Carlin Dunne killed in a crash at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb

Motorcycle racer Carlin Dunne was killed taking part in the 97th Broadmoor

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

on Sunday. The professional rider was aboard a

Ducati

Streetfighter V4 prototype and was well on his way to setting a new

motorcycle

speed record when he crashed less than a quarter of a mile from the finish line.

Dunne qualified in pole position, meaning he was the fastest rider at the event. He was the defending champion in the Heavyweight Division.

“We mourn the tragic death of Carlin and he will remain in our hearts forever as part of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb family,” said a news release from the Board of Directors of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “Carlin will be remembered as a warm hearted mentor with a competitive spirit.”

Dunne was 36 years old. He is the seventh participant in the Hill Climb to have died taking part in the event.