Russian road racer hopes to make history at Cookstown 100 in September | Race still on but could be impacted by new Covid-19 restrictions

The Co Tyrone race was postponed from April as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, but the organisers hope the event will take place from September 11-12 after previously receiving the go-ahead to run the race under strict Covid-19 protocols.

However, new virus restrictions are due to come into place in Northern Ireland as a result of a rise in coronavirus cases, which could potentially thwart plans for the race.

Health Minister, Robin Swann and NI Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride have said changes to the current Covid-19 rules were likely.

The minister said he will be making a number of recommendations to Stormont ministers when the executive meets on Thursday.

Road racer, Krasniuk, from St Petersburg, and his team plan to embark on their travels on August 26 in order to abide by the current compulsory 14-day quarantine rule upon their arrival.

He made his debut at the Manx Grand Prix in 2019, lapping at over 106mph around the Mountain Course.

Krasniuk would then have a few days to familiarise himself with the 2.1-mile Orritor course before practice on Friday, September 11.

Riding a 600 Honda, he is due to compete in the Senior Support class at Cookstown, which would be the only Irish road race to take place in 2020.

It would certainly be a road race like never before, with numerous measures put in place to guard against the Covid-19 threat.

A limited number of spectators, who obtained admission wristbands by purchasing an online package, will be directed towards 10 designated fan areas around the course. No movement will be permitted between races.

The number of officials, marshals, medics, team members and press and photographers has also been significantly reduced in what has been deemed the ‘new normal’ for the sport.

Further details of entries are expected in the coming weeks, although the line-up will include the Burrows Engineering/RK Racing team of Paul Jordan and Mike Browne.An Irish short circuit meeting is also set to go ahead next month on September 5 at Kirkistown in Co Down, promoted by the Belfast and District Club.

The Cookstown 100 is scheduled to take place on the same weekend as the Gold Cup meeting at Oliver’s Mount, Scarborough.

Last weekend, the English venue hosted the first road race of the year with the Barry Sheene Classic meeting, where Northern Ireland’s Lee Johnston and his good friend Dean Harrison were in dominant form.

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