Any discussion about Michael Dunlop’s outstanding achievements in one of the world’s most dangerous sports must be made in the context of his venerated racing family which has experienced both tragedy and triumph in huge measure.
The name Dunlop represents road racing royalty, synonymous with speed and success.
Michael’s uncle Joey won 26 TTs and five Formula One World Championship titles before his death in a racing accident in Estonia in July 2000.
Father Robert was a five-time TT winner and claimed 14 North West 200 victories, as well as a British 125cc championship, before losing his life in a crash at the North West in 2008.
His brother William was a multiple NW200 and Ulster Grand Prix winner but died after an incident at the Skerries 100 races in the Republic of Ireland in 2018.
A series of tragedies which would have steered most people away from the sport that had caused them so much heartache, yet still Dunlop continues to compete in the face of such adversity – and win.
Perpetuating the family dynasty remains a huge motivation and his primary focus is very much the Isle of Man TT, an event which he has described as his ‘Olympic Games’. That is the stage on which he wants to consistently perform.
While others may be content with competing and raising their own standards, winning is what drives on the county Antrim man and as long as he remains in contention to do just that, he has indicated that he will continue.
At just 34 and in a sport where experience counts for much, Dunlop potentially has plenty of time on his side to extend his winning record to heights previously thought unimaginable.
“Joey [Dunlop] was a much loved character and what other sporting star can you think of who did not attract negative headlines of any sort. It wasn’t just his racing achievements, it was his mercy missions across Europe which all added to the legend. He appealed to everyone and his death was felt by everyone,” observed Davison.
“Subsequently what Michael did in 2008 at 19 years of age, riding – and winning – a race at the North West 200 just two days after seeing his father, whom he idolised, killed in a practice session, was just an incredible thing to witness. Surely one of the most remarkable achievements ever in any sport.
“He has lived every day with intimate knowledge of the consequences of what can happen when it goes wrong in the worst possible way but sheer force of will and strength of character have seen him through those hard times.”