Manx GP fatality

The Manx Motor Cycle Club, the organisers of the Manx Grand Prix, have announce the death of Steve Osborne, 60, from Douglas, Isle of Man following an incident by Alexander Drive on the approach to Quarterbridge during last night’s qualifying session.

Steve, an IT consultant with the Isle of Man Government, first competed on a home built BSA Bantam with the Formula Bantam Racing Club at Llandow in 1967 at the age of 16. He was an enthusiastic competitor and took part in meetings at many of the UK’s leading circuits including Cadwell Park, Snetterton, Mallory Park, Brands Hatch as well as races on the Isle of Man including the Southern 100.

His son Stuart was a newcomer in last year’s Manx Grand Prix and Steve was a member of his support team and pit crew during last year’s meeting.

He achieved a fifth placed finish in this year’s ‘Support’ race at the Pre-TT Classic on a 500cc Suzuki and also secured a brace of wins in the Boxing Day meeting at Mallory Park in 2002 riding a 30 year old Honda 350.

Harvey Garton, Chairman of the Manx Motor Cycle Club, commented:  “Steve was one of the great characters around the Manx Grand Prix paddock and was a well known figure in the local racing scene. He is a great loss to the sport and on behalf of the Club I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to his son Stuart and his friends and family.”

Steve was married and his next of kin has been informed.