Roads: James Cowton dies in Southern 100 crash

James Cowton has passed away following an incident during this evening’s racing at the international Southern 100 on the Isle of Man.

The McAdoo Kawasaki rider was involved in a four-bike incident during the 600cc Challenge race and unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

25-year-old Cowton had been enjoying a successful Southern 100, taking a string of podium finishes earlier in the day including second place in the first 600 race, another runner-up spot in the Supertwins outing and a third-place finish in the Senior. Earlier this year, Cowton clinched his maiden victory at the North West 200 in the Supertwins category.

The incident happened at the Stadium bends section of the 4.25-mile Billown course, immediately bringing out red flags. The remainder of the programme was subsequently abandoned.

Another rider involved, Ivan Lintin, who had also enjoyed a string of strong results this week, has been taken to hospital and is said to be in a critical condition.

The other two riders were Jamie Coward, who sustained shoulder injuries and Mickey Evans, who has leg and arm injuries.

A statement from organisers read: “The Southern 100 MCRC, organisers of the Southern 100 International Road Races, regret to announce that following an incident involving four-competitors at Stadium Bends during the 600cc Challenge race, Driffield rider, James Cowton succumbed to his injuries. (Of) The other riders involved, Ivan Lintin is in a critical condition, whilst Jamie Coward has shoulder injuries and Mickey Evans leg and arm injuries.

“Southern 100 Racing extends it sincere condolences to family, relatives and friends of James Cowton at this very sad time. The organisers are carrying out a full investigation in conjunction with Isle of Man Constabulary into the circumstances of the incident on behalf of the Coroner of Inquests.”

All at MCN join the wider racing community in extending our heartfelt condolences to Cowton’s family at this time and our thoughts are with the families of the other injured riders.