The man who was tragically killed in the Skerries 100 road race on Sunday has been named locally as John ‘Plumb’ O’Donovan.
John hailed from Kinsale in Co Cork and sadly died at the scene of a collision on day two of the famous north Dublin event.
The fatal incident happened during the Junior Support race, bringing an immediate halt to proceedings.
John was a father of three who worked as a plumber, and tributes have been pouring in over the past 24 hours for the ‘beloved husband’ of Valerie and ‘adored dad’ of Libby, Emily and Seán.
On Sunday night, West Cork Motorcycle Club confirmed that John was a member of theirs in an emotional tribute to the ‘much-loved character’.
They said: ‘He was known for his incredible sense of humour and quick wit, his generosity, and his unwavering friendship.
‘No matter where he went, John had a way of making people smile and bringing others together.’
The club shared that John ‘worked tirelessly’ to pursue motorcycle racing, always putting in the hours to give ‘everything he had’ on the track.
They added: ‘His determined riding style earned him respect from fellow competitors, but it never left the circuit.
‘Once the racing was over, John was always the first to share a laugh, crack a joke, and enjoy the camaraderie that made the racing community so special. That balance of fierce competitor and genuine friend is how so many of us will remember him.’
John’s death notice stated that he is predeceased by his father Timmy and father-in-law Hugh.
It read: ‘Sadly missed by his heartbroken wife, his cherished children, mother Mary, sister Margaret, brothers Michael, Donie and Brian, mother-in-law Lilly (Wright), brothers-in-law Denis and Adrian, sisters-in-law Susan, Breda, Susie, Sharon and Gillian, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, godchild Robin, neighbours, relatives and a large circle of friends.’
Mourners have paid further tributes to John, describing him as a dedicated father, great friend and ‘gifted’ tradesman.
One person wrote: ‘John brought smiles every time he called here to our home. He always spoke so highly of his wife and he adored and loved so much his girls and son…..there was always a story!
‘He was so content with his life. We were very very sad to learn John has passed. He will be missed by all who knew his vibrant personality. But most of all, to his much-loved family whom he cherished.’
Another penned: ‘He was a gifted tradesman, an absolute pleasure to work with and a great neighbour. John will be greatly missed. Thinking of you at this difficult time for you and your family.’
A third added: ‘I know John loved his bikes but I also know how much he loved his family. He was my plumber and a friend for 22 years, and I will miss him.’
John’s funeral arrangements will be confirmed at a later date.
