Donald races to first TT win.

In scorching weather, the 2008 Isle of Man TT saw a scorching first race as Australian Cameron Donald stormed to his first ever TT win, taking victory in the Dainese Superbike TT.

He was followed home by Relentless by TAS Suzuki teammate Bruce Anstey, a little over 10 seconds behind, and Suzuki-mounted Adrian Archibald in third.

After an untidy start, Guy Martin led the field away on his Hydrex Bike animal Honda, followed by Manxman Conor Cummins and Padgett’s Honda rider John McGuinness.

After getting away late, Martin soon showed his determination, smashing the Superbike lap record on the first two laps. McGuinness had looked threatening before pulling in at Glen Helen with mechanical problems.

There was more drama on lap four as Martin ground to a halt in Sulby. That left the TAS teammates battling for victory around the world-famous Mountain circuit.

Kiwi Anstey maintained the pressure on his young teammate, but Donald held on to claims his first TT at the end of the six laps.

Speaking afterwards Donald said:

‘It is going to take a little while to sink in. The win just hasn’t quite sunk in yet, it is an amazing feeling.’


Anstey, enjoying his first Superbike result for some time, added:
‘The Superbikes this year are the best we’ve ever had.’

And Archibald, who still enjoys some support from TAS, said:
‘It is good to be back on the podium.’

Gary Johnson came in fourth, followed by Ian Lougher and Ryan Farquhar. Keith Amor, Daniel Stewart, Carl Rennie and Steve Plater rounded out the top 10.

Cummins was halted by mechanical problems on the Mountain section.


Provisional Finishing List

Full Race Results - Lap by Lap