British riders at the front for the 40th Macau GP

Raceline Photography
By blue2bikes
November 17 2006

The 40th Macau Grand Prix is certainly one not to be missed, as three British riders take up the front row. Michael Rutter threw down the gauntlet during the first qualifying session, taking a very comfortable 2.2-sec lead over his rivals in readiness for the race tomorrow, Saturday 18th November.

Michael stated, “I have it all to do with Steve and John behind me, but some of the younger up and coming guys are nutters.” Michael is aiming to become the most successful rider of all time at the Macau circuit, having equalled the most wins by any rider - six wins, held by ‘Rocket’ Ron Haslam - last year.

© Raceline Photography

Ian Hutchinson, also aboard a Stobart Motorsport Honda 1000, was second fastest; with Steve Plater, aboard the AIM Racing Yamaha 1000, making up the front row. John McGuinness, who is expected to be Michael’s biggest challenger, is in fifth position, three seconds adrift of Michael.

Could this turn out to be one of the best Macau Classic Grands Prix in history, as Michael has a score to settle with Steve - after Steve took his first ever double podium earlier in the year at the North West 200, where he beat Michael on both occasions - or will Steve be Michael’s downfall yet again?

Michael has been a dominate force at Macau, and is desperate to take the laurels again in his bid to become the most successful rider in its history. Rumours have been circulating that Michael may well return to road racing next year, and another win here would prove all those doubters of his ability just how good he still is.

Whatever the result on this tight, fast city circuit, it takes more than bravado to keep tight lines, and definitely the heart of a lion to win. Whoever wins it will be electrifying to watch - all the best to Michael in his quest, and I hope that, come tomorrow, the best man will have certainly earned it.

Top ten qualifiers:
1 Michael Rutter
2 Steve Plater
3 John McGuinness
4 Ian Hutchinson
5 Guy Martin
6 Stuart Easton
7 Jeremy Toye
8 Thomas Hinterreiter
9 Les Shand
10 Stephen Thompson