TT 2013: Brookes becomes fastest ever newcomer
British Superbike rider Josh Brookes overtook Steve Plater to become the fastest ever newcomer at the Isle of Man TT in Sunday's Superbike race.
The 30-year-old Australian rider lapped at a stunning 127.726mph on his sixth and final lap of the 37.73-mile Mountain Course to shatter Plater's previous best newcomer lap of 125mph set in 2007.
Brookes, last year's BSB championship runner-up, finished tenth overall in his maiden TT race to cap an impressive debut.
"I knew that last lap was fast and I really enjoyed it, but this place is so much more physical than I thought it would be," he said.
"There are so many factors that you have to consider like a full tank of fuel down into places like Quarterbridge and getting caught up behind other riders, but I have massive respect for this place.
"I think I deserve a beer tonight after that. My Tyco Suzuki worked really well, as did the Metzeler tyres.
"Thanks to all the boys for a big effort."
Tyco Suzuki team manager, Philip Neill, said he had 'aged ten years' following the race.
"What can I say about Josh Brookes - 125mph was amazing but to then jump to 127mph on the last lap is some effort," he said.
"He's really enjoying himself but we have to keep it realistic. A top ten in the Superbike TT with only one top rider dropping out is a phenomenal effort, although I think I've aged ten years today watching that."
