Paul McClung, one of the rising stars of Scottish bike racing has earned a dream opportunity to race in the Ducati TriOptions Cup at the Knockhill round of the MCE British Superbike Championship, when the prestigious series comes to Scotland from 27-29 June.
The eighteen year old, has impressed in every class he has raced in since his debut season in 2009. McClung can also boast a number of Scottish titles to his name, having won Scottish Championships at F125, Mini Twin and Superstock 600 levels.
Niall Mackenzie, Knockhill Motor Sports Club President and Ducati TriOptions Ambassador, had no hesitation in nominating McClung for the ‘Guest’ Ducati ride, having seen first-hand some outstanding performances from the youngster during race events at Knockhill.
Niall said:
“Paul certainly has all the right traits to be a successful bike racer. Year on year he has improved his pace and fine-tuned his race craft, to a level, which l felt warranted a ride on the Duacti at his home round. I know he’ll enjoy riding the 899 Panigale and he will also gain some valuable experience in a field of high quality riders.”
Alongside his Ducati Tri Options Cup ride, McClung has also entered the Pirelli National Superstock 600 race at Knockhill. A busy schedule will see him take to the track 11 times over the course of the weekend; with practice, qualifying and 3 races to compete in. McClung has previous British Championship racing experience at the Fife track, having raced in the same Superstock 600 class back in 2013, qualifying 12th out of 50 riders and running as high as 6th place before mechanical issues forced him to retire.
Paul said:
“I’m really looking forward to the event, and more so now that l will also be riding in the Ducati TriOptions Cup. It’s a real honour for me to be nominated by Niall and hopefully l can repay that faith with some solid results at Knockhill.”
Niall Mackenzie added:
“In my role as KMSC President, l’ve seen the progress Paul has made over the past five years. As a Club, the KMSC are always looking at ways to support up and coming young talent and l’m delighted that l was able to help Paul with this opportunity. Having a Scottish rider in the high profile Ducati Trioptions Cup will be a great addition to the Knockhill BSB weekend so I hope Paul has two successful races.”
Alongside the Ducati TriOptions Cup and Superstock 600 races, the bike racing event will also welcome five other racing Championships to the Fife venue. Topping the bill however, will be the MCE British Superbike Championship, arguably the best domestic bike racing series in the World.
Tickets for the event can be booked online via the Knockhill website, or by calling 01383 723337. On the day tickets will also be available at the gate throughout the weekend (27/28/29 June).