Bike racing fraternity says goodbye to ’Clogher bullet’

A WHO’S who of the North’s motorcycle racing fraternity stood to solemn attention at St Andrew’s Parish Church, Killyman, on Tuesday for the funeral of competitive biking legend, Keith Farmer (pictured).

Keith, who cemented his legacy as one of the North’s all-time greats by becoming four-time British champion across three different classes, was laid to rest after returning home from Cumbria where he died suddenly last week.

The man known as the ‘The Clogher Bullet’ became one of the most recognisable names in the sport during a glittering career that spanned more than two decades, ending only last year when Keith acted on a desire to spend more time with his partner Sam and their three girls, Sophie, Khloe and Addison.

Speaking about the far-reaching impact of the 35-year-old’s death, during the funeral, Stephen Watson, BBC sports presenter and news anchor, said, “The motorcycling community and the sporting fraternity in Northern Ireland and beyond was shocked and saddened to hear of Keith’s sudden passing.”

He said that riders, rivals, team-mates, team bosses, manufacturers, friends, family, fans, members of the media and politicians had taken time through the week to pay their respects to the father-of-three.

“From a very early age, it was clear that motorcycling was in Keith’s DNA,” said Mr Watson.

reputation

He went on to detail the illustrious sporting career that earned Keith the esteemed reputation he enjoyed – a reputation, however, that he never let define him.

Mr Watson emphasised that, while Keith will be remembered by many as the naturally talented and highly decorated speedster, others will remember him for his “quiet, witty and infectious personality”.

“Keith did not just like racing bikes, he loved having fun as well.

“As well as being a brilliant brother and a super dad, he was a beloved uncle as well.”

Illustrative of Keith’s good nature, even at the height of his success, he always made time for younger riders. As a mark of respect for their idol, many of those who fell under Keith’s tutelage turned out in their leathers on the day he was buried.

“He was approachable, he was helpful and he was always generous with his time to others,” remarked Mr Watson.

“As his brother David said, life will never be the same again for the family. He will be terribly missed by everyone in the family circle in particular, and also by all of us here today and also by so many in the motorcycling world.

“Keith was a loving son. A wonderful father. A brilliant brother and a fun uncle.”