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Learning curve: Ulster Grand Prix newcomers Paul Williams, Eoin O'Siochru, Nadieh Schoots, Don Gilbert, Ryan Dixon,
Marc Antoine, Stephen Degnen, Mike Norbury, Jamie Williams and Craig Neve join Clerk of the Course Noel Johnston
and MCUI instructors Stephen Ferguson and Michael Swann during an induction day at the circuit
Ulster Grand Prix Clerk of the Course happy to help the new faces get up to speed at Dundrod
Organisers of the MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix have staged a special information session for racers who hope to compete at the world famous Dundrod circuit for the first time this August.
A group of 10 riders from across the UK, Republic of Ireland, France and Netherlands took part in a half-day training session led by MCE Ulster Grand Prix Clerk of the Course Noel Johnston and MCUI accredited trainers Michael Swann and Stephen Ferguson, both experienced riders.
The event, which was funded by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, aimed to fully brief this year's newcomers on what they can expect when they arrive to compete in the world's fastest road race.
Clerk of the Course Johnston said:
"The Dundrod circuit is technical, it's fast and it demands respect. Even the most experienced riders who are regular visitors to Dundrod understand how imperative it is that they re-familiarise themselves with the circuit each time they visit.
"We have made significant changes to the event this year, both to ensure continued growth and to enhance safety.
"Under these changes, attendance at this information session by those new to the race has been made compulsory. If they wish to compete they need to do their homework. The session also serves as a bit of a recce for participants, giving them the opportunity to ask questions about what is required to successfully compete here."
The newcomers who attended the training event were Marc Antoine (France), Eoin O'Siochru (Ireland), Ryan Dixon (England), Stephen Degnan (England), Craig Neve (England), Nadieh Schoots (Netherlands), Jamie Williams (Isle of Man), Mike Norbury (England), Paul Williams (England) and Don Gilbert (England).
Johnston added:
"On behalf of the Ulster Grand Prix I would like to extend our thanks to Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council for supporting our firm stance on safety and for subsequently providing the funding required.
"I am confident those who took part are equipped for safe and successful riding in August and wish them the best of luck."
This year's UGP Bike Week will run from August 5-11.
John Hutchinson
Ulster Grand Prix Clerk of the Course happy to help the new faces get up to speed
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