Hizzy tributes dominate Oulton Park

Round nine of the British Superbike championship was dominated by the memory of reigning champion Steve Hislop, who died in a helicopter crash on July 30, with tributes to the rider taking place throughout the weekend.

The Rotary Norton that Hislop rode to victory in the TT in 1992 was on display in Garage One with the flowers that had been laid at the gates of the circuit placed around it. A book of condolences was also available to sign.

Former team-mate Stuart Easton, who comes from the same town as Hislop, rode the Norton in a tribute around the track after officially opening the new ‘Hizzy’s’ chicane, which has replaced Knickerbrook corner (click the link on the right for the full story).

Easton dedicated his second place in the Supersport race to the memory of his former team-mate and childhood hero.

The Norton was also placed at the front of the grid before the start of race one for a minute’s silence in tribute to Hizzy.

All flags at the circuit, including a St. Andrew’s flag, were flown at half-mast all weekend and riders wore black armbands and ‘Hizzy 1’stickers for both races.

Fans also gave a good send off to the two-times British champion with many putting up Hizzy banners and laying flowers as a mark of respect.

Knockhill, the only British Superbike circuit in Scotland, will also be renaming one of its corners in memory of Hizzy but further details are not yet available.

A memorial fund has been set up in Hizzy’s name. Anyone wishing to send a donation should make cheques payable to Steve Hislop Memorial Fund and send them to Steve Hislop Memorial Fund, c/o Cartersport, PO Box 150, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 3WZ.

To add your tribute to Hizzy or to comment on this story, click the link on the right to go to our BSB discussion board.