The Ducati TriOptions Cup comes to Knockhill for the first time as part of the MCE British Superbike event on 27/28/29 June. Up to thirty Ducati 899 Panigale and 848 machines will blast around the 1.3 mile track, all with that unmistakable Ducati sound.
The unique roar of the 148hp Panigale will no doubt be music to some Scottish race fans ears; but with the prospect of so many being on track at the same time, we are expecting an influx of Ducati fans to see the Italian Superbikes in action.
Hobbs is gunning for more podium success this weekend!
One man in particular, who cannot wait for the action to start is Dennis Hobbs. Dennis, a Knockhill instructor and Commentator, only lives a matter of minutes from Knockhill and has potentially done more laps around Knockhill this year, that what the entire Ducati field will complete this weekend; including warm up, practice and qualifying sessions.
Hobbs, a vastly experienced Superbike rider, joined the London based P&H Mororcycles team this year and has already piloted their Ducati to 2 podiums this season. Hobbs currently holds 2nd place in the Championship standings and he reckons he is arriving at Knockhill at just the right time.
Hobbs #25 aboard his P&H Motorycles / Carl Cox Motorsport Ducati 899 Panigale
“Am l favourite this weekend?
“I guess in a way, given that it’s a track l know so well; but rest assured, it won’t take the rest of the pack long to work out the quirks of Knockhill.
“Times will be very tight this weekend, a number of the boys have already tested up here this year; and some more than once. So they will be very quick from the word go.
“I know I’ll have my work cut out for me, but l’m confident that l might be able to squeeze a tenth here and there. Let’s hope that’s enough to give me a win or two come Sunday evening,” said Hobbs.
Leon Morris #2 and Sean Neary #10 will be looking for Ducati podiums
A few other riders to look out for this weekend include Leon Morris, the current Championship leader. Marty Nutt, the defending Champion will also be keen to rain on Dennis’ parade, whilst Sean Neary is one of those who have tested at Knockhill multiple times this year. Crossgates brothers, Sean and Greg Gilfillan know Knockhill very well, after several years of competition in Scottish and Knockhill Motor Sports Club Championship racing.
Elsewhere, young Haddington racer, Paul McClung has bagged a ride on the Ducati ‘Guest’ bike and it will be very interesting to see how he equips himself, against a very competitive field. There’s high hopes for this young man, already a multiple Scottish Champion at only 18 years of age. McClung bagged the ride with the help of Ducati TriOptions Cup ambassador, Niall Mackenzie and he reckons the youngster has bags of potential.
McClung ready and willing for Ducati TriOptions Cup guest ride!
The Ducati TriOptions Cup will take to the track 6 times over the weekend, with the opening race set to take place on Saturday 28th June and the feature race taking place on Sunday 29th June. You can find out more about the Ducati TriOptions Cup via their official website.
Make sure you come along to see Dennis and other local lads race against a top-notch field at the MCE British Superbike event from 27th to 29th June. Tickets for the event can be purchased in advance via the Knockhill website (pre-booking discounts available) and will also be available on the gate over the weekend.
Friday: Adult £5, Concession £3, Family £13 and under 12s FREE
Satuday: Adult £15, Concession £9, Family £39 and under 12s FREE
Sunday: Adult £32, Concession £18, Family £82 and under 12s go FREE
Weekend: Adult £35, Concession £19, Family £70
Pre-book tickets now online via the link or call 01383 723337