide such a high standard of pre-hospital care at these events. Without these guys and girls, the sport could not continue.
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