A tribute to John Donnan
John Donnan who died in a tragic accident at the Tandragee 100 in May 2007, was, for more than a decade, one of Ireland´s leading road racers.
From Ardglass, Co. Down, John spent more than a decade competing in motocross before moving to raod racing in 1987.
He rode in both Manx Grand Prix and the Isle of Man TT. His best TT result was a 17th place in the 2007 Senior Race at 115.449mph.
A big bike specialist, John had his most successful season on home soil in 1999 when he won the Open Irish Road Race Championship.
In recent years he ran his own team under the JD´s banner. Among the riders who raced in John´s distinctive black and yellow colours were Ray Porter, Shane Conner, Wayne Kirwan and Ken Doherty.
His dyno-equipped workshop in Ardglass was rightly recognised as one of the best in the business.
During 2006 rumours circulated that John was on the verge of retiring from riding to concentrate on running his team. However, he decided to continue competing in the sport he loved.
His death leaves a void in motorcycling sport which can never be filled.
All road racing fans from Czech republic extend deepest sympathy to his girlfriend Amelia, son Billy and family.