Dunlop honoured by hometown for roads success
Seven-time Isle of Man TT winner Michael Dunlop has received the highest honour from his hometown of Ballymoney in recognition of his achievements in road racing.
Dunlop, who won four races at the TT in 2013, becomes the third member of his family to receive the Freedom of Ballymoney, following in the footsteps of his dad, Robert and uncle Joey, who remains the most successful TT rider ever with 26 victories.
The 24-year-old attended a special ceremony with his family, including brother William, to receive the recognition, which he described as 'a massive honour'.
"For me this is a massive honour and I never thought I'd be following in the footsteps of my dad and Joey because of what they achieved in the sport," the Belfast News Letter reported.
"This probably means more to me than my TT wins and I want to thank my family, friends and sponsors because if it wasn't for them then I wouldn't be where I am today.
"It's a massive achievement and I thank everyone for it - it's the biggest honour I will ever have."
Robert Dunlop was tragically killed during a practice crash at the North West 200 in 2008, while Joey lost his life in 2000 in a little-known race in Estonia.
Last season, young gun Dunlop was a winner at the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix, but his four-timer at the TT was the undoubted highlight as he chalked up wins in the Superbike, Superstock and Supersport races.
He parted company from Honda in November and speculation has been rife over his plans for 2014, with the hard-riding Ulsterman strongly linked with a ride on a factory-backed BMW S1000-RR Superbike this year.
