Joey Dunlop

Joey Dunlop (* February 25 1952; † July 2 2000) is considered among the greatest motorcycle riders of all time. His achievements include three hat-tricks at the Isle of Man TT meeting (1985, 1988, 2000), where he won 26 races in total. In 1986 he won a fifth consecutive Formula One world title.

Related Topics:
February 25 - 1952 - July 2 - 2000 - Isle of Man TT

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He was awarded the MBE in 1986 for his services to the sport and in 1996 he was awarded the OBE for his outstanding humanitarian work for children in Romanian orphanages. Joey would often load up his race transporter and deliver clothing and food to the trouble spots of Bosnia and Romania. His humanitarian work was often done without drawing attention, in keeping with Joey's humble nature.

Related Topics:
MBE - OBE - Bosnia - Romania

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Born in 1952, Dunlop died in Tallinn, Estonia in 2000 while leading a 125cc race (he had already won 750cc and 600cc events). He appeared to lose control of his bike in the wet conditions and was killed instantly on impact with trees. As a mark of respect, the Estonian government's official website was replaced with a tribute to Dunlop within hours of his death. Northern Irish television carried live coverage of his funeral.

Related Topics:
Tallinn - Estonia

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A memorial garden was erected in his home-town of Ballymoney, Northern Ireland.

Related Topics:
Ballymoney - Northern Ireland

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