Family confirms passing of major Manx sporting figure
Tributes are being paid following the death of former sidecar competitor and footballer, Eric Bregazzi.
Mr Bregazzi's son, Richard, confirmed the news of his father's passing in a statement this afternoon (11 November).
Eric Bregazzi was also a founding member of the Andreas Racing Association and in football represented Union Mills Football Club.
Furthermore, alongside Jimmy Creer, he was part of the first local sidecar crew to lap the Snaefell Mountain Course at more than 100mph.
In his tribute, Richard describes his father as 'a man of his word, fiercely passionate about the things he loved, and someone who lived life very much on his own terms', adding that he will be 'sorely missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him.'
Funeral arrangements are expected to be made in due course.
You can read Richard Bregazzi's tribute to his father in full below:
"Dad was a man of his word, fiercely passionate about the things he loved, and someone who lived life very much on his own terms — as anyone who knew him will appreciate!
"He was a huge part of Union Mills Football Club throughout his life, both playing for and managing the team, and remained a passionate supporter right up until the end.
"Motorcycle racing was his other great passion. A founding member of the Andreas Racing Association, he was a sidecar champion, came agonisingly close to winning a Southern 100, and alongside Jimmy Creer, became part of the first local sidecar crew to lap the TT course at over 100mph.
"He was also a lifelong supporter and friend of Dave Molyneux and remained a familiar face in the paddock and racing community for many years, helping many riders achieve their dreams along the way.
"Above all, he was a much-loved dad to Thea and me, and grandad to Levi, Ava-Dorrie, Fauve and Blythe.
"He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him.
"Another legend lost, but plenty of stories and memories to share. I’m looking forward to hearing a few more of them from everyone who knew him.
"Funeral arrangements will be shared in due course."
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