Ulster GP: Mercer and Coward in at RC Express Racing

Steve Mercer and Jamie Coward will form the Devitt RC Express Racing squad for next week’s Ulster Grand Prix with both of the team’s usual riders out injured.

Ivan Lintin and Alan Bonner will both miss this year’s Ulster Grand Prix through injuries sustained in separate incidents at Oliver’s Mount and the Southern 100.

Coward already has experience with the team having subbed for Bonner at Scarborough two weekends ago, while Mercer moves into the squad for the first time after his Jackson Racing outfit opted to miss this year’s Ulster GP in order to prepare for the final round of the 2017 Endurance World Championship at Oschersleben later this month.

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“The Ulster is certainly one circuit that I enjoy and it’s great that I will be able to make the event now thanks to RC Express,” said Mercer.   

“Alan (Jackson) and the team have been supportive towards the decision for me to ride for RC Express.  I’m a racer at the end of the day and this was also an opportunity to continue the form shown at this year’s TT, as well as gain some valuable time on the bike ahead of the next endurance round with Jackson Racing”, added Mercer. 

“RC Express certainly produce a winning package and Ivan has shown what can be achieved, so I am hoping I can do him and the team justice on his bike.  I’d certainly like to thank Ben (Constable) for the opportunity and also the understanding that has been shown from my team (Jackson Racing) in allowing me to race.”  

Coward added: “Riding under the RC Express banner and on board their machinery, will give me that added confidence for the race that I need and ease some of the pressure I have whilst operating as a privateer.  My best chance will certainly be on the 600, but I also feel that with a strong superbike, something I’ve not had previously, I can certainly be up at the sharp end in that class.  I’ve worked hard for this and certainly aim to make the most of the chance that I have been given by Ben and the RC Express team.”

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