Race takes place following death of motorcycle rider William Dunlop

The 32-year-old from Northern Ireland died after he crashed on the race route near Skerries with his younger brother, Michael riding behind him.

WATCH: Tributes paid to William Dunlop: Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy extend sympathy to the family

William Dunlop killed in practice at Skerries 100

William Dunlop an ‘absolutely perfect gentleman’

The father-of-one was the son of racing legend Robert Dunlop, who was killed in the North West 200 in 2008, and nephew of Joey Dunlop who died in Estonia in 2000.

Gardai said Sunday's race would go ahead as planned after the Dunlop family and motorcycle club said it would be a fitting tribute to the talented racer.

A statement from Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club said that the entire prize fund would go to William's family.

Liam Beckett, a former mechanic of Robert Dunlop and close friend of the family, said he was "heartbroken" over the tragic death.

Members of the public have been laying flowers at the feet of the bronze statue of Robert at the Dunlop memorial garden in Ballymoney.

Racing fans described their devastation in tributes left at the statue.

"William you were a gentleman and we will never forget you", a member of the public wrote.

Tributes to the young racer have been flooding in from across Ireland.

On Sunday, Northern Ireland golfer Graeme McDowell said it was a "tragic situation".

Speaking at the Irish Open in Co Donegal, said: "It's such a dangerous sport, they stand in front of the camera and they know the dangers that face them out there but it's in their blood and it's what they love to do.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the family."

Rory McIlory said: "I think it's unfortunate, what the family have been through has been horrendous.

"Everyone's thoughts are with the family."

DUP leader Arlene Foster said she was "shocked and saddened" by the racer's death.

"Motorcycling was his life and he will forever be remembered for his many achievements, both in Ballymoney and across the world," she Tweeted.

Northern Ireland road race champion Ryan Farquhar said on Twitter: "For us road racers it isn't really a sport, it's our life, a life we choose. We love it and know the risks, many don't understand."