TT stars reflect on mixed fortunes in Macau
Friday 21 November 2008
TT
Isle of Man TT stars Conor Cummins and Keith Amor have been reliving the highs and lows of an amazing Macau Grand Prix.
The pair were riding for the AIM Yamaha team at the awesome end-of-season street race and experienced mixed fortunes during the event.
Keith took victory in the Supersport 600 class, but Manxman Conor was forced out with mechanical problems while running in a strong third place on the Team of Paris AIM Yamaha R1.
Despite the disappointment, 22-year-old Conor could take consolation from a stunning qualifying – he took pole position with a record-breaking lap around the 3.8-mile circuit.
The incredible lap had raised hopes Conor could battle for victory, and at the start he was in a strong position. His dreams turned to disappointment when the bike developed a mechanical problem, causing him to retire on lap eight of 20.
Conor said:
‘I was really chuffed with pole and couldn’t quite believe it to be honest!'
'It was the first time I’ve ever used a qualifying tyre so it was all a bit new, but our race pace was also very good and I felt really strong going in to the race.’
‘I was really disappointed with the start I made, but I got up fourth fairly quickly and with Cameron (Donald) going out I was soon up to third. (Stuart) Easton and (Michael) Rutter were only just ahead of me and I felt very comfortable and was confident of pulling them in. But the bike suddenly felt like it had gone on to three cylinders and I had to pull in. The bike was flying up until then so it's a real shame but it's been a great experience and even better to make pole in just my second time here.’
Meanwhile, Falkirk rider Keith began the race as fastest Supersport 600 rider for AIM Yamaha and despite being held up by a first lap crash involving two other riders was able to negotiate his way through the back markers unscathed.
Amor gradually worked his way forward and eventually moved into first place in the Supersport battle. He pulled away from the pursuing riders to take the class win by over 25 seconds, also claiming a fine 11th place overall.
Keith said:
‘I had a feeling it was going to be a bit tricky going in to the first corner so I hung back a wee bit to stay out of trouble and, although I was held up by the crash, it paid dividends.’
‘I think I was fourth from last by the time I got going again and my first pit board said “P3 –8” so I knew I had to get my head down.’
‘It was a hard race with the heat being so high, but the bike was an absolute missile and the team worked so hard, giving me a great bike. I’d over-revved the engine in practice so I had to make a few changes to the settings on the bike, but it all worked perfectly and I really enjoyed myself this week.’
‘I’ve got to say a big thank you to Alastair Flanagan for giving me the opportunity this week and to everyone at AIM Racing and Dunlop for all their support.’