A YOUNG Co Antrim sportsman who died suddenly has been described as a “friendly, bubbly, happy young man” who touched many lives.
Brendan Graham (22) from Carrickfergus, died at a motocross practice track near Desertmartin in Co Derry on Saturday.
It is understood Mr Graham suffered from a heart condition and took unwell while at the track.
It is believed CPR was administered by bystanders including his girlfriend who is a nurse.
Emergency crews and the air ambulance were sent to the scene.
Tributes have been paid from the world of motorsport.
A spokesperson for the Motocross Club of Northern Ireland (MCCNI) said on Facebook: “The MCCNI committee and club would like to offer our sincere condolences on the passing of one of our club members, Brendan Graham.
“We were deeply saddened to hear the news.
“Many of you will know Brendan from the paddock.
"He was such a friendly, bubbly, happy young man. He never passed vans without smiling or stopping for a chat. He touched many of our lives.”
The statement said Mr Graham will be missed.
“He gained many friends from coming to the races and we all gained a friend in Brendan,” it said.
“He loved nothing more than a good day’s racing with everyone. He will be greatly missed round the paddock by many. Rest easy Brendan, we will all miss you #21.”
The young man was also a keen boxer and was a member of Evolution Boxing Club in Newtownabbey.
The club also paid tribute on Facebook.
“Brendan was a valued member of the club with a passion for sports who would turn up early and was one of the last to leave keen to pick the coaches brains on how he could better his work,” it said.
“ When he wasn't boxing he was an inspiring young motocross rider and found the perfect balance between both sports.
“He would have excelled at either sport and in life. A young man who will be deeply missed by us all.”
He was also a member of was a member of the congregation at Victoria Evangelical Hall.
A message on Facebook read: “Unfortunately today we lost a much loved member of our church family Brendan.
“To say that we are devastated would be an understatement. Brendan never failed to make us laugh and when he was in church he was always there with a full heart and everyone of us where met with a hug.
“Brendan we will miss you beyond measure.
“We as a church family can not express the heartbreak we are feeling."
A funeral service will be held from his home in Carrickfergus today at 12.30pm.
Due to Covid-19 the service is for family and friends only.
