Alan Connor

 

A loving husband, father, son, brother, dear friend, and road racer #21.

Alan found his love for bikes after attending a race meeting with a work colleague in his early twenties. Later Alan started his racing adventures sharing a bike and leathers with his brother Anthony.

Alan enjoyed racing on Irish roads. He loved that he could get a bike to go through blind corners at ridiculous speeds because he had worked out his setup to suit his style of riding. He often stated that Killalane and Tandragee were two of his favourite national road meetings.

Alan raced abroad multiple times bringing his dollies whenever he could. He took home 11th place at the newcomers Manx in 2002. He had 33 TT finishes and arrived home in first place in 2017 at the Southern 100. Alan couldn’t understand why his phone nearly melted that day. He never raced to win as he only ever competed with himself. To beat his own times or speeds was more than enough. Alan was honored when other racers asked for advice or help, he loved sharing a little knowledge and fun.

Alan took up trials as it was another adventure he had yet to master. He had many fun days doing that.

Without the years of support from family, friends, sponsors and the many clubs he was a member of Alan would not have been able to fulfill his other love, racing. His good friend Kenny endured many a lunchtime phone call having his ear burnt with the latest mystery. Thank you, Kenny, for always being here. Huw and Dot became part of the family many moons ago and without their kindness and friendship, once again Alan would not have had the opportunities given to him all of which he truly appreciated and enjoyed. Being part of the biking community over the years we have made friends and shared laughter, fun, and tears but most of all there is an unspoken kindness which is a privilege to be part of.

Since that fateful day in July 2023, our hearts are broken, and our lives will never be the same. Alan never showed much emotion except when going racing that’s when he was at his happiest. Remembering that smile, knowing he died happy and doing what he loved brings some comfort, but nothing will ever be enough.

See you in the next cartoon my friend.

 

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