By 19 times TT winner Michael Dunlop made a positive start to his latest British Championship tenure, by leading the International road racers challenge from today’s Pirelli National Superstock 1000 Championship practice sessions.
An under the radar entrant aboard the DC Racing S1000RR BMW, the three times Senior TT King placed a very creditable seventh quickest overall post the opening Group A Superstock 1000 practice stints.
Just over six tenths of a second down on Dunlop’s (1.38.741) pace was Ashcourt Racing’s Damon Rees (1.39.410 – 12th fastest) whilst Macau GP, North West 200 legend, seven times TT winner Michael Rutter (1.39.663 – 14th fastest) also nudged below the sub 1 minute 40 seconds barrier.
Added Mountain Course regulars in action at a mixed weather impacted Oulton Park included Bob Smith Spring Cup podium finisher, 22nd fastest Mike Norbury (1.41.914), Dafabet Racing’s Rob Hodson (1.42.350) and WH Racing’s Julian Trummer (1.46.011).
Group B Superstock 1000 competitors wise, 16 times TT winner Ian Hutchinson (1.38.978) firmly led the roads fraternity brigade, showing solid, accomplished form on route to finishing overall 13th quickest.
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
