A fundraiser has been launched to help support a Co Londonderry motorcyclist injured in a crash during a race on the Isle of Man earlier this month.
Aidan Cleary from Draperstown suffered a broken ankle and ligament damage in the collision, which occurred during the Southern 100 race on July 8.
The event has been held annually since 1955, with Co Antrim racing legend Michael Dunlop currently holding the record for the fastest lap in the race.
Mr Cleary’s accident happened during the event’s newcomers familiarisation lap in Ballakeighan when he was hit by a stray bike involved in a separate incident behind him.
He was taken to Nobles Hospital and later discharged. Tralee’s Anthony O’Connell was also injured during the incident, with the Co Kerry man being transferred to hospital in Liverpool for further treatment.
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Now a GoFundMe page has been established in an attempt to raise money to support Mr Cleary, who has been left unable to work due to his injuries.
Fundraiser organiser Ross William said Cleary – also known as “Wee Pav” – has been left “devastated” by the incident.
“While competing at the Southern 100 this year, Aidan Cleary was involved in an incident during the newcomers familiarisation laps, taken out through no fault of his own by a stray bike from an accident behind him,” he said.
The incident led to a red flag during the race
“The resulting crash has left Aidan’s (new to him this year) Yamaha R7 Supertwin, Arai helmet, boots and leathers destroyed.
“He also sustained a broken ankle and ligament damage. Due to this injury he has been unable to work and being self employed has left him with no income at this current moment.
“A lifelong enthusiast and racer, Aidan has been devastated by this as he has spent the last 18 months preparing for making his dreams a reality in competing at the Manx Grand Prix, including taking multiple trips to the Isle of Man to learn the mountain course.
“The preparation for this event is now time sensitive as it takes place 18th-26th August and Aidan needs your support to help bring his dreams and hard work to fruition.
He said that Aidan has had many successes at short circuit events, such as winning the lightweight Supersport Ulster championship last year, “but his proudest moments come from his success at road racing which he started in 2018”.
“In 2023, Aidan finished 2nd at Armoy and 7th in the junior support class. He also achieved a 3rd at Cookstown,” he said.
“Fast forward to this year it was off to a flying start with a win at Cookstown 1st in junior support, 3rd in lightweight Supersport and a 4th in the Supertwins class.
“Let’s all get behind him and show him his hard work and dedication hasn’t been for nothing.”
To date, the fundraising efforts have raised more than £1,200 towards the target of £5,000.