Tributes paid to motorcyclist John O'Donovan after fatal Skerries 100 crash

TRIBUTES HAVE BEEN paid to John O’Donovan, the motorcyclist who died following a collision that took place during the Skerries 100 road races in north Dublin over the weekend.

The road racing event was taking place for the first time in several years after organisers had grappled with rising insurance costs. The fatal crash occurred during the second race on Saturday. The remainder of the programme was cancelled.

John ‘plumb’ O’Donovan from Shanavally, Kinsale, is survived by his wife Valerie and their three children Libby, Emily and Seán. 

The West Cork Motorcycle Club has expressed the “profound sadness” of his members at his passing. 

“John was a much-loved character… and someone who will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him”, a statement from the club on social media said. 

The tribute noted that O’Donovan was known for his “quick wit” and “unwavering friendship”. 

His “determined riding style” was also noted, and the respect that his fellow competitors had for him. 

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“Once the racing was over, John was always the first to share a laugh, crack a joke, and enjoy the camaraderie that made the racing community so special. That balance of fierce competitor and genuine friend is how so many of us will remember him,” the club said. 

The Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club, which organises the Skerries 100, on Saturday said that a competitor had “sadly passed away following a tragic accident that occurred during a race”. 

Former Irish short circuit champion racer and racing journalist Baylon McCaughey also paid tribute to O’Donovan. 

In a social media post he wrote “he lived with passion and courage, and his love for motorcycle racing was matched only by his kindness and the way he inspired those around him”. 

Another racer, Eamonn McKeown, wrote that O’Donovan was a “fierce competitor when the visor came down” but also someone who encouraged younger riders. 

Funeral details are still to be announced. 

Northern Ireland motorcyclist William Dunlop was the last competitor to lose his life at the Skerries 100, following a crash during the 2018 meeting.

In 2015, John Hinds died after crashing his motorcycle while providing medical cover during a practice session for the event.

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