Rhys Irwin to compete at Daytona 200

Donegal motorcyclist Ryhs Irwin has landed the chance of a lifetime with an invite to compete at the Daytona 200.

The 20-year-old Kilmacrennan man will compete in the famed event on Daytona Beach, Flora this weekend.

The 57-lap (two-hour) race attracts seasoned racers from all round the globe.

Irwin got the phone call that every racer dreams of with an offer to race at the most famous and challenging event on the race calendar in the Golden State.

“I am just over the moon,” Irwin said.

“I can't stop smiling since I got confirmation that I am racing in Florida. It is just a massive world event.”

Irwin will be the only racer from the Republic of Ireland and he's relishing the task.

He said: “Obviously my team believes in me but I have no illusions that this is one of the biggest challenges I have had.

“It's a whole new bike manufacturer that I won't have the chance to test in advance of the race so I will be going into FP1 expecting to make many changes, but for next weekend I just want to try and keep my nerves in check and enjoy the experience.

“I have to take this opportunity to thank all those who have made this possible and I will let you all know how it goes.”