![Mark Purslow [credit: Mark Purslow Instagram]](https://cdn.visordown.com/styles/v2_large/s3/field/image/Screenshot%202022-06-02%20at%2019.20.03.png?itok=_HLCUro9)
The family of Mark Purslow have paid a tribute to their ‘one in a million’ loved one following his death while competing at the 2022 Isle of Man TT.
The 29-year old passed away after succumbing to injuries sustained in an accident during the fourth qualifying practice session on the Mountain Course on 1 June [Wednesday].
While he had become a regular around the 37.7-mile Manx circuit with starts in the Manx GP and Classic TT, this was only his second attempt at the Isle of Man TT having made his debut five years ago in 2017.
Today his family issued a statement expressing their ‘shock and utter devastation’ at his death, but emphasised he ‘knew the risks’, adding they take solace in him dying doing something he loved.
“Mark was loved by everyone, not one person had a bad word to say about him and that's because he was an amazing person inside and out, always cracking a joke and making light of every situation with a big smile on his face, always there for other people.
“He loved to ride, and he knew the risks but he loved racing since such a young age.
“He followed Dad and his talent was immense, he learnt from the best.
“He was getting to his peak having the best year ever with the Never Be Clever Racing team after so many years of doing it the hard way with Dad as a privateer.
“We are beyond heartbroken, in shock and utterly devastated. We are such a close family and this loss is so hard to [bear].
“We wanted to say thank you to all the kind messages of support and love from everyone who knew him! We will share any news on the funeral when we have it.
“For now we are going to try and get some solace in the fact he always told us if he was going to go this would be the way he would want to, and that he would be smiling.
“He will be telling us all to stop crying, have a laugh and a drink for him, and celebrate his achievements.
“We love you Mark forever and always you were one in a million, always in our hearts.
“The Purslow family.”
He is the 152nd rider to pass away due to injuries sustained while competing in the Isle of Man TT.
Visordown wishes to express our deepest sympathy to Mark Purslow’s family and loved ones.
