UNDAUNTED by a high speed crash, Guernsey motorbike rider Phil Guillou has no qualms about competing on one of the world’s fastest road race circuits. He will be back on his bike for Ireland’s largest outdoor sporting event, the International North West 200, which will attract crowds in excess of 150,000.
Only last month he escaped serious injury and walked away from a 95mph crash at Brands Hatch on his £35,000 Yamaha machine in the MotorStar British 250 Grand Prix Championship.
A doctor’s examination allayed fears of a broken neck - no fractures, just whiplash and muscle injuries.
He has spent about £4,000 repairing his bike and will be taking it for testing and racing at Snetterton this weekend.
‘I’m happy to be getting back on it,’ said Guillou.
The record speed on the Irish triangular nine-mile circuit was 201.1mph by Michael Rutter in 2005.
Its runs between the towns of Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine - an area of outstanding natural beauty and home to the world famous Giant’s Causeway.
‘It’s the biggest sporting event in the British Isles and I’m seeded 11th out of 38 competitors in the 250s.
‘Top 12 would be a good result - it’s got the best road race riders in the world there,’ said Guillou.
‘Last year I was the fastest through there and this year I’m hoping for better.’
Qualifying takes place next Tuesday and Thursday before the big five-lap race on Saturday.
He is taking local mechanic Paul Price to both events.
Article posted on 4th May, 2007 - 12.00am
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