Allan ‘Kipper’ Killip MBE
Southern 100 Racing are saddened to learn of the passing of Allan Killip MBE, known to everyone as Kipper on Sunday 13th August 2023.
Kipper used to ride in the local Scrambles (Motocross) in the early 1950’s on a BSA Gold Star and when the first Southern 100 was announced as being held in 1955, decided to ‘have a go’, changing tyres and a few adjustments and he was all set, however a loose seat combined with clutch problems he recorded a DNF after stopping at Stadium Corner in the opening 350cc race.
Having a second ‘go’ in 1956, with assistance from local motorcycle dealer Billy Harding, the Crosby rider decided to chase after a Liverpudlian rider who passed him and promptly dropped the plot at Cross Four Ways, breaking his collarbone. The rider turned out to be Terry Shepherd, the 1955 ‘500cc Solo Champion’ a title retained in 1956.
That was the end of racing on the roads as far as Kipper was concerned, however after he completed his ‘stint’ of National Service he returned to the Island and in 1960 he was invited to join the unique band of Travelling Marshals a position he continued with at Billown until the end of racing in 1997.
After hanging up his leathers, Kipper became a Steward for the following two years.
Throughout that time, he was an active committee member and would be seen with other members busy preparing the course prior to racing and assisting in many other ways during the year.
After forty years’ service, Kipper continued to support the races with his presence at most events up to and including last year 2022.
A much-loved Manxman Kipper’s regular welcome Hey Boy! was missed this year and will be missed for many years to come.
Thank you, Kipper, for all the time, energy, and advice you gave the Southern 100 for over sixty years – you will remain in our hearts and thoughts for a long, long time.
All involved with the ‘friendly races’ pass on their sincere condolences to his wife, children, and families at this extremely sad time. R.I.P. Kipper.
Photo depicts Kipper with fellow Southern 100 competitor and Travelling Marshal George Costain at the launch of the 60th Anniversary Race in 2015.
