Isle of Man TT 2022: Mark Purslow has died

Road racer Mark Purslow has died following an accident at Ballagarey during the fourth qualifying session for this year’s Isle of Man TT.

The accident occurred just before the fourth mile marker at around 8pm on Wednesday evening (June 1), with Purslow on his third lap of the session. The red flags were waved immediately, and the remainder of the schedule was cancelled as a result.

Organisers released a statement at around 10:30pm, confirming the passing of the Welsh rider.

Earlier in the day Purslow, from Llanon, Ceredigion, had set his fastest ever lap of the Mountain course, exceeding 120mph for the first time (120.86mph).

2022 was Purslow’s second attempt at the TT having made his debut in 2017, competing in the Supersport and Lightweight classes. Two years’ prior, Purslow made his Mountain Course debut at the Manx Grand Prix, winning the Lightweight race.

Purslow was also an experience classic racer, contesting the Class TT in 2016, 2018 and 2019, with a best result of 14^th in the 2019 Junior Classic TT.

The official statement continued:

“Mark grew up around racing and was inspired by his father’s love of the sport. He typified the spirit of the privateer TT racer, preparing his own machinery with the support of friends and family.

“Road racing was his passion – competing in Northern Ireland and Europe in the International Road Racing Championship – but becoming a TT racer was a life’s ambition that represented the ultimate personal challenge.

“The TT Races will continue – but always with Mark in mind.”

Our thoughts are with Mark Purslow’s family, friends and team at this difficult time.