RIP: 'A gentleman on and off the track' - Tributes flood in after Irish champion's death

Tributes have been paid to the Irish sidecar racing champion who died tragically in a workplace incident earlier this week.

Darren O'Dwyer, from Behernagh, Virginia, Co Cavan, was described by the Irish Sidecar Club as a “former Ulster Champion, reigning Mondello Masters and National champion” who had raced sidecars successfully for a number of years.

In a statement, the club said: “The Irish Sidecar Club deeply regrets the death of our associate member and current national champion Darren O’Dwyer… The Sidecar community has lost one of our family.”

“Our thoughts are very much with his partner Jamie, daughter Saoirse, son Aaron and step-daughter Paige… Darren’s parents Tony and Olive, brother Philip, sister Samantha. Our thoughts are also with you and the wider O’Dwyer and Cartwright families. The Irish Sidecar Club stands with you at this sad time.”

His death notice on RIP.ie confirms that Darren died “tragically at work” and is “deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents Tony and Olive, brother Philip, sister Samantha, sister-in-law Joanne, brother-in-law Danny, nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and large circle of friends.”

Friends and fellow riders have been sharing memories and tributes online in recent days.

One wrote: “So sorry to hear of the passing of Darren. I raced against Darren in the pre 97 championship many years ago and had some great races together. Gone way too soon. My sincere condolences to Darren’s family, partner and children. May God speed Darren.”

Another remembered him as “one of life’s real gentlemen both on and off the race track and the man who saved my life,” adding: “I would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

A third mourner wrote: “Thinking of Darren’s parents, partner, children and siblings. Darren was a gentleman, a friend to all who knew him. He will be sadly missed by so many. RIP Darren.”

Others paid tribute to his spirit and humour: “So many fond memories from our childhood days tearing up the house to tearing up the dancefloor over the years… Darren will always be fondly remembered for his wit, his smile and his devilish sense of humour. Rest easy Darren, may you get the best bed in heaven.”

Funeral arrangements for Darren have been announced. He will repose at O’Dwyer’s Funeral Home, Virginia, this Saturday evening from 5pm to 8pm.

Removal from his home will take place on Sunday to St Bartholomew’s Church, Munterconnaught for 2pm Funeral Mass, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

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