It is with much sadness that the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club confirm that Lee Vernon has passed away in hospital following an incident during the Dundrod 150 road races on Thursday.

Lee, a 24 year old rider from Stoke-on-Trent, was taking part in the Superbike race when the tragic incident happened.

Noel Johnston, Clerk of the Course said; “I am deeply saddened by the news of Lee’s death. He first came to Dundrod as an 18 year old novice and has been back every year since. He was lovely lad and a credit to the sport and to his family. He will be sorely missed.”

Lee’s family have asked for people to respect their privacy and give them time to come to terms with what has happened.

They have decided to go along with Lee’s wishes for his organs to be donated, so that his memory can live on.

His family would like to convey their thanks to everyone who has offered their support and to the people who have provided practical help at this difficult time.

The Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club wish to extend their heartfelt sympathies to Lee’s family and circle of friends.


The Dundrod 150 races were being held in advance of Saturday's main Ulster Grand Prix meeting.

Vernon had earlier finished fifth in the Supertwins race, equalling a similar result which he achieved in the 250cc class at the Ulster Grand Prix last year.

The motorcycle mechanic was a regular competitor at the North West 200, Isle of Man TT and Ulster Grand Prix in recent years, and also competed in a number of other smaller public road and short circuit events.

He took a podium position at the recent Armoy road races and also secured a number of impressive top-10 finishes at the highly regarded Southern 100 meeting on the Isle of Man in July.

Vernon is the second rider to lose his life at an international motorcycle meeting in Northern Ireland this year, with Mark Buckley having died at the North West 200 in May.

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