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French motor cycling ace killed during TT practice session

Xinhua, June 4, 2015 Adjust font size:

French motor cyclist Franck Petricola has been killed in an accident during a qualifying session at the Isle of Man TT Races, the organisers reported Thursday.

The death is the first fatality of this year's event which has attracted 43,000 spectators from around the world. Last year two competitors lost their lives, but since the TT in 1907 it has cost the lives of 141 participants.

The 32-year-old Frenchman was making his debut at the TT after recovering from a serious accident at a race event in Northern Ireland last year during which he was in a coma.

Organisers said the Isle of Man's coroner of inquests had been informed and an investigation was under way.

Clerk of the course Gary Thompson said Thursday: "Franck showed incredible character to battle back from the serious injuries he suffered at the North West 200 last year when many a lesser man would have given up the challenge - but it showed his determination to compete on the mountain course.

"The road racing community has lost a remarkable man and I extend my deepest sympathy to his family and friends."

Petricola from Pont a Mousson in France, suffered multiple fractures and a head injury after crashing in practice at the North West 200 in Northern Ireland in 2014 and was in a coma for several days.

He was flown home after the meeting but made a full recovery and raced at the event just last month.

Practice week continued Thursday, with the first race of this year's TT event scheduled to take place Saturday. Endi