Tributes paid to motorcyclist, Philip Wylie

Mr Wylie died on March 4 after sustaining injuries during a racing accident on February 16.

The Islandmagee man was the dearly-beloved husband of Catherine and the loving and devoted dad to Ross and Anna.

Paying tribute to the racer, a spokesperson for Supermoto NI said: “Everyone at Supermoto NI would like to extend their deepest sympathy to all the Wylie family on the tragic passing of our dear friend Philip.”

The Motorcycle Racing Association (Ireland) has expressed sadness following Philip’s passing.

A spokesperson for the Association said: “We would wish to extend our sincere condolences to Philip’s wife Catherine and his two children Ross and Anna along with Philip’s wider family circle and friends at this sad and incredibly difficult time for them all.

“Philip was one of our sport’s top Supermoto competitors for over two decades and was simply the most helpful, likeable and thorougly decent person to grace our paddocks and compete in our events.

“We are all so very privileged to have known Philip over many years. Thank you Philip for all you so freely gave to all of us and our sport. RIP Philip.”

International Road Race winner, Glenn Irwin, expressed sadness following news of Mr Wylie’s passing.

He said: “A very talented man on two wheels, but more importantly a gentleman. My thoughts are with his family right now. Rest in peace.”

Mr Wylie was also a keen badminton player. Tributes have been paid by local clubs on social media.

Commenting on Facebook, a spokesperson for Whitehead Presbyterian Badminton Club said: “Everyone at Whitehead Presbyterian Badminton Club are shocked and saddened at the loss of one our valued club members, Philip Wylie.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Catherine, Ross, Anna and the wider family circle. A true gentlemen and dear friend to many. Rest in peace Phil.”

Carrickfergus-based Holy Trinity Badminton Club took to Facebook to pass on their condolences.

A club spokesperson stated: “We are saddened to hear of the death of Philip Wylie, loving dad of our members Ross and Anna. Our thoughts and prayers are with Catherine, Ross, Anna and the family circle. Rest In Peace.”

A service of thanksgiving for Philip’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 10 in Second Islandmagee Presbyterian Church at 1pm and afterwards to Islandmagee New Cemetery.

A post on the Funeral Times site said: “Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired, to Air Ambulance NI c/o S & J Irvine, 31-35 Irish Quarter South, Carrickfergus, BT38 8BL. (Cheques made payable to the named charity please).

“Will be loved and remembered always by his sorrowing wife, son, daughter and the entire family circle.”