Southern 100: Manx police name two men killed in racing incident as rider Alan Connor and marshal Liam Clarke

Racer Alan Connor from Co Meath (50) and 66-year-old marshal Liam Clarke from Wigan have been named as the victims.

Duleek man Mr Connor was a regular on the Irish road racing scene and was well-known within the motorcycling fraternity.

On Friday evening, a statement issued by the Southern 100 said: “Following the tragic incident which occurred during the Southern 100 races around 7pm on Tuesday 11th July 2023, police are now in a position to confirm the identity of the rider who was involved as being Mr Alan Connor, aged 50, from County Meath and the identity of the marshal who was involved as being Mr Liam Clarke, aged 66, from Wigan.

"The families of both men are being fully supported by specially trained officers as the investigation into the circumstances of what occurred continues.

“Police can also confirm that the two other people who sustained injuries at the scene were taken to hospital, where they remain receiving treatment.”

Detective Inspector Neil Craig extended his condolences to the families of the two men and said an extensive investigation into the incident was ongoing.

“I would like to extend my condolences to the families of both Mr Connor and Mr Clarke at this deeply upsetting time,” he said.

"Our enquiries have been ongoing extensively since Tuesday evening and we have spoken to a number of people who were present when the incident occurred. However, at this time, no further information is being released as we are still undertaking enquiries on behalf of the Coroner in order to establish the full facts and circumstances of what has occurred.

“Additionally, I would like to thank all of our colleagues from across a number of agencies who have been instrumental in assisting us with this investigation, and in also providing the necessary help and welfare support to everyone who has needed this across all parts of the community.”

DI Craig repeated his plea to members of the public to refrain from speculating over the cause of the accident.

He said: “As part of our continued investigations, I would like to again request that anyone who may have footage of the incident to please make contact with us at Police Headquarters on (01624) 631212, but would respectfully continue to ask that people refrain from speculating on what may have happened, particularly at this extremely distressing time for both men’s families.”

The crash happened at the end of a Superbike qualifying session at the Billown course after the chequered flag had been waved.

On Wednesday, the Southern 100 organisers announced that the remainder of the four-day event had been cancelled.