Motorbike racer Carlin Dunne killed in Pikes Peak Hillclimb crash

Ducati rider Dunne lost control towards the flying finish of the fabled 12-mile, 156-turn hillclimb course.

He won the motorcycle element at Pikes Peak in 2011, ‘12, ‘13 and ‘18. Dunne had taken a multi-year break from the sport, before his return last year, to concentrate on a film making.

A joint statement from event organisers and Ducati North America read: “The collective hearts of the Colorado Springs community and the Board of Directors of The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, along with Ducati North America, share the grief and pain of Carlin Dunne’s family, friends and fans over his untimely death.

“Throughout the 97 years that this unique race has been conducted on America's Mountain, we have experienced the ultimate joy in victory, the disappointment of failure and now, the unexpected heartbreak of the loss of a competitor, whose love of the race brought him to Pikes Peak. 

“We mourn the tragic death of Carlin and he will remain in our hearts forever as part of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb family. Carlin will be remembered as a warm hearted mentor with a competitive spirit. He was a gentle and thoughtful man who touched everyone who met him. We will always remember his contagious smile and genuine love for sport.”

Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock added: “There are no words to describe our shock and sadness. Carlin was part of our family and one of the most genuine and kind men we have ever known. His spirit for this event and love of motorcycling will be remembered forever as his passing leaves a hole in our hearts.”