MACKENZIE AND HOBBS HEAD UP “SCOTS” TO TAKE ON A RECORD ENTRY OF SUPERBIKE ALL-COMERS AT KNOCKHILL
Knockhill Racing Circuit is bracing itself for a racing invasion of a record 247 riders from all over the world as it plays hosts to the MCE British Superbikes ADT Fire & Security round this weekend. Ten countries, from as far away as Japan, Australia, South Africa and the USA are represented. Top bike racing stars taking on the best from Scotland and from all corners of the UK.
Heading up the Scots who are all set to do battle are Tarran Mackenzie, son of three times Superbikes Champion Niall Mackenzie and brother to current Moto GP 125 star Taylor. Taylor will be present too at Knockhill having just put in a stunning ride at the Moto GP at Silverstone last weekend finishing 12th overall.
Tarran (middle) with Brother (Taylor) and (Dad Niall)
Tarran (15), who now lives in Ashby De La Zouch, is returning after his eventful last outing at Knockhill in May. The diminutive school boy had a 90mph tumble at the first corner, then brushed himself down and followed up his crash with a podium ignoring a broken finger in the process. What made the podium all the sweeter was that father Niall and his brother Taylor where presenting the awards trophies.
“Adopted” Scot, Dennis Hobbs, originally from the North East, has the shortest journey to the Circuit as he now lives in Kelty. The Superbike EVO racer, who is a regular bike instructor at Knockhill and married to Knockhill Events Manager Gemma, only has a 10 minute journey to the track, compared to his world wide rivals.
Scottish interest in this year’s event is intense, with all four corners of Scotland represented by eager competitors. Events Director Stuart Gray said:
“We are delighted that so many Scottish riders have entered this weekend. It gives a real local focus for the thousands of fans and will ensure the Saltires will be flying for every race. It is a World class field but, who knows, it could be a Scot on the top step of the podium for a race or two.”
The 3 day event starts this Friday with testing, qualifying, including an F1 style elimination session for the Superbike riders. 4 races are scheduled for Saturday 18th, and the main race day is on Fathers Day, Sunday 19th.
The 3 day event will also see added entertainment courtesy of world stunt champion Kevin Carmichael, who will be performing routines all weekend. On Saturday and Sunday fans get the opportunity to meet the world BSB stars with a pit lane walk during lunchtime.
The event starts at 10am on Friday, 9am on Saturday and 8.45am on Sunday, with the Sunday gates opening at 7am. Discount advanced tickets are available on www.knockhill.com and tickets are also available at the gate on each event day.
Scottish competitors for this weekend:
MCE SUPERBIKES
Dennis Hobbs – Kelty
EASTERN AIRWAYS BRITISH SIDECARS
Gordon Shand and Lee Barratt – Kilwinning
Steve Kershaw and Robin Wilson – Lauder
Scott Lawrie and James Neave – Kirkliston
Jim Hamilton and Bryn Ferry – Leslie
HARLEY DAVIDSON XR1200 TROPHY
Bruce Birnie – Montrose
Adam Blacklock – Lanark
Lewis Farrow – Perth
Alex Gault – Carluke
Torquil Paterson – Scone
METZELER SUPERSTOCK 1000cc
Donald Macfadyen – Inverness
METZELER SUPERSTOCK 600
Deane Brown – Motherwell
John Dean – Hawick
Niall Campbell – Cambuslang
Jodie Chalk – Glenrothes
James East – Royston
Tim Hastings – Bonnybridge
Scott Kelly – Annan
Daniel Kinloch – Newton Mearns
Matthew Paulo – East Kilbride
FUCHS –SILKOLENE SUPERSPORT
Adam Blacklock – Lanark
David Paton – Loanhead
SUNOCO 125GPs
Jason Douglas – Larkhall
Sammi Tasker – Clackmannan
Callum Bey – Huntly
Ryan Watson – Angus
Tarran Mackenzie – Ashby De La Zouch
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
Allann – Jon Venter – South Africa
Billy McConnell & Paul Young – Australia
Ryuichi Kiyonari – Japan
John Hopkins & Jake Zemke – USA
Patric Muff – Switzerland
Loris Baz – France
Matteo Mossa – Italy
Farid Badrui – Malaysia
Steve Heneghan – Ireland
Sandra Stammova – Slovakia