Second motorcyclist's death shatters racing fans
Monday July 20 2009
THE motorcycling community is shattered by the death of a second biker in six days after he crashed during a practice lap at the weekend.
Padraig Campbell, an up-an-coming rider from Moate, Co Westmeath, was killed on the 15th anniversary of The Kells And District Motorcycle Racing Club.
Motorcycling enthusiasts, who are still coming to terms with the death of Co Tyrone motorcyclist Andrew Neill, are horrified at the latest tragedy.
Mr Campbell (32) was killed instantly when his Kawasaki bike crashed as he prepared to compete in the 400cc support event at the Adelaide International Kells Road Races 2009.
His bike collided during a lap on the Crossakiel circuit in Kells, Co Meath, at around 5.45pm on Saturday.
The accident follows the death of Mr Neill, who came off his Honda 125cc bike, also during a practice lap, at Walderstown, Co Westmeath, the previous weekend.
Kells councillor Brian Collins, who was working at the races, said people had lived in fear that "sooner or later" a motorcyclist would be killed. "In 15 years here, they've had a perfect safety record. The sport is risky but every possible safety feature is put in," he added.
Mr Campbell, who was an electrician, is survived by his father, Padraig, his brother, Nigel, and his two sisters, Karen and Lavina. The 32-year-old, who had only been riding competitively since 2006, was preparing for next year's international Ulster Grand Prix.
Moate-based councillor Tom Allen said the town was "only waking up" to the realisation that Mr Campbell was dead.
Tributes were paid to Mr Campbell on the www.biker.ie website yesterday. Members of the club expressed their "sincere condolences" to his family and friends. A statement on the forum said: "Padraig's family have expressed their wishes that the event continue in Padraig's memory and wish all a safe day."
A subscriber commented that more government funding needed to be made available to improve road safety at races.
- Eimear Ni Bhraonain
