By Although the weather at times was unpredictable with rain showers, producing a mixture of wet and damp conditions, world class qualifying action was still more than evident today, on day 1 of the 2017 Armoy Road Races.
Piloting for the first time the Site Sealants B&W Racing ZX-6R Kawasaki Derek McGee mastered fully wet conditions around Armoy, to secure Supersport pole position.
Photo by Paul Hawkins
Nearest challenger 125/Moto 3 pace setter Adam McLean, was over two seconds behind the “Mullingar Missile”.
Evolution Camping backed Paul Jordan finished third quickest, whilst Michael Dunlop endured a low key qualifying session, finishing seventh fastest.
William Dunlop was a notable non starter from qualifying, with his Supersport steed, the IC Racing/Caffrey International YZF R6 Yamaha undergoing changes for the upcoming MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix.
Looking towards the ultra competitive Super Twins class, McAdoo Racing’s James Cowton dipped under the 1 minute 55 second mark to top the time sheets over fellow anticipated front runners McGee and McLean.
The Kilham based rider showcased again today why he is regarded amongst the leading exponents of 650 machinery, within the real roads scene.
Joe Loughlin as at Skerries, Walderstown and Faugheen dominated the Junior/Senior Support qualifying sessions, which also saw Stephen McKeown, David Howard and event newcomers Shirlaws Motorcycles backed Marc Ironside and Chris Cook impress.
Heading the popular Classic 250, 350 and 500 classes respectively where Richard Ford, Barry Davidson and Ed Manly.
Words by Stevie Rial
