Ellison tops 2022 North West 200 rookie list

Former MotoGP and BSB star James Ellison will make his roads debut at the 2022 Fonacab North West 200 in May.

Kendal’s Ellison, a runner-up in the BSB series in 2009, was to make his first appearance on the famous 8.9-mile triangle circuit in 2020 before the Coronavirus pandemic hit.

The 41 year old, who has also successfully competed in World Supesport, World Endurance and AMA racing, will return to make his first appearance between the hedges on May 8-14.

“I have been watching onboard laps every morning. Station corner seems daunting and I think it will blow my mind. The rest of the circuit looks fun too and I can’t wait to get there,” said Ellison.

Ellison will share a garage on the coast road circuit with Brad Clarke who will also make his North West debut. Ellison is the manager of Clarke’s Powerslide Suzuki BSB squad. A former British Superstock championship runner, the 40 year old will ride a GSXR Suzuki in the stocker events in May.

“I want to come and do a good professional job with the team although most of the expectation will be on James rather than me,” Clarke said.

“I just want to be competitive and go home in one piece!” Cookstown’s Gary McCoy was the only local rider amongst the six newcomers getting their first view of the Triangle course today. The 26 year old, who was the only rider to beat Alastair Seeley during the 2021 USBK Supersport series, will ride a Ryan Farquhar prepared Kawasaki in the Supertwin races and a Michael Dunlop-built R6 Yamaha in the 600cc events under the MadBros banner. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do since watching the North West as a youngster.” McCoy said. “It’s the biggest event in Ireland that everyone goes to. It will just take a bit of time to get used to.” Julian