A well-known Tandragee racing family is mourning the death of Ronald “Ronnie” McCallen, with his younger brother Phillip describing him as a central figure in both his life and his racing career.
Phillip McCallen, the former Co Armagh road racing star and 11-time Isle of Man TT winner, said Ronnie died peacefully on Friday evening surrounded by his family. The tribute was shared by Phillip, who also owns Phillip McCallen Motorcycles in Lurgan.
Ronnie’s family has invited friends and relatives to pay their respects at his home at 40 Linvara, Tandragee, on Sunday between 3pm and 8pm. His funeral service will be held on Monday, September 7, at 11am in Mullavilly Parish Church. Everyone is welcome to attend.
A life shaped by motorcycles and racing
In his tribute, Phillip recalled the support his older brother gave him throughout his racing career and the many memories they shared through their love of motorcycles.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the passing of my much‑loved brother, Ronald (Ronnie) McCallen,”
Phillip said Ronnie was “a huge part” of his life and racing journey. He also highlighted his brother’s work in world superbike racing, where Ronnie moved on to work with HRC and became Colin Edwards’ engine builder.
“What an achievement!”
Ronnie’s career in the sport eventually ended when his health declined. He returned home and later helped Phillip build his motorcycle business in Lurgan, continuing a close connection with the family’s work in the two-wheeled world.
‘Giving up simply wasn’t in his nature’
Phillip said Ronnie faced serious health problems over many years, with his condition eventually leaving him confined to a wheelchair for the past 15 years. Despite those challenges, he remained closely connected to racing and continued making plans within the sport.
“Over the years Ronnie faced more than his fair share of challenges…but anyone who knew Ronnie knew that giving up simply wasn’t in his nature. His determination, strength and love of racing never left him.”
In recent years, Ronnie and his son Brett established their own race team. The team achieved its first road race entries this year, an accomplishment Phillip said meant a great deal to his brother.
Phillip said Ronnie was “incredibly proud” to have a road race team with his son. He remembered his brother’s determination to keep going and preserve his passion for racing despite his illness.
“I will always admire my brother for the way he faced his illness. Despite everything, he kept going, kept planning and kept his passion for racing alive. I am so proud of all that he achieved.”
Concluding his tribute, Phillip said Ronnie had faced his battles with strength and determination and would be missed by the family, friends and racing community who knew him.
“Ronnie, you fought your battles with incredible strength and determination. You will be missed by us all.”
