Community rallies behind legendary racer as recovery journey begins
The Isle of Man's biking community has demonstrated extraordinary compassion following a devastating accident during this year's TT Races. When Maria Costello MBE, a women's motorsport legend marking 30 years of racing the Snaefell Mountain Course, and her passenger Shaun Parker were involved in a horrific crash during sidecar qualifying on 26 May, supporters across the racing world sprang into action to help them rebuild their lives.
A fundraising campaign launched on 1 June has already exceeded expectations, with more than £178,000 raised towards a £200,000 goal in just days. Maria's team describes her as 'overwhelmed' by the generosity, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the motorcycle racing community. The response has been nothing short of extraordinary, proving that the spirit of the TT extends far beyond race week itself.
The accident, which occurred when their machine struck a hare during the second lap of qualifying, has left Maria paralysed from T5/T6 down following a broken back. She has also sustained a broken arm, multiple broken ribs, a grade-four liver laceration, broken nose and eye socket, and a broken sternum. Dale Extance, her team mechanic, emphasised the long journey ahead: 'It's going to be a long road to recovery for her. The £200,000 goal is unfortunately just the start. There's going to be a lot more needed in the future.'
Maria's team are now appealing for the community's continued support once the TT vibe fades. Recovery from such serious injuries requires ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and specialist equipment—costs that will extend well beyond the immediate post-TT period. Shaun Parker is also receiving treatment at Aintree Hospital in Liverpool and has launched his own fundraiser with a £12,000 target.
For visitors and fans of the TT, this story serves as a poignant reminder of the risks racers undertake to provide world-class entertainment. If you'd like to support Maria or Shaun's recovery, both GoFundMe pages remain open and accepting donations.
Source: Read full article on ManxRadio