Young Motorcycle Racer of the year competition almost complete

The year long search for the Masters Superbike Championship 'Young Rider of the Year' is almost complete as it reached its climax last Saturday October 29th at Mondello Park with the final shoot out between the six nominees.

Aaron Armstrong

Aaron Clifford

This unique award scheme was introduced this year by the championship promoters and is backed by Mondello Park circuit owner Martin Birrane and Jim O'Brien of Bishopscourt. The award has additional support from Dawn International, AJ Plumbing Supplies, Pat Duke and Oxford Products.

Throughout the season a single rider has been chosen from each of the six masters events and those riders will now come together at Mondello Park for the final. The nominees come from five different classes within the championship. Robert English is the only Superbike competitor nominated and he will be joined by two riders from Supersport, Luke Johnston and Jason Lynn, Aaron Clifford from the Supersport Cup, Aaron Armstrong from Supertwins and the youngest nominee Rhys Irwin from the Young Guns Championship.

Jason Lynn

Luke Johnston

During the final the nominees will be assessed on their riding skills and approach, interview abilities and overall presentation. Each rider will take part on their own bike and their riding, set-up knowledge and ability, and overall approach to racing will be assessed by two of Ireland's most experienced racers Jeremy McWilliams and Jim Halligan. Off track the nominees will be required to present their achievements to date and their future plans to representatives of the competition organisers and will also have their media skills scrutinised by an independent PR consultant in a separate interview.

Robert English

Rhys Irwin

Immediately following Saturday's final the riders scores were collated by the judges and the winner will be announced at the Masters awards night on Saturday November 12th. The winning Rider will receive a support package for 2017, consisting of financial backing and riding equipment worth up to €15,000.