In the world of motorsport, we often celebrate the racers, the machines, and the thrill of the chase. But behind the scenes, there’s a different kind of hero – one whose contributions don’t show up on lap times or podiums, but whose impact is no less vital.
One such person was Dr. John Hinds, a name you may not know – but should.
A Northern Irish intensive care doctor and anaesthetist, Dr. Hinds was a true motorsport tragic, blending his medical profession with a passion for two wheels. From 2003, he volunteered with the Motorcycle Union of Ireland’s medical team, providing high-speed trauma care at road racing events across Ireland.
But this wasn’t your average trackside medic. Alongside colleague Dr. Fred MacSorley, Hinds was part of a remarkable rapid-response duo known as the “Flying Doctors.” Mounted on motorcycles, they would ride alongside racers during warm-up and opening laps – kitted out and ready to provide immediate care if disaster struck.
They were often the first on the scene, risking their own safety to give injured riders a fighting chance.
Tragedy at Skerries 100
On July 4th, 2015, while providing medical cover at the Skerries 100 – a famously fast road race on the narrow country roads outside Dublin – tragedy struck. John Hinds was involved in a fatal accident. He was just 35 years old.
His loss shook the motorsport and medical communities alike. But in true Hinds fashion, even in death, he left a legacy that would go on to save lives.
Following John’s passing, his partner Janet Acheson led a powerful campaign to fund an air ambulance service in his honour. It worked.
On what would have been his 36th birthday, March 21st, 2016, the government announced £4 million in funding to establish the service. That air ambulance now operates under the callsign “Delta 7” – the same one John used when responding with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.
Today, Delta 7 is a lifesaving force in Ireland’s emergency medical landscape – a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to protecting others at speed.
Dr. John Hinds wasn’t just a high-speed trauma doctor – he was also a respected voice in medical education and motorsport safety advocacy. He spoke passionately about the need for improved on-site trauma care and pre-hospital systems, not just in Ireland, but worldwide.
His tireless efforts are still echoed in motorsport safety protocols and in the broader medical community – a true intersection of passion and purpose.
Why Motorsport Fans Should Know His Name
Whether you’re into MotoGP, Supercars, Isle of Man TT, or grassroots club events – if you’ve ever raced, watched, or supported motorsport, you’ve benefited from people like Dr. Hinds. He represents the invisible, indispensable heroes that make motorsport safer for everyone involved.
For a deeper dive into Dr. Hinds’ life and legacy, check out this powerful article from Australian Motorcycle News:
