Tributes paid to Isle of Man TT racer Lee Vernon
Tributes are continuing to be paid to racer Lee Vernon, a rising star of the Isle of Man TT who tragically lost his life in a crash at the Dundrod 150.
The 24-year-old succumbed to injuries suffered in the Dundrod 150 Superbike race on Thursday.
Lee had a short, but promising TT career. He made his debut in 2011, riding a 675cc Triumph, and finished in the top 40 in both Supersport races.
This year he campaigned a Yamaha in the Supersport class, again recording solid results. He also raced in the SuperTwin event, finishing 33rd.
Paul Phillips, of the Isle of Man Government Motorsport Team, said:
“Lee Vernon was a lovely lad supported by a great family. He had a really bright future.”
His thoughts were echoed by three-times TT winner Ryan Farquhar, who said:
“The week has obviously been overshadowed though by the sad death of Lee Vernon, someone who loved his road racing and always gave 100%. He was never without a smile on his face and was a very talented rider so I'd just like to pass on my deepest condolences to all his family and friends.”
Fellow TT racer Maria Costello called Lee ‘young and talented’, while Gary Johnson added ‘thoughts and prayers with the family and friends of Lee Vernon. Such a sad loss. God speed mate”.
Manxman Conor Cummins was another TT racer to pay tribute on Twitter, while his Tyco Suzuki team boss Philip Neill said:
“On behalf of our team I’d like to pass on our condolences to the family and friends of Lee Vernon.”
Noel Johnston, Clerk of the Course at Dundrod, said:
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Lee’s death. He first came to Dundrod as an 18 year old novice and has been back every year since. He was lovely lad and a credit to the sport and to his family. He will be sorely missed.”
In a statement, race organisers the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club, said Lee’s family have asked for people to respect their privacy and give them time to come to terms with what has happened. It added the family had decided to go along with Lee’s wishes for his organs to be donated, so that his memory can live on.
Fans have also been paying tribute – you can read the tributes, and leave your own on the iomtt.com forum.