MOTORCYCLING fans across the world are today mourning the loss of legendary race Robert Dunlop.
The Ballymoney man died after suffering severe chest injuries in a crash in Thursday's practice session at the North West 200 near Coleraine.
Dunlop's brother Joey was killed in a racing accident in Estonia in 2000.
Robert will always been remembered for his infectious personality and love for road racing
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We send our sincere sympathy to the Dunlop family on the tragic death of Robert. He will be sadly missed.
Ken Young, Railway Road, ColeraineColeraine Borough Chamber of Commerce and Industry wishes to express their sincere and deepest sympathy to the family of Robert Dunlop.
Chamber spokespersonI would like to pass on my thoughts to the friends and family of Robert, whom I was a good friend and also a team-mate to at the TT in 1993. He was a great character around the paddock and will be sadly missed by everyone, he achieved so much in his career and it's a sad loss to the sport.
Rider and friend, Michael Rutter, NW200 Ducati.
Robert Dunlop was a motorcycling icon and a tough competitor who could not stay away from the sport. Racing and motorcycles are in the Dunlop blood and Robert could not give it up. He did try to retire but he got a real buzz from riding motorcycles. It is difficult to describe the feeling - you need to have done it yourself.
Former TT and north West star Phillip McCallen.
I am just numb. People will be waking up to the news that Ballymoney has lost another of its favourites sons. It is a dagger in the heart for us all.
Liam Beckett, Dunlop's mechanic for over 20 years.
He had this incredible determination like his brother Joey. He didn't give up on anything, whatever it took. He was a credit to all road racers, whatever was put in front of him he seemed to get by it and carry on and do it, and his successes were quite tremendous.
Steve Parish, former road racer and friend Robert had maybe the worst accident that any motorcyclist could have in 1994 and through his guts and determination achieved success. His death was completely unexpected and has cast a huge shadow over the racing world and over tomorrow's event at the North West.
Leslie Moore, editor of Road Racing Ireland.
My I offer my sincere condolences to Robert's wife and family on the untimely passing of Robert. He will, like his brother Joey be remembered by all motorcycle enthusiasts as one of the greatest
riders Northern Ireland has ever produced.
Jackie Coulter, Ontario, Canada.I loved going to see Joey and Robert. They were incredible people. Put them in a ploughed field and they'd still race. It was a pleasure to have been associated and to have known both brothers.
Alfie Arthur, Manchester
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