Grand Prix Racer Tim Moorhead Killed in Qualifying Session

Motorcyclist Tim Moorhead has been killed during a qualifying session at the Manx Grand Prix.

The 50 year-old died after a crash before the Black Hut on the Mountain section of the course on Friday evening.

The Manx Motor Cycle Club issued this statement: "Tim Moorhead, from Whitstable in Kent, was killed during last night's qualifying session for the 2014 Manx Grand Prix on the Isle of Man.

"The incident occurred just before the Black Hut, on the Mountain section of the course, at approximately 8.05pm.

"Moorhead, 50, who was married, made his Manx Grand Prix in 2012.

"The Manx Motor Cycle Club wish to pass on their deepest sympathy to Tim's family and friends.

"The Coroner of Inquests has been informed and an investigation into the circumstances of the accident is underway."

Sad to hear Tim Moorhead has passed away following accident at Manx Grand Prix,condolences to family,friends and fans R.I.P

— Lela (@lela_fitzpatric) August 24, 2014

RIP Tim Moorhead. Killed at Manx Grand Prix last night :( another rider off to race on that big track in the sky #ManxGrandPrix — Stevie (@ModernEpic13) August 23, 2014

His death is the second fatality to hit the Manx Grand Prix. On 20 August, Stephen McIlvenna, a former Manx Grand Prix winner was killed while qualifying for this year's event in the Isle of Man.

The 40 year-old from Randalstown in County Antrim, crashed on the Mountain Mile section of the TT course on the Isle of Man.

Race organisers said he was an experienced competitor who had been racing in the event for nine years.

McIlvenna won the 2009 Junior MGP and went on to compete in the TT.

Clerk of the course Phil Taubman told the BBC he was "one of a large number of fantastic Irish supporters of Manx road racing".

He said: "The Manx and the Irish have a great affinity for road racing and Stephen was one of those guys who was always there.

"He was a terrific and well experienced rider."