Northern Ireland’s road racing community has been plunged into mourning following the death of Jack Oliver at the Kells Road Races.
The young Limavady competitor died following a fatal accident after coming off his Kawasaki during Sunday’s Supersport race in County Meath.
The meeting, which was the first post-Covid 19 national road race event held in the Republic of Ireland since 2019, was abandoned.
Read more: Isle of Man TT: Peter Hickman pays tribute to competitors killed at 2022 event
On Facebook, Jack’s father Tommy said he was “totally broken”, adding: “I can’t cope with this. Always in my heart, son. Until we meet again, sidekick.”
Jack’s brother Robbie said his sibling had lived his young life to the full.
He wrote on Facebook: “As some may have heard, our wee rocket has gained his angel wings at Kells road races doing what he loved best. I am sure that big grin was on full display!
“I honestly have no words. Can I ask that you all can give my mother and father some space at this time and no phone calls please
“EVERYONE DIES, NOT EVERYONE LIVES.
“Ride high my brother I’ll always love you.”
Tributes have been flooding in for Oliver who fell in love with motorbikes at an early age and was tipped for a bright future after impressing in his early years in the sport.
The 22-year-old secured a memorable podium finish in his road racing debut at the Armoy Road Races back in August, taking runners-up spot in the Sunflower Trophy.
He went on to claim his first Irish road racing win at the Cookstown 100 in April.
On Twitter, @HardyBreed wrote: “Jack Oliver was the rider I was most excited about in the future of national road racing.
“He was so naturally talented, absolutely loved it and had such a supportive family.
“When any rider is killed, it’s horrendous but Jack was so young with so much life left to live. Heart breaking.”
The Motorcycle Union of Ireland (Ulster Centre) passed on their condolences to Jack’s partner Lucy and his entire family circle and friends.
Today's tragedy comes a fortnight after County Down rider Davy Morgan was killed in a crash at the Isle of Man TT.
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