Chris Conn at the 1966 TT
Picture by vintagebike.co.uk

I have just been informed that Chris Conn, TT contestant throughout the 1960's passed away on the evening of Friday the 12th Of February.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Chris from all on TTwebsite.

Southern 100 Racing are saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Conn after a heart attack on Friday 12th February 2021.

Chris had a short but successful Southern 100 Career between 1961 and 1963, riding in only four races, all on Norton machines.

A debut 23rd position in the 500cc race in 1961 was followed in 1962 with a sixth place in the same class.

In what was to be his final appearance on the Billown Course in 1963, a double entry brought him a second place in the 350cc race followed by win in the premier race of the meeting the 500cc race, at a speed of 83.630mph for the 18-lap, 76.50-mile event.

From Portishead, Bristol Chris made his Snaefell Mountain Course debut in the 1961 Senior Manx Grand Prix, moving and competing in the TT races between 1962 and 1967.

Chris Conn joined the ‘Continental Circus’ competing in the World Championship Grands Prix in 1964 and raced each year up to and including 1967, with a best overall 10th position in 1966 on his 500 single cylinder Norton.

A quiet unassuming man, some would say shy, Chris let his results do his talking for him.

Whilst his Southern 100 ‘career’ spanned just three years, Chris certainly left his mark on ‘the friendly races’ with his stylish riding, racing prowess and his Championship win in 1963.

All involved with Southern 100 Racing express their sincere condolences to his family and friends at the sad time.

(Photo shows Chris Conn on his was to his 500cc Championship win in 1963 – courtesy of Southern 100 Archive.)