Robert Dunlop death - Risk-taking a human choice

THE death of racing motorcyclist Robert Dunlop is a grim reminder that the world is not risk-free, but what distinguishes humans from other animals is that we usually have a choice in the degree of risk we decide to take, especially when it comes to sport.

Risk-taking is part of the human condition. It is for each of us to decide what degree of risk to take. Some take high risks; others don’t take such chances, which is their choice. That’s life.

Robert Dunlop understood the risks better than most people, as he was seriously injured in a race in the Isle of Man in 1994, but he chose to return to the sport.

His death is a huge tragedy for his family, who have been bereaved for a second time. His brother, the legendary Joey Dunlop, was killed in a motorbike accident in Estonia in 2000.

Every time we exercise our right to go under water, to fly, to get on a motorbike or even to get behind the steering wheel of a car — whether in competition or otherwise — we take a risk.

While what happened is extremely sad, we have to respect Robert Dunlop’s choice to engage in the sport he loved. We salute him for his achievements and extend our profound sympathies to his family.