TRIBUTES have poured in for prominent road racer Darren Keys after he was tragically killed in a crash whilst competing in the Walderstown Road Race on Sunday.
The Ballyclare, County Antrim racer fell during the Senior Support race in a high-speed accident, but after being airlifted to Mater Hospital in Dublin, he was later pronounced dead
Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club released a statement expressing its ‘devastation’ at Mr Keys’ passing.
‘The Directors, Management and Club Members of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club are devastated to hear about the death of Darren Keys after he was involved in an incident in today's Senior Support Race at Walderstown.
"After making his road racing debut in Armoy back in 2016, Darren was really making a name for himself on the Irish National scene," the club said.
"He was loved by everyone in the paddock, fellow riders, officials and fans alike.
"A bright talent taken much too soon and he will be greatly missed.
“Our deepest sympathy goes to Darren's wife Justine, daughter Molly, son Charlie, family, friends and the team at this very sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. RIP #94.”
Darren Keys had recently enjoyed success on the roads after winning races at Enniskillen and the Skerries 100 races, the 34 year old having switched his focus from short circuit to the roads in recent years.
The remainder of the Walderstown Road Race event was scrapped in the wake of the accident and Gardai (Irish police) are investigating the crash.
"Gardaí are investigating the death of a participant during the Walderstown motor cycle road racing event in Co. Westmeath. At approximately 11.30am a 34-year-old-man from Northern Ireland was seriously injured when his motor cycle was involved in a crash during a race at Walderstown. He was treated at the scene before being airlifted to the Mater Hospital where he was later pronounced dead."
Darren Keys is survived by his wife and two children.
Visordown wishes to express its deepest sympathy to Darren Keys’ family and friends at this difficult time.
