British
Superstock Championship rider Ian Mackman is the latest in a long line
of talented young riders signalling their intent to take part in the
2007 Isle of Man TT Races.
The Oxford-born rider, now residing in Runcorn, made his mark in the MRO
400cc Championship finishing 7th overall in 2003 before going on to
clinch the title a year later. He immediately made the move to the
1000cc machines finishing an excellent 6th in the ultra competitive
British Superstock Cup Championship. In 2006, Ian progressed to the
British Superstock Championship proper against the likes of John
McGuinness, Ian Hutchinson and Les Shand getting quicker and quicker
throughout the season and advancing his race craft even further.
Ian will revert back to the British Superstock Cup in 2007, where he
will go into the season as one of the favourites, as well as hoping to
make his TT debut riding in all four solo classes. He will be riding a
2006 GSXR1000 Superstock machine along with a brand new 600cc Triumph
supplied by employer Bill Smith Motors.
Speaking about his TT debut Ian said:
“I have always been a big fan of the TT so I’m delighted to be in a
position to make my debut. Adding the TT to my schedule has proved to
have had a considerable impact on both current and potential new
sponsors, ensuring I will have all the necessary back up to be
competitive and also allowing me to concentrate on my riding. My trip
over to the Island at the end of last year was invaluable and it was
great to receive such expert tuition from Richard Quayle and Davy
Morgan. The experience will stand me in great stead and I’m aiming on
having a good learning year at this year’s races with a view to
continuing for many years ahead.”
TT Riders Liaison Officer and former TT and Manx Grand winner Richard
Quayle commented:
“Ian is a really talented rider and having him commit to the TT is a
terrific boost to the line-up. Working with Bill Smith, he’s well versed
in what the TT entails and when he visited the Island for a few days
last year I was really impressed with his attitude and professionalism.
He’s totally focused and doing plenty of preparation in readiness for
his TT debut so I have no doubt that he will acquit himself excellently
and be a feature on the entry list for many years to come.”
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