Following a record-breaking lap at the Isle of Man TT, Bruce Anstey has his sights set firmly on continuing the theme in August’s Metzeler Ulster Grand Prix.
The 44-year-old Kiwi broke teammate John McGuinness‘ previous lap Mountain Course record to become the first man to ever break the 132 barrier, lapping at 132.298mph, adding to his record of 133.975mph around the Dundrod circuit.
Anstey has enjoyed a strong International road race season so far, taking his Valvoline Padgetts Honda to four podiums and a win, a run of form he hopes to continue at the Ulster GP on the HRC superbike, superstock and supersport machines.
“I’ve been feeling really good on the roads so far, and it was great to grab a win at the North West,” said Anstey. “The young guys are getting faster and faster so I suppose I’m the experienced hand these days, but when it comes places like the TT and the Ulster Grand Prix it’s all about experience anyway, so I think it’ll hold me in good stead. The Padgetts bikes are always really good and my team have been great, so hopefully we can be back on the top step at the Ulster. A 134mph lap would be a bonus too!”
“It’s been four years now since Bruce set the lap record at the UGP but with the times being so fast at the TT I wouldn’t be surprised if we finally see it broken in 2014,” added Clerk of the Course at the Ulster Grand Prix, Noel Johnston, speaking at the official announcement that Lidl Northern Ireland will sponsor the Ulster Grand Prix for the third successive year.
“Michael Dunlop and Guy Martin will no doubt be on the pace but it’s hard to look past Bruce to beat his own time. There’s a reason he’s been on the podium at every Metzeler Ulster Grand Prix since 2002 and I’d expect the same consistency and speed as always from him.”
