It certainly wasn’t the way the Armoy Club wanted to celebrate their 10th anniversary but, like all outdoor events, you can plan for 12 months but you are always at the mercy of our weather and have to deal with what you get.
I know only too well! 10 years ago we had a total wipe-out on the Saturday morning and, although we were all totally devastated at the time, you have to look on the bright side, move on and come back stronger.
On Sunday past we had our second newcomers induction day with 7 riders attending from as far away as Spain, Germany and Japan. It turned out very well and the feedback from the riders was that it was beneficial. That’s what makes it all worthwhile.
In total we have 14 newcomers this year. We could have had 35 but we decided to keep the numbers down and give as much advice and tuition possible to the smaller group which will carry on throughout Bikeweek.
I have had a lot of people contacting me to ask what time the Thursday races kick off. After practice there will be a short break to give the riders a breather but I am aiming for just before 4pm if all goes to plan. Don’t leave it until the last minute! Get there early, BBC Radio Ulster will be broadcasting live from 3pm.
It is only a matter of days now before the riders start arriving at the Dundrod paddock and what a buzz there will be about the place. To some it’s a dream come true to race at the world famous Dundrod circuit; to some it’s the place to come and finish off the season on a high with solid results; and to others it’s enough to come and race the fast flowing circuit, and simply live the dream.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery to Delta Alpha Alistair MacSorley and Graeme Campbell