Motorsport: Kiwi Chris Swallow dies in Isle of Man TT crash

Kiwi Chris Swallow in action at the Isle of Man TT.
Kiwi Chris Swallow in action at the Isle of Man TT. Photo credit: Twitter/Ise of Man TT Races

Kiwi motorcyclist Chris Swallow has died in a crash the notorious Isle of Man TT event.

The Manx Motor Cycle Club has confirmed that the Wellingtonian crashed at the Ballaugh Bridge, during the event's senior classic race.

The 37-year-old was an experienced competitor, debuting at the event in 2007, and achieving two runner-up finishes in 350cc and 500cc divisions in 2012.

He finished fourth in the senior classic race last year.

"The Manx Motor Cycle Club wishes to pass on their deepest sympathy to Chris' family, including his father Bill, and his wife Jen and children," said organisers.

Race legend Bill Swallow was reportedly competing in the same race as his son.

The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy was first contested in 1907, with 260 fatalities since. Six died during the 1970 event, making it the deadliest year on record.

Earlier this year, Englishman Daley Morrison died during a Superbike race on the Irish Sea island.

Swallow was the eighth Kiwi killed in the event.

The Ballaugh Bridge is the only hump-backed bridge remaining on the racecourse and has claimed seven other lives. Nearby stands a roadside memorial to Karl Gall, who crashed there during practice in 1939.

Meanwhile, fellow Kiwi Bruce Anstey returned from a two-year battle with cancer to claim the lightweight classic race - his sixth Isle of Man title.

Newshub.