Joey Dunlop, or Yer Man, as he was affectionately known to his vast number of fans, was a racing legend, adored by the Irish people. Born and raised in Ballymoney, County Antrim he was never more at home than competing in the famous Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races. In all, he took the chequered flag in 26 Tourist Trophy races. He was tragically killed on 2 July 2000 while racing in Estonia. Dunlop started racing on a 199cc Tiger Cub for which, in 1969, he paid u50. It was the beginning of a passion that would rule his life. His first two TT victories came on Yamahas, but Honda would be the ally from 1983, the plain yellow helmet a beacon to the supporters who idolised the Irishman. His mastery of the treacherous Isle of Man course was total, and his passion for success mirrored that of his fans. In 1989 he arrived at the island on crutches ready to race, but the organizers gave a blank refusal. In 1998 he arrived in scarcely better shape - having crashed in the 100-mile Tandragree road race.