Ryan Farquhar

Racing
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Farquhar aiming even higher in 2010

By Gary Pinchin -
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.”

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/**/ Relentless Suzuki Set For Easter Debut <A title=PDF onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1058’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1058” target=_blank>PDF <A title=Print onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1058&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1058&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169” target=_blank>Print <A title=E-mail onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1058&itemid=169’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=400,height=250,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1058&itemid=169” target=_blank>E-mail Written by Administrator 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.”

3

Racer Awards 2010 - Adelade insurance

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

Adelade Racer Awards 2010

Adelade Racer Awards 2010

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A Seeley, W Dunlop 2day eurosport2 live 330

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Top 10 Legends <A title=PDF onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=511’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=511” target=_blank>PDF <A title=Print onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=511&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=511&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170” target=_blank>Print <A title=E-mail onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=511&itemid=170’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=400,height=250,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=511&itemid=170” target=_blank>E-mail Written by Administrator 1) Joey Dunlop MBE,OBE 5 Time World Formula One Champion

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.

p gossip

6

An exhibition of road racing images in aid of Manx Grand Prix Supporters Club Helicopter Fund and Rob Vine Fund<IMG title=Roads-Closed-An-exhibition-of-road-racing-images height=200 src=“http://bikeracenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Roads-Closed-An-exhibition-of-road-racing-images-300x200.jpg” width=300 onload=resizeThis(this) border=0>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

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7m3lF7GeMI

brn

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12:30 Eurosport2 Honest !!!

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William Dunlop Gets 6th at Brands <A title=PDF onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1086’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1086” target=_blank>PDF <A title=Print onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1086&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1086&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=170” target=_blank>Print <A title=E-mail onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1086&itemid=170’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=400,height=250,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1086&itemid=170” target=_blank>E-mail Written by Administrator 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

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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!”

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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

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

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Michael Dunlop coaxed back into Cookstown 100 meeting

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”.

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Stormont - Venue for the launch of Armoy / Kells Championship <A title=PDF href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1102” target=_blank onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1102’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;”>PDF <A title=Print href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1102&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169” target=_blank onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1102&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;”>Print <A title=E-mail href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1102&itemid=169” target=_blank onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1102&itemid=169’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=400,height=250,directories=no,location=no’); return false;”>E-mail 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

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Seeley Takes Brands Podium <A title=PDF onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1085’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1085” target=_blank>PDF <A title=Print onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1085&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1085&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=169” target=_blank>Print <A title=E-mail onclick=“window.open(‘http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1085&itemid=169’,‘win2’,‘status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=400,height=250,directories=no,location=no’); return false;” href=“http://www.paddockgossip.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=1085&itemid=169” target=_blank>E-mail Written by Administrator 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
15

Great to hear all this news, but please quote your sources if this is not your own article.

:wink:

16

Keith Amor signs up with KBMG Racing for the 2010 road racing seasonAfter 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.p gossip

17

Japanese MGP OFF Volcano dust !!!We will watch flyin ryan at cookstown insteadhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPkzPDlhsP4&feature=related

18

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.

Words: Phil Wain - Freelance PR

Photo: Stephen Davison

19

Athea Officially Cancelled 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

20

looks like the recession strikes again,shame.

thanks for updating us,keeps us posted