Dr Robert Dunlop
The Freedom of the Borough was conferred on Dr Robert Dunlop on Monday 23rd April 2007 in recognition of the great honour he brought to the borough through the exceptional ability, determination and sportsmanship by which he achieved over 100 national and international motorcycle road racing victories, with a historic 15 wins on the North West 200 Circuit.
Background
Robert Dunlop did everything in a meteoric road-racing career, which seen him become the most successful rider at the North West 200 as well as making his impact on the Isle of Man TT and the Ulster Grand Prix.
In 1994 he suffered a horrendous crash while riding for Honda in the Isle of Man TT and it looked as though it was curtains on a career, which at one time had seemed destined for great things.
Robert broke his right arm and leg and was lucky to be alive. His career could have been finished by the crash, but Robert had other ideas and, after intensive surgery and physiotherapy, he was determined to get back on wheels. By the time 1996 came along he looked to be as good as ever. He was no longer riding the big machines, which had made him famous, especially the John Player Norton and, of course, the Honda, but concentrated on the 125cc class. Incredible, as it may seem, Dunlop regained his form and was soon among the best in the business.
Other TTs followed, as well as wins at the Ulster Grand Prix, but his biggest moment since his crash, came last year when he won his beloved North West 200. This win, his first at the race since the 1994 crash in the Island, gave Robert a total of 15 successes on this world famous course and it established the fact he was still very much in his element when it came to winning big races.
In the view of many, but for his crash in 1994, he could have gone on to win a world title as he won the British 125cc Championship in 1991 at a time when he also won European Championship races at Kirkistown and Holland.
For a rider who has had a bike specially made for him with the brake on the left hand side, operated by a thumb grip, Robert conquered all adversity.
He loved the adrenaline rush which racing gave him. He loved the limelight. He loved the people and more importantly he loved racing at every level. No-one deserved this award and recognition more than Robert Dunlop – a prince among road racers. The game won't be the same without him.
Robert was killed on Thursday 15th May 2008, racing during a practice session for the North West 200.
