Irish Road Racing [merged] [Archive]

suzukimad07

17th August 2009, 16:48

SPOILER.
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.Phil Wain PR wrote:
Farquhar claims Man of the Meeting at Ulster GP
Ryan Farquhar's remarkable 2009 season continued on Saturday when he claimed the Man of the Meeting award at the International Ulster Grand Prix, the final International road race of the season. The KMR Kawasaki rider carried his National form on to the International stage and left the Dundrod venue with two wins, two seconds and a sixth from his five races whilst he also claimed a win and a fourth place in Thursday's Dundrod 150 races.

It was the Dundrod 150 that got the week underway on Thursday with Ryan's dominance on the ER6 650 Kawasaki continuing when he took the Supertwins race by almost a minute and he followed this up with a superb fourth place in the Superbike race. Lapping at over 132mph, Ryan was embroiled in a terrific scrap with Conor Cummins, Guy Martin and Ian Hutchinson but a fuel problem in the closing stages saw him drop back and he had to settle for fourth in what was the fastest ever race around the 7.4-mile circuit.

On Saturday, it was the Ulster GP proper and Ryan opened his account for the day with a close second in the Superstock race. Held in two parts, Ryan led the first 3-laps and needed to keep Ian Hutchinson in his sights in the second part but the Yorkshireman put in a stunning final lap of 130.117mph to edge Ryan out by just 0.339s. The same two riders fought out the victory in the first Supersport 600cc race but this time there were seven more riders in contention and places were exchanged at practically each and every corner. Ryan hit the front on the final run from the hairpin and both he and Hutchinson flashed over the line together at the end of the seven laps. After a long delay whilst the timekeepers analyzed the finish, Ryan got the verdict by the miniscule margin of just 0.001s!

Another dominant win in the Supertwins followed, this time by 37.2seconds, before Ryan switched to Kenny Harker's Superstock machine for the Superbike race. A slightly sluggish start saw him lose ground on the front pack but more 130mph+laps saw him take a strong sixth place after a race long duel with Ian Lougher. The second Supersport 600cc race was Ryan's final race of the day and it was another titanic affair but this time William Dunlop managed to make a break and he took the win with Ryan getting the better of Bruce Anstey and Ian Lougher on the run in to the line for second, a great way to end what had been a truly great day.

Talking later a tired but delighted Ryan said, "It's been a fantastic week here at Dundrod and I couldn't have asked for anything better and whilst it's been tough going with seven races, it's been a great few days. I'm slightly disappointed with the result in the Superstock race as I thought I'd done enough to get the win but fair play to Ian, he put in a couple of flying laps to give him the edge. It was nice to get the verdict over him in the following Supersport race but that has to go down as one of the toughest races I've ever had, it was so close amongst all of us it was unbelievable. I got a bit tangled up with Ian at Jordan's Cross in one of the races which was a bit scary but most of the races have been like that today. They've been really tough and there's so little between any of us now on the roads, you really have to ride hard and a lot of it is about being in the right place at the right time."

"I've got to say a special thanks to Kawasaki, MSS, Dunlop and all of my sponsors plus all the boys in the team who have worked so hard this week. There was a really good crowd out there around the course so after all the problems with the weather in recent years it was great to get a full day's racing here at Dundrod and I hope the club have done well from today and have got the Ulster GP firmly back on track."

Ryan now heads to the Manx Grand Prix where he will have three outings on vastly different machinery, a 500cc Paton, a 350cc Honda and a GS1000 Suzuki. Practice gets underway on Saturday 22nd August. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpH4rS2IS0o

The Phantom

18th August 2009, 08:23

Bloody hell. Podiums in every race, he's equalled Yer Maun's Irish road racing win tally (119) and to cap it off he's racing just about every style of bike that can be raced! I'm going to have to pay a bit more attention to Mr Farquhuar.

Clearly he's a road racing sensation, is there any chance we'll see him on closed-course tracks in the future?

suzukimad07

18th August 2009, 20:26

Clearly he's a road racing sensation, is there any chance we'll see him on closed-course tracks in the future?[/quote] He might be going to The KINGS OF WANNAROO races in I think its Pearth. He hasent equaled Joeys record yet, the Ulster ,NW200 , IOM , are international races and dont count as national road race wins but we still have http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTC2uQCaPuE Killalane road races in september the last r race http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTC2uQCaPuE

suzukimad07

18th August 2009, 21:44

Is it true this thursday bbc 1 ni 11:05 ? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc2njkypmao (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc2njkypmao)

patnicholls

18th August 2009, 23:57

Is it true this thursday bbc 1 ni 11:05 ? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc2njkypmao

Yes, for you guys in NI only:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcone/programmes/schedules/ni/2009/08/20

suzukimad07

19th August 2009, 20:08

[quote="patnicholls"]Yes, for you guys in NI only:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcone/programmes/schedules/ni/2009/08/20[/quote But iam sure if your on SKY you can get it ? we can get ITV, ITV1, ITV2, ITV3, BBC1, BBC2 ETC ETC, EVEN JERSEY TV ON EXTRA CHANNELS http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAbR92a8sA0

Rod Richardson

20th August 2009, 11:09

2009 MANX GRAND PRIX

PRACTICE PERIODS – Roads close 20 minutes before start of practice.

Saturday 22 August

1820-1845 Newcomers inc Classic & P/Classic Newcomers (Speed Controlled)
1845-1920 Senior, Junior, Lightweight (No Newcomers)
1925-2010 Classic, P/Classic, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers inc. Classic &
P/Classic Newcomers

Monday 24 August

1820-1910 Senior, Junior, Lightweight (No Newcomers)
1915-2010 Classic, P/Classic, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers

Tuesday 25 August

1820-1910 Senior, Junior, Lightweight, Newcomers A
1915-2010 Classic, P/Classic, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers B

Wednesday 26 August

1820-1910 Senior, Junior, Lightweight, Newcomers A
1915-2010 Classic, P/Classic, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers B

Thursday 27 August

1820-1910 Senior, Junior, Lightweight, Newcomers A
1915-2010 Classic, Lightweight, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers B

Friday 28 August

1820-1910 Classic, P/Classic, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers B
1915-2010 Senior, Junior, Lightweight, Newcomers A

Saturday 29 August

1820-1910 Classic, P/Classic, Ultra Lightweight, Newcomers B
1915-2010 Senior, Junior, Lightweight, Newcomers A

Monday 31 August

1515-1620 All Classes except Newcomers Post Classic & Jun/Lwt Classic

Wednesday 2 September

1515-1525 Senior, Lightweight, Ultra Lightweight (1lap)

RACES – Roads close 45 minutes before start of race

Monday 31 August

1015 Race 1a ‑ The Newcomers Race (4 laps) in 2 capacity classes run concurrently
1b – The Post Classic Race (4 laps)
1315 Race 2 ‑ The Junior/Lightweight Classic Race (4 laps) in 2 capacity classes run concurrently
Wednesday 2 September

1015 Race 3 ‑ The Junior Race (4 laps)
1315 Race 4 ‑. The Senior Classic Race (4 laps)
Friday 4 September

1015 Race 5 ‑ The Lightweight/Ultra Lightweight Race (4 laps) in 2 capacity classes run concurrently
1315 Race 6 ‑ The Senior Race (4 laps)

suzukimad07

20th August 2009, 22:19

NI BBC 1 23:05 I wonder will they show the fall http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc2njkypmao (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc2njkypmao)

NinjaMaster

21st August 2009, 02:31

Irish Road Racing thread.

NinjaMaster

21st August 2009, 06:54

Loosely related, the Kings of Wanneroo looks pretty exciting this year. Following is from the press release:

November 6- 7- 8th 2009 will see the running of the Kings International motorcycle race meeting at Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo for the 2nd year in a row.

Following the success of the 2008 inaugural event, the Motorcycle Racing Club of WA will again host the event at Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo.

This is only the 3rd time in the history of motorcycle road racing in Western Australia that such a large number of international competitors will compete at Barbagallo Raceway. In 1972 it was the Pan Pacific Series finale that came to Perth featuring 5 international’s, and last year there were 9 internationals joined by the Australian Superbike Champion Glenn Allerton, who was the inaugural winner of the Kings International for 2008.

This year it’s the best ever! Twelve title winning international solo competitors plus a three times Superside FIM World Sidecar Champion.

The star studded line up features a contingent of high profile riders representing the UK, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man and Australia.
Ryan Farquhar (N. Ire) Team KMR Kawasaki - multiple international road race wins at TT, Ulster GP and NW 200)[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Michael Laverty (N. Ire) Echo CRS Honda [World S/sport] & Celtic Racing [AMA] – 2008 British Supersport Champion[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Michael Swann (N. Ire) Irish Racer KTM – 10 times Irish Superbike Champion and currently freelance road tester[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Ian Lowry (N. Ire) Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing British Superbikes[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Keith Amor (Scotland) Wilson Craig Honda Team, podium placegetter 2009 Isle of Man TT races, multi circuit race winner[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Ian Lougher (Wales) Team Black Horse Yamaha – 30 international victories[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Conor Cummins (IOM) McAdoo Racing Kawasaki & Team Black Horse Yamaha – the youngest rider at only 22 yrs of age he is one of international road racings brightest young stars.[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Guy Martin (UK) Hydrex Honda – podium placegetter Isle of Man TT and Ulster GP race winner.[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Simon Andrews (UK) MCC Kawasaki – one of British Superbike Championship’s brightest new talents.[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Brendan Roberts (Aus) 2008 World Superstock Championship Winner[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Cameron Donald (Aus) Relentless Suzuki Team rider of British Superbikes & North West 200 plus double TT winner in 2008).[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
The Irish Superbike Champion for 2009 – Championship yet to be decided[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
Special Guest of the event will be Australia’s own World Champion – Andrew Pitt - Winner of the 2001 and 2008 World Supersport Championships.

They will be joined by our own leading West Australian’s Ben Stronach, Ben Henry, Cameron Keevers and hopefully last year’s Kings International Winner, Australia’s own Glenn Allerton.
Glen is currently leading this year’s Australian Superbike Championship and is yet to confirm that he will be a starter pending his leading margin in the Championship with the final round to be held at Phillip Island on the last weekend of November.

PLUS
[/*:m:z8o4ciao]
U.K. Team of Tim Reeves and passenger Dan Sayle (IOM) - three times Superside FIM World Sidecar Champion will also be competing for the first time in Australia. The Australian challenge will be led by Aussie Champions Shane Soutar and Jeff Rowe (Vic) , plus local Champions Darryn and Neal Walker, Warren Thompson & Justin Winchester and Trevor Clyma/ Paul Brider.[/*:m:z8o4ciao]

And as we go to print now confirmed to ride is Jeremy McWilliams – Multi British, Irish and World 250, 500 and motogp contender. Currently riding in the final two rounds of the German International Championships for KTM-Akrapovic Team and will be aboard the KTM RC8R at Barbagallo in November.

Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo is the most isolated motor racing circuit in the world; it is also the home of motor racing in Western Australia. The circuit is located north of Perth. Main Entrance located end of Wattle Avenue, Neerabup, off Old Yanchep Road off Joondalup Drive (exit the Mitchell Freeway at Joondalup

It's a cracking lineup and would be brilliant to attend. Sadly, for the second year in a row, it's on the same weekend as the Snowy Ride and I won't be able to make it. Which is a great shame but just the way it is. Hopefully they get a bumper crowd and it becomes a permanent fixture. :up:

suzukimad07

21st August 2009, 12:12

THANKYOU NINJAMASTER I been lookin for information on this race since last year, if any thing comes up let me know thanks http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWnRukXCbZg

Mach24

21st August 2009, 12:41

THANKYOU NINJAMASTER I been lookin for information on this race since last year, if any thing comes up let me know thanks http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWnRukXCbZg

Try this site, it is the home of the race: http://www.mcrcwa.com.au

suzukimad07

21st August 2009, 14:56

THANK YOU MACH24 I will have a look (Its like waiting on a bus)

suzukimad07

21st August 2009, 15:36

Clearly he's a road racing sensation, is there any chance we'll see him on closed-course tracks in the future?[/quote] I was sent this by Ninjamaster
Originally Posted by http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/images/aria/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=0#post0)

November 6- 7- 8th 2009 will see the running of the Kings International motorcycle race meeting at Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo for the 2nd year in a row.

Following the success of the 2008 inaugural event, the Motorcycle Racing Club of WA will again host the event at Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo.

This is only the 3rd time in the history of motorcycle road racing in Western Australia that such a large number of international competitors will compete at Barbagallo Raceway. In 1972 it was the Pan Pacific Series finale that came to Perth featuring 5 international’s, and last year there were 9 internationals joined by the Australian Superbike Champion Glenn Allerton, who was the inaugural winner of the Kings International for 2008.

This year it’s the best ever! Twelve title winning international solo competitors plus a three times Superside FIM World Sidecar Champion.

The star studded line up features a contingent of high profile riders representing the UK, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man and Australia.

Ryan Farquhar (N. Ire) Team KMR Kawasaki - multiple international road race wins at TT, Ulster GP and NW 200)[/*:m:25exylks]
Michael Laverty (N. Ire) Echo CRS Honda [World S/sport] & Celtic Racing [AMA] – 2008 British Supersport Champion[/*:m:25exylks]
Michael Swann (N. Ire) Irish Racer KTM – 10 times Irish Superbike Champion and currently freelance road tester[/*:m:25exylks]
Ian Lowry (N. Ire) Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing British Superbikes[/*:m:25exylks]
Keith Amor (Scotland) Wilson Craig Honda Team, podium placegetter 2009 Isle of Man TT races, multi circuit race winner[/*:m:25exylks]
Ian Lougher (Wales) Team Black Horse Yamaha – 30 international victories[/*:m:25exylks]
Conor Cummins (IOM) McAdoo Racing Kawasaki & Team Black Horse Yamaha – the youngest rider at only 22 yrs of age he is one of international road racings brightest young stars.[/*:m:25exylks]
Guy Martin (UK) Hydrex Honda – podium placegetter Isle of Man TT and Ulster GP race winner.[/*:m:25exylks]
Simon Andrews (UK) MCC Kawasaki – one of British Superbike Championship’s brightest new talents.[/*:m:25exylks]
Brendan Roberts (Aus) 2008 World Superstock Championship Winner[/*:m:25exylks]
Cameron Donald (Aus) Relentless Suzuki Team rider of British Superbikes & North West 200 plus double TT winner in 2008).[/*:m:25exylks]
The Irish Superbike Champion for 2009 – Championship yet to be decided[/*:m:25exylks]
Special Guest of the event will be Australia’s own World Champion – Andrew Pitt - Winner of the 2001 and 2008 World Supersport Championships.[/*:m:25exylks]

They will be joined by our own leading West Australian’s Ben Stronach, Ben Henry, Cameron Keevers and hopefully last year’s Kings International Winner, Australia’s own Glenn Allerton.
Glen is currently leading this year’s Australian Superbike Championship and is yet to confirm that he will be a starter pending his leading margin in the Championship with the final round to be held at Phillip Island on the last weekend of November.
PLUS[/*:m:25exylks]
U.K. Team of Tim Reeves and passenger Dan Sayle (IOM) - three times Superside FIM World Sidecar Champion will also be competing for the first time in Australia. The Australian challenge will be led by Aussie Champions Shane Soutar and Jeff Rowe (Vic) , plus local Champions Darryn and Neal Walker, Warren Thompson & Justin Winchester and Trevor Clyma/ Paul Brider.[/*:m:25exylks]
And as we go to print now confirmed to ride is Jeremy McWilliams – Multi British, Irish and World 250, 500 and motogp contender. Currently riding in the final two rounds of the German International Championships for KTM-Akrapovic Team and will be aboard the KTM RC8R at Barbagallo in November.

Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo is the most isolated motor racing circuit in the world; it is also the home of motor racing in Western Australia. The circuit is located north of Perth. Main Entrance located end of Wattle Avenue, Neerabup, off Old Yanchep Road off Joondalup Drive (exit the Mitchell Freeway at Joondalup (for THE PHANTOM)

patnicholls

21st August 2009, 16:32

Suzukimad, can you be careful with formatting please? When you use the Quote feature don't delete the stuff in square brackets because that is put there automatically so it displays the quoted bit correctly on the forum.

Some of the posts above are a bit of a mess! :p

I've also changed your sig so you don't need to put a YouTube link in everything and anyone who wants to can get at your clips.

suzukimad07

21st August 2009, 22:22

Just heard Kieth Amor is to leave CraigWilson !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! racing end of season

Mach24

22nd August 2009, 05:27

I just watched the Ulster GP and once again I am simply blown away by these road racers. These guys are second to none!

The Ulster GP layout is condusive to close racing and all races were outstanding.

I hope to get to either the North West or Ulster in the next few years!

suzukimad07

25th August 2009, 14:07

Carl Fogerty done a parade lap at the ULSTER GP, i have a clip

suzukimad07

29th August 2009, 13:25

Just heard Kieth Amor is to leave CraigWilson !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! racing end of season OFFICAL Kieth Amor signed to JMF YAMAHA for 2010 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHFnpmcm62w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHFnpmcm62w)

suzukimad07

30th August 2009, 15:30

Ryan Farquhar came off at Guthries , was airlifted to hospital but released with minor leg injuries on saturday evening http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=108cQ4EElRs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=108cQ4EElRs)

suzukimad07

6th September 2009, 16:05

Farquhar does the double at Manx GP

Ryan Farquhar overcame a nasty practice spill to take a double victory at this week's Manx GP and continue his amazing run of success in 2009. The Dungannon rider slipped off his 350cc Honda at Guthrie's Memorial in the final practice session, sustaining a broken bone in his hand, but he re-grouped to take both the Post Classic and 500cc Classic victories, smashing the lap record in the latter to become the first man to lap at over 110mph on a Classic machine.

Held on the famous Mountain Course that hosts the Isle of Man TT Races, Ryan's first race was Monday's Post Classic race but with conditions treacherous, it was cut from four laps to three. Riding Roger Winfield's 997cc Suzuki, an opening lap of 108.045mph saw Ryan lead the similarly-mounted Guy Martin by 46 seconds and it would prove to the quickest of the race as conditions rapidly deteriorated. With all riders slowing considerably, Ryan's speed dropped to just over 100mph on the final lap and he was relieved to see the chequered flag, becoming the inaugural winner of the 4-stroke Post Classic race in the process.

With the considerable delays, the 350cc Classic race was then moved to Wednesday, being held in conjunction with the 500cc class and Ryan opted to contest the latter on the 500cc Paton. The first part of the race saw Ryan's team-mate Oliver Linsdell set the pace and it was he who led at half race distance as Ryan struggled with his hand, finding himself almost 20 seconds behind his younger rival at half race distance. However, on lap 3, a sensational lap of 110.984mph saw Ryan turn that deficit into a 25-second lead and from there he was never headed, eventually taking the win by over 5 minutes after Linsdell went out on the final lap.

Speaking later, Ryan commented; "I'm really pleased to have taken two wins from two starts this week and after the practice crash it's been quite a struggle with my hand. The final practice session was damp so I wasn't pushing too hard, I just wanted to get a lap in, and I was nowhere near the white lines when the bike just went away from me. My hand smacked the ground quite hard and got trapped under the handlebar whilst my leg took a bit of a bashing when I slid into the bank. I was quite sore but managed to pass my medical and just dug deep for the two races."

"In Monday's race I knew Guy would be my main rival and with the weather being pretty dodgy I just rode as fast and as safe as I could in the first couple of laps to try and open a lead and it went perfectly. To be honest, I thought the race would be stopped after two laps as it was really bad out there. By Wednesday, my hand was really beginning to affect me but I tried to play it down as I was determined to win the 500cc Classic race again. Olie caught me early on, pulling back the 20 seconds starting difference, and that was the wake up call I needed. I pulled my finger out and lapped at close to 111mph but I couldn't have ridden any harder as my hand was really hurting."

"Apart from that though, it all went well and I just want to say a big thank you to Roger Winfield and all the team for their hard work in preparing the bikes both before and during the event."

Ryan now has the luxury of a weekend off (his first since April!) before concluding his Irish Road Race Championship season at Killalane on Sunday 13th September.

suzukimad07

7th September 2009, 18:36

Southern 100 SKY Sports 3 WED 9th sep 12pm

http://www.gixerjunkies.com/forum/images/misc/progress.gif

suzukimad07

8th September 2009, 11:17

Brian McCormack ISB Champion will make his debut at Killalane road races (he raced against ben spies etc on Jordan suzuki)

patnicholls

8th September 2009, 12:59

Farquhar does the double at Manx GP

Ryan Farquhar overcame a nasty practice spill to take a double victory at this week's Manx GP ....

If you're going to quote/post articles, you need to include a link saying where you got the article from - otherwise you give the impression of passing the writing off as your own.

Rod Richardson

8th September 2009, 14:16

The article was written by Phil Wain, of Redpoint PR; Editor at RealRoadRacing.Com; Freelance Journalist at Irish Racer ...and posted 4 September
http://aarmstrongphotos.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1239&Itemid=110

suzukimad07

8th September 2009, 17:35

The article was written by Phil Wain for Ryan Farquhar at 77ryanfarquharracing.co.uk (he covers all Ryans races, allways has done)

suzukimad07

9th September 2009, 20:34

Will M Dunlop ride the Amor/Johnstone free Honda like Skerries and Southern 100 at Killalane ?

suzukimad07

11th September 2009, 17:47

Belfast Telegraph wrote:
The Country Crest Killalane Road Races on Sunday brings the curtain down on the 2009 Irish national road race season with what should be a thrilling day of high-speed action around the 3.6mile circuit close to Skerries.

The champions have already been crowned in the main classes with ‘road racer of the year’ Ryan Farquhar collecting three championships in the Open, supersport 600 and supertwins classes, Michael Dunlop collected the 125GP and Junior 250 classes and Benny Smith the senior support, while Wayne Hamilton only needs a finish to clinch the junior support series.

Farquhar in particular has been picking up double, treble and quadruple victories at will this season and could well overtake the record 119 Irish road race victories of Joey Dunlop this weekend despite suffering a broken bone in his hand as the result of a practice crash at the Manx Grand Prix where he went on to complete a Post Classic and Senior Classic double, the senior at record breaking pace.

Farquhar said: “I’m going to give it a go this weekend although I’m struggling with this hand injury. I’ve 57 race wins to my name this year and, if the two supertwins races at Dundrod were classed as national races, I have equalled Joey’s record and one win at Killalane would actually break it. It has been an unbelieveable year for me and I know some say the opposition is not what it was, but all they have to do is look at the lap times we are doing, even the classic races I have won I have had to ride at record breaking pace. There are no easy races, as anybody who competes knows. After Killalane it is the Scarborough Gold Cup and then the King of Waneroo event in Australia to finish what has been a remarkable season for me.”

Farquhar's main opposition this weekend should come from the Dunlop brothers William and Michael who have also had seasons to remember and will be looking to end the road race calendar on a high.

suzukimad07

14th September 2009, 19:36

Farquhar creates history at Killalane

Ryan Farquhar created history at Killalane on Sunday when he took three more road race wins to break the all-time Irish record, previously held by the legendary Joey Dunlop. Farquhar's hat-trick saw him move on to 121 Irish National road race wins, three more than the total set by Dunlop whilst it also moved him on to a staggering 60 for the season. It's been a truly remarkable year for the KMR Kawasaki rider and one that will go down in the record books as one of the best ever years, in any discipline, by a rider.

The KMR Kawasaki rider had to settle for second in his first race of the weekend, when Michael Dunlop got the better of him by 0.1s in Saturday afternoon's Non-Championship 600cc race but he was immediately back to winning ways on Sunday. A 20-second victory in the Supertwins race ensured he maintained his 100% Championship record in that particular class but he had to work a lot harder in the Open race as Dunlop again fought with him throughout. On this occasion, Ryan came out on top, his margin of victory after 5 laps just over 3 seconds as he also set the fastest lap of the race at 111.770mph.

The 600cc Championship race was even tighter and was a terrific advert for road racing with Ryan again going head-to-head with Dunlop. Using all his experience and skill, Ryan defeated his younger adversary by half a second and but any hopes of a fourth win in the Grand Final disappeared on the fourth lap when he ran wide at one of the corners. Dunlop was unable to avoid him and ran in to the back of him and whilst Ryan was able to get going again, the rear hugger jammed into the rear wheel causing him to have an extremely anxious moment. A quick stop to remove it solved the problem and he was able to take tenth at the chequered flag. Nevertheless, the hat-trick saw him break a record that many believed would never be broken and his tally of 121 Irish Road Race wins is one of the finest accomplishments ever recorded.

Speaking later, a delighted, and emotional, Ryan said: "It's been a really good weekend and to be standing here now with the all-time record of 121 wins is something special - if anyone had told me that when I started racing I would have laughed at them! My hand injuries were still causing me a few problems and I had to have an injection each day but once the adrenalin kicked in, the pain eased a bit and I was able to get my head down and to claim another hat-trick is simply superb - it really has been a brilliant year. I did have a reminder today though how fine a line it is when the rear hugger jammed into the rear wheel and locked it up, snapping it sideways, when in fourth gear. It would have been a major incident but fortunately I managed to bring the bike under control and thanks to the help of a couple of marshals, I was able to get going again."

"The BBC had a camera crew with me all weekend and the Killalane club presented me with a really nice piece of Crystal when I broke the record whilst the number of well wishers dropping by to wish me good luck was pretty overwhelming. I haven't reached 121 wins on my own though and I've got to give special mention to my Grandad, who bought me first ever bike, Ernie Kee and Stephen Ewing. Winston McAdoo gave me my first opportunity on four-stroke machinery and then Kenny Harker and Nick Morgan came on board whilst Kawasaki UK, Shark Helmets, Beta Tools and the '77 Supporters Club' have been a huge help also. Everyone who has helped me in my career, whether personally, financially or professionally, all deserve credit as without them none of it would have happened and I'm extremely grateful for everyone who's been with me along the way."

Ryan has one more chance to add to his tally of wins in 2009 as he will be competing at the International Gold Cup races at Oliver's Mount, Scarborough next weekend, the races taking place at the North Yorkshire coastal circuit on September 19-20.

Words: Phil Wain - Freelance PR
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I)

suzukimad07

15th September 2009, 19:47

like to add this http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/8255099.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/8255099.stm)

suzukimad07

18th September 2009, 15:17

Richard Britton #8
18/sep 2005 R.I.P.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHXJFuq7dsI

suzukimad07

19th September 2009, 13:41

IF your going to Ireland for the weekend or allready here whynot pop in
Ryan Farquhar fresh from his record breaking exploits at the Killalane Road Races will be in Redzone Motorcycles in Kimmage on Saturday October 3rd.

Ryan will be there representing his sponsors Beta Tools and Shark helmets and there will be promo’s on both ranges with Beta having their truck present with a huge display of their wares.

There will be Playstation’s hooked up to the big screen TV’s so maybe you can race the TT winner around the Mountain Circuit!

With refreshments and Kiddies entertainment it promises to be a great family day out and all who pop in will be given a concession pass for the Mondello Masters race on Sunday October 4th

suzukimad07

20th September 2009, 20:19

A lot of the Irish Road Racers go to this meeting every year in England
Gold Cup Sunday 20th September

Clear blue skies greeted everyone at Oliver’s Mount for the second days racing at the 59th Steve Henshaw International Gold Cup.
Practice was completed in bright sunshine and the first of the day’s races got underway at 12.30 an hour later than planned, due the vast queues of enthusiasts waiting to enter the Mount. The lunch break was taken early to allow the change in the schedule.

The opening event of the day was the Solo Non Finalists race run over eight laps of the 2.43-mile hillside course.
Richard Gibson got the hole-shot and held it into Mere Hairpin. A lead he held for the full lap from Paul Owen and David Bell.
Lap two and Gibbo had increased his advantage to 4.596 seconds, and further increased it on lap three to over 5 seconds.
Positions remained the same on the half-distance circuit, then on the fifth lap Gibson retired with machine problems letting Welshman Paul Owen into first place, with Bell now second and Daryl Campling third, which is how the race finished. Owen’s advantage 18.681 seconds.

The next race was the second leg of the 125cc Stu Reed Trophy. A six lap race long duel between William Dunlop and Ian Lougher, with William leading for the first half of the race, Ian taking over on the fourth lap and still leading at the end of the fifth, but was beaten to the chequered flag by 0.268 of a second by William Dunlop. Third throughout was Lee Vernon.

Race three of Sunday was the second leg of the Darran Lindsay Trophy. Guy Martin was a surprise non starter.
Ryan Farquhar got the hole-shot and held it around Mere Hairpin, but it was Michael Pearson who headed the field across the line at then of the first lap of eight. Farquhar was second and Hankin third.
Pearson a 6/10ths of a second advantage at the end of the second lap. Hutchinson moved into third on the fourth lap demoting Hankin to fourth place.
Hutchy was up to second on the fifth circuit only 0.10 of a second behind the leader.
The distance between the leading two was even less at the end of the three-quarter distance lap.
Hutchy had the lead by 1.1 seconds on the seventh and penultimate lap and took the chequered flag by 3.6 seconds from Michael Pearson and Ryan Farquhar.
Kiaran Hankin, Gary Johnson and Michael Dunlop completed the leader board.

Next up was the second leg of the combined 400’s and MiniTwins race again over eight laps.
From the change of the lights, it looked as though it was going to be a repeat of the first leg, with Daniel Frear leading the smaller class and Ryan Farquhar the latter class, but for only one lap as next down round Ryan pulled in to retire, letting David Bell into the lead in the MiniTwins.
Daniel Frear went on to take the chequered flag by over 11 seconds from MiniTwins winner David Bell, with Alex Hutchinson third overall.

The chairs were next for their first outing of the day in the second leg of the F2 race over six laps.
At the end of the first lap it was Tony Elmer holding off Tim Reeves by just over one second, with Conrad Harrison third.
Reeves pulled in half a second on the second lap. It was down to 0.3 of a second next time round and the fourth lap saw another one tenth of a second shaved off Elmer’s lead.
Elmer pulled back a tenth of a second on the penultimate lap. At the all important chequered flag it was Tony Elmer and Darren Marshall by 0.733 of a second.
Tim Reeves and Dip Chauhan were second 6 seconds in front of Conrad Harrison and Lee Patterson.

Race 17, the second leg of the 600 David Jefferies Cup. Michael Pearson led at the end of the opening lap of eight, by 0.238 of a second from Ian Lougher, with Ian Hutchinson in third spot.
Lap two Lougher was leading the high-speed pack, by 0.420 of a second from Pearson and Hutchinson.
Pearson slipped off his machine on the third lap, as Lougher enjoyed a 2.177 second lead over Hutchy and Guy Martin in third.
Half distance and a further second had been added to Lougher’s advantage at the front. Lougher breaking the lap record in the process.
Lap five, and the gap was up to six seconds as the first six remained in station.
Three quarters race distance and the lead was over seven seconds and lapping at over 81mph.
Hutchy was losing the tow as the gap was up to 8 seconds at the end of the penultimate lap.
Ian Lougher took the victory by 6.656 seconds from Ian Hutchinson, Guy Martin, Daniel Frear, John McGuinness and Michael Dunlop.

The 250 Lee Pullan race was next on the schedule, and it was that man Lougher again who headed the field at the end of the opening lap of eight, from William Dunlop and Lee Vernon. Then out came the red flag to put a stop to proceedings.
The restart, over six laps, saw Lee Vernon grab the hole-shot ahead of Alex Hutchinson and Ian Lougher.
But it was Lougher soon in his familiar spot, being chased by William Dunlop and Lee Vernon.
The lead was up to half a second at the end of the second lap, then down to 0.360 of a second at the new mid-distance circuit. The only movement was Davy Morgan climbing in to seventh position.
Lap four and the gap was up to 0.610 of a second. The fifth lap saw the lead halved to 0.311 of a second, with Lee Vernon having a lonely ride in third 14 seconds back.
William Dunlop took the chequered flag by 0.228 of a second to deprive Ian Lougher of his 127th race victory at Oliver’s Mount. Lee Vernon was third, John McGuinness fourth, Alex Hutchinson fifth and David Guiney sixth.

Next up was the Steve Henshaw Gold Cup, the feature race of the meeting.
Guy Martin was first into Mere Hairpin, followed by Ryan Farquhar.
End of lap one of ten, it was Guy Martin, Ryan Farquhar, Ian Hutchinson, Michael Pearson, Gary Johnson and Ian Lougher.
Lap two and Martin was ahead by 0.275 of a second from Farquhar and Pearson.
Lap three and the red flags were shown again. Ryan Farquhar was clipped by Michael Pearson.
The restart over eight laps had Michael Pearson missing from the grid, having hurt his ankle in the incident with his fellow countryman.
Farquhar got the hole-shot, but it was Martin who was first into Mere Hairpin.
At the end of the opening lap it was Martin, Farquhar, Hutchy, Lougher, Johnson, and Mick Goodings. The gap was 0.402 of a second, as Michael Dunlop pulled in to retire with engine problems.
Lap two, and the lead was down to 0.295 of a second, but it was Hutchy now second with Farquhar third. Then Lougher, Johnson and Steve Mercer.
Lougher was in third place at the end of the third lap of eight as Martin increased his lead to just under half a second.
Half distance and the advantage to the Hydrex Honda man was 0.444 of a second, as positions remained the same.
Lap five and the lead had increased to 0.491 of a second as Ryan retired the Kawasaki with a loose clip-on.
Gary Johnson moved into fourth, Steve Mercer fifth and Ryan was sixth before retiring.
Guy broke the lap record on the sixth lap raising the speed to 83.286mph, with a lead of 0.556 of a second over the two Ian’s: Hutchinson and Lougher.
The penultimate lap saw a reduced lead of 0.396 of a second to Martin from Hutchy with Lougher now a lonely 9 seconds down on the second placeman.
The chequered was shown to Guy Martin for the seventh successive year, 0.430 of a second ahead of Ian Hutchinson, with Ian Lougher, third. Gary Johnson, Steve Mercer and Adrian Archibald completed the leader board.

The penultimate race of the 2009 Steve Henshaw Gold Cup saw the third and final leg of the 125cc Stu Reed Trophy over six laps.
Ian Lougher was in pole, but it was Lee Vernon who got the hole-shot, but not for long as Lougher was first into the Hairpin. Vernon turned into the paddock to retire.
Again it was the Lougher, Dunlop duo at the front, with Wakefield third at the end of the opening lap.
Lap two and the gap was 0.403 of a second, as placing remained static. Mid distance lap saw the gap double to 0.844 of a second, as Wakefield remained third some 22 seconds down on the leading pair.
Lap four and 6/10ths of a second was shaved off the leader’s advantage, as William closed the difference to 0.299 of a second.
Lap five and Lougher pulled out a tenth of a second on his younger rival.
At the chequered flag, William did it again, taking the chequered flag for the third time from Ian Lougher.
Peter Wakefield finished third 46 seconds down.

The final race of the meeting, the third leg of the Sidecars, which saw Tim Reeves get the hole-shot into Mere Hairpin. And held the lead throughout the six lap race to record his first victory at Oliver’s Mount.

suzukimad07

21st September 2009, 11:04

Dungannon's Ryan Farquhar wrapped up his incredible 2009 season with yet another victory at the weekend when he took his 61st win of the year at Oliver's Mount, Scarborough. Despite being hindered all weekend with his continuing hand injury, Farquhar took an excellent win in Saturday's Superbike race whilst third place in Sunday's second leg saw him win the coveted Darran Lindsay Trophy.

The 2.43-mile public road circuit was blessed with fine weather all weekend and with a bumper crowd in attendance, Farquhar was keen to put on a good show for his many fans. After winning his heat race, the first leg of the Superbikes couldn't have gone any better as he led from start to finish, despite coming under extreme pressure from Ian Hutchinson and Guy Martin who ultimately collided on the final lap.

Farquhar then took second place in the combined 400/Mini Twins race, the first of the Mini Twins to finish, but he opted out of the Supersport 600cc race in order to rest his hand ready for Sunday's races.

Having led Sunday's second Superbike leg in the early stages, Farquhar had to give second best to Hutchinson and Michael Pearson although he was safe in the knowledge that third place would see him win the Darran Lindsay Trophy. Despite retiring early from the second Mini Twins race, Farquhar was prepared to give it his all one last time in the feature Gold Cup race and slotted in to second behind Martin in the early stages but a big moment on the exit of the Memorial saw him get winded severely and although he tried to continue he had to pull in half way through the race.

"It's been a tough weekend and I've really struggled with my hand throughout. I had an injection on Saturday but it's a very physical circuit with all the turns and tight hairpins so it's disappointing not to have been able to put in 100% in all the races," said Farquhar.

"I felt that I could have given Guy (Martin) a good run in the Gold Cup race even but I had a big moment coming out of the Memorial and I headbutted the screen and hit my chest on the tank so I was fairly winded. I tried to continue but I was just too sore and decided to pull in."

"I was really pleased to have won Saturday's Superbike race fair and square and that showed how well the bike was working and this could be seen in the lap times whilst third place in Sunday's second leg was good enough for me to win the Darran Lindsay Trophy so that was very pleasing.

"It was a shame I couldn't get out on the 600 but it's been a superb year and the crowd were really supportive of me again this weekend so I'm grateful for all the support I've received. Like I say, it's been a fantastic year but I'm glad it's over now as I'm ready for a nice break where I can relax a bit and allow my hand to heal properly. Thanks again to all the sponsors and team for their hard work throughout 2009, it's been a fairytale season and I'm extremely grateful for everything they've done."

Although his road racing season is over, Farquhar does have one more race this year as he, like a number of his fellow racers, will be contesting the 'Kings of Wanneroo' race in Australia in November.
By Phil Wain
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVVlOrkOkxI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVVlOrkOkxI)

suzukimad07

22nd September 2009, 18:55

Stephen Davison will launch his new book Flying Finn, a tribute to the late great Martin Finnegan at two special Martin Finnegan Days.
The first of these special events will be held on Saturday, 3rd October at St MacCullin's Round Tower Centre in Lusk village and will run from 11am to 5pm.
The second will be held on Sunday, 11th October in the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre in Ballymoney and will run from 1pm until 5pm. (Please note the Ballymoney date is different from previously published information)

On both days a full line up of Martin's racing bikes- the Round Tower Suzuki, the Danfay Yamaha, the recently acquired Vitrans Honda, the Klaffi Honda, the JMF Yamaha and the beautiful MV Agusta F4- will be on display courtesy of the Martin Finnegan Supporters' Club. There will also be a display of mini moto machines painted in the same livery.
Alongside the bikes will be a photographic display of many of the highlights and behind the scene moments from Martin's spectacular career.
Members of the Finnegan family will also be in attendance and it is hoped that there will be some of Martin's former racing rivals present as well.
Flying Finn will be on sale on both days and the author, Stephen Davison will be present to sign copies.

suzukimad07

27th September 2009, 01:19

Pullout section on road racing
maybe on the net?

suzukimad07

29th September 2009, 14:44

MOTORCYCLING: Hamilton walking on air after title triumph

http://editorial.jpress.co.uk/web/Upload/BELF//TH1_299200958Hamilton%20title.JPG
Jamie Hamilton
[/b]:%20ShowThumb(0);]http://editorial.jpress.co.uk/web/Upload/BELF/TH3_299200958Hamilton%20title.JPG (http://javascript:%20ShowThumb(1);]http://www.newsletter.co.uk/images/1pixel_spacer.gif (http://javascripthttp://www.newsletter.co.uk/images/1pixel_spacer.gif (http://javascript[b)
:%20ShowThumb(3);]http://www.newsletter.co.uk/images/1pixel_spacer.gif (http://javascriptPublished Date: 29 September 2009

BALLYCLARE teenager Jamie Hamilton has spoken of his delight after wrapping up the Metzeler Junior British Superstock title at Silverstone on Sunday.

The 18-year-old made an uncharacteristic mistake in the race, running into the gravel trap, however his main rival failed to score any points, leaving Gearlink Kawasaki rider Hamilton to seal the title with one round remaining at Oulton Park.

The triumph represented Kawasaki Motors UK's first British championship victory since John Reynolds lifted the BSB title in 1992.

Hamilton, who teamed up with Gearlink Kawasaki at the third round of the series at Donington Park, said: "I'm delighted to have won the Superstock 600 title, not just for myself but for Gearlink Kawasaki and Kawasaki Motors UK. You have to be in it to win it and ever since I joined the team at Donington I have finished every race – apart from at Silverstone.

"But it just happens that I was helped out with my misfortune as the only other rider who could beat me didn't score points. This is what I have worked for over the past two years and I'm over the moon," he added.

"Gearlink Kawasaki has put out an awesome bike and has done an absolutely tremendous job. I would like to thank Michael and Norma and all of the team at Gearlink Kawasaki and also Harry and Karl Corbett, who have stuck with me through the years.

"They have both supported me and Harry has been my biggest critic and guided me down the right path, which is what you need in racing. I want to go to Oulton Park and end my season with a good result as champion."
Michael De Bidaph, team owner and manager, paid tribute to the talented teenager.

"After such a short time in the BSB paddock I am delighted in winning our first championship," he said. "Although Jamie did not finish the race at Silverstone in reality he had done enough at Croft to secure the championship.

"This has been a superb achievement by Jamie considering that he did not join Gearlink Kawasaki until the third round at Donington Park.

"I would like to thank my hard working team for their total commitment, Kawasaki Motors UK for their continued support and most of all I would like to thank Jamie and his manager/mentor, Harry Corbett, for this outstanding achievement."

NinjaMaster

30th September 2009, 12:39

Woo, Kawasaki!

suzukimad07

1st October 2009, 15:38

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/923/169/images/stories/tassuzuki10.jpgNorthern Ireland-based TAS Racing is pleased to announce that both antipodean road racing stars, Cameron Donald and Bruce Anstey, will be retained for the 2010 international road racing season.
Managed by father and son pairing, Hector and Philip Neill, Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing is already in the planning process for 2010 with their Superbike machinery nearing completion. The team's official race schedule will be announced in the coming weeks, but an early season series of tests have already been pencilled in for February 2010.
Both Donald and Anstey will major their 2010 season's on the international road races, but will also compete in a number of hand-picked British Superstock rounds and local events, to improve their chances of adding to the team's long list of international road racing achievements.
Philip Neill - Team Principal:
"As per normal, there were lots of rumours suggesting we would change riders for 2010, or that Bruce and Cameron would change teams. I am prepared to admit, that although we had podium finishes in all three international road races and a North West 200 race win with Alastair in 2009, it was a little short of what is expected from TAS Racing.
"As the most successful international road racing team in recent years, with 15 Isle of Man TT, 12 North West 200 and 11 Ulster Grand Prix victories, we set a very high standard for ourselves.
"Although we did consider other options for 2010, along with our partners Suzuki and Relentless, my Father and I always had the desire to remain with the same riders for the international races next season.
"I would like to take this opportunity to welcome both riders back for our next assault on the international road racing scene. It will be Bruce's eighth with TAS Racing and Cameron's third; and in closing I'd also like to thank our long-standing partners for their continued support."

something i read

suzukimad07

3rd October 2009, 12:51

Farquhar in RED Reminder
Ryan Farquhar fresh from his record breaking exploits at the Killalane Road Races will be in Redzone Motorcycles in Kimmage on Saturday October 3rd.

Ryan will be there representing his sponsors Beta Tools and Shark helmets and there will be promo’s on both ranges with Beta having their truck present with a huge display of their wares. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I)

suzukimad07

5th October 2009, 14:09

Paul Lindsay - Belfast Telegraph wrote:
Relentless Suzuki’s Alastair Seeley retained his Mondello Masters title yesterday in County Kildare with a faultless performance.

The Carrickfergus rider, celebrating his 30th birthday, not only lifted the €3000 top prize, but also a €2000 bonus cheque for his efforts, holding off Dubliner Jack Kennedy in second and Portadown’s Marshall Neill in third.

Seeley began the weekend with an Irish Superbike win on Saturday afternoon increasing his lead over series rival Mark Johnston to 18.5 points.

A further two ISB wins yesterday for Seeley makes his lead almost unassailable — 45.5 points — with Johnston doing his best over the weekend with third, fourth and sixth placed results.

Johnston must now win both ISB races at the Sunflower Trophy on October 18 and hope that Seeley doesn’t finish to claim his first ISB crown.

An almost impossible task by anyone’s standards, with Seeley now a cast iron favourite for the 2009 ISB title and that dream first prize — a trip to the Kings of Wanneroo race in Western Australia at the start of November.

Seeley said: “As I keep saying, I’m here to do a job for Relentless Suzuki and that job involves winning races. Jack Kennedy was a bit aggressive out there today especially in the Masters race. That brought a bit of red mist down for me and I just played him at his own game. I’ve been on a roll since I started riding for this team. And the effort they’ve shown this weekend, not only supplying two Superbikes but a virtual BSB back-up service, is testament to the commitment and professionalism at TAS Racing. The bikes were working well all weekend and Davy ‘Laptop’ worked his magic again for me. This will hopefully set us up for a couple of good results this weekend at Oulton Park to round off a great year.”

suzukimad07

7th October 2009, 13:36

Out now IRISH (REAL) ROAD RACING at this years North West 200

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KD3_iPMlmZg

Rod Richardson

8th October 2009, 09:58

Suzikimad........The reporting of road racing in old Erin on the web is somewhat fragmented and generally brief for what is great racing by brave men therefore your efforts in reporting results and your enthusiasm are appreciated.

suzukimad07

8th October 2009, 13:50

Thankyou Rod !

suzukimad07

8th October 2009, 13:52

Willis Marshall wrote:

Pearson Set For Macau Debut

Ballygowans Michael Pearson will make his debut at the 43rd Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix next month after the former Irish Superbike Champion got the call up to ride the BTS Honda Fireblade Superbike from BTS Team owner Billy Barron, the same machine that Pearson rode at this years Ulster Grand Prix, where the 32 year old Forklift Engineer lapped at just over 127mph.
Pearson, who has just completed his first full season on the Irish National Road Racing scene, and who has been rarely out of the top six all year in the Supersport 600 and Superbike class's, is eager to get his first look and laps around the 3.8 mile Guia circuit in Macau.

Michael Pearson: "naturally I'm over the moon, but to be honest, I don't know what to expect. It was one of my ambitions to race the Macau Grand Prix and now it has came along. I have seen some footage of the previous races on Video, and it really does look more like an extreme sport than a road race, so I will feel my way around it gingerly at first before I start to take it seriously.
Its all down to Billy Barron of BTS Racing, and in a way I am glad that I will be racing a bike that I know abit about as I have raced it at Bishopscourt and at the Ulster Grand Prix. I will have Billy's right hand man, seabass with his laptop, and my trusty spannermen, David Morrow and Richard McPherson with me in Macau, which should help alot. I wont be breaking any records this year, as I just want to go out and finish the race in a respectable position. Stephen Thompson has told me alot about the place and with Stephen going back out this year again, I hope to gain some valuable track knowledge from him. Its sure to be quite an experience".

Willis Marshall: (Team Manager) "I thinks its nothing more than what the lad deserves to be honest. Michael has shown and proven this year that given time on the hard roads he can run with the best. He is still a road race rookie, and he has went further this year than most of us would have guessed. How will Michael get on at Macau?.....well alot better than most people will think. This is a learning curve for him, but with his short circuit pedigree and his quick adaption to road racing, will I believe, be a special set of ingredients required to be good at Macau. If you look back over the years, most of the successful riders around the Guia circuit have been handy on short circuits......Stuart Easton, Michael Rutter, Jeremy McWilliams, Robert Dunlop, John McGuinness, the list goes on. Like I said, its a year to learn, and Michael has proven that he learns circuits quickly. Michaels invite to Macau means that he will not be competing in this years Sunflower Trophy Races at Bishopscourt".

Guia Circuit Macau:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8AXR2IKFuE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8AXR2IKFuE)

http://www.gixerjunkies.com/forum/images/misc/progress.gif

patnicholls

8th October 2009, 17:09

Alastair Seeley is rather multi-talented - in addition to racking up victories on the roads he's also dominated the British Superstock 1000 series this year ahead of TT legend John McGuiness, former GP and BSB man Scott Smart, defending champ Steve Brogan and Richard Cooper who guested on the WSB BMW replacing Ruben Xaus the other week. Something of a late bloomer at 30 years of age before coming to (mainstream) attention, but still quite a find! Looking forward to seeing how he gets on on the full Superbike at Oulton Park this weekend.

suzukimad07

9th October 2009, 09:53

Cameron Donald had an operation today to sort out the shoulder injury that kept him off his Tas Suzuki most of the season. Doctors pleased with how things went. Cam now itching to get back on two wheels asap

http://www.gixerjunkies.com/forum/images/misc/progress.gif

suzukimad07

11th October 2009, 17:36

Quote

Eugene LavertyIn a season of high drama in WSS maybe the most memorable sight will be that of Eugene Laverty falling and then restarting at the recent Magny-Cours race.

He is now a tantalising 19 points behind Cal Crutchlow, thanks to scoring a trio of points in France, keeping his championship hopes, alive, if barely so. He is not out of it in his own eyes, despite his disappointment at entering the final round so far back, having taken a tactical risk on France.

"I wanted to put Lascorz between Cal and me but the fuel load had dropped and it caught me out," said Laverty of his fall. "Usually I have a few warnings and put more weight on the front but this time I had none and down I went. I got back on but the right lower fairing was dragging through the corners and slowing me down on the straights. I am not hurt but I am disappointed, however, it is not over yet and now we will go to our home track at Portimao and we have got to win either-way - who knows what will happen. We still have a shot at the title and want to win at our home circuit in Portugal."

The arithmetic is simple now. Laverty has to score second and have Crutchlow no score in Portugal to win the overall title - or he has to win and have Crutchlow score only five points or less to win overall. A points tie in Portimao would give the title to Crutchlow, as he will have a superior win tally, no matter who takes victory in Portugal.

suzukimad07

11th October 2009, 20:19

Irelands Relentless Suzuki's Alastair Seeley, who was also involved in a crash at Cascades, is thought to have broken a finger but is otherwise ok.

patnicholls

12th October 2009, 13:13

Yep, I was at Oulton Park yesterday and saw Alastair's crash live in front of me. Two separate incidents very close together - pretty nasty but both he and Simon Andrews are fortunately OK (Simon was knocked out temporarily, but is fine).

suzukimad07

15th October 2009, 14:30

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http://www.mcnews.com.au/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif Kings OF Wanneroo International

Courtsey of The Motor Cycle Racing Club of WA Inc.

KINGS
OF WANNEROO INTERNATIONAL
NOVEMBER
6 – 7 - 8

It’s countdown time! Only five weeks to the biggest motorcycle event ever to be held at Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo.

November 6- 7- 8th 2009 will see the running of the Kings International motorcycle race meeting for the 2nd year in a row.

Thirteen title winning international solo competitors, with multi British, Irish and world motogp rider Jeremy McWilliams and World Superbike contender Jonathan Rea now confirmed, plus a World Champion Sidecar team .

A Hospitality Package is now available giving spectators’ prime viewing in comfortable surroundings overlooking the Final Turn and Main Straight. Hospitality guests will also be treated to exclusive appearances by our International guests. Morning & afternoon tea, and lunch will be provided and Cash bar available. A great way for companies to entertain their staff and customers, giving them an action packed day out. Info at www.mcrcwa.com.au (http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/)

Official Welcome Function - Monday night 2nd November.
In the week leading up to the race weekend the Motorcycle Racing Club of WA will host a “Meet and Greet Welcome” at the Burswood on Swan Function Centre. Not only will fellow competitors, crews and Officials be joining the internationals, but this will also be a great opportunity for the general public to purchase tickets and have an “international” guest rider join them at their table. Tickets at www.mcrcwa.com.au (http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/)

Advance Purchase event Tickets now on sale at Pitstop Bookshop, King Street Perth.
www.pitstop.net.au (http://www.pitstop.net.au/) or Tel: 9322 5544 Country 1800 622 422

The event will be conducted over three days -
Friday Practice, Saturday Qualifying with Sunday as the main race day featuring the Kings International Production Superbike class and the Kings International Sidecar title events with support classes of Supersport, Superstock & Clubman racing.

Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo is located north of Perth. Main Entrance end of Wattle Avenue, Neerabup, off Old Yanchep Road off Joondalup Drive (exit the Mitchell Freeway at Joondalup Drive)

The star studded line up features a contingent of high profile riders representing the UK, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man and Australia.

 Ryan Farquhar (N. Ire) Team KMR Kawasaki - multiple international road race wins at TT, Ulster GP and NW 200)

 Michael Laverty (N. Ire) Echo CRS Honda [World S/sport] & Celtic Racing [AMA] – 2007 British Supersport Champion

 Michael Swann (N. Ire) Irish Racer KTM – 10 times Irish Superbike Champion and currently freelance road tester

 Ian Lowry (N. Ire) Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing British Superbikes

 Keith Amor (Scotland) , podium placegetter 2009 Isle of Man TT races, multi circuit race winner

 Ian Lougher (Wales) Team Black Horse Yamaha – 30 international victories

 Conor Cummins (IOM) McAdoo Racing Kawasaki & Team Black Horse Yamaha – the youngest rider at only 22 yrs of age he is one of international road racings brightest young stars.

 Guy Martin (UK) Hydrex Honda – podium placegetter Isle of Man TT and Ulster GP race winner.

 Simon Andrews (UK) MCC Kawasaki – one of British Superbike Championship’s brightest new talents.

 Brendan Roberts (Aus) 2008 World Superstock Championship Winner

 Cameron Donald (Aus) Relentless Suzuki Team rider of British Superbikes & North West 200 plus double TT winner in 200http://www.mcnews.com.au/forum/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif.

 The Irish Superbike Champion for 2009 – Alistair Seeley looks to be the likely Championship winner.

 Special Guest of the event will be Australia’s own World Champion – Andrew Pitt - Winner of the 2001 and 2008 World Supersport Championships and now teammate Jonathan Rea.

 Jeremy McWilliams – Multi British, Irish and World 250, 500 and motogp contender. Will be riding the KTM RC8R at Barbagallo

PLUS
 U.K. Team of Tim Reeves and passenger Dan Sayle (IOM) - three times Superside FIM World Sidecar Champion will also be competing for the first time in Australia.

The Phantom

15th October 2009, 14:55

Man I would love to get over to Western Australia for that! A good mate is going, I'll ask him to get some pics.

suzukimad07

15th October 2009, 17:24

Man I would love to get over to Western Australia for that! A good mate is going, I'll ask him to get some pics.
Get him to video it an put some clips up here !

The Phantom

15th October 2009, 17:28

Good idea - I'm not sure I can interest him in doing that, but I will certainly try!

suzukimad07

15th October 2009, 19:47

Motors tv schedule (http://www.motorstv.com/tv-guide-uk?d=2009-10-15&h=4)

Thursday 20:10
Highlights from the Kells Road Races

suzukimad07

19th October 2009, 20:40

125GP 1
M Lunney
D Jamison
P Robinson
125GP 2
D Jamison
N Percy
R English
250GP Supersport 400 1
M Lunney
C McAloran
D Robb
x
E O Grady
J Phillips
J Loughlin
250GP Supersport 400 2
M Lunney
C McAloran
T Lawlor
x
E O Grady
J Phillips
J Loughlin
650 Supertwins 1
M Johnstone
M Glosgow
D Craig
650 Supertwins 2
M Johnstone
M Glasgow
L Hill
Supersport 1
M Neill
L Johnstone
J Mc Williams
Supersport 2
L Johnstone
M Niell
J Kennedy
Superbike 1
I Lowery
A Seeley
M Neill
Superbike 2
A Seeley
M Laverty
M Neill
Superbike Sunflower Trophy
I Lowery
m Neill
J Kennedy

suzukimad07

21st October 2009, 16:28

Last Chance For Eugene
http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/947/170/images/stories/eugene12.jpgPARKALGAR HONDA is focussed on wining the 14th and final round of the World Supersport Championship at its home Parkalgar circuit near Portimao in Portugal and has not given up on claiming the World Championship title either.
Eugene Laverty is 19-points behind World Championship leader Cal Crutchlow and has a chance at taking the title for Parkalgar Honda if his rival suffers any misfortune. To do so at the team’s home track would be the perfect end to the season for rider, team and the circuit.
Home-circuit hero Miguel Praia is riding better than ever and his fans will be cheering him every lap of the race in the hope he can challenge the front runners and signal his intentions for 2010.
The World Superbike Championship is also set to be decided on race day at the 4.445km Portimao track in Portugal on October 25th so a day of high drama and excitement is assured - to book tickets in advance, visit http://www.autodromodoalgarve.com/ (http://www.autodromodoalgarve.com/).
Eugene: “We had a good test last week at Portimao and are full of confidence. I have now gone so many races without a win and it would be perfect if I could end the season on a high and win it at our home circuit. I can only win the Championship if I finish first or second; that is what I must do and Cal knows what he has to do as well. I’m all for good sportsmanship and will ride my own race and may the best man win. The circuit at Portimao is one that you could never get bored of, it is pure class. You can work with the technicians to set-up the bike but so much still depends on the rider because of the nature of the turns and elevations. It was made for a Supersports bike and is great fun.”
Miguel: “This is the biggest race for me this year. The Parkalgar circuit is more than a sponsor to me, it is my second home as I live nearby and I have great friends here. I also have super support from all of the Portuguese fans and I want to do my best for them all and score my highest result ever. The pressure is very high but my team is backing me and I have a fantastic race bike, it is going to be a brilliant race and the more fans that can come and support me the better – it really does make a difference.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “We had a positive test at Portimao and the pressure is off us and Eugene in the Championship stakes – but he will be going all out to win the race at our home track. If we win the race we’ll see what happens with Cal - he starts as favourite for the World Championship but there is a lot of pressure on him it is not over yet. Miguel is consistent and can improve for the race. In front of his home crowd and at a track he knows like the back of his hand I would be very surprised if he did not record his best ever finish in World Supersport. It’s going to be an exciting race meeting with the Superbike title decided on the same day so if you haven’t booked already, get your tickets and come to Portugal this weekend.”

NinjaMaster

22nd October 2009, 09:17

What's this? A story about a circuit racer! ;)

suzukimad07

22nd October 2009, 17:53

NO, his first year in World Supersport and he could win the Title !
Worth a mention i would say ! ! ! ! !

suzukimad07

23rd October 2009, 16:49

Dunlop heads for Valencia 250 GP http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=951) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=951&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=951&itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/951/170/images/stories/williamdunlopulster25009.jpgWilliam Dunlop will take part in next months Gran Premio Generali De La Comunitat at Valencia after taking up the offer to take part at last weekends Sunflower Trophy Races.
Dunlop, who will ride the trusty PJ Flynn 250cc Honda will have Mark Kelly as his right hand man at the event, one in which Dunlop says is a dream come true.
Then, one week later, William will take part in the Supersport 600 round of the Spanish Championships on the Veidec Racing Honda CBR600R which has been campaigned on all season by Robbin Harms in the World Supersport Championships.

William Dunlop: "This is really like a dream come true for me. To get a ride in a World 250GP Race is very daunting, frightening in fact, but also extremely exciting. I got the news last Friday evening that I had been excepted to ride in the World round, and once I heard it my legs went like jelly. I did not push the races at the Sunflower to hard as I had this event in the back of my mind and I did not want to fall off and jeopardise the whole trip. Also, one week later, while I am in Spain, I will be taking in the Spanish round of the Supersport 600 Championships also at Valencia, where I will be riding the Veidec Racing Honda that Robbin Harms has ridden in the World Supersport Championships in 2009. I will be away for about three weeks in total, so I have just to finalise the boats from here to France, and then the long drive down to Valencia after that. Brian McCormick is going to lend me his lorry for the trip, so I am very grateful to him for allowing me its use. Chances like this don't come round that often, well, probably never again to be honest, so its my aim to make the best of them both".

Spainish 250cc Grand Prix

Friday 6th November.........................Free Practice
Saturday 7th November.....................Morning Free Practice/Afternoon Qualifing
Sunday 8th November.......................Warm-up Morning/250cc Race 12-15pm
paddock gossip

suzukimad07

24th October 2009, 23:23

#50 Irelands Eugene Laverty on Pole 600ccSupersport

suzukimad07

25th October 2009, 14:32

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Portimao Supersport - Race Result (http://irishroadracers.smfforfree.com/index.php/topic,3706.msg9412.html#msg9412)

1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) Honda CBR600RR 35'17.044 (156,173 kph)
2 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 3.443
3 24 McCoy G. (AUS) Triumph Daytona 675 13.874
4 35 Crutchlow C. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R6 15.144
5 8 Aitchison M. (AUS) Honda CBR600RR 16.608
6 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 20.008
7 23 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 22.007
8 99 Foret F. (FRA) Yamaha YZF R6 22.034
9 77 Veneman B. (NED) Honda CBR600RR 23.031
10 117 Praia M. (POR) Honda CBR600RR 24.002
11 1 Pitt A. (AUS) Honda CBR600RR 31.794
12 36 Cardenas M. (COL) Honda CBR600RR 31.811
13 21 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 32.218
14 25 Laverty M. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 33.196
15 101 Coghlan K. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R6 1'02.386
16 5 Pradita T. (INA) Yamaha YZF R6 1'06.401
17 9 Dell'Omo D. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1'08.010
18 88 Guerra Y. (ESP) Yamaha YZF R6 1'18.977
19 40 Gentile F. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1'19.080
20 199 Four O. (FRA) Honda CBR600RR 1'22.144
21 22 Muresan R. (ROU) Triumph Daytona 675 2'06.258
22 122 Walkowiak M. (POL) Yamaha YZF R6
RET 55 Roccoli M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR
RET 28 Vos A. (NED) Honda CBR600RR
RET 16 Lowes S. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR
RET 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R

suzukimad07

30th October 2009, 13:26

Re:NGK IRISH MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS As far as I know, Johnny Rea, Ryan Farquhar, Ian Lowry, Alastair Seeley, most likely the front runners for the award, will all be away in Australia (Kings of Wanneroo) when the awards take place. So I expect, none of them will be there, should they win!

suzukimad07

31st October 2009, 16:32

ENKALON N.G.K. MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR I am pleased to report that Ryan Farquhar won the premier award in this publically voted pole, runner-up was Jonny Rea and third placed Eugene Lavery.

Sadly for the organising Enkalon club the three main award winners could not be present due to commitments but they were able to organise a video presentation to Ryan which was shown on the night.

Rod Richardson

31st October 2009, 22:09

REMINDER ........................................

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Senior Member

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Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: ireland
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http://www.mcnews.com.au/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif Kings OF Wanneroo International

Courtsey of The Motor Cycle Racing Club of WA Inc.

KINGS
OF WANNEROO INTERNATIONAL
NOVEMBER
6 – 7 - 8

It’s countdown time! Only five weeks to the biggest motorcycle event ever to be held at Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo.

November 6- 7- 8th 2009 will see the running of the Kings International motorcycle race meeting for the 2nd year in a row.

Thirteen title winning international solo competitors, with multi British, Irish and world motogp rider Jeremy McWilliams and World Superbike contender Jonathan Rea now confirmed, plus a World Champion Sidecar team .

A Hospitality Package is now available giving spectators’ prime viewing in comfortable surroundings overlooking the Final Turn and Main Straight. Hospitality guests will also be treated to exclusive appearances by our International guests. Morning & afternoon tea, and lunch will be provided and Cash bar available. A great way for companies to entertain their staff and customers, giving them an action packed day out. Info at www.mcrcwa.com.au (http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/)

Official Welcome Function - Monday night 2nd November.
In the week leading up to the race weekend the Motorcycle Racing Club of WA will host a “Meet and Greet Welcome” at the Burswood on Swan Function Centre. Not only will fellow competitors, crews and Officials be joining the internationals, but this will also be a great opportunity for the general public to purchase tickets and have an “international” guest rider join them at their table. Tickets at www.mcrcwa.com.au (http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/)

Advance Purchase event Tickets now on sale at Pitstop Bookshop, King Street Perth.
www.pitstop.net.au (http://www.pitstop.net.au/) or Tel: 9322 5544 Country 1800 622 422

The event will be conducted over three days -
Friday Practice, Saturday Qualifying with Sunday as the main race day featuring the Kings International Production Superbike class and the Kings International Sidecar title events with support classes of Supersport, Superstock & Clubman racing.

Barbagallo Raceway Wanneroo is located north of Perth. Main Entrance end of Wattle Avenue, Neerabup, off Old Yanchep Road off Joondalup Drive (exit the Mitchell Freeway at Joondalup Drive)

The star studded line up features a contingent of high profile riders representing the UK, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man and Australia.

 Ryan Farquhar (N. Ire) Team KMR Kawasaki - multiple international road race wins at TT, Ulster GP and NW 200)

 Michael Laverty (N. Ire) Echo CRS Honda [World S/sport] & Celtic Racing [AMA] – 2007 British Supersport Champion

 Michael Swann (N. Ire) Irish Racer KTM – 10 times Irish Superbike Champion and currently freelance road tester

 Ian Lowry (N. Ire) Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing British Superbikes

 Keith Amor (Scotland) , podium placegetter 2009 Isle of Man TT races, multi circuit race winner

 Ian Lougher (Wales) Team Black Horse Yamaha – 30 international victories

 Conor Cummins (IOM) McAdoo Racing Kawasaki & Team Black Horse Yamaha – the youngest rider at only 22 yrs of age he is one of international road racings brightest young stars.

 Guy Martin (UK) Hydrex Honda – podium placegetter Isle of Man TT and Ulster GP race winner.

 Simon Andrews (UK) MCC Kawasaki – one of British Superbike Championship’s brightest new talents.

 Brendan Roberts (Aus) 2008 World Superstock Championship Winner

 Cameron Donald (Aus) Relentless Suzuki Team rider of British Superbikes & North West 200 plus double TT winner in 200http://www.mcnews.com.au/forum/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif.

 The Irish Superbike Champion for 2009 – Alistair Seeley looks to be the likely Championship winner.

 Special Guest of the event will be Australia’s own World Champion – Andrew Pitt - Winner of the 2001 and 2008 World Supersport Championships and now teammate Jonathan Rea.

 Jeremy McWilliams – Multi British, Irish and World 250, 500 and motogp contender. Will be riding the KTM RC8R at Barbagallo

PLUS
 U.K. Team of Tim Reeves and passenger Dan Sayle (IOM) - three times Superside FIM World Sidecar Champion will also be competing for the first time in Australia.

suzukimad07

3rd November 2009, 13:56

Michael Pearson has made the switch to Kawasaki for his 2010 Road race campaign, having tested the Z10 at Kirkistown a few weeks ago, he was well impressed. None of this would have been possible only for a few people having faith in him, namely Building contractor Ivan Morrell who has purchased the ex Ryan Farquhar Z10 and his longtime sponsor and boss Davy Greer of Carryduff Forklift, Davy is buying a new 600 Kawasaki for Michael.
Pearson said " I am really enjoying my Road racing, and to get this great package sorted out so early on, these are the best machines I have ever had at my disposal, I am indebted to these two men, and am really looking forward to the season ahead

suzukimad07

3rd November 2009, 15:06

http://www.gsxr.com/images/icons/icon1.gif Irish Motorcyclist of the Year
Ryan Farquhar wins Irish Motorcyclist of the year
By Andy Downes -
TT & road races
02 November 2009 15:56

Ryan Farquhar is the NGK Enkalon Irish Motorcyclist of the Year for 2009.

Ryan received the trophy in the workshop at his Killyman, Co Tyrone home on the evening before he left for the Kings of Wanneroo race meeting in Perth, Australia.

'I am delighted to win this Award - especially as this was the year when I surpassed Joey's record of national Road Race wins.

"I would like to thank all the people who voted for me. And I am very sorry that I am unable to be there in person at the Awards but I will be raising a glass over in Australia!', Ryan said as he received the magnificent Joey Dunlop trophy.

Enkalon Club Chairman David Weir said that he heard 'Surprise and delight' in Ryan's voice when he gave him the news that he was the 2009 winner.

'We at the Enkalon Club are delighted with Ryan's win - we would like to thank all the people who took the time to vote making this the award riders' want to win.' David said.

Commenting on the evening, Stewart Neill of NGK Spark Plug said "I always look forward to and enjoy this prestigious evening . NGK are delighted again to support the Enkalon Club and their support of motorcycle racing in Ireland.

"I am personally delighted to see Ryan win this award and I can remember back a number of years, NGK helping Ryan when he first started racing.

The voting was as follows: NGK Irish Motorcyclist Of The Year 2009 - Ryan Farquhar 29%, 2nd Jonathan Rea 17% followed closely by Eugene Laverty with 16% of the votes.

Rounding out the top 6 is Alastair Seeley, Michael Dunlop and Jamie Hamilton.

Other award winners on the evening are;

Irish Off Road Rider of the year- sponsored by Off-Road Ireland - Stuart Edmonds

Most Promising Short Circuit Rider - Sponsored by Irish Bike - Jamie Hamilton

Most Promising Road Racer - Sponsored by Mermaid Club - Wayne Hamilton

Most Promising Off Road Rider - Sponsored by Off-Road Ireland - Natalie Kane

Services to Sport - Sponsored by Nutt Travel - Jack Agnew

Classic Rider of the year - Sponsored by LSI Antrim - Barry Davison

Gary Morrow Memorial Trophy for 125 Clubman - Robert English

Wheels Memorial for 125 newcomer - Josh Cunningham

Chris Nicholl Memorial Trophy - For Best Irish Finisher in the Junior ManxGP - Stephen McIlvenna
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I)

The Phantom

3rd November 2009, 22:04

I've been trying to determine whether there will be any tv coverage of this event - doesn't look like it...

Some background info on a Perth moto forum:

http://www.perthstreetbikes.com/forum/f33/kings-wanneroo-november-91094/

Footage from a 2006 Kings Of Wanneroo:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYhM5GzyDVE

suzukimad07

4th November 2009, 09:48

REA and PITT NOW CONFIRMED TO COMPETE

World Supersport Champion (2001 and 2008) Andrew Pitt and World Superbike Ten Kate Honda rider Jonathan Rea

Will both be competing at Barbagallo Raceway this weekend in the Kings International Superbike Event.

suzukimad07

6th November 2009, 09:33

Johnson 56.64[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Rea 57.10[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Keevers 57.71[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Stronach 57.92[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Seeley 58.23[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Lowry 58.28[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
McWilliams 58.38[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Pitt 58.44[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Stauffer 58.62[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Senior 58.62[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Dave Johnson 58.81[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Boulton 58.98[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
Andrews 59.14[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1450 - Flag is out, they are on their last lap now... And it was another 57.05 to Johnson and a 57.29 for Rea.[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1449 - 57.05 to Johnson this time. Rea coming now.... 57.1.... Another huge improvement for Rea, the gap to Johnson's best now down to a much more respectable 0.46 of a second...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1448 - 57.22 first lap out that time to Johnson... Rea crossing the line..... A 57.50 an improvement for the Northern Irishman and closes the gap to Johnson's best down from 0.99 of a second to 0.86 of a second. Still some way to go but it is progress....[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1447 - Johnson on first flying lap out of the pits now, Rea just crossed the line to start the same...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1446 - Johnson and Rea back on track now...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1444 - Rea back in the pits for some tweaks and thoughts... Johnson just returned to pitlane again also[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1443 - Rea down to 57.63 now. Johnson's 56.64 still quickest and the Victorian just dipped into the 56s again with a 56.9.[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1438 - Riders coming in and out of the pits for tweaks to their mounts as the session wears on. Jonathan Rea making progress, second quickest now with a 57.77 on the Fireblade[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1436 - 14 minutes remaining in this session and no rider within cooee of Johnson's 56.64 as yet. Next best in this outing thus far is Ben Stronach with a 57.97, Alastair Seeley 58.23, Pitt 58.44 and Rea 58.45[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1434 - Johnson on his first flyer out of the pits that time around lowers the mark with a stunning 56.64 on the KTM RC8R...wow[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1432 - Jonathan Rea visited the pits also but now heading back on track behind Johnson... Perhaps looking for a few pointers from the man who has done a few laps of Wanneroo in his time...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1431 - Johnson back in the pits after that 57.75[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1430 - Johnson to the top of the charts again now with a 57.75[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1429 - Rea backs that up with another 58.4. Johnson second in this session thus far with a 58.8[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1428 - 58.4 next time around for Rea...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1427 - A 59.4 on the first flyer for Rea on the Superstock bike...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1426 - Jonathan Rea eager to get out of the blocks and get some clear air was first out of pitlane and immediately put his head down.. Be interesting to see what his first flying lap comes in at....[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1425 - Pit lane is open and they are all out of the gates in quick succession, Wanneroo resembling something of an anthill as they all hit the track at the same time in search of some more set-up time with their new mounts and for some of course a new track also...[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1420 - 125 session wrapping up now so Kings out shortly... Hatton topped the 125 session with a 65.0[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1345 - We have had some clubman racing and sidecars on track since I posted those interviews. 125 GP riders are out next before the Kings of Wanneroo FP2 session gets underway. The clouds have returned and the weather is a little humid but there is a fair breeze about to make it a little more pleasant.[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1315 - Interview with Jonathan Rea after FP1 at Kings of Wanneroo (2.2Mb MP3) - DOWNLOAD (http://66.132.159.231/MotorcycleRacing2009/Superbike/kings/Day1_FP1_Rea.mp3)[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1310 - Interview with Andrew Pitt after FP1 at Kings of Wanneroo (2.3Mb MP3) - DOWNLOAD (http://66.132.159.231/MotorcycleRacing2009/Superbike/kings/Day1_FP1_Pitt.mp3)[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1233 - Lunch break here now for all the flaggies and staff so no action on track for a little while now.[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1230 - Scratch that idea, I just went down to have a word with some of the boys to find them with food in each hand and a mouthful to boot so won't interrupt their lunch just yet....[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1216 - Heading out to talk to a few of the boys again now[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1215 - Interview with Dan Stauffer after FP1 at Kings of Wanneroo - 2.7Mb - DOWNLOAD (http://66.132.159.231/MotorcycleRacing2009/Superbike/kings/Day1_FP1_Stauffer.mp3) (End is a bit rough as Dan had to catch his bike as it fell off the rear paddock stand when his mechanic dropped the forks through while working on the bike[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1212 - Interview with Shannon Johnson after FP1 at Kings of Wanneroo (2.7Mb) - DOWNLOAD (http://66.132.159.231/MotorcycleRacing2009/Superbike/kings/Day1_FP1_Johnson.mp3)[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1205 - Interviews uploading, just testing the files before I make them ready to download[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1155 - Okay we just had some quick words with Dan Stauffer and Shannon Johnson. Processing those files now and will have them up for you shortly.[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1145 - We will take a short break from the live coverage now to try and grab some of the boys for a quick word. Back soon....[/*:m:23ghpvo8]
1142 - Kings of Wanneroo First Practice[/*:m:23ghpvo8]

The Phantom

6th November 2009, 12:34

Go Shannon! :d

suzukimad07

6th November 2009, 16:55

Combined Superbike times for the day (including 3rd practice):

1 Shannon Johnson (AUS) KTM RC8 0:56.5440*
2 Jonathan Rea (NIR) Honda CBR1000 0:57.1090 0:00.5650
3 Cameron Keevers (WA) Honda 1000 0:57.7120 0:01.1680
4 Jeremy McWilliams (NIR) KTM RC8 0:57.9040 0:01.3600
5 Ben Stronach (WA) Ducati 1098S 0:57.9230 0:01.3790
6 Simon Andrews (ENG) Kawasaki 1000 0:58.0650 0:01.5210
7 Andrew Pitt (AUS) Honda CBR1000 0:58.1320 0:01.5880
8 Alastair Seeley (NIR) Suzuki 1000 0:58.1350 0:01.5910
9 Daniel Stauffer (AUS) Yamaha 1000 0:58.1370 0:01.5930
10 Ian Lowry (NIR) Suzuki 1000 0:58.2890 0:01.7450
11 Ben Henry (WA) Yamaha 1000 0:58.3230 0:01.7790
12 David Johnson (ENG) Yamaha R1 0:58.5130 0:01.9690
13 Adam Senior (WA) Suzuki 1000 0:58.6970 0:02.1530
14 Kevin Boulton (WA) Honda 1000 0:58.9870 0:02.4430
15 Keith Amor (SCT) Yamaha 1000 0:59.1830 0:02.6390
16 Conor Cummins (IOM) Yamaha 1000 0:59.4160 0:02.8720
17 Guy Martin (ENG) Honda 1000 0:59.4910 0:02.9470
18 Ryan Farquhar (NIR) Yamaha 1000 0:59.7120 0:03.1680
19 Ian Lougher (WAL) Yamaha 1000 0:59.9450 0:03.4010
20 Michael Swann (NIR) KTM RC8 1:00.6900 0:04.1460
21 Jack Tabain (WA) Ducati 1098R 1:01.1960 0:04.6520
22 Sebastian Montagu (WA) Yamaha 1000 1:01.4610 0:04.9170
23 Ray Anset (WA) Suzuki 1000 1:01.5570 0:05.0130
24 Wally Mulik (WA) Yamaha 1000 1:01.5800 0:05.0360
25 Glen Radica (WA) Yamaha 1000 1:01.7780 0:05.2340
26 Shane Martin (WA) Honda 1000 1:02.4390 0:05.8950
27 Ian Williams (WA) Yamaha 1000 1:03.3740 0:06.8300
28 Steve Chittendon (WA) Honda 1000 1:03.7970 0:07.2530
29 Michael Moralee (WA) Honda 1000 1:03.9370 0:07.3930
30 Justin Scott (WA) Kawasaki 1000 1:04.1500 0:07.6060
31 Martin Mott (WA) Honda 1000 1:04.4360 0:07.8920
32 Gavin Carlini (WA) Honda 1000 1:04.7010 0:08.1570
33 Tony Milner (WA) Yamaha 1000 1:05.2940 0:08.7500
34 Geoff Davies (WA) Honda 1000 1:07.6570 0:11.1130

Rod Richardson

6th November 2009, 23:40

Kings of Wanneroo
Timing and results on this site.

http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/index_pages/2009/kow/2009_kings_live.htm

Rod Richardson

7th November 2009, 05:33

Rest of the world....eat your heart out....designer pits at Wanneroo, just up the road from Wannerdingo.

http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/Photos/2009/kow/sat/Innes/rogues/DSC0010.jpg

Nah.....He won't mind if I borrow this nut.http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/Photos/2009/kow/sat/Innes/rogues/DSC0019.jpg

Christ Madge.....I know I put that fencing wire in here somewhere!!!!!!
Dad....its probably in the Esky!!!
http://www.mcrcwa.com.au/Photos/2009/kow/sat/Innes/rogues/DSC0027.jpg

suzukimad07

7th November 2009, 17:03

1500 - Final Qualifying / Combined Times All Sessions / Grid

Shannon Johnson (AUS) KTM RC8 Q1 0:56.4330[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Jonathan Rea (NIR) Honda CBR1000 Q1 0:56.4830 0:00.0500[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Jeremy McWilliams (NIR) KTM RC8 Q2 0:57.0120 0:00.5790[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ian Lowry (NIR) Suzuki 1000 Q1 0:57.0610 0:00.6280[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Simon Andrews (ENG) Kawasaki 1000 Q2 0:57.1260 0:00.6930[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Alastair Seeley (NIR) Suzuki 1000 Q2 0:57.1490 0:00.7160[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Andrew Pitt (AUS) Honda CBR1000 Q1 0:57.2460 0:00.8130[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Cameron Keevers (WA) Honda 1000 Q2 0:57.2770 0:00.8440[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ben Stronach (WA) Ducati 1098S Q2 0:57.3520 0:00.9190[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Daniel Stauffer (AUS) Yamaha 1000 Q2 0:57.4360 0:01.0030[/*:m:3nne2yha]
David Johnson (AUS) Yamaha R1 Q2 0:57.6970 0:01.2640[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Keith Amor (SCT) Yamaha 1000 Q1 0:57.7240 0:01.2910[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ben Henry (WA) Yamaha 1000 Q2 0:57.8110 0:01.3780[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Conor Cummins (IOM) Yamaha 1000 Q1 0:57.9900 0:01.5570[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Kevin Boulton (WA) Honda 1000 Q2 0:58.1640 0:01.7310[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Guy Martin (ENG) Honda 1000 Q2 0:58.4690 0:02.0360[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Adam Senior (WA) Suzuki 1000 Q2 0:58.5290 0:02.0960[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ryan Farquhar (NIR) Yamaha 1000 Q2 0:59.0140 0:02.5810[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ian Lougher (WAL) Yamaha 1000 Q1 0:59.2150 0:02.7820[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Michael Swann (NIR) KTM RC8 Q2 1:00.1350 0:03.7020[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Jack Tabain (WA) Ducati 1098R Q2 1:00.1530 0:03.7200[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Sebastian Montagu (WA) Yamaha 1000 Q2 1:00.3750 0:03.9420[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Glen Radica (WA) Yamaha 1000 Q2 1:00.7770 0:04.3440[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Shane Martin (WA) Honda 1000 Q2 1:01.6440 0:05.2110[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ray Anset (WA) Suzuki 1000 Q2 1:01.8520 0:05.4190[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Wally Mulik (WA) Yamaha 1000 Q2 1:02.1590 0:05.7260[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Martin Mott (WA) Honda 1000 Q1 1:02.6170 0:06.1840[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Steve Chittendon (WA) Honda 1000 Q1 1:02.8900 0:06.4570[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Ian Williams (WA) Yamaha 1000 Q1 1:03.0660 0:06.6330[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Tony Milner (WA) Yamaha 1000 Q1 1:03.3380 0:06.9050[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Justin Scott (WA) Kawasaki 1000 Q2 1:03.4630 0:07.0300[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Paul Cox (WA) Honda 1000 Q2 1:03.5440 0:07.1110[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Michael Moralee (WA) Honda 1000 Q1 1:03.7080 0:07.2750[/*:m:3nne2yha]
Gavin Carlini (WA) Honda 1000 Q2 1:06.5080 0:10.0750[/*:m:3nne2yha]
1459[/*:m:3nne2yha]

suzukimad07

8th November 2009, 16:32

Jonathan Rea (NIR) Honda Fireblade 25 25 25 - 75[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Andrew Pitt (AUS) Honda Fireblade 16 17 20 - 53[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Simon Andrews (ENG) Kawasaki ZX-10R 15 14 18 - 47[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Daniel Stauffer (AUS) Yamaha YZF-R1 14 16 17 - 47[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Ian Lowry (NIR) Suzuki GSX-R 20 18 9 - 47[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Jeremy McWilliams (NIR) KTM RC8 13 15 16 - 44[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Cameron Keevers (WA) Honda Fireblade 12 13 15 - 40[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Alastair Seeley (NIR) Suzuki GSX-R 17 20 0 - 37[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Ben Henry (WA) Yamaha YZF-R1 10 11 11 - 32[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Ben Stronach (WA) Ducati 1098S 11 9 10 - 30[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Guy Martin (ENG) Honda Fireblade 9 8 12 - 29[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Conor Cummins (IOM) Yamaha YZF-R1 0 12 13 - 25[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Keith Amor (SCT) Yamaha YZF-R1 0 10 14 - 24[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Ryan Farquhar (NIR) Yamaha YZF-R1 8 6 6 - 20[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Shannon Johnson (AUS) KTM RC8 19 0 0 - 19[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Sebastian Montagu (WA) Yamaha YZF-R1 4 4 7 - 15[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Ian Lougher (WAL) Yamaha YZF-R1 0 5 8 - 13[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Shane Martin (WA) Honda Fireblade 6 2 5 - 13[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Ray Anset (WA) Suzuki GSX-R 7 1 4 - 12[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Adam Senior (WA) Suzuki GSX-R 0 7 0 - 7[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1529 - Lots of Pirelli being smoked at various points around the circuit right now...[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1526 - Kings of Wanneroo Race Three[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Rea[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Pitt 8.63[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Andrews 9.32[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Stauffer[/*:m:3paskmgq]
McWilliams[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Keevers[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Amor[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Cummins[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Martin[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Henry[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Stronach[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Lowry[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Lougher[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Montagu[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Farquhar[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1525 - Rea celebrates the win with a fine stand-up mono. Pitt second, Andrews third and Stauffer fourth[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1524 - Rea got the last lap board with a 9.9 second advantage over Pitt. Andrews not too far behind in third and if Pitt is not careful he might get mugged at the final turn....[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1523 - Dan Stauffer ran a little wide at turn seven and Simon Andrews took advantage for third place[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1522 - Rea leads by 9.18 seconds from Pitt who has had to put his head down to fend off Stauffer[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1521 - Pitt up to second place due to Lowry's problems. Stauffer right on his tail. Andrews and McWilliams having a good battle over fourth place[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1520 - Hold that, Ian Lowry has a problem... His muffler had come loose and he had to stop on the exit of turn one to kick the rest of it off before rejoining the race after losing a number of positions...[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1519 - Rea's lead out to 2.6 seconds now, Lowry looks to have given up the chase... Pitt under threat of losing third place to Dan Stauffer[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1518 - The gap between Rea and Lowry now out to 1.84 seconds. Pitt in third place a further 4 seconds behind. Farquhar in 14th place and content to entertain the crowd with main straight length monos[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1517 - Andrews was in fourth position but ran wide at turn one which allowed McWilliams and Stauffer through[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1516 - Rea still holding sway at the front from Lowry, those men the only two in the 56s that time around while everyone down to 12th was in the 57s[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1515 - Seeley down at turn seven trying to chase down Lowry. Lost the front and then the rear and slid off softly into the sand...[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1514 - Rea straight down to 56.2 and the top four all in the 56s on their first flying lap.[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1513 - Shannon Johnson missing from this race due to a couple of big over-rev's doing his RC8R some terminal damage and sidelining for the remainder of proceedings...[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1512 - Kings away for their final bout now and Rea immediately took charge. Andrew Pitt got a good start up into third place but was overhauled by Seeley late on the opening lap. Lowry in second place.[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1454 - Third and final bout for the Kings of Wanneroo up next[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1452 - Final Sidecar bout just wrapped up with Walker boys making it three from three to take the event win from Fagan who was a consistent second place in all three bouts. Pinfold rounded out the race three podium which also elevate him above Watkins to take out third place overall[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1435 - The third and final Clubman 600 race just wound up with Clarke the victor from Elliott and Sant. Sidecars next and then the big boys of Kings Superbike are back on track[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1400 - Interview after race two with Shannon Johnson - DOWNLOAD (http://66.132.159.231/MotorcycleRacing2009/Superbike/kings/Race2_Shannon.mp3) (2.3Mb)[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1355 - Interview after race two with victor Jonathan Rea - DOWNLOAD (http://66.132.159.231/MotorcycleRacing2009/Superbike/kings/Race2_Rea.mp3) (3.3Mb)[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1346 - Just spoke with Shannon Johnson and Jonathan Rea after race two, uploading the audio now[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1331 - Kings of Wanneroo Race Two[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Rea[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Seeley 4.32[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Lowry 8.87[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Pitt 13.91[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Stauffer[/*:m:3paskmgq]
McWilliams[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Andrews[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Keevers[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Cummins[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Henry[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Amor[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Stronach[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Martin[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Senior[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Farquhar[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Lougher[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Montagu[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Radica[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Martin[/*:m:3paskmgq]
Anset[/*:m:3paskmgq]
1330[/*:m:3paskmgq]

Rod Richardson

8th November 2009, 21:06

OVERALL POINTS FOR THE DAY

Race 1 2 3 total

Rea NI…………….. 25 25 25 =75[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Pitt Aus……… …. .11 12 20 =43[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Lowry NI………… …20 16 04 =40[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Andrews GB……….10 09 16 =35[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Seeley NI…………..12 20 00 =32[/*:m:3vx9zoyr] Stauffer Aus……….09 11 12 =32

Keevers Aus…… …07 08 10 =25[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Henry Aus……… …05 06 06 =17[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Johnson Aus……. ..16 00 00 =16[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Cummins NI…… … .00 07 08 =15[/*:m:3vx9zoyr] Stronach Aus…….. 06 04 05 =15

Martin GB……… … .04 03 07 =14[/*:m:3vx9zoyr] Amor Sct…………..00 05 09 =14

Farquhar NI…… … .03 01 01 =05[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]
Lougher Wa…… …00 00 03 =03[/*:m:3vx9zoyr]

MACAU RACE NEXT.................... THEN ROLL ON 2010

Rod Richardson

8th November 2009, 21:18

POINTS SCORED
..................RACE...1...2..3 ....TOTAL

Rea NI……….……... 25 25 25 =75
Pitt Aus………….…..11 12 20 =43
Lowry NI……….……20 16 04 =40
Andrews GB……….10 09 16 =35
Seeley NI……….…..12 20 00 =32
Stauffer Aus…….….09 11 12 =32
Keevers Aus…….…07 08 10 =25
Henry Aus………..…05 06 06 =17
Johnson Aus….…..16 00 00 =16
Cummins NI………..00 07 08 =15
Stronach Aus…….. 06 04 05 =15
Martin GB………...….04 03 07 =14
Amor Sct………...…..00 05 09 =14
Farquhar NI……..….03 01 01 =05
Lougher Wa……...…00 00 03 =03

Looking forward to seeing some footage.

Macau next up then roll on 2010.

suzukimad07

11th November 2009, 16:02

Davey Morgan bought Cameron Donalds TAS Suzuki for 2010 season ( fastest tt lap )bike http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwa65IMy1mw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwa65IMy1mw)

suzukimad07

12th November 2009, 13:39

A truly international field of road racing and endurance specialists will line up on the grid for the 43rd running of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix next month.

Riders from ten countries and regions, from across Europe, Asia Pacific and the USA, will do battle over 15 laps of the Guia Circuit on Saturday, November 21st, and the irresistible mix of exciting newcomers and seasoned professionals holds the promise of a superb race.

All of last year’s top-eight finishers return to the legendary Guia Circuit in 2009, including last year’s victor and British Superbike star Stuart Easton, who will race with Hydrex IGT Honda.

The 26-year old Scotsman took his maiden victory in the Far East Classic last year after a dramatic battle with six-time winner Michael Rutter. The win led to a full time ride with Hydrex Honda in the British Superbike Championship where he currently lies third.

As well as Rutter, who returns this year with Team of Paris-AXA in a bid to finally clinch that elusive seventh victory, Easton will be joined by 2001 winner and third placed rider last year, team mate John McGuinness.

Last year’s pole man, Conor Cummins, returns to Macau for the third time, this year with the Paul Bird works Kawasaki World Superbikes Team.

At 23-year-old, the Manxman is among the crop of talented young riders who are quickly making a name for themselves at Macau and around the world.

At the 2009 Isle of Man TT, Cummins racked up two podium places, and in the Ulster Grand Prix Dundrod 150 Superbike race he shattered the lap record with on his way to victory.

Joining Cummins on the team are multi-AMA Endurance Champion Mike Barnes from the USA, and Brit Ian Hutchinson, who last year finished fifth and seventh, respectively.

Hutchinson had a successful Isle of Man TT this year, with the 30-year-old taking victory in both the first Supersport TT and in the first Superstock TT races.

Joining the 12-strong British contingent are DMR Racing teammates James Storrar and Steve Mercer. Storrar, 22, and Mercer, 27, both return to Macau after making their debuts in 2008.

James McBride returns to Macau for his fifth visit, this year aboard a JV Racing Yamaha, having previously placed in the top ten three times, while regular Macau rider Stephen Thompson will compete on a Sloan Developments Honda.

Teammates Gary Johnson and James Hillier will compete on a pair of AIM Racing Suzukis. British Superstock Championship regular Hillier makes his debut at Macau in 2009, along with Mark Buckley, on a Jentin Racing Yamaha.

Both riders were top ten finishers at the Isle of Man TT this year, and Buckley also finished third in the TTxGP, the first zero emissions TT race.

Team of Paris-AXA rider, 25-year-old Simon Andrews, is another newcomer. Andrews has been competing in the British Superbike Championship since 2006, finishing eighth last year, and has also raced in the World Superbike Championship.

Dutchman Branko Srdanov makes his Macau debut with Cubic Macau Racing Team, while endurance specialist Horst Saiger of Germany will compete with BMW Macau Racing Team.

Moto Clube de Faro rider Nuno Farias will also race at Macau for the first time, joining Luis Carreira (Benimoto Suzuki Cetelem) and Tiago Magalhaes (AG Racing) as the three Portuguese riders in the 43rd edition of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix.

After finishing a career-best fourth in 2008, Carreira will no doubt have his sights firmly set on a podium finish.

Magalhaes will ride in the 600cc Supersport category, one of eight entries in the class, which includes Team of Paris-AXA rider Amaury Baratin of France aboard a Triumph, as well as a local contingent of drivers, including Joao Fernandes with Cubic Macau Racing Team, Sou Sio Hong and Ip Weng Keong, all of whom call the Guia Circuit home. Finishing third in the 600 Supersport category in 2008, Fernandes this year competed in the FIM World Endurance Championship.

Also in the 600 Supersport Class are Hong Kong’s Jason Broome, on a Yamaha, and Cheung Wai On aboard a Suzuki.

Joining Rutter, Baratin and Andrews on the Team of Paris-AXA team is Frenchman Gerald Muteau, runner-up in the 600 Supersport Category last year.

In 2009, Muteau will compete on a Kawasaki 1000 for what will be his fourth visit.

The truly international field will see a four-strong American team. In addition to Barnes, are Mark “Thriller” Miller with Celtic Racing, Jeremy Toye with Lee’s Cycles Racing and Scott Jensen with Moto Garage Racing.

The Yamaha Austria Racing Team recently clinched the World Endurance Championship and return with their regular Macau rider Austrian Thomas Hinterreiter, third in 2007, while German Rico Penzkofer will race with BMW Macau Racing Team along with compatriot Saiger.

43rd Macau GP entry list

1 Stuart EASTON GBR Hydrex IGT Honda Honda 1000
2 John MCGUINNESS GBR Hydrex IGT Honda Honda 1000
3 Michael RUTTER GBR Team of Paris - AXA Racing Kawasaki 1000
4 Conor CUMMINS IOM PBM Kawasaki WSBK Team Kawasaki 1000
5 Amaury BARATIN FRA Team of Paris - AXA Racing Triumph *675
6 Gerald MUTEAU FRA Team of Paris - AXA Racing Kawasaki 1000
7 Thomas HINTERREITER AUT Yamaha Austria Racing Team Yamaha 1000
8 Ian HUTCHINSON GBR PBM Kawasaki WSBK Team Kawasaki 1000
9 James MCBRIDE GBR PAZZO/EAST Coast Racing Yamaha 1000
10 Mark MILLER USA Celtic Racing Suzuki 1000
11 Stephen THOMPSON GBR Robinson Concrete Honda Honda 1000
12 Simon ANDREWS GBR Team of Paris - AXA Racing Kawasaki 1000
13 Rico PENZKOFER GER BMW Macau Racing Team BMW 1000
15 James STORRAR GBR DMR Racing Yamaha 1000
17 Steve MERCER GBR DMR Racing Yamaha 1000
18 SOU Sio Hong MAC Sonic Racing Performance Yamaha *600
19 Tiago MAGALHAES POR AG Racing Suzuki *600
21 Nuno FARIAS POR Moto Clube de Faro Honda 1000
23 Branko SRDANOV NED Cubic Macau Racing Team Yamaha 1000
31 Horst SAIGER AUT BMW Macau Racing Team BMW 1000
32 Joao FERNANDES MAC Cubic Macau Racing Team Yamaha *600
33 Luis CARREIRA POR Benimoto Suzuki Cetelem Suzuki 1000
34 Mike BARNES USA PBM Kawasaki WSBK Team Kawasaki 1000
35 CHEUNG Wai On HKG CHEUNG Wai On Suzuki *600
36 Michael PEARSON GBR BTS Racing Honda 998
37 James HILLIER GBR AIM Racing Suzuki 1000
39 Jason BROOME HKG Jason BROOME Yamaha *600
57 Jeremy TOYE USA Lee’s Cycles Racing Honda 1000
61 Scott JENSEN USA Moto Garage Racing Suzuki 1000
66 Mark BUCKLEY GBR Jentin Racing Yamaha 1000
69 Gary JOHNSON GBR A.I.M. Racing Suzuki 1000
70 IP Weng Keong MAC Sonic Racing Kawasaki *600

suzukimad07

13th November 2009, 12:56

1st Joey Dunlop - 63 Wins 24UGP/26TT/13NW
2nd Philip McCallen - 36 Wins 14UGP/11TT/11NW
3rd Robert Dunlop - 29 Wins 9UGP/5TT/15NW
4th Stanley Woods - 18 Wins 7UGP/10TT/1NW
5th Brian Reid - 15 Wins 9UGP/5TT/1NW
6th Ryan Farquhar - 11 Wins 6UGP/2TT/3NW
7th Tom Herron - 11 Wins 5UGP/3TT/3NW
8th Eddie Laycock - 11 Wins 5UGP/2TT/4NW
9th Stephen Cull - 11 Wins 3UGP/2TT/6NW
10th Ray McCullough - 10 Wins 7UGP/0TT/3NW
11th Adrian Archibald - 8 Wins 4UGP/3TT/1NW

suzukimad07

13th November 2009, 17:09

This link to a video should of been on the end of the last post to #3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbAjLDW5QBU

suzukimad07

21st November 2009, 17:32

MACAU GP RESULT.
1 = Stuart Easton Hydrex Honda
2 = Connor Cummins PBM Kawasaki
3 = Ian Hutchinson PBM Kawasaki
4 = Gary Johnson Aim Racing
5 = Rico Perrzkofer Macau BMW Racing
6 = Michael Rutter Aixa Kawasaki
10th = Stephen Thompson Robinson Concrete Honda
DNF = Michael Pearson
DNF = John McGuinness
Fastest Lap Easton = 2.25.17 Lap Record
Winners Margin = 0.3 seconds
One hell of a race at the front between Easton and Cummins....Easton lead lap 13, Cummins lead penultimate lap, Easton went like the wind on last lap and just pipped Cummins. This pair where head and shoulders above the rest with Hutchinson 9 seconds behind them.. Brillant race.
(willis marchal)

suzukimad07

22nd November 2009, 13:03

Macau Misery for Pearson

Ballygowans Michael Pearson's first visit to the far east venue of Macau on Saturday morning lasted just two full laps of the 3.8 mile Guia Circuit, after clutch failure of the BTS Honda Fireblade, ended Pearson's hope of a finish, with the 32 year old Co-Down rider gutted after returning to the pits.
Pearson, who had upped his pace consistently all week during free practice and qualifying, still felt that the visit had been a worth while exercise, and that a return next year would be on his calendar of events.

Michael Pearson: "what can I say....You can never allow for something like this to happen even though machine failure is always at the back of your mind at any race. We replaced the clutch on the BTS Honda during the week, and these clutches are normally good enough for two starts, but for some reason or other it let go today. Of course I am gutted, but it was out of my hands. I was confident enough for a race result today, a finish being my aim on the track, but I suppose I will have to wait another year. Its been a brilliant experience, and very worth while. You need to be very good around here to get near the top boys on the quick bikes, and the way that Stuart Easton and Conner Cummins rode was simply quite astonishing to watch. Back to the drawing board now for the 2010 season".

Willis Marshall (Manager) "I am totally gutted for Michael. To go such a long way from home, to qualify and qualify well, then to get just two laps of the race, is really quite a sucker punch for us all. Michael I believe set about his first appearance at Macau in the right way, learn the place and go quicker bit by bit, and that was evident right through the weeks practice. I think that Michael could have been further up the field during practice had he been on his usual Dunlop Tyres, but with this race all riders have to use Pirelli. As Michael said, you cannot allow for these types of things to happen, they happen to the best in the world...its just one of those things, but I am still very proud of the way he approached what is a difficult and dangerous circuit".

suzukimad07

22nd November 2009, 16:06

A clip of the race http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPMnRdi3PCo

suzukimad07

28th November 2009, 16:05

Farquhar joins forces with MSS Colchester Kawasaki for 2010

Dungannon's Ryan Farquhar will again spearhead Kawasaki's assault on the International and National road races in 2010, with the 33-year old joining forces with MSS Colchester Kawasaki for his Superbike campaign. Ryan will use a specially prepared Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Superbike to race in the Isle of Man TT, North West 200 and Ulster GP road races whilst he will also continue with his own KMR Kawasaki's in the Supersport and Superstock divisions. The Superbike will run in identical colours to the MSS Colchester Kawasaki British Superbike team whilst the 600cc and Superstock machines will again be in Ryan's familiar black and orange livery.

Double TT winner Farquhar has recently been voted Irish Motorcyclist of the Year after a season that has seen him top the prestigious Duke Road Race rankings and surpass Joey Dunlop's amazing total of 119 Irish national race wins. Ryan took 61 race wins and seven road race championships during a busy 2009 race season.

MSS Colchester Kawasaki will create a dedicated Superbike, similar in specification to their British Superbike machines but set-up to cope for with the unique demands of the long distance road circuits. The new partnership was announced at this weekâ€™s International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the NEC on the Kawasaki stand, alongside new signings for the World Superbike squad.

Ryan commented: "I'm really excited about this opportunity, I've seen the speed of the MSS bikes during British Superbike this year and the team have been doing really well. Nick Morgan has been doing my engines for many years and it's great to be supported by the team and Kawasaki UK, I can't wait. With the MSS Colchester Kawasaki Superbike and my own KMR team, it promises to be another great season."

MSS Colchester Kawasaki Team Owner, Nick Morgan said : "We're very pleased to be able to announce a full road racing programme with Ryan at the forefront. Ryan had a very strong year on the roads and we had a great leap forward in BSB, so it could all come together for a great season."

Michael Johnstone, Kawasaki Motor UK Sales and Marketing Manager added : "This is an impressive partnership, our official Kawasaki Motors UK Superbike team and one of the most successful road racers of all time. We look forward to seeing how Ryan performs using the very latest Ninja machinery."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC-P7VLAg2I)

Words: Phil Wain - Freelance PR

suzukimad07

3rd December 2009, 17:32

McAdoo Kawasaki Racing are delighted to announce the re-signing of Conor Cummins for the 2010 road racing season.
After a terrific 2009, Conor has put pen to paper on a new deal to continue racing for McAdoo Kawasaki on the open roads, as well as signing for the Black Horse Kawasaki Superstock team to compete at BSB level.
Conrod’s impressive year included two TT podiums, becoming only the third rider in history to record an official 130+mph TT lap, an outright lap record at the Southern 100, a world record lap of 133.28mph at Dundrod where he won two Superbike races, and most recently, runner-up at the Macau GP, pushing Stuart Easton all the way to the flag.
http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/974/169/images/stories/connortt09.jpgConor commented “I’m extremely pleased to continue riding for the McAdoo Kawasaki Racing team – we’ve had an awesome season together and hopefully, 2010 will be better again. I love the Kawasaki Ninja bikes and McAdoo Kawasaki are the official Kawasaki UK Road Racing team again for 2010, so it’s great for me. I’m also chuffed to be competing full time next year on the Kawasaki’s as I’ve also signed to race British Superstock for Black Horse Kawasaki, the official Kawasaki UK Superstock team. It couldn’t be better really, roll on 2010!!”
Team owner, Winston McAdoo is equally pleased: “It’s terrific news for us to have signed Conor again for 2010. We’ve always believed the lad is a top class rider and I’d like to think we played our part in proving that this season. He really is at the top of his game, and at just 23 years of age, the most exciting rider in road racing, bar none. We’ll be working hard over the winter to give him what he needs to win. The Kawasaki ZX-6R and ZX-10R are extremely competitive bikes and with the help of our engine tuners Race Techniques and Cosworth, we hope to further unleash the potential of the Ninja bikes for 2010. There’s no reason why we can’t build on our success of this season and perhaps, take it a step further.”

suzukimad07

9th December 2009, 16:10

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/976/169/images/stories/roadracerscalender2010.jpgFor the eighth year in a row top road racing photographer Stephen
Davison has produced his Road Racers calendar for 2010.
Following the popular format of the previous years there are 12 A3
sized pictures, all of which can be kept and framed after use. The
full colour calendar includes stunning images of top racers Cameron
Donald, Michael Dunlop, Conor Cummins, Michael Rutter, Keith Amor,
William Dunlop, Guy Martin, Ian Hutchinson, John McGuinness, Ryan
Farquhar, Gary Johnson and Steve Plater.
The Isle of Man TT, the North West 200, the Ulster Grand Prix and the
Irish national race scene are all represented alongside a special
image from the awesome spectacle of the Macau Grand Prix.
A must have collector’s item, the calendar has sold out its limited
print run every year so order early to avoid disappointment.
The calendar is on sale in Cameron’s bookshop, Ballymena, Simpson’s
Newsagent’s Ballymoney and Stewart Millar stores.
It can also be ordered at www.pacemakerpressintl.com (http://www.pacemakerpressintl.com/)

suzukimad07

9th December 2009, 16:27

Calendar 2010

suzukimad07

11th December 2009, 14:22

The Southern 100 Club have publicly expressed their feelings that the Department of Tourism and Leisure will no longer fund the 125 and 250 TT races that have been run on the Billown course for the past two years.
A tersely-worded press statement from the club said: “We are very disappointed that the Department of Tourism and Leisure have decided that they would not fund the 125cc and 250cc Billown TT Races in 2010 at the cost of £18K, a miniscule part of their TT Budget.
“As this would have been the third year of the event with entries and interest growing year on year and crowds of over 10,000 at last years’ event, it has come as a major blow to the Club.
“However Southern 100 Racing has already been in touch with a potential major sponsor with regards to continuing racing at Billown at the end of the TT Festival, an event which has been run since 1991 and hopes to make an announcement in the media in the next couple of weeks.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09r2NdXuMPs

suzukimad07

12th December 2009, 21:34

By John Watterson

SOUTHERN 100 Racing, organisers of the Billown TT for the past two years, have criticised the Department of Tourism and Leisure's decision to axe the event from the main programme for the 2010 TT.

In direct response to the news that the two-stroke races are to be dropped, Southern 100 Racing Club expressed its disappointment that the Department is not prepared to fund the 125cc Ultra-Lightweight and 250cc Lightweight two-stroke classes at a cost of £18,000 - a figure it describes as a miniscule part of the overall budget for the TT.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the club stated: 'As this would have been the third year of the event with entries and interest growing year on year, the news has come as a major blow to the club.

'However, Southern 100 Racing has already been in touch with a potential major sponsor with regards to continuing racing at Billown at the end of the TT Festival, an event which has run since 1991.

'An announcement will hopefully be made in the next couple of weeks.'

News that the Billown TT events had been chopped from the 2010 TT race programme were announced at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show in Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre.

The 125cc and 250cc races were dropped from the Mountain Course in 2004 and enjoyed a two-year stay of execution in 2008 and 2009 at Billown, but they now look certain to be lost for good in the new production bike-based, four-stroke engine format that has all but taken over every level of global motorcycle racing.

Commenting on the announcement, Tourism and Leisure Minister, Martyn Quayle, said: 'We are operating in a tough financial climate and have therefore decided to concentrate our resources on the core race programme that is proving so popular with fans.

'We are again delivering a thrilling racing experience, with many fans and media commenting that the TT Races are now as strong and exciting as they have been in living memory.'

Many race fans bemoaned the loss of the parade laps, so there will be a classic parade and a special lap of honour to commemmorate Suzuki's 50th TT on the morning of Senior race day next year.

Both will feature racing machines manufactured before 1998 with capacity for a total of 200 entries across the two events. Entries are invited and will be reviewed by a committee featuring representatives from ACU Events Limited and the Department of Tourism and Leisure.

Any revenue derived from the Suzuki 50th anniversary lap of honour and TT classic parade will be used to fund the future development and safety of the TT races.

'We believe that with the return of the classic parades that there is now something for all motorcycle enthusiasts,' added Martyn Quayle.

Qualifying week will starts with a free practice session on Saturday, May 29 and run until Friday, June 4.

Race week begins with the Superbike and first Sidecar race on Saturday, June 5. Monday, June 7 will see the Superstock and first Supersport race, with the second Supersport and Sidecar races scheduled for Wednesday, June 9. Race week will culminate with the Senior TT on Friday, June 11.

The race organisation is currently developing plans for another zero carbon emissions event and a slot has provisionally been scheduled on Wednesday, June 9 following the Supersport and Superstock races.

The FIM, world governing body of motorcycling, is known to be forming its own e-grand prix away from the TT, featuring rounds at Continental GP circuits such as Le Mans and Misano.

Whether or not the inaugural TTXGP set-up will again be involved with a race in the Isle of Man is unknown at this stage.
http://images.smfboards.com/Themes2/default/images/icons/modify_inline.gif

suzukimad07

15th December 2009, 16:44

The Ulster Grand Prix is still the Fastast Road Race in the World !
http://www.ulstergrandprix.net/09/

suzukimad07

24th December 2009, 09:32

Ballygowans Michael Pearson has joined forces with local company BikeBitsNI and Hel Performance for the 2010 season.
BikeBitsNI, who are based near Belfast, are one of the leading Motorcycle accessory outlets, with Pearson aiming to use BikeBitsNI new products, Hel Performance brake lines on both his ZX10 and ZX6 Kawasaki's in the 2010 Irish and Ulster Road Race Championships.
BikeBitsNI are already involved with two of the countries most talented Short Circuit racers, Alastair Seeley and Ian Lowry.

Jonathan Annett (Hel Performance Manufacturing Centre) "Its a pleasure to be able to work with Michael and his team in 2010. He proved his worth in 2009 and now with a new line up of machinery, I think he can be even more competitive next season. BikeBitsNI are proud to be able to bring Hel to Ireland. We are excited for 2010 and feel that we have a very strong line up in our Team Hel Programme".

Michael Pearson: "Its really good to be working with a local company who are out to help local riders. We are now in a direct position to get what we need within 24hrs of asking, which is worth its weight in gold. I don't really know much about the company as Willis Marshall set the deal up for me, but I am also very excited about the 2010 season, and hope that we can bond a long and successful relationship".

Willis Marshall (Team Manager) "Jonathon and BikeBitsNI have been very helpful to date and I have no doubt that we can all have a good work relationship. Any help in the current climate is welcome, and we are delighted to have BikeBitsNI with us in 2010".

suzukimad07

25th December 2009, 12:07

Happy Christmas Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

suzukimad07

25th December 2009, 19:17

A short vid of the toy run, iam 5th bike GSXR
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MRXl-pDVl8

suzukimad07

26th December 2009, 19:40

Raining Champions DVD

http://www.dukevideo.com/images/imageCache/5d2ccbfbbe502c1faec906669382086c.jpg (http://www.dukevideo.com/images/productimages/1/1849.jpg)enlarge (http://www.dukevideo.com/images/productimages/1/1849.jpg)

Availability More than 100 in stock. Dispatched same working day before 2pm.Released 07 December 2009Running time 95 minutes Format http://www.dukevideo.com/images/formats/DVDLogo.gifPAL DVD Catalogue No. 1849Our Price £16.99 £19.56
or 800 Duke Club Points

ShippingFREE delivery to the UK*
Overseas shipping available (http://www.dukevideo.com/Customer-Services/Postage-and-Pricing.aspx) utmx_section("AddToBasket") var GWO_Section1 = utmx("variation_number", "AddToBasket"); if (GWO_Section1 != undefined && GWO_Section1 != 0) document.write(''); <U><FONT color=#0000ff> if (GWO_Section1 == 1) document.write(' if (GWO_Section1 == 2) document.write(' if (GWO_Section1 == 3) document.write(' if (GWO_Section1 == 4) document.write(' if (GWO_Section1 == 5) document.write(' if (GWO_Section1 == 6) document.write(' Our guarantee
If you are not 100% satisfied we will replace or refund within 30 days of purchase.
Description

Experience three wonderfully evocative films showing a golden age of road racing, when the Armoy Armada and Dromara Destroyers did battle on the circuits of Northern Ireland.
These archive gems, which featured in the celebrated TV series “Charge of the Bike Brigade”, bring you action from 11 gripping races, plus interviews with the stars and more. Newly-filmed introductions featuring TAS Racing team owner Hector Neill, road racing commentary giant Derek ‘Big D’ Mason and racing legend Tommy Robb bring a new appreciation to three classic confrontations, perfectly setting the scene before we are treated to truly historic showdowns.
Among the heroes seen in action are the original Dromara Destroyer Ray McCullough, Armoy Armada stars Joey Dunlop, Frank Kennedy and Mervyn Robinson, plus Mick Grant, Percy Tait, Tony Rutter, Charlie Williams, Stan Woods, Tom Herron, Abe Alexander and a young Steve Parrish.
Raining Champions charts the 1976 North West 200, bringing you highlights of four enthralling dices on the wet roads of County Antrim, including the amazing battle between the works entries from Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha and the heroics of the British Spartans. This was the first year of the Magic Roundabout, and we eavesdrop as Grant and Rutter discuss the course and the potential dangers of this new feature. The Embassy Final 1975 takes us to the Kirkistown circuit, and the exceptional colour footage treats us to some amazingly close racing – not least the showdown between McCullough and Dunlop. Finally, we travel to Dundrod for the 1975 Ulster Grand Prix and action from four races – including the first ever Superbike race at the Ulster. It is packed with history, including McCullough’s domination of the 350cc race, Tait’s emotional superbike win, the dramatic rain-hit 500cc contest and McCullough turning out for the 250cc on a Harley Davidson!
Filmed specially for this DVD are two fascinating features. In the first, Trevor Steele, an original member of the Dromara Destroyers, talks about the rivalry with the Armoy Armada. In the second, important racing figures past and present – including Isle of Man TT legend John McGuinness, World Superbike Champion James Toseland and multiple Duke Road Race Rankings champion Ryan Farquhar – reflect on the impact of road racing in the 1970s.

NinjaMaster

31st December 2009, 03:53

Conor Cummins has a new personal website - http://www.conorcummins.com/

Be good to see how the young lad progresses through 2010.

suzukimad07

17th January 2010, 12:34

Relentless NW200
PART 1
Organisers of the International North West 200 – Ireland’s largest outdoor sporting event – have announced a new title and associate sponsor for 2010. Relentless energy drink is the new title sponsor for the event with Black Horse announced as the new associate sponsor of the International North West 200.

Saturday 15th May will be the date for the 2010 Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse. A full week of events is currently in planning for Race Week which last year attracted crowds in excess of 150,000 people as well as some of the world’s top riders.

Welcoming the new and associate sponsors and looking forward to this year’s Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse, Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE said, “The Relentless brand very much captures the spirit of the sport and we are delighted to welcome Relentless to the International North West 200. For many years, Black Horse has provided valuable sponsorship support to the North West 200 and I warmly welcome them onboard as this year’s associate sponsor.

“Each year, the North West 200 team works hard to ensure an even bigger and better event for riders and spectators alike. With a new title sponsor, refreshed brand and already strong line-up of competitors, we hope the 2010 Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse will be a year to remember”, said Mervyn Whyte.

Riders including Steve Plater, John McGuinness, Alastair Seeley, Bruce Anstey, Ian Lougher, Michael Dunlop, William Dunlop and Michael Rutter were in attendance at the launch, held in the Waterfront Hall in Belfast, to hear plans for 2010. Sports Minister Nelson McCausland wished organisers well. He said, “We have a rich motorcycling heritage in Northern Ireland, and the International North West 200 is a key part of our sporting calendar. This racing event is renowned as a world-class circuit for road racing which is loved by both riders and spectators. In 2009, it saw more than 150,000 bike fans from across the UK, Europe and beyond come to Northern Ireland. Over the years it has become known for exciting and exhilarating races, as the best riders compete over one of the fastest road circuits in the world. It also showcases Northern Ireland as a tourist destination which can host world-class sporting events. I wish the organisers all the best for the North West 200 in 2010.”

Maire Campbell of Relentless said, “On behalf of Relentless energy drink we are proud to be title sponsor of Ireland’s most prestigious motor racing event; the Relentless International North West 200. As a local company, we have been supporting sports in the community for the past 70 years and there is none more prestigious and well renowned than the North West 200. The North West 200 certainly represents an outstanding example of a superb community event.

“The North West 200 brings so much to Northern Ireland not only attracting the highest calibre of sporting personalities which includes our own Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing team, it also attracts tourism and boosts the local economy, giving Northern Ireland international exposure.”

Dave Macey, Market and Franchise Development Manager of Black Horse, said, “Black Horse has been a race sponsor of the International North West 200 since 2002. Each year has seen the event grow from strength to strength and we are delighted to now be associate sponsor of this very special road racing event.”

A new North West 200 logo, designed by Pierce Communications and incorporating the Relentless and Black Horse brands, was also unveiled at the launch event. Redback Creations have designed the official North West 200 website which, to date, has achieved over 25 million hits. For the 2010 event, the website will feature information on how to create the best ‘NW200 Experience’, ranging from accommodation information, vantage points on Race Day to details on official merchandise.

Mervyn Whyte MBE said, “The North West 200 team receives so much valuable support from a wide range of organisations and companies. We are deeply grateful for the help from a wide range of organisations including DCAL, Coleraine Borough Council, Sport NI, 2&4 Wheel MSG, NITB and Tourism Ireland as well as our title, associate and race sponsors.

“While we very much look forward to working with Relentless and Black Horse, we are deeply grateful to the Kennedy Group for their financial sponsorship and support over the years. Alistair and Adele Kennedy, in particular, have played a key role in making the North West 200 the truly international event it now is and the company continues to provide Coleraine & District Motor Club with in-kind support. The expertise of David Curry of Redback Creations and Robin Titterington of Event is also greatly appreciated”, said Mervyn.

Changes to the North West 200
Following the committee’s decision to withdraw the 250cc Race from this year’s schedule, the new format is 600 Supersport Race 1, Superbike Race 1, 125cc Race, Superstock Race, North West 200 Superbike Race and 600 Supersport Race 2. Apart from the 125cc race, all races will run under the FIM technical rules.

An additional 1,500 grandstand seats will be added to this year’s event bringing the total to 6,000 approx. The grandstand at the start line will be extended with 800 seats, Juniper grandstand with an extra 400 seats and 300 seats will be added to the paddock area grandstand.

In partnership with DCAL, Coleraine Borough Council and NITB, a new organisational structure has been introduced for the North West 200. Co-ordinated by Race Director Mervyn Whyte, the structure now consists of seven managers, each responsible for various aspects of the event. Mervyn Whyte will have overall responsibility for the running of the event.

Media partner
BBC Northern Ireland continues as the official media partner for this year’s event. Once again, the BBC will give extensive coverage to the North West 200 across all three platforms; on-line, television and radio.
Shane Glynn, Editor Sport, BBC Northern Ireland said: “This is the first year of our new five year contract to cover the North West 200. We’ve established a very strong, collaborative working relationship with Mervyn Whyte and his team from the Coleraine club, and we’ll be using that to help us build on the success of our output up to now, and to provide bike fans with the best possible coverage of the North West, online, and on TV and radio.”
Mervyn Whyte said, “It is a pleasure working with BBC Northern Ireland and the whole team should be congratulated on the outstanding on-line, TV and radio coverage that they give to the North West 200. We very much look forward to working with Mike Edgar, Shane Glynn and the team in the coming months and years.”
Coleraine Borough Council
Plans are well underway for a full schedule of events during Race Week. Mervyn Whyte paid tribute to Coleraine Borough Council, which continues to provide valuable support to the event.

The Council have further supported Coleraine & District Motor Club by appointing Paul Gallagher as event co-ordinator to the North West 200 office over the coming months. Paul, who specialises in event organisation, will provide support to the North West team.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Coleraine, Cllr Sandy Gilkinson, said; “This fabulous event is not only one of the highlights of the road-racing calendar, it is also one of the largest and most popular annual sporting events in Ireland. Each year this spectacular event grows in stature and entices thousands of spectators to the North Coast. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions, fantastic beaches, great bistros and restaurants, specialist shopping and a packed programme of top class events for all ages to enjoy, complemented by some of Ireland’s most beautiful countryside and dramatic coastline.

The promotional and economic benefit the North West 200 brings to the Borough area, and to Northern Ireland, is very significant. Council is pleased to host the North West 200 in the Borough and to continue to support the event as it has done over many years.

“As Mayor of Coleraine, may I personally welcome new sponsors Relentless and Black Horse to the North West 200 fraternity. I look forward to the event, to working with the Coleraine & District Motor Club, and to welcoming competitors and visitors to the North Coast in May.”

North West 200 Supporters Club
Laurits Mackness and Ina McColm will once again co-ordinate the North West 200 Supporters Club. Last year, the Supporters Club raised £26,000 for the North West 200. Laurits and Ina have been raising money for the event for 33 years and 30 years respectively. Mervyn Whyte thanked the Supporters Club for their hard work and valuable support.

DCAL Funding & Campaigns
Further to successful applications for funding in 2009 under the Major Event Growth Fund, Laura McManus, NW200 Business Development Manager, launched two campaigns – ‘Stay A While’ and ‘We Want You’.

The ‘Stay A While’ campaign launched successfully in April 2009 and will continue for the 2010 event. The tourism initiative was designed to encourage visitors to stay and explore Northern Ireland after the event, by designing ten routes for visitors. For 2010, the NW200 team have taken the concept a step further and look forward to launching new routes for the May event.

The ‘We Want You’ campaign was initiated to encourage interest in volunteering at the NW200. Working closely with the Volunteer Agency, the NW200 team launched the recruitment campaign and to date have received a high level of interest from individuals who will all be invited to volunteer assessment days in February.

suzukimad07

17th January 2010, 12:37

Relentless NW200 PT2
North West 200 Programme
Dundonald based Careva Publishing & PR will continue its involvement with the Coleraine & District Motor Club and the International North West 200 - publishing the official North West 200 programme for the ninth year in succession.

Best known for producing Ireland’s leading motorcycle magazine Irish Racer, Publishing Editor Paul Lindsay and his team have already begun work on the 2010 North West 200 programme, and the Bangor man is confident of producing yet another top quality publication. Paul Lindsay said: “As Northern Ireland’s leading outdoor sporting event, it’s hard not to get excited about the North West 200. At Careva, we are well aware of the Official Souvenir programme’s importance and the revenue it must generate, so we always strive to give the information-hungry race fans not just another event programme, but a value for money event guide with plenty of reading material.”

Practice sessions
Practice sessions will take place on Tuesday 11th and Thursday 13th May. Roads will be closed on Tuesday from 5pm - 9.30pm. Coleraine & District Motor Club have applied for a change in road closure times (9.30am – 3pm) for Thursday’s practice. The application has been put forward for consultation and a decision will be made by the end of January.

North West 200 hospitality
The Stonebridge Group has been re-appointed to manage the hospitality element in the paddock area. The cost of the hospitality package for 2010 will be £175 + vat and full package details will be available within the coming weeks. This is the fifth year that the Stonebridge Group, directed by John McNally, has been involved in the North West 200. For further details on any aspect of the event’s hospitality contact the Stonebridge Group on 028 3884 9393.

This year’s charity partner
The North West 200 today announced that leading local cancer charity Action Cancer is the 2010 nominated charity for Ireland’s most famous road race. The announcement of this one year partnership is expected to generate over £20,000 for Action Cancer and significantly raise the profile and understanding of male cancers in particular.

Action Cancer Head of Services, Geraldine Kerr said, "Action Cancer is very much looking forward to working with the North West 200. We need partners to help Action Cancer meet its vision, to raise vital funds and, just as importantly, increase awareness of the importance of early detection, prevention and support for those at risk of cancer in Northern Ireland. We are very grateful to the North West 200 team who will help us achieve this.”

Action Cancer also provides a range of vital, life-saving services including breast cancer screening, health promotion, research, counselling and complementary therapies. Services are available regionally through the mobile facilities on the BIG BUS and at Action Cancer House in Belfast. For more information, check out www.actioncancer.org (http://www.actioncancer.org)
P GOSSIP

suzukimad07

22nd January 2010, 16:55

Irish Racer Awards Another super night at the Ramada Hotel....It just seems to get better and better...Well done to the organisers, Paul Lindsay and Stephen Watson.

Adelaide Irish Motorcyclist of the Year
1 = Eugene Laverty
2 = Jonathon Rea
3 = Ryan Farqauhar

Bridgestone Hall of Fame
1 = Gary Cowan

irishracer.com Fans Race of the Year
Jonathon Rea's WSBK win at Masino

Fabdraw International Road Racer of the Year
1 = Steve Plater
2 = Ian Hutchinson
3 = Conor Cummins

Adelaide Lifetime Achievement Award
1 = Loris Cappirossi

IFS National Road Racer of the Year
1 = Ryan Farquhar

Blackhorse Finance Short Circuit Merit Award
1 = Ian Lowry

Blackhorse Finance Short Circuit Rider of the Year
1 = Eugene Laverty
2 = Jonathon Rea
3 = Alastair Seeley

Duke Road Race Winner
1= Ryan Farquhar

Fonacab International Rider of the Year
1 = Cal Crutchlow

Greenlight Television Team of the Year
1 = KMR (Ryan Farquhar)

IAM Saftey Award
1 = VW Van Centre

Red Bull Young Rider of the Year
1 = Jamie Hamilton
Please note, although no boardcode and smiley buttons are shown, they are still useable

suzukimad07

22nd January 2010, 17:14

Farquhar’s bikes get Magic Bullets

By MCN Sportsdesk (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/) -
TT & road races
22 January 2010 09:27

TT winner and multiple Irish Champion Ryan Farquhar will be backed by fuel Magic Bullet this season.
Magic Bullet is an advanced fuel treatment, formulated for high revving performance motorcycles, and Farquhar will run their logo on his bike, leathers and race truck at the international road races, Irish nationals, Scarborough, the Southern 100 and the Manx Grand Prix.
Farquhar said: “I met Magic Bullet at the NEC show in Birmingham and we had a chat about sponsorship. The guys followed that up with a meeting where we sorted out a deal.
"I’m pleased to have another sponsor on board ahead of the 2010 season and I’m hoping for some great results for them. 2009 was a superb season - I hope 2010 will be as good.”
Stephen Castledine, CEO of Global Fuel Treatments said: “I’m thrilled to have secured the services of Ryan for 2010. He is a master of his craft and seeing the Magic Bullet logo on a winning road race machine is superb.
"We are all really excited at the prospect and can’t wait for the season to start.”

NinjaMaster

23rd January 2010, 01:14

Loris Capirossi pays his respect to the sport of road racing.

http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/156096/1/capirossi_real_men_go_road_racing_motogp_for_girls .html

suzukimad07

23rd January 2010, 17:41

Thanks, great post

suzukimad07

30th January 2010, 20:39

No Tandragee 100 races this year

The Tandragee 100 Road Races will not take place this year. A club statement said that the decision had been taken "due to the current economic climate and circumstances beyond our control".
The statement added that the organisers, the North Armagh Club, intended to run the race again in 2011.
The Tandragee event, which had been scheduled to take place on Saturday 1 May, celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.
Michael Dunlop secured a hat-trick of wins in last year's event.
Ardglass rider John Donnan was killed at the Tandragee event in 2007 and Dubliner Martin Finnegan lost his life in a crash at the meeting 12 months later.
Earlier this month, an inquest in Donnan's death heard calls from the coroner for safety improvements in local road racing events.
A barrister for Donnan's family argued that a hay bale supposed to slow down competitors helped cause the crash.
The inquest also heard that officials ignored warnings the area was unsafe.
Senior Coroner John Leckey said: "We are just approaching that period of the year when motorcycle road race events are being held and I am concerned that a hard look should be taken at the safety issues in all the circuits."
James Irwin, chief marshal at the course, claimed he had warned the safety officers of the danger after seeing another rider, Leo Fitzpatrick, hit one of the same bales and break a leg.
He alleged he had not been allowed to express his concerns at a meeting and said adjusting the chicane slightly could have prevented the earlier rider from dislodging it and saved Mr Donnan's life.
Richard Nesbitt, convenor of the road inspection committee for looking after competitors' and spectators' safety for the Motorcycle Union of Ireland Ulster centre, said he could not remember receiving any such warning from Mr Irwin and claimed there was nothing more stable available in 2007.

suzukimad07

31st January 2010, 13:26

Michael Pearson Czech Bound http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=993) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=993&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=993&itemid=169) Written by Administrator Former Irish Superbike Champion Michael Pearson along with the MP Racing Team will travel to the Czech Republic on May 20th with a host of regular Irish Road Racers joining him for the annual Horice Road Races, after the Team finalised their plans on Friday night.
Confirming his entry, Pearson said that he was looking forward to the event with much excitment.
The Horice Road Races which have been running for several years now is gaining more and more attention from British and Irish riders, with the 2010 meeting on track to beat all previous records in rider entries.
Pavel Koci, from the organising Club in the Czech Republic attended the Cookstown 100 and Tandragee 100 Road Races in 2009, with Koci instrumental in gaining the attention of the Irish contingent that will make the trip in four months time.
One of the main organisers of the Irish riders is regular Irish Supertwin competitor Darren Gilpin.

Darren Gilpin: The Motorcycle Club at Horice are very passionate about road racing and Irish Road Racing, so as the word spread, Pavel was searching to attract riders from Ireland and the response has been amazing. Due to the number of Irish competitors traveling to Horice, it was soon established that sending machines and equipment in trucks due to the logistics in traveling to the Czech Republic would be cheaper. I was quite impressed with the structure and size of the meeting, and that many top European road racers have been taking part in recent years, such as Rico Penzkopher and Henrick Voit to name a few. Along with the riders, many race fans are also traveling to Horice from Ireland this year, with some Press people from Ireland also going along to see just what makes the Horice races tick".

Michael Pearson: "We are all set and booked on with flights etc, so its all systems go. There will be seven members of our team travelling to Horice, so its going to feel just ike any other race back home, and its one meeting that I am looking forward to".

Willis Marshall: (Team Manager) "It has taken a few months to get here, but here we are, with just the date of departure now next on our list. Pavel Koci from the Czech Republic has been tremendous help and has arranged our accomodation etc for the trip which has taken a huge burden off our shoulders, so we want to put on a good show and repay the lads in Horice".

Confirmed entries in Horice 2010.
Michael Pearson: Ballygowan: 2007 Irish Superbike Champion - 600 & Superbike Kawasaki's
Darren Gilpin: Newtownabbey: 3rd Ulster Road Race Championships in 2009 - Supertwins
Tim Stephenson: England: Riding John Bells 350cc Classic machine.
Wayne Hamilton: Lisburn: 250cc and 600cc classes.
Des Butler: Dublin: 2nd Irish RR Championships in 2009 Supertwins
Andrew Courtney: Celbridge: Superbike and 600cc Class's
Dave Walsh: Aghadowey: Supertwins Class
Corran Smith: Ballymena: Superbike Class
Alan Brown: Greyabbey: 3rd Irish Short Circuit Championships 2008. Rode in the British Thundersport Championships 2009, Supertwins.
William Davison: Kilrea: Top support class rider in 2009. Superbike Class.

suzukimad07

31st January 2010, 13:32

Rod Richardson

1st February 2010, 20:06

5 minute video of Horice CZ 2009 race.........check out the hay-bale chicanehttp://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/images/icons/eek.gif. 2010 race 23 May.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mthe6I9Q2Q4&feature=player_embedded

suzukimad07

2nd February 2010, 21:17

Great vid, Michel Dokoupil did a few Irish road races 2009 he done very well http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glrY8wyJ3pg He's part American Indian and wears the full head gear, hell of a nice bloke !

suzukimad07

2nd February 2010, 21:56

NEED SOME HELP
FOLKS COULD YA CLICK THE LINK AND VOTE FOR KEV,IF HE WINS THE PRIZE TO BE SOLD AND CASH SPLIT BETWEEN DOWN SYNDROME IRELAND AND THE MCUI MEDICAL TEAM,COULD AT LEAST 4 THOUSAND TO EACH....PLEASE FOLKS TAKES 30 SECONDS..
http://www.gumtree-winsomewheels.com/indiv...ntry.php?id=988 (http://www.gumtree-winsomewheels.com/individual_entry.php?id=988)

Rod Richardson

2nd February 2010, 23:29

Who is Kevin O'Hanlon apart from being the son of his parents????

Not wanting to be a pessimist but it's a bit of a tall ask to expect people to vote for someone they don't know or know whether he or she is a fine upstanding pillar of the community with a clean history with the honest intention of donating the proceeds to those groups.

I am also concerned about the lack of info about it being a bone-fide and approved raffle and revealing my e-mail address to the organizers of the "raffle". There has to be a financial benefit there for the organizers.

suzukimad07

3rd February 2010, 11:53

http://www.irishracer.com/interactive.html local magazine

suzukimad07

13th February 2010, 20:07

Lorenzo brokeup
LORENZO BREAKS HAND IN MOTOCROSS CRASH

Lorenzo's crash rules him out of testing at the end of the month

By David Miller
Image by Yamaha Racing

Fiat Yamaha's Jorge Lorenzo has fractured his right hand in a motocross training accident and will miss the upcoming second set of pre-season MotoGP tests at Sepang.

The 22-year-old was riding his motocross bike at the practice course near Montmeló during a routine training session as part of his pre-season preparation. He fell in a slow corner and hurt his right hand as he landed.

He was taken immediately to the Capio Hospital General de Catalunya and found to have a fracture at the base of the first metacarpal and a displaced thumb. Dr. Augusto J. Casanovas made an open reduction and osteosynthesis with a small titanium plate. Lorenzo will require hand protection for four to six weeks.

A team spokesman said that Lorenzo will not participate in the next Sepang test but he is expected to make a full recovery in time for the final pre-season test at Qatar in March.
Please note, although no boardcode and smiley buttons are shown, they are still useable

suzukimad07

14th February 2010, 15:24

Carl Rennie will lead the Phase One Endurance Yamaha challenge for the honours at the TT and NW200 this year.
Rennie, who finished fifth in last year's Senior, will compete in all the solo classes on Phase One Bikes.
Rennie said: "I am delighted to have been offered this opportunity by Russell and the Phase One Yamaha Team to join them for the 2010 season.
"I feel with the experience, knowledge and quality of the machinery Phase One have, I will be able to compete at the highest level.
"I am looking forward to working closely with the team throughout 2010."
Team Manager Russell Benney added "For the big classes we are delighted to be able to run Carl on the same R1 that James Ellison used to pole with at the Qatar Eight Hours in November.
“For the other races we shall build new machinery to Carl's requirements and for that part of the project we are seeking interest from partners who may wish to be involved."
Phase one will also run a second rider in at least two of the races and the team is inviting interest from appropriate riders for these slots.
It is the team's intention to improve on the top ten results it achieved in 2008 with Steve Plater (eight in Superstock) and Michael Dunlop (tenth in the Senior).
Benney certainly thinks that Rennie is the man to do just that.
He said: " At the TT Carl is considered to be amongst the very best of the privateers and since his debut in 1997 he has achieved a host of top eight results, culminating in last year's fifth place, and that on a Superstock bike!
"This experience is just what the team needs to hoist itself into the top six positions that it is aiming for in 2010.”
The team will start testing at Albacete in March

suzukimad07

27th February 2010, 22:28

Why I believe Laverty will beat Lascorz and Sofuoglu http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1019) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1019&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1019&itemid=170) Written by P Gossip Why I believe Laverty will beat Lascorz and Sofuoglu
Simon Buckmaster says...
http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1019/170/images/stories/simonbuckmaster.jpgIF I was a betting man, then I would be putting my mortgage on Eugene Laverty to win the World Supersport Championship this year. I believe Eugene as an overall with the Parkalgar Honda bike and team is a better package compared to his two main rivals Kenan Sofuoglu and Joan Lascorz.
I am sure I’ll have my critics to publish these thoughts so close to the first round but I believe over a season Eugene is the strongest contender and I don’t mind saying so. Here’s my reasoning why:

Firstly, Sofuoglu. I don’t think he’s as strong as Lascorz for a start and to go at the same speed as Eugene or Joan he has to push hard and he may crash sometimes as he did in 2009. Also, his Ten Kate team appears to be getting a bit shirty about things. Up until last year there was always a friendly sportsmanship with Ten Kate but now that we have beaten them some members of the team seem stand-offish. That’s a shame as I have the utmost respect for such a professional team and my attitude towards them doesn’t change whether we win or lose. The fact they don’t have Factory Ohlins suspension and we do may also give us a slight edge, although to be fair to Ten Kate they have worked hard over the winter and their bike is closer to ours now. But for all the reasons above, I believe Sofuoglu will finish third in the Championship as he did last year. Consistency is always a good thing.
Just for clarity, I don’t think the other Ten Kate rider Pirro can maintain the consistency to be a title contender; he’s probably brought money to the team and got a good ride, but if he wanted the best Honda team he should have looked elsewhere.
Lascorz is consistently fast and talented, very close in level and ability to Eugene and I respect him and his team enormously. He will be tough to beat but I think the Parkalgar Honda package is overall stronger. My good friend Randy Mamola rode both bikes at the end of last year and while he confirmed the similar engine performance, he also said our Parkalgar Honda was much smoother and easier on tyres. It is that tyre management that should give us a slight edge. In the last couple of laps we should have a tyre performance advantage and that means a stronger finish. If all things go to plan then Lascorz will finish second this year and deserve it, he is an excellent racer.
Anyway, I am getting ready for tomorrow’s opening day of the 2010 World Supersport Championship and thought I’d share my opinions with you. Here’s to a good battle all weekend between the three riders above and I wonder if there are any bookies would take my bet...

suzukimad07

28th February 2010, 16:08

/**/ Moto2 GP bike set for sensational Isle of Man TT debut http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1017) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1017&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1017&itemid=169) Written by Administrator - Olie Linsdell teams up with FTR to bring state of the art prototype machine to the TT

The Isle of Man TT Races are again proving their worldwide importance and value to the motorcycling world with the sensational news that one of the all-new Moto2 GP bikes will be contesting the Senior TT. The 600cc bikes have replaced the two-stroke 250cc machines at GP level and the 2010 TT will be the first place that race fans will see the bike being raced in the British Isles.

British chassis manufacturers FTR will be supplying the Honda-engined machine. It will be a similar spec to that being ridden in the Grands Prix by riders including former 125cc World Champion Gabor Talmacsi and GP winners Alex Debon and Andrea Iannone. British rider Graeme Gowland has also had considerable success on the machine when he raced in the Spanish Championship at the end of 2009.

Bedfordshire based Olie Linsdell will be riding the special GP bike, which should be able to mirror the speeds of the Supersport bikes. Olie will be following in his father’s footsteps in riding a revolutionary machine on the Mountain Course. Steve Linsdell was the last man to ride a GP bike in a Senior TT when he rode the 500cc Paton in 2007 and he has also ridden bikes like the GTS1000 Yamaha and Triumph Saxon at a high level.

22-year old Linsdell, a double Manx Grand Prix winner in 2007, looked set to have a strong TT 12 months ago until he broke his leg during Wednesday evening’s practice session following an incident at Glen Duff. He was back in the saddle for the Classic 2009 Manx Grand Prix where he led the race until being forced to retire on the final lap.

One of the brightest talents to emerge in recent years, Linsdell is now 100% fit and is clearly excited to be given such an opportunity. He commented:

“The Moto2 GP class is exciting for everyone at the moment and I’m delighted and honoured to get the opportunity to race one at the TT. There’s a big buzz around the class and while the 600cc bike won’t be quick enough to challenge the Superbikes for the win in the Senior TT, there’s no reason at all why it can’t lap in excess of 125mph and get inside the top ten which would be a great achievement.

He continued:

“Both the team and I obviously have a lot to learn about how the bike will cope with the Mountain Course but the chassis is as good as anything else out there and we’ll be aiming to match, if not better, the 600cc Supersport lap times. The whole project is sure to create a lot of interest during TT fortnight and we’re confident we can do it justice and get a credible result.”

Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government commented:

“The TT has always provided a great test-bed for new and innovative machinery since its inception in 1907 and everyone is really looking forward to seeing how the Moto 2 GP bike performs on the course. This year’s event is sure to be fascinating for spectators with a wide range of manufacturers – both new and established – competing against each other as well as the return of some old favourites.”
P Gossip

suzukimad07

6th March 2010, 17:18

Faugheen 50 2010 Cancelled http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1030) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1030&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1030&itemid=169) Written by Administrator It is with great regret that the Faugheen 50 Supporters Club announces that they will not be running a motorcycle road race in the village of Faugheen, Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Tipperary this year, 2010. Unfortunately, due to the current economic climate the Club does not have the funds in advance of the road race weekend to meet expected bills.

The Club remains committed to running our road race in 2011 and will pursue with tremendous vigour a number of major fund raising events during 2010 in order to have sufficient funds in the bank, to pay bills, prior to running our road race in 2011. The cost of running the road race is in excess of €80,000.00, (these funds, in the main, are obtained during road race weekend from entrance to race days, racer entry fees, sales of programmes etc.), despite being provided with a substantial amount of ‘free’ or at ‘cost’ items and the goodwill of many local companies and individuals.

The Club’s Committee would like to thank the residents and landowners in and around the village of Faugheen for their continued support and hope that this support will continue into 2011, additionally we would like to thank our sponsors, local companies, South Tipperary County Council, Denis Landy Counsellor, Carrick-on-Suir Garda Station, the local Ambulance Services and Volunteers for their support and we look forward to working with you all in 2011.
p gossip

Rod Richardson

6th March 2010, 22:40

In my opinion well televised Irish Road Racing has the edge over circuit racing as a viewer spectacle but will require a professional promoter to survive and flourish.

Sad news all round about the above-mentioned cancellation but 80k is a fistful for a single club to raise. The costs associated with meeting the requirements for increased rider/spectator/course safety and liability insurance premiums are obviously crippling.

suzukimad07

7th March 2010, 12:07

Here we have for sale high quality Robert Dunlop vinyl stickersIdeal for use on a motorbike, car, etc.]All proceeds going to the Robert Dunlop Memorial Sculpture fund.
Robert Dunlop was one of the greatest ever exponents of
motorcycle racing ever to come out of the island of Ireland. Robert
was a multi title winner and indeed still holds the record number of
wins ever recorded at the world famous North West 200 circuit with
15 victories. Other notable achievements include the 1991 British
125cc champion and 1990 Macau Grand Prix winner.

Robert was also awarded the very prestigious Freeman of the
borough honour by Ballymoney Borough Council in recognition of
his tremendous career in motor cycle racing throughout the world.
Robert also had a civic reception held in Ballymoney Town Hall to
mark his 1991 BRITISH 125cc championship title.

Ballymoney Borough Council are to provide a new memorial
garden at Castle Street, Ballymoney so we the committee of the
Robert Dunlop Memorial Sculpture Fund together with Roberts
family have set about raising the necessary funds required to
enable us to erect a sculpture be-fitting of Robert in his new
memorial garden. We have been reliably informed by the experts
that the sum required to erect such a sculpture will be in the region
of £60,000. So, together with all subscriptions and donations made
to the fund, we will be able to erect a sculpture worthy of such a
talented and gifted sportsman.

Many thanks for your kindness and generosity,
Liam Beckett (Chairman)
http://www.robertdunlopsculpturefund.com

suzukimad07

10th March 2010, 17:56

Season Ticket Full Throttle BBC NI http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1037) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1037&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1037&itemid=169) Written by Administrator Wednesday, March 17 on BBC One NI, 10.45pm
Season Ticket: Full Throttle gives an insight into the hi-octane world of the motorcycle road racer. The first programme in a new three part series starting on Wednesday, March 17 on BBC One NI looks at this exhilarating sport through the eyes of three riders, 33-year-old Ryan Farquhar, 45-year-old Sean Leonard and 22-year-old Michael Dunlop.

The documentary, filmed at Killalane, north of Dublin, which was the venue for the last National road race meeting of the 2009 season, includes footage of the three men on and off the circuit and looks into how they do it, why they do it, and if they will ever stop.

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1037/169/images/stories/michaeldunlophead.jpgWith his uncle Joey considered a motor cycling legend and father Robert holding the record for wins at the NW200, Michael Dunlop is considered road racing royalty. Within the programme he explains why he cannot give up the sport even though his uncle and father both lost their lives racing motorcycles: “You get scared, many a time I’ve got a fright but I’ve never been too afraid to get back on again. Them wee scares is the enjoyment. Me going out and winning a race is like me winning the lottery.

“People get their buzz out of golf, snooker whatever, I get mine out of racing between hedges. That’s the way I was brought into life and that’s the way I’ll go out of it.”

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1037/169/images/stories/ryanhead.jpgRyan Farquhar runs his own team, KMR, as a married man with two young children he has a lot to lose. He explains how he can keep going out race after race: “It’s a great sport when it’s going well but when it goes bad it can go really bad, that’s the downside of it. Everybody who goes out racing, they know the dangers. I suppose everybody thinks it’ll never happen to them. I love it, it’s in my blood and I can’t get away from it.”

The programme also speaks to Ryan’s wife, Karen who brings the children along to the race meetings, she explains her fears for her husband: “For me he’s [Ryan] one of the safest riders there is, but that doesn’t matter in road racing. There’s been a lot of safe riders that have been killed. I’m always hoping and praying that it’ll never be coming to my door.” However she still understands how much the sport means to her husband and says: “There’s no way I’d want Ryan to give up road racing for me.”

Sean Leonard has been racing at the Killalane road races for the past 25 years. To him it’s not so much about the race win but getting enough money together to race at all, but even though it is a struggle he would never give it up: “I’m that long doing it, that’s all I know now. It is a drug you know. That’s what I always say, if you’re an alcoholic or something else, but there’s no rehab for motorcycle racers
p gossip

suzukimad07

13th March 2010, 16:50

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqdJK4oosG4

suzukimad07

13th March 2010, 18:07

Amor parts company with JMF/Millsport Yamaha

http://www.keithamor.com/images/spacer.gif
Date 13 Mar 2010
http://www.keithamor.com/images/spacer.gifhttp://www.keithamor.com/imagesnews/large/94.jpg Amor parts company with JMF/Millsport Yamaha
With less than three weeks until the start of the 2010 racing season, Keith Amor has parted company with the JMF/Millsport Yamaha team leaving the Scots ace with a race against time to find competitive machinery before the new season gets underway over the Easter weekend.

Speaking today, Amor said; "It's a real shame that things haven't worked out between myself and JMF but I'd like to wish them well for the future and I'm now looking forward to the new season and will make a further announcement in due course. I'm still very much focused on improving my results from last year and firmly intend to be challenging for wins and podiums at the International road races."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBsHJTSptWY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBsHJTSptWY)

Rod Richardson

13th March 2010, 22:33

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqdJK4oosG4

Gob-smacked.......Holy snappin' duck's bums!!!!!

suzukimad07

14th March 2010, 14:53

Road racing 'will survive safety crisis'

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[b]Published Date: 12 March 2010

THE governing body of motorcycle road racing says it is confident it can meet the challenges that threaten the sport.
Last month, the News Letter revealed a series of damaging revelations highlighted in the wake of an inquest into the death of leading Ardglass competitor John Donnan, 42, at the Tandragee 100 in 2007 would have serious repersussions in respect of how rider and spectator safety would be safeguarded at future road race meetings.

Senior Coroner John Leckey raised his concerns with Sports Minister Nelson McCausland, in light of which the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) has put pressure on the Motorcycle Union of Ireland, Ulster Centre – which oversees motorcycle racing in Northern Ireland – to outline how it intends to protect riders and spectators, particularly young children, at future events.

Earlier this month, Ulster's most senior road racer, Ryan Farquhar, told the News Letter he felt the sport "was on its knees" and required a dramatic shake-up in order for progress to be made.

Now, the MCUI (UC) has taken the first steps in what it hopes will represent a more stringent approach to safety by appointing a new, six-strong group to its Roads Inspection Committee to assess road race events and determine whether or not they are granted approval to continue in 2010.

The committee boasts a wealth of experience and includes North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte, Mid-Antrim 150 Clerk of Course Jack Agnew, Armoy Clerk of Course Bill Kennedy, George Young, Ian Thompson and convenor Jack McGahan.

They will inspect the Cookstown 100 circuit in Co Tyrone tomorrow to appraise safety levels before granting the organising club a permit to host their event – traditionally the curtain-raiser to the road racing season – at the end of next month.

Yesterday, MCUI Roads Inspection Committee official Jack Agnew said he felt optimistic the obstacles facing the sport were not insurmountable.
"We have been working hard since the coroner raised his concerns and now have a new Roads Inspection Committee in place," Mr Agnew said.

"I feel a lot more positive now than I did a month ago. We have also put together our proposals for the Sports Minister ahead of our meeting with DCAL next week.

"I believe the report we have compiled is more than adequate in respect of answering the queries and concerns raised by the coroner; there is a real determination to pull together to ensure road racing survives."

He added: "We have a committee that has a wealth of experience and I have total faith that we can move forward on the issue of improving safety. The committee, I feel, consists of the best people from within the MCUI and we will do all we can to ensure every course is as safe as possible for spectators and competitors.

"I can't say at this moment whether or not the beginning of the road racing season will be affected, because that will depend on whether we feel courses are safe enough and on whether or not the organising clubs are prepared to act on and implement any recommendations we make.
"If they don't act on our proposals, then they won't be issued with a permit to run their race. Every course will be assessed on an individual basis."

Mr Agnew confirmed that moves to appoint an external safety assessor are at an advanced stage, but stressed that the Roads Inspection Committee will retain responsibility for approving national and international road race circuits.

Meanwhile, the organisers of the North West 200 will make a major safety change to the 'Triangle' circuit ahead of this year's meeting on May 15 by constructing a new chicane at the notorious Mather's Cross section of the course, which has claimed the lives of Robert Dunlop and Mark Young from Cookstown in recent years.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQXX8E7QmUE

suzukimad07

14th March 2010, 14:56

Road racing 'will survive safety crisis'

Published Date: 12 March 2010

THE governing body of motorcycle road racing says it is confident it can meet the challenges that threaten the sport.
Last month, the News Letter revealed a series of damaging revelations highlighted in the wake of an inquest into the death of leading Ardglass competitor John Donnan, 42, at the Tandragee 100 in 2007 would have serious repersussions in respect of how rider and spectator safety would be safeguarded at future road race meetings.

Senior Coroner John Leckey raised his concerns with Sports Minister Nelson McCausland, in light of which the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) has put pressure on the Motorcycle Union of Ireland, Ulster Centre – which oversees motorcycle racing in Northern Ireland – to outline how it intends to protect riders and spectators, particularly young children, at future events.

Earlier this month, Ulster's most senior road racer, Ryan Farquhar, told the News Letter he felt the sport "was on its knees" and required a dramatic shake-up in order for progress to be made.

Now, the MCUI (UC) has taken the first steps in what it hopes will represent a more stringent approach to safety by appointing a new, six-strong group to its Roads Inspection Committee to assess road race events and determine whether or not they are granted approval to continue in 2010.

The committee boasts a wealth of experience and includes North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte, Mid-Antrim 150 Clerk of Course Jack Agnew, Armoy Clerk of Course Bill Kennedy, George Young, Ian Thompson and convenor Jack McGahan.

They will inspect the Cookstown 100 circuit in Co Tyrone tomorrow to appraise safety levels before granting the organising club a permit to host their event – traditionally the curtain-raiser to the road racing season – at the end of next month.

Yesterday, MCUI Roads Inspection Committee official Jack Agnew said he felt optimistic the obstacles facing the sport were not insurmountable.
"We have been working hard since the coroner raised his concerns and now have a new Roads Inspection Committee in place," Mr Agnew said.

"I feel a lot more positive now than I did a month ago. We have also put together our proposals for the Sports Minister ahead of our meeting with DCAL next week.

"I believe the report we have compiled is more than adequate in respect of answering the queries and concerns raised by the coroner; there is a real determination to pull together to ensure road racing survives."

He added: "We have a committee that has a wealth of experience and I have total faith that we can move forward on the issue of improving safety. The committee, I feel, consists of the best people from within the MCUI and we will do all we can to ensure every course is as safe as possible for spectators and competitors.

"I can't say at this moment whether or not the beginning of the road racing season will be affected, because that will depend on whether we feel courses are safe enough and on whether or not the organising clubs are prepared to act on and implement any recommendations we make.
"If they don't act on our proposals, then they won't be issued with a permit to run their race. Every course will be assessed on an individual basis."

Mr Agnew confirmed that moves to appoint an external safety assessor are at an advanced stage, but stressed that the Roads Inspection Committee will retain responsibility for approving national and international road race circuits.

Meanwhile, the organisers of the North West 200 will make a major safety change to the 'Triangle' circuit ahead of this year's meeting on May 15 by constructing a new chicane at the notorious Mather's Cross section of the course, which has claimed the lives of Robert Dunlop and Mark Young from Cookstown in recent years.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQXX8E7QmUE

suzukimad07

19th March 2010, 14:03

Official Launch of the Adelaide International Kells http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1048) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1048&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1048&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1048/169/images/stories/adelaide.jpgThe Official Launch of the Adelaide International Kells Road Races 2010 takes place in McKeon Motors Kells on 16th March.This will be the 16th year of organising a Road Race for the Kells Club and they are looking forward to a top class entry for July.
The event is growing every year and new for the Club this year will be the partnership with Armoy for the Armoy/Kells Cross Border Championship. Further details on this championship will be given at the official launch at Stormont in April. The club are also running a Club Championship for members holding a Southern Centre Licence.
All Roads will lead to Kells on the 16th July for the Annual Charity Classic Run which is in aid of the Irish Wheelchair Association for 2010. But events kick off on Thursday 15th with children from the local Rugby Team in Armoy Co. Antrim and the soccer Team in Kells Co. Antrim travelling to Kells Co. Meath to play the local teams. This will be followed by a display by the Dunboyne Motor Club of Classic and Vintage Bikes and Cars and then a Mini Moto Racing in the Town.
The 3rd Annual Kells to Kells Rideout will start in Kells Co. Antrim at 2pm on Saturday 17th July and organised by the Quay Vipers Club and sponsored by Adelaide Insurance, the bikers will travel to the Fairgreen Kells Co. Meath. All money raised during the rideout will go to a nominated charity. At both venues a host of free activities have been organised which will all add to the excitement of the weekend.
McKeon Motors have supplied a new Medical Car for the use of the MCI Medical Team for the past 5 years and this year Michael & William Dunlop will launch the new car on behalf of McKeons with Peter Gallagher. This is a much needed addition to the medical team and thanks must go to McKeons for their kind donation.

Saturday 17th July - Practice Day in Crossakiel.
Sunday 18th July - Race Day - 14 races culminating in the International Kells Grand Final.

In October 2010 there will be the first every Road Racing Show which is being organised to Showcase Road Racing and thanks to McKeon Motors for the use of their showrooms as the venue. This show will be open to all Road Race Clubs from all over Ireland to show case their event, totally free of charge. It will also be available to riders and teams , marshalls , The Medical Team, and all others connected with Road Racing. Further details will be sent to all club Secretaries shortly. Once again thanks to McKeons for their Support of Road Racing.

Adelaide Insurance Services have given much to Road Racing and have helped the Kells Club to expand and improve. We would ask all fans to support the sponsors who support Road Racing, without their much needed financial help no club could continue to operate.

Kells MCRC would like to thank all the sponsors who have helped since 1994. In particular many thanks to Kells Town Council, Meath Co. Council, Meath Partnership, Meath Tourism, Failte Ireland. To the residents and landowners in Crossakiel and Kells who give us so much support and help , many thanks.. We are indebted to the many volunteers who give up their time to help us. The MCI Medical Team and all the officials and CLubs who help, thank you. Last but not least the RACERS , these fearless men and women who put on such entertainment in Crossakiel every year, we wish you all a very safe 2010
P Gossip

suzukimad07

20th March 2010, 20:17

Irish Superbikes Countdown to Blast off http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1047) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1047&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1047&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1047/169/images/stories/mac.jpgThe 2010 Irish Superbike Championships are gearing up for Blast Off over the weekend of April 2nd & 3rd 2010 at the Bishopscourt Racing circuit near Downpatrick in Co-Down, when the Motorcycle Road Racing Club of Ireland and the Killinchy & District Motorcycle Clubs will stage the season opener, in what should be a hotly contested weekend of ISB action.
In conjunction with the ISB rounds, the 34th Enkalon Trophy will be up for grabs with the 2009 winner, Scotsman Keith Amor, now a doubtful starter after parting company with the JMF/Millsport Yamaha Team last weekend.
With the opening rounds of the ISB series also doubling up for some valuable practice for some of the countries top road racing teams, this years event, has again drawn the attention of some very high calibre names and Teams.
The Relentless Suzuki duo of New Zealand's Bruce Anstey and Australian Cameron Donald will line out on the Bishopscourt track with Ballymoney's Adrian Archibald, Dungannon's John Burrows, and Ballygowan's Michael Pearson all entered for the Superbike Races.
With a total prize fund of £22,000 up for grabs, the cream of Irish short circuit racing will be eager to get a good start to their season, plus a share of the attractive prize pot on offer.
Notable entries include, Crumlin's Stephen Thompson, Newtownard's rider Kirk Jamison, Portadown's Marshall Neill, Ballymena's Denvor Robb, Randlestown's Gerard Kingham, Coleraines's James Dickson, Waterford's Brian McCormick, and last years ISB runner -up, Mark Johnston also from Coleraine.
2009 ISB Superbike Champion Alastair Seeley will be absent, but it is hoped that Seeley will make an ISB appearance later in the year.
A new addition to this years ISB seres will be the knock out qualifying system for the Superbikes, similar to the method used in World Superbikes. The "Role for Pole" will be backed by Nutt Travel. Walter Bell & Son Oil Fired Heating Services along with Irish Racer Magazine will also be supporting the 2010 Irish Superbike Championships in 2010.
Additional Support for the opening rounds at Bishopscourt will come from Down District Council.

Pics: =
1 = 2008 ISB Superbike Champion Brian McCormick
2 = 2007 ISB Superbike Champion Michael Pearson
3 = 2009 ISB Superbike Champion Alastair Seeley

2009 ISB POSTITIONS

ISB Superbike Class
1 = Alastair Seeley = 13 wins
2 = Mark Johnston = 2 wins
3 = Gerard Kinghan = 2 wins
4 = James Dickson
5 = David Haire

ISB Superbike Cup
1 = Richard Rea = 7 wins
2 = Michael Sweeney = 7 wins
3 = Colin Thompson = 1 win
4 = Dave Lynch = 2 wins
5 = Padraig Dooley = 1 win

ISB Supersport 600 Class
1 = Glenn Irwin = 7 wins
2 = Mark Lunney = 2 wins
3 = Delcan Swanton = 1 win
4 = Kirk Jamison
5 = Jack Kennedy = 5 wins

ISB Supersport Cup Class
1 = Glenn Irwin = 15 wins
2 = Jonny Buckley = 3 wins
3 = Michael Sweeney = 3 wins
4 = Kevin Briggs
5 = Alan Hill

ISB Mini Twins Class
1 = Lee Hill = 13 wins
2 = David Craig = 2 wins
P GOSSIP
3 = Keith Meere = 1 win
4 = Gary Matthews = 1 win
5 = Malcom McKinney = 1 win

ISB 250cc Class
1 = Mark Lunney = 13 wins
2 = David Craig
3 = Thomas Lawlor = 4 wins
4 = Ronan Shanahan
5 = Mark Kelly

ISB 125cc Class
1 = Mark Lunney = 15 wins
2 = Robert English
3 = Drew Jamison = 2 wins
4 = Ciaran Donnelly
5 = Alan McClean

ISB Sidecar Class
1 = Dylan Lynch/Aaron Galligan = 9 wins
2 = George Kennedy/Colin Smyth = 1 win
3 = Scobbie Killough/Paddy Marley = 1 win
4 = Alex Johnston/Kyle Graham
5 = Karl Mullen/Stephen Mullen = 2 wins
p gossip

suzukimad07

21st March 2010, 14:15

In an exclusive interview with Keith Amor, BikeRaceNews.com’s Darren Healy discusses the reasons for his departure from JMF Millsport Racing, his plans for 2010 and who he thinks his main rivals will be this season.

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Keith-Amor-interview-300x200.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Keith-Amor-interview.jpg)With just three weeks to go before the start of the 2010 racing season, news broke of Keith Amor’s split from the JMF Millsport racing squad. The news came as a massive shock to everybody as Keith had been tipped to be one of the main front runners this season with such a strong team behind him along with Keith’s very obvious natural talent on a motorcycle. BikeRaceNews.com caught up with Keith this week to find out exactly what happened between him and the JMF Millsport team and what his plans are for the season ahead now that he is without a team or bikes around him at such a late stage in the build up to the 2010 season.
BikeRaceNews: Obviously the big news at the moment is your departure from the JMF Millsport racing team. How and why did this come about?
Keith Amor: Jimmy is a great guy with an excellent team and infrastructure around him, so good in fact that I believe he could run a Moto GP team if he wanted to. We both wanted the same thing and that was obviously to win races, but at the end of the day we were both pulling in different directions in our approach to racing. I know how I want to do things and at my age, I need things done in a particular way.
I have a way I like to approach things and it’s sometimes hard to communicate that way to someone new. The set up wasn’t working for me so I made the decision to walk away and to not waste anyone’s time, money or effort. There was no fall-out or argument, Jimmy is an absolute gentleman and I have the utmost respect for him. It’s very unfortunate how things have worked out and it’s really disappointing for me and the team.
BRN: Have you been able to sort out any machinery for the season in the short space of time since the split?
KA: I’m talking to quite a few sponsors, people and manufacturers at the moment but there are no deals 100% complete or set in stone. Things just have to be right and the last thing I want to do is go and overstretch a team, their bikes or myself. I’ll hopefully have something sorted over the next couple of weeks but there is nothing signed at the minute.
BRN: Will you be receiving any help from your good mate Johnny Rea due to the circumstances?
KA: I suppose that’s the kind of question everybody is going to ask due to my friendship with Johnny. Again, I’m not talking to any teams, just manufacturers. There have been no concrete decisions made but you can never write anything off.
BRN: Do these events change your plans for the season and some of the events that you will take part in?
KA: This has just been a massive set back time wise, but with all of the Nationals that keep getting cancelled and the cost involved, I’m not completely sure what races I’ll be attending. I will definitely be doing the four International road races, meaning the TT, North West 200, Ulster Grand Prix and Kells as they are the priority for me this season. I also aim to race at Skerries, Killalane and the Southern 100. The Southern 100 is a race that just hasn’t been doable for me in the past for a number of reasons but I would love to race there this year. I am considering the Cookstown 100 and Scarborough but I’ll have to wait and see about them. I also hope to be at the Enkalon Trophy races but I just don’t know at this stage.
BRN: Your ambitions for the season must remain the the same for the season despite this set back. What are they?
KA: My season is all about the Isle of Man TT and gaining as many wins as I can there, nothing matters more to me throughout the season. I would dearly love a win at the North West 200 and the Ulster Grand Prix but the TT is my main focus and a win there means more than anything.
BRN: Who do you think will be your biggest rivals at the International races?
KA: John McGuinness at the TT, no question. He is Mr.TT. He knows the place better than anybody and will be the main man again this year. Any of the riders on the factory Honda and Suzuki’s will take some beating in the Superbike class because of their experience at the races, HM Plant Honda have years of experience both at British and World level. The privateers are going to have to produce something extra special to beat them but I will be giving it my very best shot. There are so many riders that could win at the TT this year, it could be any one of twelve names, particularly in the Supersport and Superstock classes.
BRN: Who do you think will be one to watch out for this year?
KA: I think Gary Johnson is a good lad and is very dedicated. He has had a bit of bad luck in the past but he is quick and has a good team behind him this year.
BRN: Finally, who is your pick for the podium at the TT?
KA: John McGuinness in the Superbike class but I really think you could put 12 names in a hat and come out with a realistic podium every time.
Darren Healy: While chatting to Keith, his phone was constantly ringing in the background, a sure sign as if any was needed that Keith will be sorted with some competitive machinery before long. We all hope to see him lining up on the grid at the Easter Weekend Races in Bishopscourt, Northern Ireland where he hopes to defend the Enkalon trophy he won there last year.
After concluding the interview, one thing is for certain and that is that Keith’s hunger for victories this season remains very much intact despite the recent events. He is a man with a very clear vision and one who knows exactly what he wants and needs to win this season. BikeRaceNews wish Keith all the very best for the season ahead and we hope to see him on the podium at the TT this year.

suzukimad07

26th March 2010, 14:39

Simon Andrews Set For NW200 Debut http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1059) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1059&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1059&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1059/169/images/stories/simonandrews.jpgInternational North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte has confirmed that top BSB rider Simon Andrews will join his MSS Colchester Kawasaki team mates Ryan Farquhar and Stephen Thompson and compete in the Superbike categories at this year’s Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse on Saturday May 15th.

Rising star Andrews, who hails from the Cotswolds town of Evesham, took the MSS Colchester Kawasaki team to their best British Superbike Championship finish of sixth, despite being taken out of the lead at Mallory Park and missing five races subsequently with injury.

Following a strong showing at the Macau Grand Prix Andrews was eager to make his North West 200 debut and is looking forward to the 8.96 mile challenge: “The NW200 really excites me! I’ve watched it for many years and with guys such as Easton, Farquhar, McGuinness and Plater whom I really respect and get along with – it will be mega competitive. I also feel that I can now ride in this event with the right kind of approach which may not have been the case a few years ago.”

Andrews continued, “Recognised as Northern Ireland’s largest sporting event, the NW200 will be a challenge to rider, machine and tyres. I believe the circuit really tests handling and performance with differing surfaces, adverse cambers and corners from tight, hairpin bends to super-fast open corners and straights.”

Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE commented: “We’re delighted to have secured newcomer Simon Andrews for this year’s race and we’re looking forward to showing him round the course on 30th March when Simon will be one of several top riders making a guest appearance at our next race media conference at the Ramada, Portrush. During the year we work hard raising the profile of the North West at top race events including BSB meetings and Macau Grand Prix and it’s fantastic to attract riders of Simon Andrews’ calibre. Simon is set to add a thrilling and competitive edge to this year’s Superbike races
[font=Arial]p gossip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqdJK4oosG4

suzukimad07

2nd April 2010, 13:19

Dunlop Braced For Brands http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1072) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1072&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1072&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1072/169/images/stories/williamdunlopvalenciahead.jpgCo-Antrim rider William Dunlop will spearhead his British 125GP Championship chase this weekend, when the quietly spoken Ballymoney man will contest the opening round of the 2010 British 125 Championships at Brand Hatch in Kent on Easter Monday.
Dunlop, who has spent the past two weeks in England, has already acquainted himself with the new 125 Honda that he will campaign his 2010 season on, after a very successful first outing on the machine last weekend at Croft.
For William, it's a whole new ball game with the Ballymoney rider running his own set up with the help of Mark Kneen of KRP Racing, who has prepared Dunlops machine for the season ahead.

William Dunlop: "I got my first outing on the new 125 Honda at Croft last weekend, and everything went fine. We ran the 125 with the Formula 400/Mini Thunderbikes and as the weekend went on I got faster and faster by shaving almost six seconds of my best lap time on Sunday compared to my lap times on Saturday. I was the first 125 home in thirteenth place in race one and in race two on the Saturday was the first 125 home and in third place overall in the race, along with the fastest lap. Sunday was also very good when I again took the best 125 results, so it was very worthwhile, just to get the leg over the bike again. Brands will be a totally different game, but I know I can get into the top ten and into the points. I know my wee bike will not be as fast as the most of them out there on the long straights, but we will give it a good shot and I am looking forward to the experience. I just hope that the weather improves as I don't like racing in the wet, and I am nervous enough, so, fingers crossed for a dry Easter weekend
p gossip

suzukimad07

2nd April 2010, 13:48

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/265583/images/300x200/farquhar-fur-coat-no-knicke.jpg
Farquhar aiming even higher in 2010

By Gary Pinchin (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/) -
TT & road races

After his most successful season ever, Ryan Farquhar is gearing himself up for an even better year in 2010.
Far from being ‘no fur-coat and no knickers’ (as Farquhar once famously said in a quip about his own modestly-financed team), his line-up of machinery is expanded further to include a new single-cylinder class machine and he’s taken on a second rider - a massive undertaking by the man who builds all his owns bikes, as well as managing his team.
The 34-year old from Dungannon took a phenomenal 61 road racing wins in 2009, becoming the most successful racer in Irish National Road Racing history in the process, and now he's aiming to improve upon that over the next few months as well as claim further International glory.
Farquhar will again run his own KMR Kawasaki team but he now has the additional use of a full superbike-spec machine with MSS Colchester Kawasaki supplying one of the ZX-10R machines similar to that used in BSB.
However, unlike in previous years when he's only had a superbike for one off meetings, he'll have this bike for the entire season and, alongside his full stable of supersport, superstock and supertwin bikes, it makes for a formidable combination and one that's going to take some stopping once more.
There's also a new addition to the stable with Ryan using a KX450F machine to be run alongside the 125cc class!
Naturally, the three International road races - the Isle of Man TT, North West 200 and Ulster GP - will be Ryan's main focus but in what promises to be another busy year he'll also contest the Southern 100, all races at Oliver's Mount, Scarborough, the Manx Grand Prix and, of course, the Irish National road races.
The KMR Kawasaki team is also expanding to two riders with Darren Hughes contesting the Irish Junior Support and Supertwin Road Race Championships in 2010.
Farquhar said: "I'm delighted the new season is almost upon us and it's great to have everything in place for another strong year.
"I've been fortunate enough to retain my loyal sponsors from 2009 whilst it's great to welcome so many new ones on board, particularly Magic Bullet and Clive Richardson Ltd.
“It's testament to everything we achieved last year that we've been able to expand the team and we're in a superb position to challenge for even more race wins this year.
"I've got fantastic support behind me and the success at the International races will be the main aim, particularly the TT, whilst I'll also be going all out to defend all of my National road race titles."

suzukimad07

3rd April 2010, 17:38

North West Superbike Race Backed by the Far East! http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1071) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1071&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1071&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1071/169/images/stories/nw20020101.jpgWith entries set to close on Tuesday 6th April, Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse Race Director, Mervyn Whyte MBE anticipates a full quota of top quality riders representing both local and international teams. Whyte also announced a brand new sponsor for Superbike Race 1 – Coleraine based restaurant Yoko Noodle Bar.
Melbourne rider Cameron Donald and Steve Plater and Gary Johnston both from Lincolnshire and local riders Ryan Farquhar, Paul Robinson, Sam Dunlop, James McCann and Mark Johnston were in Coleraine and Portrush to help launch the final three races – the CP Hire Superstock, McKendry Fabrications Ltd 125cc and Yoko Noodle Bar Superbike races. The riders checked out the 8.9 mile NW200 circuit, were guests at a special Coleraine Borough Council reception hosted by the Mayor, Cllr Sandy Gilkinson and attended the NW200’s penultimate media conference held at the Ramada Hotel, Portrush.
Yoko Superbike Race
Said Mervyn Whyte, “We’re delighted to welcome on board family run restaurant Yoko Noodle Bar as our new Superbike race sponsor. Yoko will take over from Dewalt and we look forward to working alongside Walter Tsang and his staff in the run up to Race Day.” Whyte went on to outline entries for this year’s Yoko Superbike Race which to date has attracted 55 entries including last year’s winner Steve Plater who chalked up a lap speed of 121.779. Also competing will be Steve’s HM Plant Honda team mate John McGuinness who achieved 3rd place in 2010, Relentless by TAS Suzuki riders Bruce Anstey and Cameron Donald, last year’s 2nd and 4th place competitors fellow TAS rider Alastair Seeley and Macau stars Stuart Easton and Simon Andrews. Easton from Hawick in the Scottish borders will ride with Swan Honda whilst Andrews will compete for MSS Colchester Kawasaki alongside fellow team members Ryan Farquhar and Stephen Thompson. Andrews who recently confirmed his NW200 entry was due to be in Portrush for the press conference but was called away at the last minute to take part in a World Superbike practice session in Valencia. Other competitors signed up for the Superbike race include McAdoo Kawasaki rider Conor Cummins who chalked up a fifth place last year, NW200 stalwart Michael Rutter, Martin Jessop, Ian Lougher on board the Black Horse Kawasaki ZX10R, Ballymena man Denver Robb and Davy Morgan. Yoko Noodle Bar proprietor Walter Tsang said, “We are very pleased to have our flagship restaurant, Yoko Noodle Bar as the official sponsor of the Superbike Race at this year’s North West 200. It’s a great privilege to support such a wonderful event within our local area and we look forward to welcoming lots of visitors to our restaurants, Yoko Noodle Bar and Charco Wine Bar during Race Week.”
CP Hire Superstock Race
Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE also indicated that over 50 competitors have signed up for the Superstock Race sponsored by local company and long standing supporter of the NW200, CP Hire. Star names include 8 times winner Steve Plater alongside his Honda HM Plant team mate John McGuinness. In the Superstock John will race under the Padgetts banner whilst Steve will be on board HM Plant Honda machinery. Last year’s winner Carrickfergus man Alastair Seeley will ride for Relentless by TAS Suzuki and is set to be on the grid with fellow TAS competitors Cameron Donald and Bruce Anstey. Local star Ryan Farquhar and runner-up in last year’s race will enter on the KMR Kawasaki, whilst Isle of Man rider Conor Cummins who chalked up 7th place in 2009 is racing for McAdoo Kawasaki.
Welsh man Ian Lougher will be on board the Kawasaki ZX 10R with Ian Hutchinson, 6th last year, riding Padgetts machinery. Twelve times North West 200 rider Michael Rutter will compete on a BMW and after a two year absence, Loughborough’s James Edmeades will be back on board a KTM machine. Local stars set to compete in the Superstock include AMA rider Adrian Archibald, Dungannon’s John Burrows on the Mar-Train Suzuki, Denver Robb and Coleraine’s Mark Johnston.
Andrew Hutchinson, Managing Director of CP Hire said: "CP Hire has backed the International North West 200 for many years and as a locally based company we’re thrilled to be involved and support the event in 2010. We believe it’s important to back such high calibre local events which really do help attract more visitors to the region and raise the profile of Northern Ireland globally. Each year the build up to Race Day and the atmosphere at the Start/Finish area just gets better and better and we’re certainly looking forward to watching all the action at on 15th May.”
McKendry Fabrications 125cc Race
Coleraine based company McKendry Fabrications Ltd are once again lending their name to the 125cc race which has so far attracted over 20 entries including last year’s runner up Chris Palmer, Ballymoney rider Paul Robinson, BSB rider Pete Wakefield, Sam Dunlop, Ian Morrell, Darren Gilpin and Jon Vincent from Bickerstaffe.
Managing director Colin McKendry said, “We’re delighted to sponsor the 125cc race at the NW200 once again. As a local company it’s a pleasure to be involved with this prestigious event which year on year grows hugely in stature. McKendry Fabrications was set up almost 10 years ago and over the years we’ve worked closely with NW200 officials helping them with a range of in kind sponsorship activities as well as supporting a race since 2008. We are looking forward to another successful day's racing and would like to wish Mervyn and his team all the best for another action packed and safe days racing on the 15th May."Coleraine Borough Council and Race Week Festive Mervyn Whyte also paid tribute to regional partner Coleraine Borough Council who in addition to managing the Race Week Festival events have provided additional support to the NW200 by seconding events co- ordinator Paul Gallagher to help with activities in the run up to Race Day. Outlining their contribution to the NW200 Mayor of Coleraine Cllr Sandy Gilkinson said, “The North West 200 has grown from being a purely motorbike enthusiast attraction to a family orientated festival. Since 2001 Coleraine Borough Council has funded and organized family entertainment in Portstewart and Portrush during Race Week in recognition of the importance of the event and in a bid to attract even more visitors to the Borough. “This year Race Week Festival starts on Saturday 8th May and runs through to Sunday 16th May and includes exciting free of charge events such as the Freestyle Motocross Stunt show, top UK superbike stunt performers, comedy clown acts, children’s entertainers and the ever popular Fireworks Show featuring U2 tribute band Elevation.”

Relentless and Black Horse
John Coffey of Relentless said, “On behalf of Relentless energy drink we are proud to be this year’s title sponsor of Ireland’s most prestigious motor racing event. As a local company, we have been supporting sports in the community for the past 70 years and there is none more prestigious and well renowned than the North West 200. It attracts the highest calibre of sporting personalities and also increases tourism and boosts the local economy, giving Northern Ireland international exposure.”
Dave Macey, Market and Franchise Development Manager of Black Horse, said, “Black Horse has been an avid supporter and race sponsor of the North West 200 since 2002 and this year we’re delighted to move up a gear to become associate sponsor of this very special road racing evenNew Developments Other new developments at the Relentless North West 200 this year include a new Business & Communications facility dedicated to competitors and teams as well as a new out of state marketing campaign Park & Ride
NW200 organisers have been working closely with Chambers Coaches of Moneymore to develop a new Park & Ride facility in a bid to limit traffic and help spectators access the event with greater ease. The new facility will operate from a parking site off the Ballybogey Road outside Ballymoney and will shuttle spectators to lower Ballywillan Road. Information and tickets are available online at www.northwest200.org/parkandride (http://www.northwest200.org/parkandrideTourism)Tourism (http://www.northwest200.org/parkandrideTourism) IrelandMervyn Whyte also thanked Tourism Ireland for their help and support in raising the profile of the NW200 at a global level. Backing the event Aubrey Irwin of Tourism Ireland said, “We are delighted to see the field of international competitors growing and the participation this year of Mark Miller from the USA is a tribute to the energy of Mervyn Whyte who has worked closely with Tourism Ireland to extend the NW200 brand into our international markets.” Grandstands
Grandstand sales are progressing extremely well and are available from the NW200 official websitehttp://www.northwest200.org A new booking system is in place, designed to make seat reservation easier and new grandstand, paddock and programme packages are also available at special discounted prices

p gossip

suzukimad07

3rd April 2010, 19:44

Pearson Takes Opening Supersport Victory http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1075) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1075&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1075&itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1075/170/images/stories/michaelpearsonopener2.jpgCarryduff Forklifts backed Kawasaki rider, Michael Pearson, took the opening Irish Supersport 600cc Championship win of 2010, at a wet and cold Good Friday Irish Superbike Meeting at Bishopscourt in Co-Down.
Pearson, who is still recovering from a hand injury sustained at the same circuit two weeks ago, was simply unstoppable as he set the fastest lap of the race on his ninth and final circuit of the 1.8mile circuit, to take the victory by 0.7 seconds from Jonny Buckley (Module R&R Yamaha) and Australian, Cameron Donald (Relentless Suzuki).
Pearsons epic win, looked like being short lived, as he was give a 10 second penalty by the race organisers for arriving to late in the holding area before the race. Pearsons Team, lodged a protest against the penalty to the race stewards, which was upheld, and Pearson rightfuly given the victory.
Earlier in the day, Pearson got his 600 Carryduff Forklifts Kawasaki into the top eight of the Sail to Pole, and will start the three Irish Superbike races, and the Enkalon Trophy race on Saturday, on the second row of the grid.

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1075/170/images/stories/michaelpearson2010opener.jpgMichael Pearson: "Its been an ok day. The win on the 600 was really good, as I felt I rode really hard, and I had to fight hard to keep Jonny Buckley at bay, who's Yamaha was really flying. He was out braking me all the time, and I knew that it was going to be close between him and I. I was aware that Cameron Donald was not far behind us, but to be honest, it was Buckley who gave me the biggest test of them all. I stuck in the fastest lap on the final circuit and in the end I had almost half a second to spare over Jonny and Cameron. To be told after the race that I had been docked 10 seconds for some stupid reason in the holding area was really the biscuit. It almost ruined a great race, but in the end, common sense prevailed. I am also pleased to have got the 600 into the top eight of the Superbike classes, which was working out in my favour on the smaller bike in the wet conditions, so I guess I was taking my advantages where and when I could. Hopefully it will be wet on Saturday, as I think I could suprise a few on the Carryduff Kawasaki".

Willis Marshall: (Team Manager) "A very exciting start to the new season you could say. Yes, it was a very worth while day for Michael and the team, which at times where very difficult. Michael again showed that he can really mix it with the best in any class, and the Carryduff Forklifts Kawasaki Supersport bike is really flying. Eighth place in the Sail to Pole for the Superbikes for me, was the ride of the day, as Michael was really pushing the big bikes on his 600. Of course, we all wish for it to be dry on Saturday, but with Michael riding the 600 in the Superbike classes, a wet race would be to his advantage. The little problem with the 10 second penalty is not worth going into detail on, lets just say that a rule was worded incorrectly".

IRISH SUPERSPORT 600 CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULT
1 = Michael Pearson Carryduff Forklifts Kawasaki 25pts
2 = Jonny Buckley Module Road & Race Yamaha 20pts
3 = Cameron Donald Relentless Suzuki 16pts
4 = Glenn Irwin Honda 13pts
5 = Kirk Jamison Mar-Train Yamaha 11pts
6 = Robert Lanigan DLM Yamaha 10pts

Michael Pearsons Irish Supersport 600 Championship Race win at Bishopscourt on Good Friday was the first that Kawasaki has won an Irish Supersport 600 Short Circuit Championship Race, since Alastair Seeley won at the Belfast and District Round, in September 2007.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8AXR2IKFuE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8AXR2IKFuE)

suzukimad07

4th April 2010, 11:08

THE Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club has decided to honour the riders that have hit the magical 130mph lap timing around Dundrod by presenting them with a 130 Club medal at the Ulster Grand Prix Bike Week 9th- 14th August) 2010.

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Conor-Cummins-300x225.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Conor-Cummins.jpg)Noel Johnston, Clerk of the Course, stated, “The Ulster Grand Prix is renowned for being the world’s fastest road race. Last year, Conor Cummins, the Manx man, shattered the record lap timing by over 1.5 seconds with a record speed of 133.284mph.
“It was just phenomenal, we knew that John McGuinness’s record could be crushed, but we really didn’t think it would happen on Thursday of Bike Week. It really goes to show that all the action doesn’t just take place on Saturday.
“Everyone was in awe of Conor, and to think that Ian Hutchison and Gary Johnson were hot on his heels to break his record, with timings of 133.232 and 133.129 respectively, was equally unbelievable.
“The Ulster Grand Prix truly lived up to its name in 2009 as the world’s fastest road race and the Dundrod Club thought it appropriate and timely to honour those men who have achieved the elite status of the 130 Club. It will be incredibly exciting to see Conor return to defend his title and to see who else, if anyone, will join it.”
Conor Cummins said, “The 130 Club is a great idea, I’m delighted to be part of it and look forward to receiving my medal with great pride. The Ulster Grand Prix is one of my favourite international road races and I was overjoyed to get a win in 2009.
“I couldn’t believe the speed on the circuit, the course is just fantastic, it has everything a road racer would want. It’s a must in anyone’s road racing calendar. I’m extremely proud of the title ‘the world’s fastest man in road racing’, I always like a challenge and I’m looking forward to defending it this August.”
Noel continued, “Before the Prix last year there were only three men in the 130 Club, John McGuiness, Cameron Donald and Raymond Porter. 2009 changed that with Conor Cummins, Ian Hutchison, Gary Johnston, Guy Martin, Bruce Anstey, Ryan Farquhar, Ian Lougher and Michael Dunlop joining the ranks.
“We are delighted to be the world’s fastest road race and to witness riders breaking records but I am mindful we also have a duty of care to ensure that the course is as safe as possible for the riders and for the spectators by adhering to appropriate strict guidelines and regulations. Safety is paramount.”
Planning for this year’s Ulster Grand Prix in August 2010 is well under way.
Noel Johnston concluded, “We were absolutely thrilled with 2009’s racing. We were extremely lucky with the weather, with the rain clearing mid morning on the Saturday, to give us a fantastic day’s racing. The crowd was absolutely spellbound as they watched the racing unfold.
“The Club intends to build on 2009’s success and to make 2010’s event bigger and better. This is a great opportunity to see international road racing at its best. It is fast, furious, thrilling and it is really and truly ‘back by popular demand’.”
The Ulster Grand Prix 130 Club
1 Conor Cummins 133.284
Dundrod 150 SBK 2009
2 Ian Hutchison 133.232
UGP SBK 1 2009
3 Gary Johnston 133.129
UGP SBK 1 2009
4 Guy Martin 132.725
UGP SBK 1 2009
5 Bruce Anstey 132.543
Dundrod 150 SBK 2009
6 Ryan Farquhar 132.402
Dundrod 150 SBK 2009
7 John McGuinness 131.717
Dundrod 150 SBK 2007
8 Cameron Donald 131.066
Dundrod 150 SBK 2007
9 Raymond Porter 130.510
UGP SBK 1 2006
10 Ian Lougher 130.409
Dundrod 150 SBK 2009
11 Michael Dunlop 130.343
UGP SBK 1 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpH4rS2IS0o

suzukimad07

4th April 2010, 11:30

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPdwLBeA1g4

Adelade Racer Awards 2010

Rod Richardson

4th April 2010, 11:32

Good stuff....I am really looking forward to the televised coverage of the road races in particular.

suzukimad07

4th April 2010, 11:57

/**/ Relentless Suzuki Set For Easter Debut http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1058) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1058&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1058&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1058/169/images/stories/relentless.jpgRelentless Suzuki by TAS Racing’s Cameron Donald and Bruce Anstey will open their 2010 accounts over the Easter weekend in Northern Ireland.
Both riders will make their first UK and Ireland appearance in the Irish Superbike Championship at the Good Friday / Easter Saturday meeting at Bishopscourt, before taking in the Easter Monday ISB event at Kirkistown.
Philip Neill - Team Principal:
“It’s obviously going to be a busy weekend for both Bruce and Cameron over Easter, but I’m pleased that we have been given the opportunity to run them in a race situation at two good local circuits. Testing is one thing but it’s always good to get some racing miles under your belt - I’m a big believer in that at this stage of the year. This will give both boys the chance to try out the GSX-R1000 Superbikes that they will be running at the North West 200 in May.
"I’m also pleased we can continue to support our local races when the calendar allows and also give something back to our loyal fan base. Hopefully there will be further opportunities to race in Ireland this year for Relentless Suzuki.”
p gossip

suzukimad07

4th April 2010, 11:58

Road Races start 23rd 24th April Cookstown

suzukimad07

4th April 2010, 13:19

If you have Eurosport2 theres live BSB at 330pm bmt, W Dunlop, A Seeley the two Laverty boys etc all racing today

suzukimad07

4th April 2010, 14:27

Top 10 Legends http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=511) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=511&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=511&itemid=170) Written by Administrator 1) Joey Dunlop MBE,OBE 5 Time World Formula One Champion
http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/511/170/images/stories/joey_dunlop.jpgJoey Dunlop truly deserves to be voted www.paddockgossip.com’s Top Legend.
Joey Dunlop the motorcycling legend started at Maghaberry in 1969 riding a Triumph Tiger club which was bought for £50, for the next 31 years Joey dominated the road race scene.
Joey Dunlop will probably be best remembered for his achievements in the Isle of Man. , With a total of 26 race victories on the famous mountain circuit Including three hat-tricks in 1985, 1988 and 2000 and 42 victories on the Billown Circuit.
If that wasn’t enough he won 5 Formula One World Championships, 24 Ulster GPs , 13 at the North West 200, 24 Killinchy or Dundrod 150’s, 15 Skerries, 17 Tandragees, 10 Cookstown 100‘s, 15 Mid-Antrims, 6 Killalanes, 5 Temple 100’s, 6 at Fore and victories at every major road racing circuit in Britain and Eire.

Joey won a total of 119 Irish National road races and 37 international road races in Ireland plus 23 Irish road and short circuit championships.
Some people said he couldn’t race on the short circuits, but did you know he was on the rostrum at the very first World Superbike race at Donington Park?
Joey Dunlop was awarded the MBE in 1986 for his services to motorcycle racing, and in 1996 he was awarded the OBE for his humanitarian work for children in Romanian orphanages.

suzukimad07

5th April 2010, 10:11

An exhibition of road racing images in aid of Manx Grand Prix Supporters Club Helicopter Fund and Rob Vine Fund

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Roads-Closed-An-exhibition-of-road-racing-images-300x200.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Roads-Closed-An-exhibition-of-road-racing-images.jpg)The members of roadracingsupporters.com will be hosting an exhibition of original images featuring real road racing during the 2010 IOM TT Festival. The exhibition will run for two weeks commencing Monday 31st May 2010 through till Friday 11th June at St. Ninian’s Church, Douglas.
The exhibition will be open daily from 1030am until 3.0pm except Mad Sunday when it will be open from 1.00pm until 4.00pm.
Rev. John Coldwell has kindly invited photographers from both roadracingsupporters.com and iomtt.com to contribute to what will be a unique event for race fans during this year’s TT Races.
Over 200 magnificent photographs and canvasses will be on display for the enjoyment of the public who wish to visit the church during TT 2010. It’ll be a chance to not only view the exhibition but also to meet up with friends new and old whilst enjoying some traditional Manx made refreshments courtesy of the parishioners of St. Ninian’s.
Entry to the exhibition will be by way of a donation of 50p to the roadracingsupporters charity fund. roadracingsupporters.com has so far this year raised a total of £2,000 via the proceeds of their 2010 Road Racing Calendar. Monies raised from the exhibition will be added to the donations that have already been made to the Manx Grand Prix Supporters Club Helicopter Fund and Rob Vine Fund. In a new initiative this year roadracingsupporters.com also hopes to make a contribution to the Southern 100 Club’s own Rescue Helicopter from the money raised by the exhibition.
Photographer’s contributing to the exhibition have also kindly donated their images that will be made available to visitors for purchase. Again, the proceeds will be added to the funds raised.
All are welcome to the exhibition and we look forward to seeing you all at St. Ninian’s in June
brn

suzukimad07

12th April 2010, 00:11

William Dunlop Gets 6th at Brands http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1086) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1086&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1086&itemid=170) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1086/170/images/stories/williamdunlopbrandsgrid.jpgWilliam Dunlop picked up ten valuable points in the opening round of the 2010 British Superbike Championships at Brands Hatch in Kent on Monday, when he finished in an excellent 6th place in the speedyRetail.com 125GP Championships race.
Dunlop, who, is hoping to compete in a full year in the British Championships, said on Monday evening, that he felt that a new lease of life had came to him, with Dunlop saying that this was without doubt his best ever British Result.

William Dunlop: "I can't explain just how good this feels today, but I feel as if I have been given a new lease of life. I came to Brands saying to myself that if I could not run with the front runners at Brands, then I would contemplate doing no more British rounds, and the fact that Brands Hatch is probably my least liked circuit out of all the circuits in BSB, was I thought, going to be a huge challenge. My 125 Honda surprised me as she was able to stick with the front runners through practice and the race, and for once I had a bike that could pull out of others slip stream and pass them. I have basically built this bike myself, although Mark Kneen of KRP has done some engine work to it, so it has been a very pleasing weekend at Brands. With four laps to go in the race, I decided to stay where I was and go for a secure finish in 6th place, as I was not going to catch the riders in front of me with so little time left, so I know that more is still there in me if I need it. I will now be heading to Thruxton Park in two weeks time, where I hope to be in a position to be able to build on this start to the season. My aim now is to gather up the cash to try and run a full season in BSB where I know that I can be a challenge to the title in the 125GP class. Some my say that I am expecting to much, but like I said, I have a new lease of life at the moment, and I intend making it work to my advantage".

speedyretail.com British 125GP Championship Standings after round One:
1st James Lodge 25pts
2nd Rob Guiver 20pts
3rd Fraser Rogers 16pts
4th John McPhee 13pts
5th Danny Kent 11pts
6th William Dunlop 10pts
p gossip

suzukimad07

15th April 2010, 16:52

Ulster Grand Prix gets on board with Aer Lingus

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1099/169/images/stories/airlingus.jpgTHE organisers of the world’s fastest road race, the Ulster Grand Prix, have today announced that Northern Ireland’s best low fare airline, Aer Lingus have signed up as the event’s airline partner.
The event will this year take place between 8 – 14 August.
Noel Johnston, Clerk of the Course, said; “I’m delighted that Aer Lingus is back on board with us this year. We rely on sponsors to make the Prix happen and so really appreciate that Aer Lingus has stuck by us this past three years.
“Every year the numbers of international racers coming over to compete from as far afield as Australia, Spain, France and Italy, Czech Republic and the USA increases. I want to build on this and having an airline partner is perfect for doing so,” he said.
Commenting on the partnership, Enda Corneille, Corporate Affairs Director at Aer Lingus, said; “We are delighted to confirm our continued support of the Ulster Grand Prix, given its huge following and longstanding history.
“Aer Lingus operates flights to eight European routes from Belfast International Airport and our code share agreement with British Airways allows for onward travel from London Heathrow to 93 Worldwide destinations - opening up the opportunity for the event to welcome more international competitors and spectators,” he said.

Noel added, “The Ulster Grand Prix is very much back by popular demand. We had a superb day of racing and over 25,000 spectators on the day will back me up on that!”
p gossip

suzukimad07

15th April 2010, 17:17

DUNLOP PULLS OUT OF COOKSTOWN
Michael Dunlop has withdrawn his entry from the Cookstown 100 road races after a disagreement with the organisers.
Dunlop will instead compete in the second round of the Triumph Triple series at Assen in the Netherlands.
The 21-year-old is angry at the club's refusal to grant him an entry for the Open 'A' race, along with the other top-10 finishers from last year's race.
Ryan Farquhar has also hit out at this decision while Conor Cummins will not race at the event for other reasons.
The Manxman, who rides for McAdoo Racing, said he and the team made a joint decision to concentrate on testing before the North West 200.
Dunlop is also upset that he has not received any financial help with his race entry fees from the organisers.
Scot Keith Amor, Guy Martin and Gary Johnson are also expected to be non-starters for the event.
Kenny Loughrin of the organising Cookstown club said the decision to deny the top 10 riders from last year's Open race entries for this year's race had been taken to give some of the less established competitors the opportunity "to win a bit of prizemoney".
Farquhar, who scooped a hat-trick at last year's event said the decision to exclude the leading riders from one of the main races of the day was "ludicrous".
BBC

Rod Richardson

15th April 2010, 22:42

Quote...."Kenny Loughrin of the organising Cookstown club said the decision to deny the top 10 riders from last year's Open race entries for this year's race had been taken to give some of the less established competitors the opportunity "to win a bit of prizemoney".

Mmmmmmm...............Whale oil be buggered, I thought I'd heard it all to be sure, to be sure.......but no.......Could it be a belated April fool's joke?

An innovative idea not to have the best riders competing. I bet that next year they will ban the top 10 placegetters from this year’s race and do likewise the following year so everyone will eventually end up with a top ten finish.

How about a race with no winners, spectators or sponsors?????

suzukimad07

16th April 2010, 17:27

The Duke Road Race Rankings season begins with the Ian Watson Spring Cup at Olivers Mount, Scarborough on the 18th of April

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Ryan-Farquhar-begins-the-defence-of-his-National-Road-Race-title-at-Olivers-Mount-214x300.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Ryan-Farquhar-begins-the-defence-of-his-National-Road-Race-title-at-Olivers-Mount.jpg)Winner of the title event of the opening national road race of the season in 2009, Ryan Farquhar returns to Oliver’s Mount, Scarborough on Sunday 18th April to attempt to retain the Ian Watson Spring Cup and start the defence of his Rankings Championship for 2010.
After his most successful season ever, the current Duke Road Race Rankings Champion is gearing himself up for an even better year in 2010 and although the 34-year old took a phenomenal 61 road racing wins in 2009, becoming the most successful racer in Irish National Road Racing history in the process, he’s aiming to improve upon that over the next few months commencing at the North Yorkshire venue. However, in no way will the Dungannon man have it all his own way as rivals aim to beat him to the chequered flag.
Last July’s Cock o’the North winner, Michael Pearson, only the second Ulsterman to take the coveted trophy and title will be out to show he aims to continue his winning form of 2009 and improve on his ninth overall position in the rankings.
Other experienced riders from the Island of Ireland include Adrian Archibald, Davy Morgan, Junior Manx Grand Prix winner, Stephen McIlvenna and Timmy Turtle.
Oliver’s Mount experts, Ian Armstrong, Kiaran Hankin, Ian Whitlow, Keith Pringle, Ollie Linsdell, Steve Mercer, Stephen Oates and Mark Buckley will all be out to take home the prize money.
In the smaller capacity classes, winner of 79 races (to date) at the 2.43-mile closed public roads course, ‘Manxie’ Chris Palmer, who finished 12th in the rankings table last year, will be the man to beat, but once again the opposition will be out to spoil his day, as Peter Wakefield, Phil Harvey, David Guiney, Lee Vernon, Davy Morgan, Paul Owen and Daley Mathison amongst others all vie for the chequered flag in what should be close exciting racing.
The 14 race programme, will see competitors shake off the winter blues as they give their utmost around the tight, twisty, technical hillside course in the opening ‘pure road race of the 2010 season. Round two, the first of the season in Northern Ireland the Cookstown ‘100’ National Road Races takes place on Saturday 24th April, followed by the first of seven International events, the North West 200 on May 15th.

suzukimad07

16th April 2010, 17:48

Michael Dunlop coaxed back into Cookstown 100 meeting
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/47642000/jpg/_47642341_michael_dunlop_203.jpg
Michael Dunlop has had a change of mind and will compete in the Cookstown 100 later this month.

Earlier this week, Dunlop announced that he would not be competing after a disagreement with the event organisers over race fees and other issues.

However, Cookstown officials then contacted Dunlop and convinced him to rethink his earlier decision.

Organisers have also reversed their earlier decision not to let leading riders compete in the Open A Race.

The 21-year-old was angry at the organising club's refusal to offer him any financial assistance with his entry fees.

Dunlop instead planned to compete in the second round of the Triumph Triple series at Assen in the Netherlands.

Conor Cummins will not compete at Cookstown as he concentrates on testing his machines before the North West 200.

The Manxman, who rides for McAdoo Racing, said he and the team made a joint decision to concentrate on preparing the bikes for the major international road races.

Scot Keith Amor, Guy Martin and Gary Johnson are also expected to be non-starters for the event.

The organising Cookstown club overturned an earlier decision to deny the top 10 riders from last year's Open 'A' race entries for this year's equivalent race.

Initial reports suggested that the leading riders would be excluded to give some of the less established competitors the opportunity "to win a bit of prizemoney".

suzukimad07

17th April 2010, 20:04

Stormont - Venue for the launch of Armoy / Kells Championship http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1102) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1102&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1102&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1102/169/images/stories/armoylaunch10.jpgYesterday was a historic day for the members of Kells MCRC when they travelled to Stormont for the launch of the Armoy/Kells Cross Border Championship.
This will be a two round championship with a total of £6,000 stg prizemoney on offer. The classes nominated are the Open, 600cc and the 401-750cc Support.
For riders taking part in Kells and Armoy this will be good news as this prizemoney will be on top of the normal prizemoney for the two events.
The sun was shining at Stormont and the huge crowd attending were in high spirits. Members of the Kells club who attended were our Chairman Johnny Landy, Aileen, Lester & Emma Ferguson, Tony Lynch, Stevo Phillips, David Burke, Albert Hamilton .
Ryan Farquhar, William Dunlop, John Burrows, Wayne Hamilton, David Lumsden represented the riders.
Sean Bissett represented the MCUI S/C with his wife Catherine. Representing the MCUI UC were Chris Blair, Ian Forsyth, Alan Drysdale, John Atcheson.

Our thanks to Mr. Thomas Byrne, TD, Mr. Brian Curran ,Chairman of Kells Town Council. Councillors Frank Lynch, Bryan Reilly, Tommy Grimes, Brian Collins, Ollie Sweeney, Conor Ferguson,Michael Finnegan, Road Safety Officer with Meath Co. Council who made the effort to travel to Stormont.

The Armoy Club must be congratulated for organising such a memorable day for the Northern launch.

A special word of thanks to the two sponsors of this championship Sam Geddis from Adelaide Insurance Services and Packie Laverty from Coleraine Skip Hire . Both are fully behind this cross border / cross community initiative. Sam Geddis has been involved with the Kells Club for the past two years organising another successful event namely the Kells to Kells Rideout which this year will start at Kells Co .Antrim on Sat 17th July at 2pm and travel to Kells Co. Meath. All bikers welcome to take part, many activities are being planned in Antrim for that weekend.

Kells MCRC also hope to welcome the Rugby and Gaelic Teams from Armoy who will play matches in Kells on the week leading up to the race, we will also be welcoming the Kells Cougars the local Soccer Team in Kells Co. Antrim.

The Northern Ireland launch was hosted by MLA Ian Paisley Jnr at Parliament Buildings. As we all know Mr. Paisley is a huge race fan and has been at the start of the Kells to Kells Rideout also. Sports Minister Nelson McCausland also attended the launch and supported Mr. Paisley. Both were very complimentary about what the clubs were trying to do. Everyone present appreciated that the championship was a way of attracting top competitors to both events which will encourage the Road Race Fans to travel and this in turn will help tourism in both areas.

Alan Drysdale interviewed all the riders present and they all stated that they were looking forward to doing Kells and Armoy and that the extra prize money would be welcomed by all taking part.

Bill Kennedy on behalf of Armoy thanked everyone who attended and all departments who have given their help. Aileen Ferguson on behalf of the Kells Club thanked the riders because without them their would be no racing. She also thanked the sponsors and all who are supporting the Championship, the Kells Club hope that it will be the start of a long and successful relationship with Armoy
p gossip
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChhHwQzGrRE&feature=related

suzukimad07

18th April 2010, 00:50

Seeley Takes Brands Podium http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1085) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1085&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1085&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1085/169/images/stories/seeley10brands.jpgRelentless Suzuki by TAS Racing's Alastair Seeley sits proudly in third place in the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship after the opening two races at Brands Hatch in Kent.
The series Rookie's fourth place in race one was bettered in the second with a strong third-placed podium finish, boosted by the fastest lap of the race.
Michael Laverty retired from the opening race after a mechanical problem, but the former British Supersport Champion bounced back in race two, finishing fourth just behind his team-mate on his Relentless Suzuki GSX-R1000 Superbike.
Both riders showed courage and determination on race day, battling through the pack on the short-and-demanding Brands Hatch Indy Circuit: Seeley fought through to third in race one after a mediocre start, sweeping past title favourites Stuart Easton and Josh Brookes and only losing out on a debut podium to James Ellison by half a second.
Laverty's crew worked tirelessly to guarantee his place on the grid in race two, and although the Toomebridge man was forced to take a chance on some untried settings, he impressively pushed through from eighth on the grid to a podium position after 11 laps.
The hard-charging Seeley did eventually pass Laverty on lap 12 which he held to the flag, but to have both Relentless Suzukis in the top-four was a pleasing start to the season for everyone involved.
Alastair Seeley:
"It was nice to get that result in race two: the first BSB podium for the boys and also the fastest lap of the race on the Relentless by TAS Suzuki. We'll need to work on our starts for the next round, but I really enjoyed today. There were some hard moves going on out there; I think I swapped paint with Easton in race one a few times! The guys in the team have been doing a great job for me, and I know I've said it more than once today, but the bike was on rails in race two. The biggest thing I noticed from riding in Superstock is the quality of the entry and when you make a pass it has to be forceful and very precise. I'm delighted with our start and I'm now well set up for Thruxton."
Michael Laverty:
"I'll take the positives from the weekend with fourth place in race two, but I have to admit I was frustrated at times with the problems we encountered this weekend. The biggest problem was the lack of track time, but I must give big credit to the boys in the garage as they had absolutely no time to sit back and relax this weekend. There will be better days but it was nice to see Alastair getting his podium."
Philip Neill - BSB Team Principal:
"We'll certainly take that as a start to the season. All the hard work over the winter from the team and the riders is already paying off. This is an early repayment to our sponsors Suzuki and Relentless and all our other loyal backers, but we will not get carried away. To score a podium finish at the start of our third season in the premier BSB class is very satisfying. However, now we have ticked that box our next goal must be the top-step of the podium.
"We are operating with two highly-motivated riders this season. With Alastair, we never really knew how long it would take for him to make the transition to Superbike. His quiet confident manner is hard to read at times but I think today is a sign of what's to come from him.
"Michael Laverty has been equally-impressive this weekend and how he conducted himself during and after the problems he encountered, demonstrates his level of professionalism. After the race one disappointment, his result in race two was phenomenal; especially running some untried settings. It was also especially-pleasing to see both bikes running P3 and P4 on traaack togetther in race two, as that's the sort of thing that makes it all worthwhile. It's onwards and upwards now."
MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch:
Race one:
1. Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki)
2.Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +0.723s
3.James Ellison (Swan Honda) +4.607s
4.Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +4.655s
5.Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda) +8.785s
6.Stuart Easton (Swan Honda) +10.598s
7.Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +11.856s
8.Dan Linfoot (Motorpoint Yamaha) +20.079s
9.Chris Walker (CW Racing Suzuki) +20.211s
10.John Laverty (Buildbase Kawasaki) +20.585s
Race two:
1.James Ellison (Swan Honda)
2.Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +0.186s
3.Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +4.925s
4.Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +6.711s
5.Stuart Easton (Swan Honda) +22.060s
6.Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +22.203s
7.John Laverty (Buildbase Kawasaki) +27.328s
8.Simon Andrews (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +29.841s
9.Martin Jessopp (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +35.885s
10.Steve Brogan (Jentin Racing BMW Evo)
Championship Standings (after 1 round):
1. Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) 45
2.James Ellison (Swan Honda) +41
3.Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) 29
4.Stuart Easton (Swan Honda) 21
5.Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) 20
p gossip

suzukimad07

18th April 2010, 10:37

Keith Amor signs up with KBMG Racing for the 2010 road racing season

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Keith-Amor-300x212.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Keith-Amor.jpg)After weeks of speculation, Scots ace Keith Amor is delighted to announce that he’ll be back on the grid for the 2010 road racing season with his first meeting coming at the International North West 200 in four weeks time. Riding under the KBMG Racing banner, Amor will have a full compliment of machinery for all three classes, running BMW’s in Superbike and Superstock and a Ten Kate Honda in Supersport.
Since splitting from the JMF/Millsport Racing team, Amor has been working hard to secure enough sponsorship to mount his campaign, which should see him be a strong contender for honours at all of the meetings, and a conglomerate of sponsors have come on board to ensure he’ll have a strong presence on the grid. Both the Superbike and Supersport machines will run in the black and yellow colours of Leo Vince with the 600cc bike being supplied by Kojak Racing whilst the Superstock bike is courtesy of long time road race supporters W.A. Corless/Jackson Racing. Meanwhile, Moto Pistone will be providing all the servicing, transport, paddock support and workshop facilities for KBMG Racing and Amor is confident he has the set-up that will give him what he needs to challenge for the race wins.
Speaking today, the Falkirk rider said: “The last few weeks have been incredibly hard going but thanks to the support of my loyal sponsors and friends, especially Bob and Carol at MotoGB for all their continued patience, we’ve managed to put together a strong package and I’m confident that I’ll be able to run at the front, particularly in the Supersport and Superstock classes. Ten Kate are pulling out all the stops to provide me with a first rate Supersport bike whilst the BMW has already proved, both in Europe and in England, how strong it is in Superstock trim. The Superbike will be closer to ‘Evo’ spec than a full blown Superbike but it will be reliable and quick so I’m looking to spring a few surprises in the premier class. I’m feeling really optimistic about the season now and although I’ll arrive at the North West a little race rusty I’m mega-determined that this is going to be my strongest year so far.”
Amor’s immediate focus is on the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT, where he’ll also be racing the 666 Road Racing bike in the TT Zero Electric race, but, after that, he hopes to contest a number of the National road races in Ireland including Athea, Skerries, Kells, Armoy and Killalane. He will, of course, also be competing at the Ulster Grand Prix in August with a debut appearance at the Southern 100 also a possibility.

suzukimad07

18th April 2010, 10:51

Volcano dust !!!!!!!!!!!!!

suzukimad07

20th April 2010, 18:23

Farquhar dominates season opener at Scarborough with 8 wins from 8 starts!

Ryan Farquhar got his 2010 road racing season underway in scintillating fashion at Oliver's Mount, Scarborough on Sunday when he won all 8 of the races he started! The KMR Kawasaki rider dominated proceedings winning both legs of the Ian Watson Trophy (retaining the trophy he won in 2009), both legs of the Supersport 600cc, both legs of the Mini Twins and both legs of the the Singles. The victories also saw him move on to 52 race wins around the 2.43-mile woodland circuit, making him the third most successful rider ever.

After taking victory in his Superbike heat, Ryan opened his race win account with a 4.5sec win on his KXF450 Kawasaki in the Singles race, getting the better of all the 125cc machines, and he followed this up with a harder fought win in the first 600cc leg, fellow Irishman Michael Pearson pushing him hard. Another comfortable win came in the first Mini Twins race and it was then on to his Superstock bike for the first leg of the Ian Watson Trophy, which he duly won from Pearson by over 4 seconds.

The little KXF450 took him to his fifth win of the day and the sixth soon followed in the second 600cc race although this was the toughest race of the day as he only got the better of Pearson by 0.287s. The second Mini Twins race saw Ryan take the chequered flag by over ten seconds and he ensured it would be a 100% success story in his final race of the day, the second leg of the Ian Watson Trophy, as he took the victory by over four seconds once more.

Speaking afterwards a delighted Ryan said: "8 wins from 8 starts - it doesn't get much better than that! It's been the perfect start to my road racing season and I couldn't have asked for any more, the day went exactly to plan. I had a slight problem with the 600 as I'd fitted a new seat cover and the foam padding was really slippy so I kept sliding forwards when I was on the brakes, but apart from that everything was really good. I knew at the beginning of the year that the little 450 would work best at Scarborough as the 125s don't get the opportunity to use their top speed advantage and I'm already loving riding it. I'm a little bit race rusty and got a wee bit tired towards the end of the day so I'll be training hard again this week in readiness for the Cookstown 100. I'm just looking for a safe, steady day there and then look to get a couple of outings on the Superbike in preparation for the North West 200."

Ryan's next meeting is the first road race in the Irish Road Racing Championship season, the Cookstown 100, with the races taking place on Saturday April 24th.

http://www.ryanfarquharracing.co.uk/images/8winsScarborough.jpg

Words: Phil Wain - Freelance PR
Photo: Stephen Davison

suzukimad07

21st April 2010, 18:12

Athea Officially Cancelled http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1136) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1136&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1136&itemid=169) Written by Administrator Athea Motorcycle Road Race Club regret to announce that our annual round of the Irish Motorcycle Road Race Championship due to take place on June 26th & 27th has been cancelled.
There were many individual reasons why we felt this was our only alternative and the crucial blow came last week when our one of our main sponsors went into liquidation.
The road surface on the circuit has also been an issue with the recent winter severity conditions and we are currently working on this issue with Limerick County Council, to address it for 2011.
We wish to apologise to anyone who had made plans to attend our event and wish to thank everyone who has helped us over the last few months at the various fundraisers and those who offered their help and assistance for this year’s event.
The Club meet last night and decided due to the various issues that we had no alternative only to cancel this year’s event. The Club have put a fundraising programme in place from May 2010 to prepare for our race date in 2011. The first leg of our fundraising will kick off with the launch of our membership packs. Countray to rumours at the start of the year that the Athea Races were cancelled, the committee have been working flat out to try to save our event.
The club would like to take this opportunity in thanking all the officials, scruitineers, medics, other clubs, sponsors, supporters, the fans and of course the people who everyone comes to see: - The Riders for their support over the last 8 years and we wish them every success for the remainder of the season. We would also like to extend a special thanks to the people of the Athea Community who not alone supported us in the last eight years, but were also held captive in their homes during the various road closures to facilitate the races. The Club look forward to welcoming you all back next year to Athea 2011.
p gossip

suzukimad07

21st April 2010, 19:26

Turnaround Time For Eugene http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1131) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1131&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1131&itemid=170) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1131/170/images/stories/eugene20101.jpgPARKALGAR HONDA goes to the fourth round of the World Supersport Championship at Assen in Holland fully aware it has not performed to its own high expectations at the last two rounds and a turnaround in results is needed for Eugene Laverty and Miguel Praia.
The race takes place at 1330 CET on Sunday April 25th. On Friday and Saturday there are practice and qualifying sessions.

Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “The fact is we are coming off two frustrating rounds that have not delivered the points we expect or deserve. Eugene has scored two pole positions but that has not resulted in race success. He has the bike and the ability to beat anyone and as a team Parkalgar Honda will be doing everything to get back to winning ways at Assen with him. Miguel has shown promise this season and he has another opportunity this weekend to score his best ever result – we expect that from him when he takes to the track and Parkalgar Honda is doing everything it can to help him achieve it. It is turnaround time for Parkalgar Honda.”
Miguel: “I am receiving physiotherapy twice a day to work on the wrist and ankle injuries I received in my qualifying crash at Valencia. I am not 100 per cent fit as I would like to be but I will not let it hold me back when I get on track. I will give maximum effort and really want to get a points scoring finish at Assen which is something I have never achieved before. I am coming back and my Parkalgar Honda team has worked hard to support me and deserves a good result.”
Eugene: “I didn’t expect to win at Assen in 2009 but we came away with top honours. I went for it then and I’ll be doing the same this weekend for a repeat performance. Assen suits the Parkalgar Honda and I enjoy it. A new corner on the back straight should make the track faster and I like that as well. I want and need to bounce back from the last two rounds with a win.”
p gossip

suzukimad07

22nd April 2010, 17:18

Cameron Donald returns to Ireland for the first time in 3 years to contest the 2010 Cookstown 100

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Cameron-Donald-to-race-the-Cookstown-100-213x300.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Cameron-Donald-to-race-the-Cookstown-100.jpg)Relentless by TAS Suzuki will make their pure road racing debut this weekend at the 2010 season curtain-raiser – the Cookstown 100. It will be the first time in three years that Aussie sensation Cameron Donald has sampled ‘between the hedges’ action on the local scene in Ireland, but the Melbourne lad is looking forward to getting back to basics.
“I only live about a mile from the circuit here in Cookstown, so this is a home race for me and something I’m pretty excited about,” explained Donald. “It’s been three years since I last rode a national road race, so we will be using it for logical testing time on the Relentless Suzuki GSX–R1000 Superbike and GSX–R600 Supersport machines, and if we can claim some top results that’ll be a bonus.
“It really was a last minute decision so I’m not putting too much pressure on myself, with the Relentless International North West 200 only three weeks away. It’s always good to be racing the bikes and not just testing them, and some time on the roads will do me no harm at all.”
Team manager Philip Neill is also delighted to be supporting his local event stating: “We have had a decent pre-season build up this year with both Cameron and Bruce, taking in Spanish testing and a few races over Easter in Northern Ireland. Cameron and I had looked at the Cookstown idea a few weeks ago, even though we only made the decision at the eleventh hour.
“Cameron is a rider who thrives on confidence so a few more racing miles under his belt will do him no harm. I will stress, we are not going to Cookstown primarily for results but to further develop our bikes for the North West 200 and the TT, and as Cameron says, any result will be a bonus. We are just looking to see if we can learn anything and if we do that, then the decision to race at Cookstown will be justified.
“It’s my local race and Cameron is local to Cookstown when he’s racing in the UK and Ireland, so if we’re to do just one national event this year, I’m glad that it’s on our local circuit.”
Cookstown practice takes place on Friday April 23 with roads closing at 2.30pm. On Race Day Saturday [April 24] roads close at 10am with a 16-race programme scheduled.
brn

suzukimad07

23rd April 2010, 20:45

Re:Cookstown pratice Results Unofficial

Superbike Practice

1 = Ryan Farquhar (KMR Kawasaki)
2 = Cameron Donald (Relentless Suzuki by TAS)
3 = Michael Pearson (Morrell Kawasaki)
4 = Michael Dunlop (Robinson Concrete Honda)
5 = Adrian Archibald (AMA Suzuki)

Supersport 600 Practice

1 = Ryan Farquhar (KMR Kawasaki)
2 = William Dunlop (CD Racing Yamaha)
3 = Michael Dunlop (Street Sweep Yamaha)
4 = Michael Pearson (Carryduff Forklifts Kawasaki)
5 = Cameron Donald (Relentless Suzuki by Tas)

Rod Richardson

23rd April 2010, 23:55

Looking forward to seeing some good race footage.

Rod Richardson

25th April 2010, 02:27

Farquhar clean sweep but Cam Donald made him work for it.
Race reporting to date on sites that I know of has been pretty ordinary. Found this article on http://bikeracenews.com/

Donald takes a brace of second places at the 2010 Cookstown 100

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Cameron-Donald-action-2010-Cookstown-100-300x228.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Cameron-Donald-action-2010-Cookstown-100.jpg)After a 10-month hiatus through injury, Relentless by TAS Suzuki rider Cameron Donald made a successful return to road racing’s ‘Between the Hedges’ discipline earlier today at the Cookstown 100 in Ireland – dispelling any doubt that the Double-TT Winner would return to competitive racing.
With a brace of second places on his Relentless Suzuki GSX-R1000 in the Superbike races, and a steady fourth-placed finish in the Supersport race on his GSX-R600; the Melbourne rider was more than happy with his first appearance back on the national scene in three years.
Cameron Donald:
“I’m very happy. Of course I never race to finish second, but we did say today was all about feeling our way back in and progressing with the Superbike; we have achieved both of those goals so I’m going home a happy man. The difference between national road racing and the international stuff is like chalk and cheese – it really shocked me in that first race.
“I have never been ultra-successful here at Cookstown with its stop-start nature, preferring the fast and flowing circuits, but I did take Ryan Farquhar all the way in that last Superbike race. He’s the man on form and I won’t take that away from him, but I sat back and watched for a few laps and did think I had the measure of him. Unfortunately I made a small mistake coming onto the last lap and those 50 yards made the difference between winning and finishing second.
“In the 600cc race I got caught up in a bit of ‘riff-raff’ which made me laugh a bit as there were some whacky moves being pulled on me. It was a good spin-out and fourth place at the end wasn’t so bad. It’s been a good day.”
Philip Neill – Team Manager:
“I don’t mean this in a bad way, but I’m glad it’s over. I wasn’t fully confident it was the correct decision to race at Cookstown, especially being a last minute decision while the boys were in the middle of building bikes for the NW200 and TT, but it worked out fine. Cameron really got his head dialled back into racing here today and it was very pleasing to see how comfortable he looked on the bike.
“Fair play to Ryan Farquhar; he’s a tough man to beat on the national scene but Cameron is more than happy with his return and we leant a lot more about our GSX-R1000 Superbike over the weekend. We also made positive progress with the very latest Pirelli tyres that we will be running at the TT and Cameron got a chance to try out the very latest range of KBC helmets that he will be wearing this season.”

suzukimad07

25th April 2010, 04:30

Five Starts Five Wins !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

26th April 2010, 17:58

Farquhar dominates at Cookstown

The Ryan Farquhar steam roller showed no signs of slowing down at the weekend when the KMR Kawasaki rider dominated the racing at Saturday's Cookstown 100 road races taking no less than 5 race wins. Hot on the heels of his eight wins at Oliver's Mount, Farquhar won all five of the races he started around the 2.1-mile Orritor circuit, the first time anyone has won 5 Irish National road races in one day, including the feature Superbike race.

Ryan opened his account with a hard fought win in the 125cc race where, riding his KX450F, he managed to get the better of William Dunlop on the final lap for his first win of the day. Next up was the Open race where, with a brilliant start, Ryan was never headed and with a lead of 8 seconds at half race distance, he was able to ease off in the closing stages for a comfortbale victory. The Supersport 600cc race was another close encounter with Ryan and Michael Dunlop never more than half a second apart during the entire race but, when it mattered most, Ryan was in front and he duly completed his hat trick with another fine win.

The 10-lap feature Cookstown 100 race was Ryan's fourth race of the day and he led the field round at the end of the first lap although he was being pushed hard by Cameron Donald. The dicing duo left the field behind and with a new lap record Donald closed right on to the back wheel of Ryan but he wasn't to be bettered and set an absolute lap record on lap 8 to edge away. With two perfect last laps, Ryan was able to control the race and he took a superb win from Donald by 1.1 seconds, creating some more history later when he won the Super Twins race for his fifth win of the day.

To make it a perfect day for KMR Kawasaki, fellow team member Darren Hughes also won his two races to make it seven from seven for the team.

Talking afterwards, a delighted Ryan said: "It's been a fantatsic day and a really good weekend for the whole team. In the 125cc race I was down on speed to William, as I knew I would be, but I rode the wheels off the bike and when he hesitated going by a backmarker I saw an opportunity and grabbed it with both hands. The wee bike is awesome and we're already proving people wrong with what we can do - to get a road race win on what is essentially a motocross bike is awesome and these bikes could well be the future so I'd expect to see more and more of them on the grid in the years to come."

"In the first Superbike race I got a great start and couldn't quite believe the gap I pulled out - I thought they'd all pulled in or something - so just rode to my pit board but the feature race was a lot harder. Cameron was out on his Superbike and I could hear him behind me all the time but I just concentrated on being on the right line all the time and with the bike working superbly, I was able to set the absolute lap record and pull away from him. It's a real testament to the Dunlop tyres too as I've used just one set for the practice and racing at both Scarborough and Cookstown - and there's still some life in them!"

"Finally, there was the Super Twins race and I began by putting on a bit of a show for the crowd but I thought that might have ended in disaster so I got my head down again and rode hard until the end. With Darren winning also, we've taken 7 wins between us, which must be some kind of record too so with the success at Scarborough as well, I couldn't have asked for a better start to the season. It would be nice to sweep the board at the North West and TT but that's probably a bitt too much to ask! We'll continue to work hard though and see what happens, you never know...!"

Ryan now has a three-week break before the International North West 200, the meeting taking place from May 11-15
p gossip

suzukimad07

27th April 2010, 18:04

Maria made her debut at the Cookstown 100 this weekend, the opening round of the Irish Road Race season, on the CMS Honda RVF400

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Maria-Costello-action-2010-Cookstown-100-300x195.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Maria-Costello-action-2010-Cookstown-100.jpg)Costello will be competing at a selection of Irish Road Races throughout the season alongside her team mate Davy Morgan as part of the 2010 CSC Team.
Maria arrived at the Orritor Circuit, County Tyrone on Thursday evening with just enough daylight to complete some laps on a scooter and a couple in a car with a fellow racer.
Friday: Once the lap on the newcomers bus was completed practice commenced on Friday afternoon in dry and sunny conditions. Her first five laps were done in controlled conditions in the ‘newcomers un-timed’ session. A further two timed sessions followed and Maria found another two seconds faster in the later session. However Maria’s overall performance had been hindered by the bike over heating and losing power at the end of each session. Despite this problem she had still achieved her goal of qualifying in the ‘A Race’ which she realised with a lap time of 1 min 41.5 seconds.
With the over heating issues it was essential for the engine to be replaced with the spare, recently re-freshed by tuner Tony Holmes, once practice had concluded. Costello’s sponsor and mechanics worked late in to the evening to ensure she would have a machine on which she could secure a finish on the following day.
Saturday: Racers and fans alike were pleased to be greeted by yet another dry and sunny day, albeit slightly cooler, for race day of the season opener. With the new engine installed Costello was allowed one lap during the warm up for the 125 race to ensure all was as it should be for her one and only race of the day in the combined 250GP / 400SS Race.
As she lined up on the grid her CSC Team mechanic Maurice Hogg gave the bike a final check over and Maria some final words of advice before the flag dropped and Maria was away with the pack down the fast top gear straight and in to the heavy breaking zone of the first corner.
Still learning the course with each lap Maria’s confidence was boosted by the fact that she could easily maintain the same pace as her rivals and during the race she improved her laps times by over 4.5 seconds. It was only when a couple of slower riders were encountered that her lack of knowledge of the course meant that she lost touch with the two front runners. Once past them she set about catching and passing the 400 in front. She did so on the final lap, out-braking him at the McAdoo Bends which was a feat in itself as the brakes were fading fast due to the deteriorating front brake master cylinder. Maria crossed the finish line in 3rd place in the 400 class, lapping the course in a commendable 1 min 37.9 seconds.
Maria Costello: “I’m really pleased with my lap times and the fact that we got a finish on the RVF400. I’m getting a real taste for these Irish road races and the Irish hospitality is always second to none. My sponsor Tony Morris brought two of his friends along one of which used to work for Honda in Grand Prix. I don’t think they expected to get their hands dirty but they worked alongside my mechanic Tim McGivern and did a great job of swapping engines. The weekend wouldn’t have been possible without my personal sponsor Tony Morris, mechanic Tim McGivern, Steve, Simon, Maurice Hogg and the CSC Team. Thank you to all my sponsors and supporters for the amazing support and for keeping me on track.
brn

suzukimad07

27th April 2010, 18:29

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/266585/images/donald-cookstown.jpg
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/266585/images/300x200/donald-cookstown.jpg (http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/266585/images/donald-cookstown.jpg)
Donald back on track at Cookstown

road race

After a ten-month hiatus through injury, Relentless by TAS Suzuki rider Cameron Donald made a successful return to racing at Saturday’s Cookstown 100 – dispelling any doubt that the double TT winner would return to competitive racing.
With a brace of second places on his GSX–R1000 in the Superbike races and a steady fourth-placed finish in the Supersport race on his GSX–R600, Donald was more than happy with his first appearance back on the national scene in three years.
He said: “I’m very happy. Of course I never race to finish second, but we did say today was all about feeling our way back in and progressing with the Superbike; we have achieved both of those goals so I’m going home a happy man.
"The difference between national road racing and the international stuff is like chalk and cheese – it really shocked me in that first race.
“I have never been ultra-successful here at Cookstown with its stop/start nature, preferring the fast and flowing circuits, but I did take Ryan Farquhar all the way in that last Superbike race.
"He’s the man on form and I won’t take that away from him, but I sat back and watched for a few laps and did think I’d the measure of him.
"Unfortunately I made a small mistake coming onto the last lap and those 50 yards made the difference between winning and finishing second. It’s been a good day.”
Relentless by TAS team boss Philip Neill added: “I don’t mean this in a bad way, but I’m glad it’s over.
"I wasn’t fully confident it was the correct decision to race at Cookstown, especially being a last minute decision while the boys were in the middle of building bikes for the NW200 and TT, but it worked out fine.
"Cameron really got his head dialled back into racing here today and it was very pleasing to see how comfortable he looked on the bike.
“Fair play to Ryan Farquhar, he’s a tough man to beat on the national scene, but Cameron is more than happy with his return and we leant a lot more about our GSX–R1000 Superbike over the weekend.
"We also made positive progress with the very latest Pirelli tyres that we will be running at the TT and Cameron got a chance to try out the very latest range of KBC helmets that he will be wearing this season.”
mcn
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/266585/images/donald-cookstown.jpg

suzukimad07

28th April 2010, 18:54

The 2010 North West 200 Set for Star Line-up in all Races

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/2009-North-West-200-action-300x253.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/2009-North-West-200-action.jpg)This year’s Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse is set to hit the starting grid on May 15th with a more streamlined, stylish, and high velocity event designed to satisfy riders and their teams as well as appealing to new visitor audiences from both home and abroad.
A six race programme, range of top quality riders, revamped practice sessions, new DCAL and Sport Northern Ireland funded safety provisions at Mather’s Cross and Station Corner, a fresh approach to newcomers and a brand new NITB backed Rider Business and Communications Centre all aim to create enhanced conditions, improved rider safety and a smoothly managed event for all competitors and team managers.
A new marketing campaign supported by NITB using the strapline “It’s easier than ever to enjoy the action!” aims to build for the future by demonstrating in 5 easy steps how travel and accommodation packages can be booked online through http://www.northwest200.org and pre, post and during the racing spectators can keep up to speed with race news by utilising the NW200’s dedicated website as well as sharing their views on Facebook and tweeting online by following the North West on Twitter.
Visitors from outside Northern Ireland are also encouraged to check out other parts of the region through the NW200’s ‘Stay a While’ campaign which this year boasts five new itineraries and offers a total of 10 suggested routes to tempt spectators to take a look at Northern Ireland’s extensive tourism offer before or after Race Day. Whilst new additions to the Race Week Festival programme include Belfast’s Continental Christmas Market with a summer make-over located at the Metropole in Portrush.
Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE and his team are slotting the final pieces of the North West 200 jigsaw into place as they gear up for Race Week and organisers Coleraine & District Motor Club Ltd were once again honoured to attend a special Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure hosted final media conference at Parliament Buildings, Stormont with Sports Minister Nelson McCausland. Key guests included HM Plant Honda rider John MGuinness from Morecambe in Lancashire and newcomer Gary Mason of MSS Colchester Kawasaki, Mayor of Coleraine Cllr Sandy Gilkinson, PSNI BikeSafe co-ordinators, volunteers, representatives from title and associate sponsors Relentless and Black Horse, race and ancillary sponsors and NW200 Supporters’ Club members.
This year’s 6 race entry programme features over 350 entries representing 120 riders and features a star quality line-up including GB and international names John McGuinness, Steve Plater, Bruce Anstey, Michael Rutter, Guy Martin, Cameron Donald, Stuart Easton, Conor Cummins, Ian Hutchinson, Gary Johnston and Ian Lougher pitting their skills against local high fliers such as Cookstown 100 winner Ryan Farquhar, Stephen Thompson, William and Michael Dunlop
and Adrian Archibald. Sole female rider in this year’s race is Northampton girl Maria Costello who will compete in the Clinton Supersport and Ballymoney Borough Council Supersport races. Riders from further afield include Oregon’s Jimmy Moore, French riders Fabrice Miguet and Franz Schwarz, Argentinian Walter Cordoba, Sandor Bitter from Hungary and Italian duo Alessandro La Macchia and Stefano Bonnetti. The Antipodes is represented by Paul Dobbs alongside high profile regulars Bruce Anstey and Cameron Donald. Other European names include Renzo Van der Donckt from Belgium and Dutch riders S Fokkema Savelkouls and Ray Hutchinson.
Practice Sessions and Newcomers
Evening practice is retained for Tuesday 11th May but in a first for the North West roads close for Thursday’s session at 9.30am and re-open at 3pm. During the first practice evening newcomers will ride behind the experienced North West competitors. During both practice sessions classes will all be run separately and riders in each of the four sessions will undertake 60 to 75 minutes practice. (see Editors Notes). On Tuesday evening the first two laps of each of the four sessions will be untimed allowing newcomers to gain knowledge of the course and regular competitors to familiarise themselves with the new chicane at Mather’s Cross. Timings will begin on the 3rd lap of each of the four sessions on Tuesday. Thursday daytime practice will follow the same format as previous years.
Yoko and Greenline NW200 Superbike Races
Both Superbike races have attracted the cream of road racing with over 60 entries each. Top stars include MSS Colchester Kawasaki newcomer Gary Mason, TAS Suzuki trio Anstey, Seeley and Donald, Superbike lap record holder Steve Plater and John McGuinness from HM Plant Honda. Michael Rutter will represent Ridermotorcycles.com Ducati, Oregon based Jimmy Moore rides for East Coast Racing and also on the starting grid are local aces the Dunlop brothers, Adrian Archibald as well as Ryan Farquhar and Stephen Thompson both riding for MSS Colchester Kawasaki.
Clinton Enterprises and Ballymoney Borough Supersport Races
The ever popular Supersport races have also generated over 60 entries each and feature the NW200’s only female competitor Maria Costello riding for CSC Racing. Lap record holder Steve Plater will compete under the Padgetts of Batley banner alongside John McGuinness and Ian Hutchinson whilst Ian Lougher will represent Black Horse Kawasaki. Riding the McAdoo Kawasaki Racing/Gortreagh Printing is Manx man Conor Cummins and joining him on the grid is Kermington rider Guy Martin, Gary Johnston and local stars Ryan Farquhar, Alastair Seeley, William and Michael Dunlop.
McKendry Fabrications Ltd 125cc Race
Race number three on the programme, the McKendry Fabrications Ltd 125cc race features almost 30 entries including William Dunlop, Sam Dunlop, Renzo Van der Donckt, Paul Robinson and James Ford.
CP Hire Ltd Superstock Race
The CP Hire backed Superstock raced has attracted 71 entries including lap record holder Guy Martin, John McGuinness riding for Padgetts of Batley, HM Plant Honda rider Steve Plater, newcomer Gary Mason, Michael Rutter, Jimmy Moore from East Coast Racing, Oregon, Gary Johnston, Stuart Easton, Relentless by TAS Suzuki trio Anstey, Seeley and Donald and Maria Costello. Local stars lining the grid include Denver Robb, the Dunlop brothers, Ryan Farquhar, Ian Lougher, Stephen Thompson and Davy Morgan.
Race & Practice order:

Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse Race Programme
Race 1 – Yoko Superbike Race 1 (5 Laps)
Race 2 – Clinton Enterprises 600cc Supersport Race 1 (5 Laps)
Race 3 –McKendry Fabrications Ltd 125cc (4 Laps)
Race 4 – CP Hire Ltd Superstock Race (5 Laps)
Race 5 – Greenline NW200 Superbike Race 2 (6 Laps)
Race 6 – Ballymoney Borough Council 600cc Supersport Race 2 (5 Laps)
Race Format for Practice Sessions
Tuesday 11th May – roads close 5pm and re-open at 9.30pm
Ist Session: 125cc
2nd Session: Superbike
3rd Session: 600 Supersport
4th Session: Superstock
Thursday 13th May – roads close 9.30am and re-open 3pm
1st Session: Superstock bikes
2nd session: Supersport 600
3rd Session; Superbikes
4th Session: 125cc
brn

suzukimad07

30th April 2010, 03:40

NW200 safety improvements

By MCN Sportsdesk (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/) -
TT & road races
28 April 2010 17:03

This year’s North West 200 on May 15 will feature two major changes to the 8.9mile road course to improve safety.
Organisers of the ReIentless International North West 200 unveiled a new chicane at Mather’s Cross and improvements at Station Corner.
The new purpose-built chicane at Mather’s Cross has been introduced to slow down competitors at the entrance to the corner.
Race Director Mervyn Whyte said: “The new chicane will reduce speeds at Mather’s Cross, initial drawings and plans having been created following consultation with the riders.
"The chicane is located on right side entrance to Mather’s Cross and the area to the left has been cleared of any hedging with the chicane area free of any obstructions.”
Further changes are currently being carried out at Station Corner, another high-speed area on the course.
On the exit of the corner on the left hand side it is planned to pipe the large drain and fill up the ground over an 80-metre distance. A new socketed fence is to be installed the full length of the corner.
“These upgrades are part of the North West’s ongoing policy on safety improvement and we continually work hard year on year to make the course as safe as possible for competitors and spectators.” said Whyte.
“I believe these improvements are significant. We have had excellent feedback from both riders and team managers.
Sport Northern Ireland have been has contributed £35,000 to ensure safety works have been completed ahead of this year’s races. Eamonn McCartan, Chief Executive of Sport Northern Ireland, stated: “We view the safety of participants and spectators at the NW 200 as of the utmost importance.
"While the event obviously centres on the racing, it is vital that measures are taken to improve the safety of all concerned
mcn

suzukimad07

30th April 2010, 13:29

Ulster Grand Prix Under Threat http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1148) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1148&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1148&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1148/169/images/stories/ulstergp.jpgTHE Ulster Grand Prix is under serious threat this year as much needed and promised funding hasn’t materialised.
Noel Johnston, Clerk of the Course, said. “Last year the Motorcycle Union of Ireland (MCUI)(UC) informed us that the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure (DCAL) had earmarked £50,000 for essential maintenance and safety improvements to the paddock at Dundrod.
“We were given guarantees and assurances by a number of people regarding this money, and hence carried out the necessary work.
“For a number of months we’ve been trying to retrieve this money via the Two and Four-wheel Motorsport Steering Group. The Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club has been made aware that the North West 200 (NW 200) was given the same assurances for £100K. We believe that they now have received said monies.
“The bottom line is that we currently cannot see a way forward. The Club is personally out of pocket to the tune of £50K. We wouldn’t have spent the money without the assurances that we received. This money is vital to the running of the UGP and we need it now to ensure that there is another year of great road racing at Dundrod.
“The Ulster Grand Prix can take place this year, but only if this issue is addressed as a matter of urgency.”
p gossip

suzukimad07

1st May 2010, 19:51

The First Ever Indoor Show Dedicated to Pure Road Racing http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1142) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1142&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1142&itemid=169) The first ever Indoor Show Dedicated to Pure Road Racing will take place in Kells on Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th October 2010. This is a great opportunity to Show Case our Sport.
Thanks to Peter Gallagher of McKeon Motors Kells (who also sponsor the Medical Car for the MCI Team), for giving us the use of the fabulous Showrooms in Kells. This is a modern two story state of the art showroom which can easily hold 100 cars. McKeons have kindly offered the premises FREE OF CHARGE to the Road Race Fraternity.The opportunity is there for all Road Race Clubs to set up their stand totally free of charge for the weekend to promote and showcase their event to the public. It is also an opportunity for Riders and Teams with Sponsors to set up again FREE OF CHARGE and promote themselves and meet the fans
The MCI Medical Team will put on some demonstrations throughout the weekend, the facility will be there for clubs to show TV footage or DVDs of their event , sell merchandise, trade stands normally associated with Road Racing are also welcome.
We hope that Road Race Photographers will set up a Display of the History of Road Racing.
A top class line up of Road Racers will be interviewed throughout the weekend by George McCann which will give the fans an opportunity to meet their heroes without the pressure on them of racing.
The aim is to have over 100 genuine Race Bikes on Display for the fans.Admission for the Public is totally FREE all we ask is that if you can please give a donation to the Medical Team.
So get in early and book your spot.
Already Kells , Armoy, UGP, The MCI Medical Team, Road Racing Ireland , Davy Morgan, Amelia from JDs have booked their space.
It is hoped that all Road Race Clubs in Ireland, Isle of Man, Scarborough will avail of this brilliant opportunity.
Remember it is absolutely Free , so no excuse, the opportunity is there for you to promote your club, event, rider, sponsor, magazine, newspaper
LETS SHOWCASE THE SPORT WE LOVE
p gossip

suzukimad07

2nd May 2010, 13:00

ROBERT DUNLOP RIDE OUT 2nd MAY File Attachment:
File Name: Robert_Dunlop_Ride_Out.doc (http://www.paddockgossip.com/images/fbfiles/files/Robert_Dunlop_Ride_Out.doc)
File Size: 147456

Annual Across Ireland & Friends of R.Dunlop wish to invite you on The Robert Dunlop Ride Out.
This run will take place on Sunday 2nd-May-2010 from The City North Hotel (Just off M1, Between Balbriggan & Drogheda) and proceed north to Ballymoney to visit the resting place of Robert Dunlop.
Robert Dunlop brother of Joey made his road race debut at the 1979 Temple 100,The Cookstown 100 is where his first win came in the 1985 250cc race riding an ECM.A winner on the course at his first attempt, Robert from Ballymoney, won the 1983 Newcomers 350cc Manx Grand Prix. In 1989 he scored his first TT win in the 125cc Class with a new lap record at 103.02mph and managed a total of 14 podium finishes (5 Wins) at the TT, Along with 15 Nw 200 Victories and 9 Ulster Grand Prix victories.He won the Macau Grand Prix in 1989 on a Honda RC30 and on the 8th February 2005 he was the first person to be elected to the Irish Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Sadly on the 15th of May 2008 Robert lost his life at the NW200 during the 250cc qualifying session.Annual Across Ireland and Friends of Robert Dunlop would like you to Join us in the ride out to help raise funds to erect the Robert Dunlop Memorial Garden which is to be built in Ballymoney (Council have donated the plot of land) alongside the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden. To honor this legend of Road Racing, there will be a minimal Donation of €20 per rider for the ride out which will go directly to The Robert Dunlop Memorial Garden Sculpture Fund.
We will have two (2) Meeting Points enroute to Ballymoney, (1) The City North Hotel, just off the M1 (Junction 7) Northbound between Balbriggan & Drogheda on 2nd-May-10. Sign in between 9am and 10am, where the Ride Out will leave at 10.30 Sharp. We will proceed North to Newry ,where we will meet up with other Riders, Racing Fans, & Supporters at our second meeting point (2) The Carrickdale Hotel, (Carpark on Left hand side Heading North) Sign in between 9.30am and 10.30am, with pull out at 11.00am (together with first group).
From there will proceed in a group to Ballymoney to visit the grave of Robert and show our respects, after that we will proceed to the spot where Robert Dunlop’s Memorial Garden & Sculpture will be erected, for some Refreshments and Pictures, together with some of Roberts close family and friends (including William & Michael). This Ride out is going to be a fun filled day, Fully Marshaled and riding as one Large group (Michael Dunlop will be Riding with the Group Also). This is a social gathering and not a race and we would like to see all bikers looking for an enjoyable way to pass a Sunday afternoon to join in on the fun.
We would like to invite all motorcycle/biking enthusiasts to come along and support us for this special Ride Out in memory of a True Legend and Gentleman ‘ROBERT DUNLOP’.
For More Information:
Web: www.annualacrossireland.com (http://www.annualacrossireland.com/) Email:

suzukimad07

2nd May 2010, 15:32

Two more wins for Ryan Farquhar 650cc Supertwins @ Kirkistown

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6Cqff0tnwM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6Cqff0tnwM)

suzukimad07

3rd May 2010, 14:23

BBC Sport (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/northern_ireland/8656504.stm):

Rider killed in Kirkistown crash

A motorcycle racer has died following a crash at an Irish championship meeting at the Kirkistown track in County Down.

It is believed that the rider was competing in a clubmans event when he collided with another racer going into the hairpin section of the circuit.

A spokesman for the organising club, the Ulster Centre of the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland, said he was "greatly saddened" by the death.

Police have been making inquiries at the scene of the crash.

suzukimad07

3rd May 2010, 14:55

Gary Mason Takes on NW200 for MSS Colchester Kawasaki http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1151) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1151&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1151&itemid=169) Written by Administrator Reigning British Superbike Privateer Champion Gary Mason will be standing in for injured team mate Simon Andrews to tackle this year’s Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse on his MSS Colchester Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Superbike.

North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE today confirmed Mason’s entry following discussions with team manager Nick Morgan during the week-end. “We’re delighted that Gary is able to compete on Saturday 15th May and I know he’s extremely excited about taking part and I’ve spent some time with him looking round the course in preparation for Race Week.”

Gary is looking forward to his first ‘road racing’ foray whilst Andrews recovers from foot and heel injuries he sustained at the World Superbike Championship in Valencia. The 30 year old from Lichfield stated, “I’m really excited about this, the North West is a legendary place and originally I was a bit gutted not to be going. Now as Simon has unfortunately injured himself the team have asked me to go out and I couldn’t be more keen!”

Team boss Nick Morgan added, “It’s another great opportunity for Gary and he’s the obvious choice after Simon’s injury. Although Gary has never been to the North West before, I think he will be strong as he’s a very precise rider and picks up tracks quickly. It’s also valuable extra seat time for the BSB season against quality opposition.”

Mason found great form in the 2009 British Superbike series, taking his privateer machine to a front row start and 13 top ten finishes, dominating the mirror.co.uk Privateers Cup and impressing many with his pace and consistency. He will join a strong MSS squad for the North West with successful Irish ‘roads’ specialists Ryan Farquhar and Stephen Thompson. Gary is also fighting fit for the tough racing having undergone a brutal martial arts training regime to prepare himself for the 2010 season.
The Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse takes place on Saturday 15th May (roads close 10am). Official practice sessions are scheduled for Tuesday 11th May (roads close 5pm to 9.30pm) and Thursday 13th May (roads close 9.30am to 3.30pm). For more information visit www.northwest200.org (http://www.northwest200.org/)

suzukimad07

3rd May 2010, 15:28

let me know what you think of this, play the video http://www.10news.com/news/23319290/detail.html (http://www.10news.com/news/23319290/detail.html)

suzukimad07

4th May 2010, 14:42

Relentless by TAS Suzuki posted its debut victory in the British Superbike Championship Premier Class with Michael Laverty at the Oulton Park third round

http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Laverty-race-action-Oulton-BSB-2010-300x212.jpg (http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Laverty-race-action-Oulton-BSB-2010.jpg)Laverty’s second-race demolition of the field in the British Superbike class demonstrates the progress Moneymore-based TAS Racing has been making with their GSX-R1000 Superbike already this season. And, after being virtually written-off in the pre-season build up, both Michael Laverty and Alastair Seeley now sit proudly in the top five in the current standings.
In race one it was Seeley who looked odds-on for his second BSB podium of the year, but a missed gear on the final lap allowed John Laverty to steal his thunder, which left the Carrickfergus man to narrowly pip his team-mate to the line for fourth.
In race two, while Laverty was soloing to a superb victory, Seeley fought his way through from mid-pack to take 10 valuable points in sixth place.
Michael Laverty:
“That was a really nice feeling today. I just hope it goes a long way to being forgiven for my crash at Thruxton! It’s really strange because it’s probably the easiest I’ve had to ride to win a race, never mind so convincingly. It’s not often you get the perfect bike, but the boys gave me one today for that win. We still have a bit to go with the dry set-up on our GSX-R1000 Superbike, but we are getting closer every weekend and I’m confident we can be up at the front in the dry very soon – possibly as soon as Cadwell Park. The boys deserve this bit of success for all their hard work.”
Alastair Seeley:
“I am a bit frustrated about not getting on the podium in race one, but there’s no point in moaning about it. I missed a gear and fought back to fourth so we have to be pleased with that after a tough weekend at the previous round. In race two, I spun up going off the line and ended up bashing bars and fairings mid-pack. I got my head down and just tried to be smooth on the throttle and when I got onto the back of Josh Brookes he was all over the place. His tyre was obviously in worse condition than mine at that stage, so to get past for sixth was a good result in difficult conditions. I’m learning all the time about this Superbike and I’ve stayed fit and healthy with the North West 200 just over a week away – so that’s a big positive.”
Philip Neill – BSB Team Principal:
“After all the hard work our team has put in, that was a pretty emotional day for me and I have to say, Michael’s win was probably one of the best rides I’ve ever seen – he really destroyed the field and was even comfortable putting in consistent quickest laps. It’s a great reward and a boost of confidence for the whole team and proves just how great a bike the current GSX-R1000 really is. I must obviously give credit to Michael, who I have always believed in, and this will be a real confidence booster for him.
“Alastair may be disappointed at missing out on a race-one podium, but the ‘Wee Man’ just continues to blow us away with his talent, enthusiasm and self-belief. Let’s not forget it’s only his second time out at Oulton on a Superbike and his comeback from mid-pack to sixth was phenomenal in race two: It also shows where he has come from when he’s disappointed not to be on the podium every weekend as a rookie.
“We really do have two genuine contenders this year, who are as good as anyone in the Championship, and we are delighted to have helped Suzuki retain top-spot in the Manufacturer Standings; it’s always good to do your bit.
“I must give a special mention to the boys in the garage who work a very tight schedule with our BSB and road racing commitments, so fair play to Leigh, Arnie and Davy Kertesz as they found an enviable wet wwwweather set-up for our riders today. We’re not that far away in dry conditions either and this sets us up well for next week’s North West 200.”
BSB Race 1 Results:
1. Stuart Easton (Swan Honda)
2.Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +0.058s
3.John Laverty (Buildbase Kawasaki) +10.399s
4.Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +10.843s 5.Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +10.849s 6.Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda) +11.073s
7.Gary Mason (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +23.428s
8.Chris Walker (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +27.478s
9.Dan Linfoot (Motorpoint Yamaha) +35.997s
10.Tommy Bridewell (Quay Garage Honda) +36.709s
BSB Race 2 Results:
1. Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS)
2.Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +6.00s
3.Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +11.333s
4.Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +16.029s
5.John Laverty (Buildbase Kawasaki) +23.590s
6.Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +27.258s
7.Tommy Bridewell (Quay Garage Honda) +30.287s
8.Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda) +30.283s
9.Hudson Kennaugh (MAR Kawasaki) +32.463s
10.Adam Jenkinson (Buildbase Kawasaki) +54.950s
Photo courtesy of Jason Scott Photography (http://jasonscottphotography.com/)
brn

suzukimad07

6th May 2010, 21:06

Cookstown 100 Irish Road Racing
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/northern_ireland/8662678.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/northern_ireland/8662678.stm)

suzukimad07

8th May 2010, 20:25

Joey Dunlop Extraordinary Private Collection http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1177) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1177&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1177&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1177/169/images/stories/joeymus1.jpgOne of the world’s most exclusive private motorcycling collections goes on display from today at the award-winning Ulster Folk & Transport Museum in Holywood, outside Belfast.
“King of the Roads” - the definitive Joey Dunlop collection which celebrates the life and times of the most loved motorcycling sportsman in the history of road racing contains the famous trademark yellow Arai helmet as well as ten sets of racing leathers. Among the clothing is a suit worn by Joey Dunlop in the early 70s as he started out in the sport.
National Museums Northern Ireland’s Road Transport Curator Mark Kennedy says the collection is particularly important because of the position Joey Dunlop commanded in the world of motorcycle road racing.
“We are particularly grateful to the Dunlop family for allowing us to display the collection which means so much to them personally.
“Thanks to the generosity of the family, fans will be able to get very close to the memorabilia and share a moment of intimacy with the man so many thousands admired all over the world,” says Mr Kennedy.
The collection also includes three motorcycles, Joey Dunlop’s ceremonial Manx Sword and OBE. It also contains the first trophy he won as a racer – the mid-Antrim 150 in 1972.

Joey Dunlop’s commitment to helping the poor and underprivileged is also recorded. He frequently used his race transporter van on lone humanitarian missions to Romania, Bosnia and Albania brining food and medical supplies to orphanages.
A photographic exhibition also highlights moments before, during and after races in Joey Dunlop’s career which spanned over three decades.
The Joey Dunlop exhibition remains on display until mid-September. For further information visit www.nmni.com (http://www.nmni.com/)

p gossip

suzukimad07

8th May 2010, 22:04

Bike Fans Urged to Buy NW200 Programme http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1169&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1169&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1169/169/images/stories/nw200prog10.jpgAs visitors, bike fans and competitors gear up for North West 200 Race Day on 15th May, organisers Coleraine & District Motor Club Ltd are asking spectators to buy a programme to help support the North West which is billed as Ireland’s top outdoor sporting event. As Race Director Mervyn Whyte emphasized programme sales are an essential source of income for the event organisers. “We urge spectators, fans and visitors to all dig into their pockets and buy a programme online atwww.northwest200.org (http://www.northwest200.org/)or from one of our hundreds of volunteers who will be located around the Coleraine/Portrush/Portstewart ‘triangle’ area.”
The Relentless North West 200’s glossy 100 page official Race Programme has been produced for the ninth consecutive year by local company Careva Publishing. Competitively priced at £15 (18 Euros) the programme contains all up to date race information including the six race line-up and in depth features on leading riders. The souvenir programme also includes retro articles on Brian Reid, Woolsey Coulter and Ralph Bryans and a detailed lap of the circuit with current lap record holder Steve Plater. Programmes will also be available to purchase from Tesco stores and petrol stations in the ‘Triangle’ region.
Mervyn Whyte went on to thank Paul Lindsay and his staff from Careva saying, “I’d like to thank the team for all their hard work and dedication. Each year the programme just gets bigger and better and I absolutely believe this is the best to date with a fabulous line-up of contributors and rider features to ensure fans get a great read and excellent value for money.”

The Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse takes place on Saturday 15th May with roads closing at 10am. Practice sessions take place on Tuesday 11th May (roads close 5pm and re-open at 9.30pm) and on Thursday 13th May (roads close 9.30am and re-open at 3pm). Race Festival Week events begin on Saturday 8th May.
Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse Race Programme - Saturday 15th May
Race 1 - Yoko Superbike Race 1 (5 Laps)
Race 2 – Clinton Enterprises 600cc Supersport Race 1 (5 Laps)
Race 3 –McKendry Fabrications Ltd 125cc (4 Laps)
Race 4 – CP Hire Ltd Superstock Race (5 Laps)
Race 5 – Greenline NW200 Superbike Race 2 (6 Laps)
Race 6 – Ballymoney Borough Council 600cc Supersport Race 2 (5 Laps)
p gossip

suzukimad07

9th May 2010, 01:21

Farquhar Unveils 2010 Superbikehttp://www.realroadracing.com/forum/templates/RealRoadRacing/images/lang_english/icon_quote.gif (http://www.realroadracing.com/forum/posting.php?mode=quote&p=19261) http://www.realroadracing.com/images/Newsdesk_Forum/2010/Farquhar_08.jpg
Image By: Stephen Davison - Pacemaker Press International

suzukimad07

9th May 2010, 12:06

/**/ Capirossi’s Moto GP bike to lap the Mountain Course http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1175) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1175&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1175&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1175/169/images/stories/camandloris.jpgSuzuki confirm Loris Capirossi’s Moto GP bike to lap the Mountain Course at this year’s TT
- Cameron Donald to ride demonstration lap following Dainese Senior TT
Suzuki Motor Corporation has confirmed that Loris Capirossi’s Moto GP bike will complete a lap of the TT Course following this year’s Dainese Senior TT. The bike will be ridden on a special demonstration lap by the double TT winner Cameron Donald.
The bike is the same Suzuki GSV-R800 that took Loris Capirossi to his 300th Grand Prix race at the opening round of the 2010 world championship in Qatar in April. Loris will be on hand to dispense some tips on riding the bike as he will be joining the Suzuki parade on a GSX-R1000 that is timed to take place shortly before Cameron’s lap.
The activity is part of Suzuki Motor Corporation’s celebrations of 50 years of International Racing at this year’s Isle of Man TT Races – the venue where it all began in 1960.
Suzuki GB is the Official Motorcycle Partner for this year’s TT Races and will be providing the Travelling Marshals bikes. Suzuki is also supporting an exhibition of Suzuki history that will be held at the Manx Museum throughout the race fortnight and is backing the famous Ramsey Sprint events on Sunday 6th and Tuesday 8th, the Laxey Moddey Dhoo meeting on 10th and a parade of Suzuki machines on Senior Race day.
Geoff Corkish, MBE, MHK, Political Member for Isle of Man Tourism commented:
“We are thrilled to share this anniversary with Suzuki and we are very grateful to the support that Suzuki has given the TT Races throughout the company’s long history of competing on the Isle of Man. Many fans will be thrilled at the chance of seeing a Moto GP bike on the Mountain Course for the first time and we also look forward to welcoming Loris Capirossi to the Isle of Man for his first experience of the TT.”
p gossip

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suzukimad07

10th May 2010, 16:49

Eugene Dominates at Monza http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1182) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1182&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1182&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1182/169/images/stories/Eugene1.jpgPARKALGAR HONDA ace Eugene Laverty led from the first corner to the chequered flag to win the fifth round of the World Supersport Championship at Monza in Italy – giving him three wins out of five races in 2010 to date.
Miguel Praia improved as the race progressed, bringing his Parkalgar Honda home in a respectable 10th after starting from 13th on the grid. The sixth round of the World Championship is in one week’s time at Kyalami in South Africa.

You can buy signed Eugene Laverty and Miguel Praia Team T-shirts through the Parkalgar Honda website at www.parkalgarhonda.com (http://www.parkalgarhonda.com/) for £25 delivered.
Eugene: “I led into the first corner – I was able to brake late and pass the other two. Then I tried to make a break and read my pit board to control the gap. I was using my rear brake a little too much and cooked it so the oil boiled over and was on my boot towards the end. Kenan in second place kept me honest but it is great to get this win – my first back to back victories. Thanks to everyone in the team and it’s good that the Championship race is now much closer. I hope we can get the flights to South Africa OK as I like the circuit and had a good result there last year.”
Miguel: “My Parkalgar Honda was perfect in the race and I grew in confidence with every lap. At the end I was catching the group in front and if there had been a few more laps I think I could have attacked them and improved my position. I am happy with my race performance but I need to find a way to perform like this from the start of practice on a Friday for the whole race weekend. Today shows that we have the potential and I am glad that we are racing again next weekend as we can continue to improve.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “There’s not much to say about Eugene’s performance it was simply mega. He won the race in the first two laps because he made the break and after that the first three matched each other’s lap times. Great job well done and three victories out of five races is impressive. Miguel also rode well – he was 1.1seconds faster in the race than he was in qualifying. If he was to get to that level quicker in the weekend he would be finishing in the top eight – he nearly caught the group fighting for seventh this race. It was a good 10th place and we will be encouraging him to get up to speed quicker at the next round.”
Race Result
1 2 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 1'47.767
2 1 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 2.817
3 3 26 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 16 3.043
4 4 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 21.238
5 7 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 16 22.003
6 11 14 M. LAGRIVE FRA ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 16 22.056
7 9 7 C. DAVIES GBR ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 16 30.724
8 6 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 16 30.730
9 8 4 G. REA GBR Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 16 30.857
10 13 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 32.265
Championship Positions (after five of 13 rounds)
1: Lascorz 101
2: Sofuoglu 97
3: Laverty Parkalgar Honda 91
4: Davies 55
5: Salom 40
6: Rea 40
7: Harms 35
8: Pirro 34
9: Fujiwara 34
10: Lagrive 30
p gossip

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suzukimad07

10th May 2010, 17:35

http://www.realroadracing.com/images/Newsdesk_Forum/2010/Pirelli_01.gif

Pirelli will be equipping their most formidable line-up ever of top riders and teams as they look to take a firm grip at the World famous North West 200 road races. The 2010 Pirelli line-up includes multiple NW, TT and British Superbike winners Easton, Seeley, Anstey, Donald and Rutter who between them have amassed a total of 24 wins at this unique road racing circuit.

Stuart Easton returns to the North West 200 on his Swan Honda as a red hot favourite given his British Superbike form on the Pirelli Diablo Superbike tyres. Easton returns following a two year absence after a dominant roads victory in the Macau Grand Prix but is yet to taste North West victory. He is joined by the lightning fast Relentless by TAS trio of Alastair Seeley plus antipodeans Cameron Donald and Bruce Anstey on their ‘roads’ prepared Suzuki GSXR1000 machines. And the dark horse of the Pirelli line-up, the North West 12 victory hero Michael Rutter, who has re-found his old form with a recent British Superbike podium in British Superbikes.

http://www.realroadracing.com/images/Newsdesk_Forum/2010/Pirelli_02.jpg

New Zealander Anstey, who seemingly came out of nowhere to win at the North West on his debut in 2002, has now totalled 9 wins and 18 podiums yet rides very infrequently, gearing up his season around the NW and Isle of Man TT. His Australian team-mate Cameron Donald is yet to win at the North West but is still reckoned to be one of the men to beat for this year’s edition, especially after his 130mph practice lap at last year’s TT.

http://www.realroadracing.com/images/Newsdesk_Forum/2010/Pirelli_03.jpg

Alastair Seeley from Carrickfergus, has recently shot to prominence having completely dominated the National Superstock class within British Superbikes and taken an early podium in the BSB class proper this year. He also has two North West victories to his name and will be looking to extend that total! The Relentless TAS squad have lined up an awesome trio for the event this year as they look to do their bit as Suzuki celebrates 25 years of the legendary GSXR machine.

http://www.realroadracing.com/images/Newsdesk_Forum/2010/Pirelli_04.jpg

Michael Rutter from Brierley Hill, West Midlands is now aged 37 years old but has recently re-asserted himself in British Superbikes as he has been re-united with his beloved Ducati machinery. With 12 wins at the famous ‘Triangle’ course Rutter has his eyes on the overall rankings as only the legendary Dunlop names stand above him with Robert having taken 15 and Joey 13 victories. In 2004 he became the first to break the 200 mph barrier, at a speed of 201.1 mph on the official speed trap!

Other Pirelli supported riders are ardent ‘roads’ campaigners, Conor Cummins, who is ‘the fastest racer in the World’ following his sensational lap record of 133.282mph at the 2009 Dundrod 150 road race, Guy Martin who has surprisingly yet to take his first NW victory and Adrian Archibald who does have a win to his name. Martin Jessop will also be making his NW debut as team-mate to Rutter and he has shown great form on his Riders Ducati in BSB regularly running up the front.

Considered to be one of the world’s most exciting and fastest road races, the International North West 200’s 8.96 mile long course is a challenge to rider, machine and tyres alike as riders slipstream each other at incredible speeds of over 200mph, on the long back straight. The circuit really tests handling and performance with differing surfaces, adverse cambers, first gear hairpin bends to super-fast open corners and straights. North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE commented “It’s great that Pirelli invests so much effort into this event and are supporting so many riders, they can clearly see benefits in being able to promote North West wins around the World.”

The North West 200 is recognised to be Northern Ireland’s largest single day sporting event with around one hundred and twenty thousand spectators expected to gather at the famous ‘triangle’ course. The Relentless International North West 200 in association with Black Horse takes place on Saturday 15th May (roads close 10am). Official practice sessions are scheduled for Tuesday 11th May (roads close 5pm to 9.30pm) and Thursday 13th May (roads close 9.30am to 3.30pm). For more information visit www.northwest200.org (http://www.northwest200.org/)

The challenging course is seen as a real test to riders, machines and tyres alike and also a great indication of form for the prestigious Isle of Man TT a month later. Pirelli technicians are also able to get good feedback from the event to use on the ‘Island’.

Jason Griffiths, Pirelli Racing Manager, summed up, “With our friends from TAS, Swan Honda and Rutter’s Riders Ducati squad we feel confident this is our strongest ever line-up for the North West 200. Conor and Guy also have the potential for their first win so it’s going to be amazingly competitive racing. It’s an event that means a lot to us because of the heritage, crowds and publicity so we give it our all and have invested time and money into ‘road racing’ over the years. The high speeds and temperature build up makes the chosen tyre compounds critical but we know our ‘roads’, World and British Superbike experience has helped in this development.“
i r race

suzukimad07

11th May 2010, 20:56

TV http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/nw200/#two (http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/nw200/#two)

First up is our preview programme on BBC One Northern Ireland on Friday night May 14 from 10.35pm, live from the paddock with special guests. Live Red button coverage starts at 3pm on race day, Saturday May 15.
Two, one-hour specials on BBC One Northern Ireland on Sunday, May 16 at 10.15pm and Monday, May 17 at 10.35pm, will be presented by Stephen Watson with commentary by Keith Huewen, Steve Parrish and NW200 legend Phillip McCallen

suzukimad07

11th May 2010, 23:31

Chicane Pain and 204mph in the sun...
Post categories: Adrian Coates

NW200 web team | Tuesday, 11 May 2010

First night of practice got under way in bright and sunny conditions...but bitterly cold. I caught up with a few of the top riders and got their opinion of the new chicane at Mathers.

The general view was..."not another chicane." (number five on the circuit). Cameron Donald's feelings cannot be printed here!
Steve Plater was more philosophical about it as it's the same track for everyone and it could provide over-taking possibilities.

The provisional top six positions at the minute are :

125cc : William Dunlop, Chris Palmer, Renzo Van there Donckt ( as tipped by Phillip McCallen !), Sam Dunlop, Jon Vincent and Nigel Moore.

Superbike : Steve Plater, John McGuinness, Stuart Easton, with Michael Dunlop the top Irish rider in 4th, Conor Cummins 5th and Ryan Farquhar in sixth.

Supersport: Bruce Anstey, William Dunlop, Keith Amor (on Johnny Rea's WSS 08 bike ) Ryan Farquhar, Guy Martin and Michael Dunlop.

An oil spillage put paid to the Superstocks tonight so Thursday's practice had better be rain free for these guys.

Stuart Easton, The Flying Scotsman, went straight out of the pits in the Superbike practice and posted 204mph through the speed trap on his Swann Honda Fireblade ! Unofficially this is a new triangle record ! Michael Rutter's crown has gone....

All in all, a good and safe evening's practice...apart from the stockers of course.

Hopefully the weather forecast for the rest of the week is wrong, but if you are coming up multiple layers and waterproofs are the order of the day. Must go back and check my Podium Predictor results. Hopefully won't be too far away!

Rod Richardson

12th May 2010, 05:58

I wish we had live feed to Aus for what is going to be the mother of all races.......53 bikes.........begorra.
The field doesn't get any better than this. Great to see Rutter firing again and looking forward to seeing how Amor goes on the BM. That being said.............c'mon Donald and Anstey.

Keep up with the progress of the leadup events and results on
http://www.northwest200.org/

suzukimad07

12th May 2010, 12:08

http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1189) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1189&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1189&itemid=169) Written by Administrator http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1189/169/images/stories/williamnw2002010.jpgWilliam Dunlop took provisional pole in the 125cc and second quickest time in the Supersport 600cc first practice sessions for this years Relentless North West 200 on Tuesday night.
Riding the John Delaney/KRP 125 Honda, and the Chris Dowds Supersport 600 Yamaha, William put himself into the perfect position ahead of Thursdays final practice session, with the Ballymoney man now set and focused on trying to obtain a higher Superbike time, and a good Superstock Practice.

William Dunlop: "That was really a very good night for me. The 125 Honda is really flying and I had to do nothing to her as she was set up really well. I think I am about 5 seconds quicker than Chris Palmer which really surprised me, but pole position at the moment is just what I wanted. I never really got a good run on the Chris Dowds Suzuki Superbike, but to take 17th place I think was ok, as we have had little or no time on her. The Supersport 600 was really flying and I know we have as good a bike out their in that class. I thought I was about 6th or 7th, and was really pleased to see P1 before I came in on the board. Then, Bruce Anstey just pipped me for the number one spot but I am pleased with a front row start anywhere. I don't mind now if it rains on Thursday, and it just shows that our wee team is as good as the big boys out their. Other than being really cold, it was really a very good night all round, and hopefully we can make steady improvements on the Superbike on Thursday".

McKendry Fabrications 125GP Qualifying Practice One
1 = William Dunlop KRP Honda 96.739mph
2 = Chris Palmer Mannin Honda 95.314mph
3 = Renzo Donckt Honda 94.345mph
4 = Sam Dunlop Honda 94.271mph
5 = Jon Vincent Honda 93.887mph

Supersport 600 Qualifying Practice One (No Speeds available)
1 = Bruce Anstey Relentless Suzuki
2 = William Dunlop CD Yamaha
3 = Keith Amor Honda
4 = Ryan Farquhar KMR Kawasaki
5 = Ian Hutchinson Padgetts Honda

Yoko Superbike Qualifying Practice One
1 = Steve Plater HM Plant Honda 118.450mph
2 = John McGuinness HM Plant Honda 117.416mph
3 = Stuart Easton Swann Honda 117.095mph
4 = Michael Dunlop Robinson Honda 116.780mph
5 = Conor Cummins McAdoo Kawasaki 116.397mph
17th = William Dunlop CD Suzuki 113.297mph
P GOSSIP

suzukimad07

12th May 2010, 15:22

http://www.northwest200.org/ (http://www.northwest200.org/)

suzukimad07

13th May 2010, 13:45

125cc Practice on now, Superbike held up cause of rain practice will run to 3pm

suzukimad07

13th May 2010, 14:11

1st

C Cummins
R Farquhar
K Amor
A Seely
I Hutchinson
S Plater

suzukimad07

13th May 2010, 15:26

Superbike Practice red flaged, S Plater slid off with ten mins left, unofficial reports say hes ok, thank God

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6Cqff0tnwM

suzukimad07

13th May 2010, 20:59

S Plater ok

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/8680762.stm

Rod Richardson

14th May 2010, 22:36

Northwest200 - The complete circuit with Alistair Seeley.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/nw200/clips/p007k44n

BBC video summary of Thursday Practice
http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/nw200/clips/p007vw5q

Rod Richardson

16th May 2010, 07:16

All write-ups and pdf results on the following links. Looking forward to seeing film footage.
15/05/2010 John McGuiness wins Race 1 Yoko Superbike Race (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/john-mcguiness-wins-race-1.aspx)
15/05/2010 First for Amor and BMW in CP Hire Superstock (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/first-amor-bmw-cp-hire-superstock.aspx)
15/05/2010 Seeley Ends Irish Superbike Drought (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/seeley-ends-irish-superbike-drought.aspx)
15/05/2010 Hutchinson destroys second supersport 600 field (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/ian-hutchinson-wins-race-6.aspx)
15/05/2010 Easton Sets New Speed Trap Record (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/stuart-easton-sets-new-speed-trap-record.aspx)
15/05/2010 Seeley Wins A Thriller - Race 2 Clinton Enterprises Supersport (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/seeley-wins-race-2.aspx)
15/05/2010 Robinson wins his first North West 200 race - Race 3 McKendry Fabrications 125cc (http://www.northwest200.org/news_article_name/robinson-wins-race-3.aspx)

suzukimad07

17th May 2010, 10:35

Just back last nite from nw200 called into Joey Dunlops Bar, you can see some of his tropheys and one of his motorbikes hanging out of the celing what a weekend ! crowds 150,000 + magic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crfpmcwHE90

suzukimad07

18th May 2010, 14:16

Mixed fortunes for Farquhar at North West 200

KMR Kawasaki rider Ryan Farquhar enjoyed mixed fortunes at Saturday's International North West 200 road races but the 34-year old did add another podium to his collection when he took a hard-fought third place in a fiercely contested Superstock race. He was also heavily involved in the two Supersport races and although his end results didn't necessarily reflect his efforts, Ryan was happy at the end of the day with his riding.

With qualifying held in a mixture of dry, damp and windy conditions, Ryan ended the two days of action happy with all three machines and was handily placed on the grid for all of his races. His best position was second, and the front row, for the Superstock race and this was backed up with ninth for both the Superbike and Supersport races, good enough for a third row start here.

Despite having to rebuild the engine overnight, Ryan's best race of Saturday was undoubtedly the 5-lap Superstock race which had the 100,000 strong crowd on the edge of their seats right until the very last corner. Despite being slowed up, and nearly falling, on the opening lap when Conor Cummins crashed in front of him, Ryan was right in the slipstream of regular sparring partner Keith Amor at the end of the lap and was still with him on the second before he overshot the Juniper chicane. Dropping back to 4th, Ryan then had to claw back the ground he lost, which he duly did getting back up to 2nd on the penultimate lap. With Alastair Seeley and Ian Hutchinson right behind him, the race was anyone's coming into the final chicane and Ryan had to settle for third as Hutchinson found a way through, less than a second separating the quartet at the chequered flag.

In the two Supersport races, Ryan found his 600cc Kawasaki to be down a little on top speed compared to his rivals and although he was well to the fore at the beginning of the first race, he was pushed back to sixth at the end of the 5 laps although he was only 2 seconds off the race win! In the second, he could only manage 10th with the engine ready for a rebuild prior to the forthcoming TT.

Sadly, the two Superbike races didn't go to plan when, riding the MSS Colchester Kawasaki machine for the first time this year, he was forced to retire from the first shortened 4-lap race due to front axle problems. With this in mind, he switched to his trusty Superstock machine for the feature Superbike race but he was again out of luck, this time retiring at the end of the first lap.

Talking later, Ryan said: "We've had a few problems over the course of the week but, overall, I'm really pleased with how I was riding on Saturday and I felt as strong as anyone else out there. I knew the Superstock race would be the one where I'd be most competitive and I couldn't have ridden any harder although it nearly ended on the first lap when Conor crashed in front of me - how I stayed on is beyond me as I got launched over his bike motocross style and just took off! Fortunately, it landed wheels down and it was a great race all the way to the end. I had a few problems changing from 1st to 2nd gear when I kept finding neutral and overshooting the chicane didn't help but whilst I obviously would have liked the win, I gave it everything I had and was only half a second off the win at the chequered flag."

"The 600 was handling superbly well and we've got the chassis working perfectly but I was a bit down on speed although in the first race the result could have gone any way and I was in the hunt right until the very end - there were certainly some quick riders behind me too. We'd been chipping away with the Superbike all week but we had a problem in the first race with the front axle and we didn't have a spare one with us so I had to take the Stocker out again. The 600cc engine has gone away to be rebuilt and my main priority now is to get the Superstock bike totally refreshed as it took a bit of a hammering after Conor's crash. The MSS guys are also working really hard now so we should be in a lot better position come the TT. My results could have been a bit better at the NW200 and the finances have taken a bit of a hit with all the problems - I had two helmets destroyed by all the stones - but, like I say, I was happy with how I rode and am really looking forward to the TT now."

It's now on to the Isle of Man TT Races for Ryan and the team with opening practice around the legendary Mountain Course taking place on Saturday 29th May.

Words: Phil Wain - Freelance PR

suzukimad07

18th May 2010, 17:25

Seeley Makes History at North West 200 http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1199) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1199&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1199&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1199/169/images/stories/Seeleyrostrumnw10.jpgRelentless by TAS Suzuki and their in-form British Superbike rider Alastair Seeley made history at the Relentless-sponsored International North West 200, winning the feature Superbike event - a first for an Irish rider in 13 years.
The 30-year-old reigning British Superstock champion also took the opening Supersport race victory, a Superbike race one podium and two other fourth-placed finishes - on a day when Relentless by TAS Suzuki posted four podiums from five races, including two tops steps.
The team started their day with third place in the opening Superbike event, again heralded by that man Seeley, who fought his way from the third row of the grid to stand on the podium. On the opening lap it was Bruce Anstey who led the Relentless Suzuki effort, coming from his row five grid slot up to fourth place, but he was soon overhauled by his diminutive team-mate, who closed down a five second gap to the leaders for his opening podium of the day.
Such was Seeley's pace; he set a new lap record for the 8.9-mile circuit at 120.985mph [4mins 26.909sec]. Anstey eventually finished fifth with Cameron Donald eighth, just ahead of Adrian Archibald, also on a GSX-R1000 Superbike.
In the opening Supersport race, Anstey led the Relentless Suzuki charge on the opening lap in sixth, with Seeley two places further behind in eighth on his GSX-R600. But Seeley was hungry for a debut middleweight division victory at the NW200, forcing his way into the leading group of four on lap three, with some aggressive but safe passing manoeuvres.
On the final lap into the penultimate chicane at Juniper Hill, Seeley produced one of the best moves ever witnessed at the North West 200 'triangle', sliding in between Ian Hutchinson and Keith Amor - and after leaving his braking later than his rivals, Seeley dropped his GSX-R600 into the chicane ahead of both Hondas, and from there he was never headed to the flag, giving TAS Racing their fifth victory in the Supersport class at the North West 200.
Cameron Donald was the next Relentless Suzuki home in seventh with Anstey 14th. Seeley again set a new class lap record at 115.582mph [4mins 39.386sec]
Bruce Anstey and Alastair Seeley had shared the last four Superstock wins at the NW200, but Anstey opted out of yesterday's race due to a difficult grid position after qualifying, preferring to keep his powder dry for the final Supersport race.
In true Superstock style it took three laps before the leading contenders could shake off the pretenders to the crown, with Seeley soon in the mix with the front four. Unfortunately on the final lap, he just could not find the grip required to drive hard out of the slower turns with his rivals and settled for fourth place, albeit only 0.9sec behind eventual winner Keith Amor.
When the feature NW200 Superbike event was cut from six laps to four, the odds were stacked against all three Relentless by TAS Suzuki riders, positioned on rows three, four and five.
Anstey again got the better start of the trio but Seeley, holding the expectations of an 100,000-strong local crowd, forced his way through, and onto the back of Honda duo Easton and McGuinness at mid distance, guaranteeing a grandstand finish.
Seeley led onto the final nine-mile lap but Easton took up the initiative on the brakes into Metropole with only the two-mile Coast Road section to conquer. Seeley, as we have come to expect, wasn't prepared to settle for second place, putting the nose of his GSX-R1000 Suzuki under the Scotsman at the very next turn before demonstrating his pure road racing prowess to take a very famous victory.
In pursuit of the Honda pair, the Relentless by TAS Suzuki rider also upped the lap record to a staggering 121.875mmmph [4mins 24.960sec] on lap three.
In the final race of the day - the second Supersport 600 encounter - Seeley followed team-mate Bruce Anstey across the line in fourth place; the Kiwi justifying his decision to sit-out the Superstock race with a fine third place on his Relentless by TAS Suzuki GSX-R600. Cameron Donald was eighth.
Alastair Seeley:
"I suppose it hasn't really sunk in yet that I've broken Phillip McCallen's 13-year-old record, but I came here for wins this week and the NW200 Superbike race is the one every rider wants to take home; now it's mine! I really enjoyed the celebrations with the team and it was great to see what it meant to the fans at the end - they were cheering like a football crowd in the grandstands.
"It's been a great day and I'm also delighted to have proven the strength and quality of Suzuki's GSX-R600 in the Supersport class. It was cat-and-mouse and with those boys either side of me in race one into Juniper it was always going to be the bravest man that would win - and thankfully it was me.
"This is the place where I started to make a name for myself in racing even though I'm known as a circuit racer, so I'm delighted to be back winning, but I couldn't have done it without the support of everyone in the Relentless by TAS Suzuki team. My BSB team-mate Michael Laverty was even here today; now I have to get my head back into gear for next weekend's BSB round at Cadwell Park, but this is a nice wee boost for everyone involved."
Bruce Anstey:
"I'm obviously a little bit disappointed not to have won a race at the North West, but that third place in the final Supersport race means I've been on the podium ever year since my debut here in 2004. We had a tough time with the weather in qualifying and I was always left with a little bit of work to do in every race, but as a team we have a had a great weekend, and I'll now re-focus my attention to the Isle of Man TT which kicks off in a couple of weeks' time."
Cameron Donald:
"That really was a tough day at the office and of course I'm a bit disappointed with the results as we were about five places further back than we wanted to be. Because of the weather and other circumstances I was also further down the grid than I wanted to be, but the bikes were working very well and I got myself involved in some great dices and made some good passes. I struggled with traffic in all of the races, but overall I'm feeling confident after my first international race back and I'll be off to the Isle of Man now in a positive frame of mind."
Philip Neill - Team Manager:
"We are obviously very proud to have continued our winning streak at the NW200 and to win the feature race with Alastair was a phenomenal result. We have proved this weekend just how strong a range Suzuki has produced in their GSX-R machinery with our lowest result fourth over the five races.
"Alastair is obviously on a high and did a great job for us here at the North West, but Bruce and Cameron were also in the mix and we must remember this event is quite unique, producing at least 10 potential winners in almost every class.
"Alastair will now go back to his BSB duties and Bruce and Cameron are TT-bound. By all accounts they are more than happy with their machinery after the North West and we know what Cameron and Bruce are capable of at the TT.
"I'd like to thank Suzuki, Relentless and all our other loyal sponsors for supporting us this week, and I was equally delighted to see many of them here on the North Coast enjoying the local hospitality."

p gossip

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suzukimad07

21st May 2010, 18:08

Connor's Portrush Rollercoaster http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1204) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1204&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1204&itemid=169) McAdoo Kawasaki Racing’s Conor Cummins experienced the highs and lows of road racing at Saturday’s 2010 North West 200. His first pole position and podiums came at the famous races but also the disappointment of sliding off whilst leading the Superstock race.

Practice had gone well on the McAdoo Kawasaki ZX-10R’s with pole position on the Superstock bike (with a 1.5 second margin over the field) and front row starts on the Ninja ZX-10R Superbike. A couple of little set-up problems on the McAdoo Ninja ZX-6R Supersport bikes had left Conrod on the 4th row for the two Supersport races which would prove costly on race day.

The first race of the meeting was Superbike race one. Unfortunately rain fell just before the race was due to start which made tyre selection a major headache. Conrod opted for an intermediate front with a rear cut slick from Pirelli and the Maxton suspension was softened off in case more rain fell. Conrod made a good start off the front row and took the lead almost immediately. At the end of lap one, he had around a one second lead from HM Plant’s John McGuinness. At this point it appeared Conrod was going to power away for the victory but as the minutes passed, the sun got stronger and stronger drying the track and making slicks the tyre of choice. The McAdoo ZX-10R was flying but the softer suspension and inter front were affecting stability in the heat and McGuinness came past towards the end of lap two. From then on Conor hung on to John’s tail and even made a late lunge for victory on the last corner but had to settle for second, his first NW200 podium.

http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1204/169/images/stories/connorcumminsnwpress.jpgNext up came Supersport 600cc race one and the lower grid position proved difficult from the off. Conrod made a decent start but was still down in around tenth at the end of lap one. He got settled into the race and was enjoying riding the Ninja ZX-6R but had lost the tow from the leading pack and eventually ended the race in a solid 8th place.

The Superstock race was a different story. The Manxman had easily qualified on pole and was extremely confident of victory in the class he regularly competes in at BSB level. Perhaps he was too eager to get to the front and streak away for victory though. Conrod made an OK start and was fourth into the first corner but had already moved up to second by York Corner on lap one. He took the lead on the run to Coleraine and had every intention of powering away from the field. However, disaster struck at University corner when he highsided the McAdoo ZX-10R Superstocker and his race was over. The most important thing from the team’s point of view was that Conor was totally uninjured but it was frustrating knowing a victory was very much on the cards. That’s racing. Thanks to the R&G crash bobbins and protectors there was very little damage to the bike itself.
Superbike race two was also disappointing as Conor again felt with the Maxton suspension perfect for the now perfectly dry conditions and a set of grippy Pirelly slicks on the ZX-10R, he could push for victory again. However right from the off Conrod felt the bike wasn’t right and pulled out on lap two with what appeared to be an electrical problem.

The final race of the day was Supersport race two which lifted the spirits again for the team. Another row 4 grid position made it an uphill start for Conrod who was around 14th into the first corner, however, Conrod rode a stormer picking riders off one by one. His race pace was matching the leaders and at half race distance he was catching the pack in front who were scrapping for third. Time eventually ran out and he ended up in 7th place but only 1.1 seconds off a podium position.

Overall perhaps a case of what might have been for Conrod and the team. The Race Techniques-prepared McAdoo Kawasaki machines are all very competitive and Conrod once again proved his ability to run comfortably at the front of international road races. His first NW200 podium on the Superbike continued his run of getting on the Superbike podium at every international race since the 2009 TT, the only rider to do so (TT, UGP then NW200). Next up comes the big one, the 2010 Isle of Man TT in just two weeks’ time.
p gossip

suzukimad07

21st May 2010, 18:15

Keith Amor To Replace Injured Steve Plater At TT

Honda (UK) is pleased to announce that Scottish race ace, Keith Amor, will ride for the HM Plant Honda team at the forthcoming Isle of Man TT, to replace Steve Plater who has been side-lined for the famous annual road race following an unfortunate crash at last week’s North West 200 event, where he sustained a broken arm.
Keith, 38, will partner the legendary 15-times TT winner John McGuinness, to field the two HM Plant Honda Fireblades in the Superbike and Senior TT races - a machine and races Keith is familiar with having ridden Honda Superbikes at the TT since his debut on the Island in 2007.
That year saw Keith take a creditable twelfth place as his best race finish in the Supersport class and also, become the second fastest newcomer ever behind Steve Plater, with a lap of 124.856mph in the Senior.
On only his second visit to the Island in 2008, Keith secured his first podium by taking third place in the first Supersport race. He impressively repeated this in 2009 and also added to his TT podium tally with another third place finish in the Superstock race.
Keith’s determination and talent as a road racer was further displayed at last week’s North West 200, where he won the Superstock race, finished second in the Supersport race and took fourth and sixth places in the Superbike races, riding only his Superstock machine! These results are even more impressive given that this was the first time Keith had ridden a racing motorcycle since September 2009 and also, only recently recovered from back and neck injuries sustained at the end of the 2009 season.
The Scot will ride for the HM Plant Honda team in the Superbike and Senior TT races as #5, but will also compete in both Supersport TT races on a privately entered Honda CBR600RR.

Keith commented, “It’s all a bit surreal but I feel incredibly proud and privileged to have been asked by the HM Plant Honda team to ride for them at the TT and also, stand in for such an incredible rider as Steve. When the team called me I was more surprised than anything and it goes to show how you can never predict anything and how life and fortune can change so quickly. Two weekends ago I was stuck in Italy due to cancelled flights and wasn’t sure I was even going to able to make it to the NW200 to compete, and now I have one of the most sought after rides in the paddock!
“I couldn’t be happier and I’m excited to be going to the TT with such a successful and professional team as HM Plant Honda. It’s obviously not the ideal way I would have wanted to get this ride as Steve is a good friend of mine and I’d rather he was not injured and able to complete, but I want to thank the team and Honda for showing this faith in me, which I aim to try and repay by just doing my best and trying to secure some strong results. The HM Plant Honda Fireblade is arguably the best bike out there and I’m really looking forward to getting out in Practice, just enjoying myself and also riding the best I can for myself, Honda, the team, their sponsors and the fans.”

Manager of Honda (UK) Racing, Neil Tuxworth commented, “We are very pleased that Keith will be riding for HM Plant Honda in this year’s TT Superbike races. When it became evident that Steve would not be able to compete we had calls from a number of riders, but there were a number of factors to take into consideration in selecting the best rider to stand in for Steve. We have complete confidence in Keith’s ability and hunger to perform at the TT, represent Honda and, his road racing experience on Honda machinery and Dunlop tyres is also an advantage. Keith and John have an excellent relationship and camaraderie and team-spirit are so important at an event like the TT. Keith will not have the opportunity to test the Superbike before the first practice session so there will be some set-up work to do initially, but that shouldn’t hinder progress too much.. In an ideal would we would love for Steve to have been able to take his place on the grid, but we believe that we have the best rider in Keith to replace him.”
Steve Plater returned back home to Lincolnshire on Monday having left hospital in Londonderry after an operation on his arm, with that now healing well. However Steve has been experiencing some pain in his shoulder and chest and so will be going back into hospital this afternoon for further x-rays and monitoring to try and establish the cause.

Steve commented, “My arm is feeling ok and is not causing me pain at all really, it’s just other parts of my body! I’ve spoken to a great consultant close to home who operated on my other arm back in 2004 and we agreed that it makes sense for me to go back into hospital for a few days for some scans and monitoring to fully understand what’s causing the pain in the upper part of my body. We suspect it may be a bit of compression in my neck but my priority is finding out what’s causing the pain, working to fix any injury there may be and then getting fit for riding again as soon as possible to try and either keep, or regain, my lead in the British Superstock Championship. My plan is to be at the TT with the team and I’ll be helping out in any way I can, but also want to spend time with race goers in the paddock, maybe be of some benefit with the television commentary and also take part in our ‘off-track’ activities for the team, our sponsors and Honda.
“For sure I’m still gutted to not be able to compete, but I’m pleased it’s Keith who’ll be taking my place as he’s a great rider and good guy and I am sure will do the ride justice. Keith and I started at the TT at the same time in 2007 and he’s been knocking at the door behind me and going from strength to strength so I’m sure with the best team in the paddock in HM Plant Honda and, on the best bike with the Fireblade Superbike machine that he’ll be able to progress even more and pull in some good results for himself and the team.”

Keith Amor, John McGuinness and the HM Plant Honda squad can be seen in action at the TT from Saturday 29 May, when Practice commences, with qualifying the following week leading up to the races spanning Friday 4 to Friday 11 June.

p gossip

suzukimad07

22nd May 2010, 21:18

The 2010 Mid Antrim 150 Road Race will take place on Friday 30th / Saturday 31st July around the roads of Clough Village, just north of Ballymena.

To launch this year’s event, the Mid Antrim Motor Club, Road Racing Section, will have a stand at the Ballymena Show which is held on May 29th in Ballymena Showground’s. The stand will be designed in the shape of a mini paddock and will feature a number of racing motorbikes and personalities.

We invite everyone to come along to our stand where we will have details of the race and the week long activities associated with race week. The official race launch will take place at 2pm with a photo shoot and a few words from the organisers.

For further details contact Derek McWhirter at 07812204382

Mid Antrim 150 People’s Race

In response to a number of requests from supporters of the Mid Antrim150, the club are inviting fans to help support the event by becoming joint sponsors of a race, entitled The People’s Race. We are attempting to find 30 people who as supporters of the race would be willing to donate £50 towards sponsoring a race. In return all involved will be acknowledged in a full page advert in the programme, press releases and our website. If you require more details or wish to be involved contact Derek McWhirter at 07812204382.

Sponsor a Bale

Every year we offer fans of the race the chance to sponsor a bale at the Mid Antrim 150. This was introduced many years ago when straw bales were used as a safety feature on poles etc. However with modern technology, rider safety has been considerably improved by the introduction of foam filled bales called Rectocel Bales. The Mid Antrim Club have been to the forefront of rider safety and along with the MCUI who governing the sport every effort to improve safety at road races including the use of Rectocel Bales is used. To help the club finance rider safety supporters can contribute to our Sponsor a Bale at £10 a bale. Contact Norman Morrow for more details at 07811525623

Race Details

In future press releases details will be given on our Miss Mid Antrim Night and other fund raising events. The Mid Antrim Club are grateful for the support of our sponsors and Ballymena Borough Council but if anyone would like details of the race or sponsorship opportunities please contact Derek McWhirter at 07812204382
rrr

suzukimad07

27th May 2010, 15:00

Title Hungry Laverty Podiums at Cadwell http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1216) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1216&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1216&itemid=169) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1216/169/images/stories/mlavertycadwell10.jpgMichael Laverty used Cadwell Park's undulating curves to his advantage at round four of the British Superbike Championship, forcing his way up the current standings with a brace of podiums on his Relentless by TAS Suzuki.
Laverty is now third in the BSB standings on 101 points, only nine behind second-placed man Josh Brookes with fellow Suzuki pilot Tommy Hill still on top with 146.
Alastair Seeley had a character-building weekend, but after struggling with minor set-up and confidence issues after a slip off during Saturday's Q2 session, the Ulsterman posted solid results inside the top-10 in both races and is seventh in the championship standings on 79 points.
Michael Laverty:
"It's been a good day for me coming away with two podium finishes - an almost perfect day, but as a racer I always want to win and it would have been nice to put the Relentless by TAS Suzuki on the top step. I was suffering with arm-pump today and that sort of spoiled any chance I had of the victory, but I'm happy and we've now moved up to third in the Championship. I also proved that the Oulton win was no fluke and the team has also done an awesome job for me again this weekend. I really believe we have established ourselves as genuine championship contenders."
Alastair Seeley:
"John Reynolds told me weekends like this are character-building and I have to agree. We struggled with set-up early in the weekend and my tip off at Charlie's in qualifying knocked my confidence a bit, but I'm not making excuses. The boys helped me a lot and we made some changes to the bike overnight, which transformed it and helped my confidence. With only three bikes to a row here at Cadwell it makes qualifying so important. I got beaten-up a bit at the start of race one by Brogie; after that I put the hammer down and picked them off for ninth. In race two I got a better start but took a while to get dialled-in, but seventh wasn't so bad and we took six-tenths off my best lap from the opening race."
Philip Neill - Team Manager:
"From a Championship point of view it's been a very good weekend for us. As I've said before, time and time again, I always knew Michael had these sort of results in him and he was never outside the top five all weekend with his times. And but for the arm-pump problems I think he was strong enough to win that first race: However it's good for his Championship.
"Alastair had a tough weekend but to see him progress from the first session where he was a bit off the pace, and having crashed in qualifying, was very pleasing. He also put his confidence in the team to make some radical changes to the bike before the races today and I was personally pleased to see him set his fastest lap of the weekend in the second race, getting down in amongst the times of the top five. We are now looking forward to the next round which comes after the Isle of Man TT where we will be looking for some more success on the roads."
p gossip

suzukimad07

27th May 2010, 17:17

Ulsterman Ryan Farquhar has confirmed that he will race two of his KMR Kawasaki’s at the Manx Telecom Post TT Road Races at the conclusion of the TT Festival on Saturday 12th June 2010
The Dungannon flyer will have his 600 Supersport and 650 SuperTwin machines at his disposal for the immensely popular meeting which is held on the 4.25-mile Billown Course on the outskirts of the Isle of Man’s ancient former capital, Castletown. The 2009 Duke Road Race Rankings Title holder has so far this season been unbeaten in the two national road races he has contested, the Ian Watson Spring National at Oliver’s Mount, Scarborough and the Cookstown ‘100’ in Co Tyrone taking in total six victories from six starts and setting four fastest laps and one record lap in the process.

Ryan already has 17 wins to his name on the Billown Course at the ‘Post TT’ and July’s Southern 100, including the prestigious Solo Championship in 2003 and will be a strong contender to add to his tally of seven victories in the Manx Telecom Post TT Road Races.

Practice takes place between 1.00pm and 4.00pm with racing from 5.00pm, with the roads opening no later than 8.30pm.

Should Saturday’s programme be postponed the meeting will take place on Sunday 13th June between 12.30pm and 7.00pm.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

27th May 2010, 20:31

Suzuki Wins 8 Hour Endurance at Albacete
Team Suzuki's World Endurance Racing Team has taken victory in the Albacete 8 Hours in Spain.

Team riders Vincent Philippe, Freddy Foray and Japanese Superbike star Daisaku Sakai came from the back to win by one lap.

GSX-R1000-mounted SERT took the lead after six hours of racing and finished ahead of Kawasaki Bolliger Switzerland riders Horst Saiger, Patric Muff and Roman Stamm, who now lead the series.

The Suzuki RT Moto Virus of Lucas de Carolis, Eric Mizera and William Grare raced to fifth place ahead of the Suzuki AM Moto Racing's Julien Millet, Anthony dos Santos and Raphael Chevre.

The next round of the 2010 Qtel FIM Endurance World Championship is the 8 Hours of Suzuka in Japan on July 25th.

Albacete Results:

1 SERT (Suzuki GSX-R1000) - Philippe, Sakai, Foray - 295 laps.
2 Bolliger Switzerland (Kawasaki) - Saiger, Muff, Stamm - 294 laps.
3 National Motos (Honda) - Jonchiere, Morillon - 293 laps.
4 Ymes Folch Endurance (Yamaha) - Vallcaneras, Almeda, Rita - 292 laps.
5 Motovirus (Suzuki GSX-R1000) - Decarolis, Mizera, Grarre - 291 laps.
p gossip
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

28th May 2010, 18:00

Lorenzo reveals bike design for TT lap

MotoGP world Championship leader Jorge Lorenzo has chosen the design which will feature on his motorcycle when he laps the Isle of Man TT course for the first time.

The Spanish Grand Prix star is due to lap the Mountain circuit ahead of the 2010 Dainese Senior TT on Friday, June 11, on a Yamaha R1. He will be joined by fellow Spanish GP star Angel Nieto.

Motorcycle News invited readers to submit designs to feature on Lorenzo’s bike, and the Fiat Yamaha rider has chosen the Spartan paintscheme suggested by John Holland of London.

Speaking to MCN Lorenzo said:

“It was a hard choice, because there were many really good designs. The MCN readers are obviously very imaginative!”
“I’m really looking forward to coming to the TT for the first time and riding an R1 on the famous track. Now my bike will look really cool too.”
Mr Holland explained the inspiration behind his WarrioR1 design to MCN.

He said:

“I saw Jorge had a Spartan design on the back of his helmet and I knew it would look aggressive and great on the R1.”
“I think it perfectly sums up his style of riding and I’m chuffed to bits he’s picked my design.”
Tag it:
p gossip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

29th May 2010, 12:46

Plater diagnosed with broken neck
Further injuries from NW200 crash found after HM Plant Honda man developed neck and chest pains

29 May 2010

HM PLANT HONDA man Steve Plater will not be making a pit lane appearance at this year’s Isle of Man TT, after surgeons diagnosed the Lincolnshire rider has a broken neck!

Plater sustained a badly broken arm when he crashed during the Superbike practice session at the North West 200 road race two weeks ago but was diagnosed with the more serious neck injury after he recently developed pain in his shoulder and chest.

A subsequent head scan this week found Plater has a break in his neck between the sixth and seventh vertebrae, which will require an operation.

Steve commented, “I thought by now I’d be well on the road to recovery following the crash at the North West, so this is definitely a set-back. I know I wasn’t feeling right though which is why I went back in to hospital for more tests last week and I’m now just relieved that we know what the problem is, but more so, that it can be fixed.

“The best way to describe the injury is imagine each vertebra is a train carriage and then there’s the link arm in between – well it’s the link bit which is broken quite badly. The very fortunate thing though is that the broken bits appear to have fallen away from my spinal cord, otherwise the picture could have been different."

“I’d like to say again big thanks to all the medical staff who’ve been involved and also everyone who has sent me well wishes. Emails, text messages and cards keep coming and, people have even been sending get well messages to Honda for me and also posting messages on the team’s website and YouTube account! It means a lot so thanks again to everyone. I’ll keep you posted with my progress and look forward to being back out there again soon.” v down

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

29th May 2010, 18:49

The TT's oldest competitor has died.
p gossip

Jackie McCredie was born in 1908 and died in Edinburgh on Tuesday, at the age of 102.

His funeral takes place next week.

Jackie first competed on his Excelsior motorcycle in 1939, and finished 13th out of the 26 competitors.

Throughout his TT career, he stuck to his beloved Excelsior, which is now in a museum in England, with two of his trophies. When the TT resumed after the war, he came straight back to the Island to compete, but didn’t manage to finish the race. A year later in 1948, he came sixth in the TT48 Lightweight and competed in a further four TTs before retiring from racing in 1953.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

NinjaMaster

31st May 2010, 09:46

Shame to hear he's passed on, bet he would've been an interesting chap for a yarn! I love hearing bout those old blokes and spending his career on an Excelsior is awesome. :up: Not quite sure what Ryan Farquhar had to do with him though...

suzukimad07

31st May 2010, 18:08

A day out at Mondello Park Motorcycle Expo a parade lap
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNp8TQcA_T8

suzukimad07

1st June 2010, 11:06

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4656721077_a5b69b2a87.jpg

Waterford’s Brian McCormack finally got his first flying laps of the legendary Mountain Course under his belt in tonight’s first solo practice session. After Saturday’s mandatory newcomer’s lap was held in atrocious conditions with fog slowing the riders to a crawl and with most having to open their visors to see where they were going, tonight’s sessions got under way in clearer conditions.

24 year old ex ISB Champion McCormack fresh from four victories from four starts in the inaugural round of the Mondello Park Championships, set off on the TAG Racing Honda CBR1000RR Superstocker, opting to leave the Superbike in the paddock as he strove to learn the circuit.

Ireland’s fastest coalman set a quickest personal lap time of 107mph from a standing start on lap three to finish his first session on a high. McCormack now has Tuesday’s second solo session to look forward to as he bids to gain further knowledge and improve on his lap times.

McCormack “After the first lap I nearly wanted to go home, but on the second lap I started learning the circuit and got into a bit of a rhythm. At the end of lap two I came in for a pit stop and we figured we were running short on time so added enough fuel for one lap and after a good stop I set a lap of 107mph but had we known we had the time I reckon I could have done a 110mph. Over all I am happy as is it such a steep learning curve here, the mountain section is hard but I am enjoying myself, the TAG Racing Honda and the team were faultless. I’m now looking forward to getting more laps in and increasing my knowledge of the circuit.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

1st June 2010, 11:47

IAN HUTCHINSON SETS THE PACE IN FIRST QUALIFYING SESSIO
A pleasant, dry and sunny day on the Island meant that the 2010 Isle of Man TT Races were able to get underway on Monday and with near perfect conditions all around the Mountain Course, a near full session was completed. With wispy cloud gradually increasing as the day wore on, a slight breeze also helped keep flies to a minimum and, after a slight delay, the first machines were able to set off down Glencrutchery Road at 6.34pm.

Image: Dominic Roebury
Michael Dunlop and Cameron Donald had the honour of leading the field away, the former on his Supersport machine and the latter on his Superstock. They were followed in pairs by Ian Hutchinson and Ian Lougher, Ryan Farquhar and Guy Martin, Gary Johnson and Keith Amor, Michael Rutter and Bruce Anstey and then Adrian Archibald and Chris Palmer, the latter on his Supersport bike whilst Rutter and Lougher were the only other riders to be out on the red plated Superstock bikes. Next to go was John McGuinness and John Burrows, the TT legend setting off, as usual, a few riders from the front, both again on Superbikes.
Cameron Donald completed the first lap at 122.068mph, his first lap since his practice crash at Keppel Gate last year, but Guy Martin was quickest on the opening lap at 125.007mph. Other notable first lap speeds included Hutchinson at 123.160mph, McGuinness at 123.954mph and Cummins at 122.058mph. Michael Dunlop was the quickest on the Supersport machines at 120.199mph. Two riders out of luck though were James McCullagh and newcomer Gary May, both of whom stopped at Douglas Road Corner.
Many of the riders pulled in straightaway including Donald, Amor, Johnson and Dan Stewart but Martin, Dunlop, Anstey, McGuinness and Cummins were just a few of the established runners to go straight through. As expected, speeds increased second time around with Martin increasing to 127.056mph and McGuinness going slightly quicker at 127.090mph. Cummins and Anstey weren't too far behind at 125.748mph and 125.655mph respectively whilst Dunlop was also impressing on the 600 at 123.960mph.
As the session wore on though, it was Hutchinson and Donald who climbed to the top of the leaderboard, the duo continuing on their Superbikes. Hutchy's third lap was 126.867mph but on his fourth and final lap of the evening he put in an impressive lap of 128.302mph to jump to top of the leaderboard. Donald improved to 127.274mph with Archibald at 127.056mph and Anstey on 126.020mph. Meanwhile, Farquhar was impressing on the Superstock machine at 126.799mph whilst Olie Linsdell completed one lap on the Moto2 Honda at 115.02mph.
David Johnson and Stephen Thompson were the best of the newcomers, the Australian lapping at a highly impressive 113.020mph. Thompson was second quickest of the first timers at 109.685mph followed by Brian McCormack at 107.122 and Tony Czyzewski at 106.617mph. Johnson also lapped above 110mph on his 600cc machine, Brandon Cretu the second quickest here on 104.540mph.
In the F2 Sidecars, Dave Molyneux/Patrick Farrance led the field away followed by John Holden/Andy Winkle, Tim Reeves/Dipash Chauhan, Klaus Klaffenbock/Dan Sayle, Simon Neary/Paul Knapton and Conrad
Harrison/Kerry Williams. Holden was first back at 111.323mph and carried on for a second lap whilst Molyneux recorded 108.333mph before pulling straight in. However, it was Klaffenbock who was quickest at 111.324mph and he improved to 111.761mph second time around, Holden also going quicker at 111.576mph. Neary was also above 110mph but Reeves was out of luck stopping at Barregarrow with Greg Lambert pulling in at the Creg and Bill Currie at Appledene.
Overnight rain is forecast but conditions are expected to improve throughout Tuesday so we should be set for another fine session and with speeds already at a high level, more is expected from the leading contenders.
Provisional Times:
Poker Stars Superbike TT
1 Ian Hutchinson (Padgetts Honda) - 128.302mph
2 Cameron Donald (Relentless by TAS Suzuki) - 127.274mph
3 John McGuinness (HM Plant Honda) - 127.090mph
4 Guy Martin (Wilson Craig Honda) - 127.056mph
5 Adrian Archibald (AMA Suzuki) - 127.056mph
6 Bruce Anstey (Relentless by TAS Suzuki) - 126.020mph
Monster Energy Supersport TT
1 Michael Dunlop (600 Street Sweep/Hardship Racing Yamaha) - 123.960mph
2 Guy Martin (600 Wilson Craig Honda) - 121.600mph
3 William Dunlop (600 CD Racing Yamaha) - 121.020mph
4 John McGuinness (600 Padgetts Honda) - 120.289mph
5 Paul Owen (600 #98 Club Yamaha) - 119.222mph
6 Ian Lougher (600 Blackhorse Kawasaki) - 118.799mph
Royal London 360? Superstock TT
1 Ryan Farquhar (1000 KMR Kawasaki) - 126.799mph
2 Michael Dunlop (1000 Hunts Motorcycles/Marlow Construction Honda) - 124.810mph
3 Guy Martin (1000 Wilson Craig Honda) - 124.582mph
4 John McGuinness (1000 Padgetts Honda) - 124.523mph
5 Ian Hutchinson (1000 Padgetts Honda) - 123.459mph
6 Conor Cummins (1000 McAdoo Kawasaki) - 123.456mph
rrr
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s

Rod Richardson

1st June 2010, 22:21

ISLE OF MAN TT RACE SCHEDULE (from http://www.iomtt.com/)

TIME ZONE GMT + 1 HOUR

LIVE TIMING.........http://ttlive.iomtt.com/index.htm

Wednesday June 2
1820-1955hrs – Solo practice
2000-2050hrs – Sidecar practice

Thursday June 3
1820-1955hrs – Solo practice
2000-2050hrs – Sidecar practice

Friday June 4
1820-1955hrs – Solo practice
2000-2050hrs – Sidecar practice

Saturday June 5th
1200hrs - Superbike TT Race 6 laps
1500hrs - Sidecar TT Race 1 3 laps

Monday June 7th
1045hrs - Supersport TT Race 1 4 laps
1415hrs - Superstock TT Race 4 laps

Wednesday June 9th
1045hrs - Supersport TT Race 2
1315hrs - Sidecar TT Race 2 3 laps
1630hrs - TT Zero Race 1 lap

Friday June 11th
1230hrs - Senior TT Race 6 laps

The schedule is subject to change – please listen to the Official TT Radio service during the festival for updates.

suzukimad07

3rd June 2010, 15:34

McGuiness States His Case with 130mph Lap http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1244) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1244&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=273) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1244&itemid=273) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1244/273/images/stories/johnmcguinessttpractice102.jpgGorgeous sun and blue sky met the competitors for Wednesday evening’s practice session and conditions were perfect for the third night of the 2010 Isle of Man TT Races. Indeed, the biggest problem was going to be the ever present Manx population of flies who were again out in force!
Riders were warned of a few damp patches at Quarry Bends and Governor’s Bridge but with close to ideal conditions, it was almost inevitable that the 130mph would be broken and so it was but, surprisingly, only by John McGuinness on his second lap.
It was William Dunlop and Bruce Anstey who got the session underway promptly at 6.20pm, the Northern Irishman on his 600cc machine and the Kiwi on his Superbike. Following them were John McGuinness and Michael Dunlop, Ian Lougher and Cameron Donald, Keith Amor and Daniel Kneen and Adrian Archibald and Carl Rennie, all Superbike mounted with the exception of Kneen who was out on his 600.
McGuinness was the first to complete a lap at 129.265mph with Anstey and Donald not too far behind at 127.915mph and 128.011mph respectively. Michael Dunlop, Lougher, Amor and Archibald were all above 126mph but Guy Martin was close to McGuinness’ pace at 129.145mph, Ian Hutchinson also going well at 128.018mph.
Second time around and McGuinness really showed his class with a lap of 130.242mph, Hutchinson increasing his speed to 128.735mph and Archibald to 128.618mph. Martin had called in to the pits at the end of his first lap but got no further than Quarter Bridge on his second before pulling off, eventually going back out on his Superstock bike. Davy Morgan was also in trouble retiring at Sulby Bridge.
McGuinness and Hutchinson both swapped to their 600cc Supersport bikes, the latter going second quickest on the night with a lap just over 125mph. It was that man Michael Dunlop who was quickest here and he was marginally faster than Hutchinson at 125.087mph. Meanwhile, Amor posted an impressive time on his BMW Superstock bike at 127.525mph.
Most of the riders were able to get back out for a fifth lap and Hutchinson went back out on his Superbike recording a lap of 129.164mph to go second quickest on the night. Amor was close to 128mph on the HM Plant Honda but Ryan Farquhar was flying on his Superstock Kawasaki and a lap of 128.076mph saw him go quickest, that speed also the Northern Irishman’s fastest ever lap of the Mountain Course, albeit unofficially.
Conor Cummins posted a late lap of 127.010mph with Gary Johnson also having a better run after problems earlier in the week, the AIM Racing rider lapping at 126.488mph, just quicker than Dan Stewart, who also recorded his fastest ever lap.
The newcomers again continued to make good progress and this time it was Stephen Thompson who was quickest at 115.114mph. Herve Ganther and James Hurrell both lapped in excess of 111mph with Clinton Pienaar also over 110mph for the first timer whilst former British 125cc Champion Dan Cooper impressed on the 600cc Suzuki at 111.026mph.
Brian McCormack, Scott Wilson and Paul Shoesmith were all involved in an incident at Waterworks but were reported as OK, Jenny Tinmouth’s bike ended up in a hedge at Sulby Bridge, Takahiro Itami came off at Braddan Oak, Brendan Cretu at Nook and Steven McIlvenna at Governors Bridge but all were reported as OK. In the Carl Fenwick’s passenger Keir Pedley sustained leg injuries at Cruickshanks and was taken by airmed to hospital.
Provisional Times:
Poker Stars Superbike TT
1 John McGuinness (1000 HM Plant Honda) – 130.242mph
2 Ian Hutchinson (1000 Padgetts Honda) – 129.164mph
3 Guy Martin (1000 Wilson Craig Honda) – 129.145mph
4 Adrian Archibald (1000 AMA Racing Suzuki) – 128.618mph
5 Cameron Donald (1000 Relentless by TAS Suzuki) – 128.011mph
6 Keith Amor (1000 HM Plant Honda) – 127.925mph
Monster Energy Supersport TT
1 Michael Dunlop (600 Street Sweep/Hardship Racing Yamaha) – 125.087mph
2 Ian Hutchinson (600 Padgetts Honda) – 125.020mph
3 John McGuinness (600 Padgetts Honda) – 123.128mph
4 William Dunlop (600 CD Racing Yamaha) – 122.639mph
5 Conor Cummins (600 McAdoo Kawasaki) – 122.554mph
6 Adrian Archibald (600 AMA Racing Yamaha) – 122.300mph
Royal London 360? Superstock TT
1 Ryan Farquhar (1000 KMR Kawasaki) – 128.076mph
2 Keith Amor (1000 WA Corless/Jackson Racing BMW) – 127.525mph
3 Guy Martin (1000 Wilson Craig Honda) – 127.503mph
4 Ian Lougher (1000 Blackhorse Kawasaki) – 126.216mph
5 Cameron Donald (1000 Relentless by TAS Suzuki) – 126.012mph
6 Michael Rutter (1000 HM Plant Honda) – 125.495mph
p gossip

suzukimad07

5th June 2010, 16:01

TT Tough Times For Dunlop http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1249) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1249&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=273) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1249&itemid=273) http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1249/273/images/stories/williamdunlopttpractice10super.jpgWilliam Dunlop ended Practice for the 2010 Isle of Man TT Races slightly bewildered with Dunlop having to revert to a standard spare engine for his Chris Dowds Supersport 600 machine, after Dunlop blew his Supersport engine during Wednesday nights practice.
An unstable Superbike has hampered his moves up the leader board, while his Superstock CD Racing Suzuki, is good enough for Dunlop to make it into the top ten, depending on whether or not the track conditions stay dry during race week.

William Dunlop: "Its been a very frustrating week, especially after the engine blew on the 600. The CD Racing R6 Yamaha was really flying and I think I was on for a 124mph lap when she called enough on the run over the mountain on my second lap during Wednesday practice. We got a spare engine into the bike, but it was soon clear that we where about 20mph down on speed through the Sulby speed trap, and that was with me ringing the neck of the bike. I managed to get a 123.621mph lap on her on Friday evening practice, but there is no way you could keep that up for four laps round here. We will just have to take it as it comes. As for Saturdays TT Superbike race, well I think a finish would be a good result, as we have experienced problems with the Superbike all week. Hopefully the weather will stay dry during race week, and we can all have a good race in all the class's, but like I said before, if its damp, I will not be riding over or above my capabilities".
p gossip

suzukimad07

5th June 2010, 16:33

Broken Leg, out for 3months !

suzukimad07

5th June 2010, 20:15

Superbike
1st Ian Hutchinson

2nd Michael Dunlop

3rd Cameron Donald

suzukimad07

6th June 2010, 17:40

Dramatic opening race sees Hutchy take Superbike win http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/pdf_button.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1252) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/printButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1252&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=273) http://www.paddockgossip.com/templates/rt_versatility_iii/images/emailButton.png (http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1252&itemid=273)
http://www.paddockgossip.com/content/view/1252/273/images/stories/superbikettrost.jpgIan Hutchinson won a drama-filled and heavily delayed PokerStars Superbike race today. The Padgetts Honda rider came home over 33 seconds clear of Michael Dunlop with Cameron Donald clawing his way back from 13th to claim third. Manxman Conor Cummins seemingly had the race in the bag and, after a stunning opening lap of 131.511mph, just a whisker outside the outright lap record, had a commanding 21 second lead at the end of the fourth lap but problems at the second pit stop saw that whittled down to four seconds and he was soon reported as a retirement at Laurel Bank.
Heavy mist in the Douglas area saw the original 12.00pm start time pushed back to 3.30pm and when it did finally get underway, mist still lay on the bottom two miles of the course. Fifteen time champion John McGuinness forged an early lead, the HM Plant Honda rider holding a slender 0.08second advantage over Cummins at Glen Helen with Hutchinson and Donald in third and fourth. However, McGuinness was reported touring along the Sulby Straight eventually given as a retirement in the same spot but that mattered little to Cummins who was by now setting a ferocious pace.
A stunning opening lap of 131.511mph gave him an eight-second lead over Hutchinson with Guy Martin, Adrian Archibald, Dan Stewart and Ian Lougher close behind but Donald had overshot at the Nook and lost a lot of time, rejoining the circuit in 13th at the end of the first lap.
Lap 2 and Cummins continued to extend his advantage while Hutchinson, now the leader on the road, was edging clear of Martin in the battle for the remaining podium positions. Cummins’ second lap was again in excess of 131mph with Hutchinson and Michael Dunlop also above 130mph, the Northern Irishman now up to fourth behind Martin. Archibald was holding on to fifth with Lougher in sixth and Donald already having climbed back up to seventh. Meanwhile, Stewart had dropped to ninth and lost more time at the pits, dropping outside of the top ten.
The new pit-lane speed limit had already claimed its first victim with Carl Rennie receiving a 30-second penalty but with a 20-second lead, Cummins was controlling affairs from his signals with Hutchinson pulling further ahead of Martin, the latter named circulating in close formation with Dunlop. Archibald was still well in contention in fifth with Donald now ahead of Keith Amor on the sole surviving HM Plant Honda for sixth. Lougher was now in eighth with Ryan Farquhar and Bruce Anstey completing the top ten at half race distance.
Cummins held a near 22-second lead when he came in to the pits for his second pit stop with Hutchinson now a similar distance clear of Martin in second, Dunlop, Archibald and Donald still occupying the top six. However, Cummins’ McAdoo Kawasaki refused to fire when he left the pits and his advantage was disappearing rapidly, down to four seconds when he eventually got going. Martin was also in trouble, the second high profile rider to receive a 30-second penalty and this dropped him back to fifth, Archibald and Donald now moving up to third and fourth respectively.
There was more drama in store when Cummins failed to go through Glen Helen on the fifth lap and news eventually filtered through that he’d stopped with mechanical trouble at Laurel Bank, cruel luck for the Ramsey rider. This handed the lead to Hutchinson and with a commanding 50-second lead, the Bingley rider was on course for his fourth TT victory and he duly completed the last two laps to complete an excellent ride, also becoming another rider to join the exclusive 130mph+ club.
Martin was second on the road but still fifth on time whilst just behind him Dunlop, Donald and Amor were having a ferocious short-circuit style dice on the roads, the battle allowing the Australian to overhaul Archibald for the final podium place. At the chequered flag, Dunlop secured a brilliant second place on the Robinson Concrete/Street Sweep Honda, less than 10 seconds clear of Donald. Martin eventually took fourth, the time penalty costing him second place, with Archibald and Amor rounding out the top six, the last named the fastest man on the final lap at 129.608mph.
Lougher completed a strong ride in seventh place with Michael Rutter doing likewise on his Superstock-spec Bathams Honda in eighth. Stewart regrouped for ninth with Farquhar completing the top ten on his MSS Colchester Kawasaki, Anstey one place further back in 11th.
Dan Kneen kept the local flag flying in 12th just ahead of Ian Mackman whilst Davy Morgan stole an early march in the race for the Privateer’s Championship in an excellent 14th place, Stephen Oates, Jimmy Moore, Paul Dobbs and James McBride filling the top five positions in this new Championship that recognises the efforts of privately funded teams and riders
p gossip

suzukimad07

7th June 2010, 10:53

Dunlop
Great to see a Dunlop on the podium again

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH1GEDpu8ns (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH1GEDpu8ns)

#3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)

suzukimad07

7th June 2010, 15:09

Ryan Farquhar secured a top ten finish in Saturday's opening Superbike TT race when he finished in 10th place on the MSS Colchester Kawasaki. The Dungannon ace had made further adjustments to the ZX-10R in preparation for the race and was able to set his fastest ever lap of the Mountain Course (in race conditions) on his way to yet another top ten result.

Image: Stephen Davison - Pacemaker Press International

After heavy mist in Douglas delayed the start of the race by three and a half hours, it eventually got underway at 3.30pm and Ryan was soon blasting his way down towards Bray Hill. Making good progress on the opening lap, a speed of 127.903mph saw him slot in to a solid eighth place, just over three seconds adrift of fifth place. On the second lap, Ryan was pushed back a place by regular sparring partner from the Irish roads Keith Amor, a position he maintained on lap three.

As the race wore on, the handling troubles that Ryan had suffered in practice returned and he was unable to run at the pace that he had done on the opening two laps and, by the end of lap 4, he had slipped back one more place to 10th. Nevertheless, another 126mph+ lap on the final circuit saw Ryan hold on to his position and he was able to pick up another silver replica for his efforts, also being the first Kawasaki rider home.

Speaking afterwards, Ryan said, "It's good to get a finish on the Superbike and although the bike wasn't handling as I would have liked, we brought the bike home. On the smooth sections of the course, the bike was spot-on but through the bumpy stuff it was a real handful and difficult work. I was hoping to finish in the top 8 but the changes we'd made to the bike didn't quite work out whilst I also caught a few backmarkers in the wrong places, which lost me a bit of time, and I had a huge moment on the first lap at the end of the Mountain Mile. I went through the corner on exactly the same line and at the same speed as normal but the front just tucked under and I was lucky to stay on - my eyes went about three times bigger than normal! When I went through there on the second lap, there was a huge black line from where I'd lost it but we held on and I was pleased to get to the finish. Monday will, hopefully, see me closer to the front so let's hope today's my worst result of the week."

Ryan has two races on Monday when he'll be riding his own KMR Kawasaki's in the 4-lap Superstock and Supersport races.
rrr
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go21aXxgW8s)