Having just watched Jorge Lorenzo overcome the pain barrier in order to gain some valuable points for the championship, it reminded me of Michael Dunlop at Dundrod last year when he was virtually crippled with pain, but he got painkilling injections before racing so he could chase for his holy grail – these guys are a different breed altogether and deserve all the respect that is afforded to them.
This year, the Dundrod 150 race will be backed by Topaz Airport Road service station, a family run business that have been great supporters to us over the years.
We are looking forward to having Cameron Donald back on the grid at Dundrod. He was absent last year as he returned home to Australia after the TT. Cameron is flying the flag for local team owner Wilson Craig and looks set to be a real contender in all classes.
This year also marks the 50th Anniversary of the Ulster Grand Prix supporters club. Formed in 1963 by Des Jardin, it has been the backbone of the UGP ever since. If I could make an appeal for everyone attending the Ulster Grand Prix this year to call and see the guys situated beside the Grandstand and give them financial and moral support for the wonderful job that they do.
As well as giving us £20,000, the UGP Supporters Club also sponsor the Sam Glass for the best newcomer in the 2nd Superbike Race.
We are hosting our official launch of the Metzler Ulster Grand Prix 2013 today so look forward to a few stories filtering through the press in the coming days.