Road Racer Cam Donald confirms BSB return

After announcing his season on the roads has been extended, Australian star Cameron Donald will return to the British short circuit scene this weekend for a 'test' session.

Relentless by TAS Suzuki has confirmed two-time Isle of Man TT winner Donald will race in the 1000cc National Superstock series when the BSB championship moves to Knockhill this weekend.

Team boss Philip Neill said the intention is to give the Australian more time on the Suzuki GSX-R1000 superstock machine as he prepares for road race meetings later in the year. Although it makes the meeting essentially a test session for Donald, Neill said the rider could still do well.

The team endured a tough TT, struggling to find a good set-up during race week. The only highlights were a podium finish for Donald in the Superbike race and a podium for teammate Bruce Anstey in the Senior TT. A lot more had been expected of one of the TT's most successful teams, especially with two race-winning riders and in the year Suzuki marks its 50th year of international racing.

Donald has extended his road race programme this year with a last minute entry for the Isle of Man Southern 100, which runs on the 4.25-mile Billown circuit from July 12 to 15. On his debut appearance at the Southern in 2006, Donald emulated the great Joey Dunlop to win the prestigious Solo Championship first time out.

Injury and other commitments have meant Donald hasn't returned to the Southern since, but this year he will line up against other leading road racers - including Guy Martin - in the field.

He is also due to ride at the Adelaide International Kells Road Races in County Meath, Ireland, on July 17 and 18.

Donald said:

"I'm really excited about getting over to a BSB round as I still love to get involved in short circuit racing, and I'd like to thank Philip and the team for giving me this opportunity."

"My last outing in the BSB Superstock class was at a wet Oulton Park last year, but I've raced at Knockhill before and I like the circuit. It's technical and tricky; a bit like my local circuit at home in Melbourne and more importantly it gives me some extra time on the Superstock Suzuki."

"I'm going to keep it simple this weekend and have some fun, but I'm also here to give it my best shot - so hopefully the weather is kind to us."

Team manager Neill added:

"Our idea is to keep Cameron as sharp as possible, and giving him some extra track time on our Superstock GSX-R1000 at Knockhill will stand him in good stead for the forthcoming races at the Southern 100 and Kells Road Races."

"Since we came back from the TT, Cameron has shown a huge desire to get back out on our bikes, and on his day he's no mean performer on the short circuit scene."

"There will be no pressure on him this weekend, and some extra miles on the Superstock bike will also provide the team with important set-up information, should we decided to take in any other races this year."