By Thursday race week action on the world-famous coast roads is set to look more than a touch different in May, following striking new schedule alterations from North West 200 organisers.
After the second timed qualifying sessions, it’s the Super Twins that will open NW200 race action during the afternoon whilst an additional Superbike encounter featuring the likes of Glenn Irwin, Alastair Seeley, Dean Harrison, Peter Hickman, Conor Cummins opens Thursday evening’s competition.
Photo by Rod Neill
Superstock, Supersport races follow and like the aforementioned Super Twin, Superbike races will run over a four-lap distance. Roads around the Triangle course are then anticipated to re-open from 9:00 PM.
Speaking about the Thursday race week schedule revisions, Event Director for the North West 200, Mervyn Whyte stated:
“We have listened very carefully to the teams and riders who have lobbied for a Superbike race on Thursday.
This new schedule will allow the superbikes to compete in a sprint type race ahead of Saturday’s two longer events, providing more track time and a greater spectacle for everyone involved.
From the spectator’s point of view it will be exciting to see every class and all of the top riders in action on Thursday.”
Here’s a full run down on how the whole Qualifying/Race schedule is looking for this year’s much anticipated FonaCAB & Nicholl Oils North West 200.
12th May Tuesday:
Roads close 09:15 AM – 3:15 PM
Newcomers practice
Supersport first qualifying
Superbike first qualifying
Super Twins first qualifying
Superstock first qualifying
14th May Thursday:
Roads close 09:15 AM – 3:15 PM
Super Twins second qualifying
Superbike second qualifying
Superstock second qualifying
Supersport second qualifying
Super Twins Race 1 – 4 laps
Races:
Roads close 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Superbike Race 1 – 4 laps
Superstock Race 1 – 4 laps
Supersport Race 1 – 4 laps
16th May Saturday:
Supersport Race 2
Superbike Race 2
Super Twins Race 2
Superstock Race 2
Superbike Race 3
Lap distance for races to be confirmed. Roads closing time still to be announced.
Words by Stevie Rial, quotes via https://www.northwest200.org/
