On 15th May 2008, a biking legend stepped up to the practice for Saturdays annual North West 200 road race. Robert Dunlop was a continually rising star in the sport until events in 1994. During a race on the Isle of Man Formula One TT, the back wheel of his 750cc motorbike disintegrated resulting in multiple and devastating injuries. Many people claim that he was lucky to live after the accident.
On Thursday night, the fatal accident happened in the 250cc qualifying as the riders approached the Mathers Cross section of the course. The engine on his motorcycle seized and he was subsequently thrown over the handlebars at approximately 160mph. As he crashed, a following rider - Darren Burns - collided with him suffering a broken leg and concussion in the accident. Dunlop was taken to Causeway Hospital in Coleraine before succumbing to his injuries shortly after 10pm.
Robert Dunlop died at doing what he always loved and done. His brother, Joey Dunlop, also died while racing in Estonia in 2000.
Prayers and thoughts go out to the Dunlop family circle at this time. Especially his wife and sons, Louise, William, Michael and Daniel.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/motorbikes/7403981.stm
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