Family pays emotional tribute to TT racer Paul Dobbs
The family of TT racer Paul Dobbs, who died while racing in the second Supersport TT, have paid an emotional tribute to the popular New Zealander.
‘Dobsy’ suffered fatal injuries in a crash at Ballagarey during Thursday’s race. His loss deeply upset the TT paddock and led to many tributes. During Friday’s Senior TT some riders wore black armbands in his memory and fellow Kiwi Bruce Anstey dedicated his third place to his late friend.
Wife Bridget issued a statement paying tribute to Dobbs, and thanks those who have supported his family and friends since the crash. It said the family were devastated, but adds they feel ‘that we are lucky in so many ways’.
It continues:
“Dobsy died doing what he most loved, in a place he loved and felt at home and surrounded by people he loved and admired. He died instantly and felt no pain. He had no knowledge of his end but was fully focussed on the bike and the race.”
“After making a hard decision and missing the TT last year, I am thankful that I was here at this tragic time. We have been wholeheartedly supported by the whole racing community in both a professional and personal way. We held nothing back in pursuing Dobsy’s racing and so I need regret nothing. Our lives have been immeasurably enriched by the TT and the Isle of Man.”
“I would like to thank Bruce Anstey who had Dobsy in his thoughts even in his moment of glory after the Senior TT.”
Fellow racer Paul Owen stopped at the scene of the crash to assist marshals, meaning he abandoned his own racing ambitions to try and help another rider. His selfless actions were recongised with the presentation of the inaugural Spirit of the TT award.
Mrs Dobbs’ statement continues:
“I would especially like to thank Paul Owen. Paul was perhaps Dobsy’s greatest rival and friend at the TT. They were very evenly matched and Dobsy measured his performance against Paul’s. They invariably got together soon after a practice or race to share their experiences. Paul’s selfless and big hearted action on Thursday moves me beyond words. Without hesitation, he did everything in his power to try to help Dobsy. Paul truly embodies the spirit of the TT and I wish the award could be named after him for posterity.”
“This is a difficult time for Dobsy’s mother, Dawn. I hope that she can overcome and put aside her hurting. She helped to make Dobsy what he was and she should be very proud. Dobsy’s daughters, Eadlin and Hillberry, are two very special people. They have lived an honest and unsheltered life and I know they both understand exactly what this means. They will miss their Dad terribly and there will be some hard times over the coming weeks, months and years. But I also know that they have been shaped by having Dobsy in their lives and they are all the stronger, smarter and braver for that.”
“He really spoilt my week but he has brought infinite joy, adventure and fun to our lives. He has energised and inspired. He will live forever in our esteem, our thoughts and our hearts.”
“I know I speak for our team when I thank the Race Office for their full and continued support at this time. I also thank everyone who has been in touch with their kind words.”
She added funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised, but said:
“Dobsy will stay on the Isle of Man which was what he always wanted. We cannot yet make detailed arrangements but we expect the funeral will be early in the week starting 21st June and we very much look forward to seeing everyone who is able to attend. Anyone who would like to provide a motorcycle escort will be greatly appreciated. We intend to celebrate his life not to mourn his parting. There will also be a memorial service in NZ at a later date.”
Mrs Dobbs said Dobsy was ‘never overly fond of flowers’ so asked for donations in lieu of flowers to be made to the TT Riders’ Association, Rob Vine Fund or ACU Benevolent Fund.