Robert Dunlop, who died after crashing his bike during a practice session at
the North West 200, was today described by friends, fellow riders and
politicians as a "racing great".
Tributes flooded in as the news broke of the fatal accident in the 250cc
qualifying session, near Portrush.
He was rushed to the Causeway Hospital in nearby Coleraine, where he died
from his injuries shortly after 10pm.
Retired motorcycling ace Phillip McCallen knew Robert for 25 years and said
people are in disbelief at his death.
"I saw him near the paddock last night. He was just the same old Robert,
wanting to get out and race and try and win at the weekend.
"It is like a big family in the paddock before the race, and his death has
just left everyone devastated."
Mr McCallen, who competed against Robert throughout his career, added: "He
was a serious competitor and couldn't give up, I think it was in his blood,
his whole family's blood."
He said that despite the fatal crash, Robert would have wanted the race to
go ahead.
"We all know it is a dangerous sport, and so many people think this could
never happen to me.
"It is so sad to lose a life, but I think Robert would not have wanted it to
be stopped, others may have different opinions, but he loved this race. He
was very proud to be part of it."
"But we have lost a racing great."
Steve Parish, former road racer and friend , said: "He had this incredible
determination like his brother Joey. He didn't give up on anything, whatever
it took.
"He was a credit to all road racers, whatever was put in front of him he
seemed to get by it and carry on and do it, and his successes were quite
tremendous".
Leslie Moore, editor of Road Racing Ireland, said Robert was well aware of
the dangers of racing.
"Robert had maybe the worst accident that any motorcyclist could have in
1994 and through his guts and determination achieved success."
Mr Moore, the former race organiser of the Ulster Grand Prix, said: "His
death was completely unexpected and has cast a huge shadow over the racing
world and over tomorrow's event at the North West."
Hi: 16°C / Lw: 11°C
Looking forward to the famous biking event
Contestants pose for snaps at Vietnam resort
Supporters that made Euro 2008 one to remember
Fashion of the wives throughout the tournament
Bjorn Borg jumps in a cab as the action heats up
Mandela honoured with the class of 2008
Fairytale ending at sea sculpture festival 
Thousands turn out as Spain bring trophy home
Pop princess Minogue wows fans at Odyssey gig
Pets compete to be crowned the world's ugliest
Try your luck in our GAA 'pick the score' competition
Elaborate hats come out for Ascot's Ladies Day
Revellers party in the sun at Portrush dance event
Ship's Belfast beginnings celebrated in exhibition
Applauding Ulster's most exceptional women
Special report on Northern Ireland's worst house fire
Celebrating excellence at the inaugural awards gala 
Special multimedia report on Belfast Wheel