The funeral of tragic rally driver Craig Breen is to be held on Thursday as his family said he had “died doing what he loved”.
The announcement was made as Olympic hurdler Sarah Lavin posted an emotional tribute to her “best friend” and “true love”. Breen, 33, was killed last Thursday while test driving a route ahead of the Croatia Rally. James Fulton, Breen’s co-driver from Co Cavan, was not injured in the accident.
Limerick woman Lavin, 28, who represented Ireland at the 2020 Olympics, posted on Instagram: “My best friend, I will miss you forever Craig. Thank you for showing me true love. You were so much more than a driver to so many people. I will love you always, sweet dreams sweetheart.”
She was echoed by fellow Olympian Kellie Harrington, who said: “Thinking of you, rest well Craig.”
Team Ireland added: “We are so sorry for your loss Sarah. We’re all thinking of you.”
In lieu of floral wreaths his family have asked for donations to be made to the Irish Motorsport Benevolent Fund. His remains have now been repatriated back to Ireland as family members flew out to Croatia on Friday.
Waterford City and County Council opened an online book of condolence for members of the public to sign as have Motorsport Ireland for the World Rally Championship driver.
Condolence messages have been pouring in to rip.ie with one mourner saying: “He was the boy who got to live the dream of so many and he knew it, that’s why so many related to him.
“Rest easy Craig, you’ll be forever remembered as the gent you were. RIP.”
His death notice on rip.ie reads: “Craig will be reposing in his home on Monday from 2.30pm until 9pm. Craig’s removal will take place on Tuesday walking from his home at 12.15pm to The Sacred Heart Church Ferrybank (Waterford city) arriving for Requiem Mass at 1pm followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
“Treasured son of Jackie and Ray, he will be sadly missed by his heartbroken sister Kellie, brother-in-law Darragh and his godson Bobbie, along with his extended family, cherished friends and all his motorsport family.”
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