Late William Dunlop to join Irish motorcycling Hall of Fame

by Q Radio News

The late William Dunlop will be inducted into the Irish Motorcycling Hall of Fame later, following in the footsteps of his Father and Uncle.

The Ballymoney man was 32 when he died, after a crash during practice rounds at the Skerries100 last July.

William, who started racing in 2000 when he was aged 15, accumulated 108 Irish National Road Race wins during an illustrious career.

He also achieved victories at the international events the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix.

William's father Robert and uncle Joey are already on the prestigious list. Both men also died while racing.

His partner Janine and mother Louise will collect the accolade on his behalf, at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Belfast later.

Louise Dunlop says it will be an honour to collect the award on behalf of her son, albeit a heart breaking occasion.

“We are still in complete shock after the tragic incident last summer, but any award the Dunlop family has ever received has been very special.

"There is a sad poignancy that William goes into the Hall of Fame alongside his Dad and Uncle Joey, who we all still miss dearly.

"The Dunlops’ achievements which span almost 50 years, have left an indelible mark on sport in Northern Ireland.

“With this award its just lovely to know the Dunlop name is still a force to be reckoned with, but it will be an emotional evening”

Louise also wanted to thank everyone who has supported them since William’s passing.

“We have been overwhelmed with the amount of love and kindness we have received.

“It truly has been remarkable. William was loved by everyone, and we are so proud of his achievements, as we are of all my boys.”

World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea will be among the high profile guests honoring the road racing legend: 

William joins some of Ireland’s most famous riders in the Hall of Fame including former World Champion Brian Reid, Moto GP rider Jeremy McWilliams, road racing stars Phiilip McCallen, Steve Cull, Johnny Rea, Eddie Laycock and Alan Irwin, plus top motocross rider Gordon Crockard.

A dozen other awards will also be presented at the sold out event, including Cornmaket Irish motorcyclist of the year, IFS road racer of the year, Blackhorse Best Short Circuit rider on UK and Ireland circuits, JWA team of the year, RPS hall of fame, Greenlight Television special recognition, and Bet McClean race of year.