Motorcyclist (22), killed in Kells Road Races crash

A motorcyclist in his 20s has been killed in a crash during the Kells Road Races.

Jack Oliver (22), from Limavady died while participating in the two day event.

The single vehicle crash happened at the closed racing circuit in Crossakiel, west of Kells at about 1.30pm.

Gardaí and emergency services attended the incident but Mr Oliver was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was removed to Navan Hospital.

Racing was abandoned at Kells Road Races following the accident.

Tributes were paid to the talented young motorcyclist, who was well known in road racing circles. Many took to social media, to express their shock and sadness at the news and referenced #232, which was Mr Oliver’s racing number.

In a Facebook post, Mr Oliver’s brother, Robbie, said his sibling died doing what he loved. “As some may have heard our wee rocket has gained his angel wings at Kells road races doing what he loved best,” he said.

Oliver's father Tommy, who was at the races on Sunday, said that he was "totally broken" by the death of his son and that he would love Jack forever.

“I honestly have no words... ride high my brother I’ll always love you.”

Mr Oliver’s girlfriend, Lucy Curran, paid tribute to her partner on Facebook. “Home is whenever I’m with you,” she said. “I love you more than you will ever know. My angel in the sky.”

Kells Road Races were the first national motorcycle road race meeting in Ireland since 2019, with the last two years’ events being cancelled due to Covid.

Kells Road Races promoter North Meath Road Race Ltd have been approached for comment.