Inquests into deaths of MGP competitors opened

Gary Vines and Ian Bainbridge killed during 2023 event

*A warning that this story contains information which some readers may find upsetting.

The inquests into the deaths of two Manx Grand Prix competitors have been opened at Douglas Courthouse.

Gary Vines and Ian William Bainbridge were killed during this year’s event.

At Douglas Courthouse today (7 September) Coroner of Inquests James Brooks confirmed investigations into both of their deaths are continuing.

Mr Vines, who was 33-years-old, died in the Intensive Care Unit at Noble’s Hospital on 20 August.

The welder, who was from Colchester, suffered spinal, chest and lower limb injuries, after crashing into the roadside barriers at Ballagarey.

Mr Vines, who was a regular competitor at the MGP, was on his first lap of the first qualifying session of the 2023 race meeting.

He had also competed in the TT – this year posting his fastest ever lap of the Mountain Course.

Gary Vines

Mr Bainbridge, who was 69-years-old died two days later on 22 August after crashing at Rhencullen.

The retired HR manager, who was from County Durham, suffered head and neck injuries after impact with ‘roadside structures’. 

The incident happened during his first lap of the second qualifying session.

He’d made his Mountain Course debut in 2005 and had been a regular competitor in the classic racing classes ever since – recording his best finish, of 8^th place, in the 2010 Classic Senior.

Ian Bainbridge

Passing his condolences to the families of both men Coroner Brooks released their bodies so funeral arrangements can take place.

The inquests were adjourned to a date to be set.