William Dunlop heads to the MCE Ulster Grand Prix with his eyes on the prize – especially the tasty accolade of winning the Superbike race.
He’s won seven times at the Dundrod circuit in the past, and is determined to make that eight. As he heads to the the world’s fastest road race, his eye is most keenly on a Superbike win.
“I’m heading to the Ulster hoping to get five good finishes but it’s the Superbike that I’m really going for. I know I’m capable but where the bike is going to be is a bit unknown right at this moment.
“We’ve a few new parts coming over the next couple of weeks, a test coming up this week and I’ve got Armoy as well to get things ironed out.
“I’m confident we’re going to cure the problems we’ve been having and if we do I think I could be an outsider for the Superbike. It’s the one everyone wants and the one everyone remembers and it’s the only one I haven’t won at Dundrod. It’d be great to have the complete set,” he added.
“I was really disappointed with fourth on the 600 at the TT but I’m confident I can better that result at Dundrod. I know on a 600 I’ll either win it or lose it on the last corner and that’s the only thing I’m a bit worried about.
“Overall though, the circuit suits my riding style and I’m always happy and comfortable being there. It’s an international that feels like a national event and I love that about it.”
Dunlop’s seven win total is nothing to be laughed at, and the fact that he sits just two wins behind his dad Robert Dunlop’s total makes things that bit more special.
“It’s a strange thing to think about equalling my dad’s record anywhere, because I always rated him as one of the best. I’m now sitting one above my dad at Walderstown but that doesn’t make me a better rider. It’s a different set of circumstances too, as he was injured for half of his career. It’s nice though, seeing my name up there with his.”
During the launch of the event, Dunlop also announced his renewed sponsorship deal with Whitemountain Centra Service Station, who will back the Supersport race once more.
