Crash kills top Irish racer Jess

Saturday’s Ulster GP at Dundrod was overshadowed by the death of top Irish rider Gary Jess.

The 31-year-old painter and decorator from Moira, County Down, crashed his Yamaha 750 at Deer’s Leap and was struck by another rider. He suffered serious head injuries and died at the scene. His wife Paula, who is six months pregnant, was at the event.

The accident, in the opening Superbike race, came just two miles from the start of the first of five laps. The other rider involved in the accident was rushed to hospital with a suspected broken leg. He had not been named as MCN went to press on Monday evening.

Jess had already claimed two second places in the 600cc Production and 400cc races to continue his excellent recent run that had seen him wins at Cookstown, Scarborough and Aberdare.

Northern Ireland Sports Minister Michael McGimpsey was attending the event and said: ” One of the key ingredients of this sport for spectators and riders alike is the fact that it’s very fast and therefore, by definition, dangerous. It emphasises the absolute need to make these circuits as safe as we possibly can. ”

The re-started Superbike race was won by Ian Lougher, who went on to complete the double. He also won the Supersport 600 race. The 1000cc Production race was won by David Jefferies.