Isle of Man deaths: Two killed in motorbike race crash as another tragedy hits the popular event
TWO people have died during a motorbike race on the Isle of Man’s twisting roads.
Organisers of the annual Southern 100 Road Races on the famous TT course say last night’s incident involved “two riders, a marshal and a spectator”, which resulted in two fatalities.
No further details have been released yet.
In a statement, they said: “At around 6.50pm this evening, Tuesday 11th July 2023, a serious incident occurred during tonight’s qualifying session on the Billown Course in Castletown.
“The incident involved two riders, a marshal and a spectator and it is with deep sadness that we regret to announce that this incident has resulted in two fatalities.
“We pass on our deepest sympathy to the families, loved ones, and friends of those involved.
“At this time, we are unable to provide any further details of those involved in the incident and the current focus is to support those involved.
“The Coroner of Inquests has been informed.”
The incident was red-flagged at the end of the 1,100cc practice session.
The qualifying session that was due to take place last night was cancelled.
The stretch of road between the A5 Castletown bypass, through to, but not including, Ballakighen Corner was closed.
Road closures will remain in place until at least 11am today to allow police investigations to continue.
Access can still be gained to Buchan and Castle Rushen School, as well as the Southern 100 campsite, but this has to be via Castletown Square.
The Southern 100 Road Races attracts over 300 riders each year, with fans travelling to the island from across the world to witness the action on the Colas Billown Circuit.
Last night’s tragedy comes just five weeks after Spanish biker Raul Torras Martinez, 46, died on the third and final lap of the Supertwin race where riders roar round a 37-mile circuit of the island’s narrow, twisting public roads, which are closed to the public for the races.
His death was the latest in scores of tragic crashes in the annual TT race meeting over the years.
The deaths have frequently led to demands to either reduce the risks or ban it altogether.
Six competitors died last year and Raul was the 267th fatality in the history of the event which began in 1907.
The annual races have claimed the lives of more than 250 riders, spectators and stewards since the first event in 1907.
Among last year’s fatalities were Roger Stockton, 56, and his 21-year-old passenger son Bradley, from Crewe, both killed at Ago’s Leap on the final lap of a sidecar race.