'Unreal': Rhys Irwin takes the lead in British Superbike Supersport Championship

Rhys Irwin has roared into the lead of the British Superbike Supersport Championship.

The Kilmacrennan rider moved into top spot after a spectacular weekend at Knockhill in Scotland,

Friday’s practice sessions were on wet-patchy conditions, but Irwin got into a rhythm and was never far from the front.

Grey skies dawned on Saturday and the dropping temperatures and increased wind posed problems for tyre choice and bike set-up.

With two qualifying sessions due to the large numbers of racers, Irwin was pipped for the front row in the last seconds of the session leaving him P4 with 0.9 secs between the top four racers. 

Race one saw a rapidly drying track with a promise of rain and Irwin got a good start to move to the front, passing the reigning champion Jack Kennedy to take a hard fought victory.

Race two saw driving rain but with the Championship in mind, Irwin raced a safe race and took his Suzuki across the line in fourth place - and into the lead of the British Superbikes Supersport Championship. 

Read next: Cara Laverty and Fintan Dewhirst confirmed for European U23 Championships

“I had an unreal weekend,” Irwin beamed. “I won here in 2023 so I knew I could do it on a dry track but the conditions this weekend were unpredictable. 

“To beat Kennedy who is one of my childhood heroes for the win just means so much to me and then to move into the lead of the Championship is just a dream. 

“I would like to thank the team, this was a hard weekend, and I especially want to thank all my supporters that travelled over to Scotland to support me - but not forgetting those who continue to help me that weren't here enjoy the lovely Scottish weather. This would not be possible without all the help.”