Popular former road racer Billy McCosh sadly passes away

Mr McCosh was one of Northern Ireland’s top road racers in the 1960s and ’70s and twice finished sixth in the Senior TT in 1964 and ’65, when the legendary Mike Hailwood won on each occasion when the TT was still part of the Grand Prix world championships.

A multiple Irish champion, Mr McCosh was buried during a private funeral this week as a result of restrictions in place due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, a memorial event is being planned for later in the year.

English racer Mick Grant, who also had a big following in Northern Ireland, said of Billy: “I met him in 1974 at the ‘Ulster’ and for whatever reason we struck up a friendship, which continued over the years. In fact, we phoned each other two or three times a month.

“He was Irish champion several times over - no mean feat - and after making his TT debut in 1960 captured many replicas. More than that he was a good man, always willing to help.”

Billy’s results also included second place in the 350cc race at the North West 200 and he enjoyed victories at every circuit in Ireland during his career.

Born in Ballymena, Mr McCosh lived in the Co Antrim town all his life and ran two well-known car delearships in Ballymena and Antrim.

He is survived by his wife Denise, daughters Suzanne and Debbie, and son Michael.

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