By Adequate conditions all round greeted racers for the inception of Open race qualifying at the KDM Hire Cookstown 100.
Initial Group A pace setter was BE Racing In Conjunction with Richardson Kelly Racing’s Michael Browne, setting a first timed lap of 1 minute 29.590 seconds.
This was soon bettered by new PreZ Racing signing Paul Jordan, who moved 0.066 in front of Post TT Supersport winner Browne.
Dairy farmer Browne then jumped back to the top of the live timing screens after recording a sub 1.28 seconds lap time (1.27.797).
The fastest Oliver’s Mount Scarborough newcomer of 2019, moved further clear post his sixth timed lap, registering a new personal best time of 1:27.692 seconds.
Adam McLean fresh from Junior Superstock 600 action at Snetterton, led the chase to Browne, lapping at 1:29.315 seconds.
Aforementioned PreZ Racing runner Jordan placed third quickest, 1.798 in arrears to Open Group A qualifying leader Browne.
Early Group B qualifying proceedings were soon curtailed when red flags entered the horizon around the respected Orritor Circuit.
Post a moderate delay timed action was back underway and Skerries Michael Sweeney quickly showed extremely accomplished form.
Sweeney’s fifth timed lap saw him lap at 1 minute 26.348 seconds, which not only gave him a commanding advantage not only in terms of group b exponents but also in terms of overall qualifying.
One lap later and Sweeney had nudged into the 1.25’s, lapping at 1 minute 25.970 seconds.
This proved more than enough for the twice Junior Manx GP Champion, to wrap up Open race qualifying honours, as he showcased why many regard him as favourite for feature Cookstown race spoils.
Lead chaser within group B to the reigning Duke Road Race Rankings Champion was welcome real roads returnee, Noel Williamson Racing’s Shaun Anderson (1.29.735), who finished overall fifth fastest.
Lincolnshire newcomer David ‘Action’ Jackson impressed on route to finishing fourth quickest group b exponent, seventh speediest overall behind Andy Farrell, the aforementioned Anderson, Jordan, McLean, Browne and Sweeney.
Photo credit: Rod Neill
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
