Supermoto ace Philip Wylie was ‘devoted family man’

Mr Wylie (49) died last Wednesday after sustaining injuries during a racing accident at Nutts Corner on February 16.

He was the husband of Catherine and dad to Ross and Anna.

A service of thanksgiving for Philip’s life was held on Tuesday in Second Islandmagee Presbyterian Church.

Addressing mourners, Rev Peter Bovill spoke of Mr Wylie’s love for his family and his passion for sport.

Rev Bovill said: “Family has always been important to Philip and played a big part in his life.

“Whether it was in his younger days when as a family they visited relatives in Londonderry often staying with aunts and uncles and forming close bonds with his cousins, or as the years went on and he became a devoted uncle to Katherine, Iain, Jack, Robbie, Sophie, Lily and Ava.

“There was of course pride of place for his own family and his life demonstrated the giving of love, time and energy to Catherine, Ross and Anna. Family was so important.”

The minister added: “Philip played every sport going – from football with Whitehead Eagles and 5-aside with friends, to table tennis and to badminton.

“Badminton was a big part of Philip’s life from an early age playing with the juniors at the temperance hall at the top of the lane, progressing to the seniors and then when the temperance hall closed he moved to Whitehead Presbyterian Badminton Club for nearly the last 20 years.

“He played in the top team and was captain a couple of years ago, but nearly as important as the badminton, if not more important were the friendships in the club that Philip valued.”

Many tributes were posted on social media following news of Philip’s death.

A spokesperson for Supermoto NI said: “Everyone at Supermoto NI would like to extend their deepest sympathy to all the Wylie family on the tragic passing of our dear friend Philip.”

A spokesperson for the Motorcycle Racing Association (Ireland) said: “Philip was one of our sport’s top Supermoto competitors for over two decades and was simply the most helpful, likeable and thoroughly decent person to grace our paddocks and compete in our events.”

Tributes have also been paid by local badminton clubs.

Commenting on Facebook, a spokesperson for Whitehead Presbyterian Badminton Club said: “Everyone at Whitehead Presbyterian Badminton Club are shocked and saddened at the loss of one our valued club members, Philip Wylie. Our thoughts and prayers are with Catherine, Ross, Anna and the wider family circle. A gentlemen and friend to many.”