By Riding on the crest of a wave, Peter Hickman’s majestic start to the 2017 MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix continues, by topping the time sheets in a thrilling opening Supersport qualifying session.
Lapping at 126.086 mph, the two times Macau GP winner edged out long time pace setter Bruce Anstey, by just 0.084 of a second, to seal provisional pole position.
Photo by Rod Neill
Outside of the TROOPER Triumph racers heroics, Silicone Engineering Racing’s Dean Harrison (125.641) showcased his proven Supersport quality in finishing third quickest, in front of fellow prominent class exponent, William Dunlop (125.475).
Recently crowned Irish road race Supersport champion Derek McGee (125.269) fifth fastest, was the only remaining rider to lap at over the 125 mph mark around Dundrod.
Lee Johnston making a popular return to competition, was sixth fastest, as Michael Dunlop, Conor Cummins, Radcliffe’s Racing’s Jamie Coward and rising roads star Adam McLean wrapped up the top 10 in Q1.
Joe Thompson, quickest in Dundrod 150 National/Challenge qualifying, continued his accomplished Dundrod debut, by finishing 16th quickest.
MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix – Supersport Q1 Results:
1 Peter Hickman 126.086
2 Bruce Anstey 126.036
3 Dean Harrison 125.641
4 William Dunlop 125.475
5 Derek McGee 125.269
6 Lee Johnston 124.873
7 Michael Dunlop 124.738
8 Conor Cummins 124.279
9 Jamie Coward 123.872
10 Adam McLean 123.771
11 James Cowton 123.408
12 Christian Elkin 123.194
13 Paul Jordan 122.783
14 Ivan Lintin 122.721
15 Dan Cooper 122.599
16 Joe Thompson 121.701
17 Sam West 121.534
18 Gavin Lupton 121.256
19 Dan Hegarty 121.081
20 Michael Sweeney 121.022
Words by Stevie Rial
