Irish motorcyclist dies after crash in Isle of Man TT races

AN IRISH motorcyclist has been killed in the Isle of Man TT races.

Derek Brien (34), of Bellewstown, Co Meath, died yesterday after he crashed on the second lap of the first Supersport race for 600cc motorbikes.

An experienced motorcyclist, Mr Brien, who won the junior race at the Manx Grand Prix on the Isle of Man four years ago, is the third competitor to be killed at this year’s races.

The high speed crash happened at the Gorse Lea section of the road between Douglas and Peel and the race was stopped immediately after the incident.

An investigation has begun into the circumstances of the fatal crash. A postmortem is expected to take place today.

The Isle of Man race organisers ACU Events Ltd expressed their regret at Mr Brien’s death.

In a statement the company said “Derek was an experienced road racer who first competed on the Isle of Man in the Manx Grand Prix in 2007 and competed in the TT Races in 2009 and 2010.

“He had a highest TT place of 13th in the 2010 Supersport 1 race.

“Derek was single with a partner, Sarah. The ACU wishes to pass on their deepest sympathy to Derek’s family and friends.”

Managing director Jim Parker said: “Derek was a very talented road racer and achieved a number of notable career highlights including his Manx Grand Prix victory. He will be sorely missed.”

Mr Brien’s death follows those on Tuesday of 67-year-old sidecar competitor Bill Currie and his 59-year-old passenger Kevin Morgan who died during a practice session.