Irwin delighted with good season

The Carrick rider was in superb form during Saturday’s sprint race, beating Seeley to the line by 0.202 seconds, and in Sunday’s race he was only 0.206 seconds behind his great rival.

“It has been such a good season for me this year,” said the former Larne Grammar pupil. “Our expectations at the start were podiums and I have managed to win five races and gain seven podiums, so it’s been fantastic.”

“Both races at the weekend were difficult as the conditions yesterday were really tricky, the track becomes so greasy in the wet here and I knew I really had to keep my focus on doing a good job. I made a few mistakes but was able to catch Alastair and pass him it was great to take another win.”

He added: “In the second race all three of us Alastair, Luke Jones and myself, were battling for the podium and were strong in different places and all of us were pushing hard for the win.

“It was another good weekend for the Gearlink Kawasaki team and I thank them for everything they have done for me this season it has been so good.

“Everyone in the team have worked so hard to gain the results we have and I hope next year I’ll be back in British Supersport and able to push for the championship.

“Thank you to everyone that has supported me this season: the fans, the sponsors and my family.

“It’s been great and I can’t wait for next year already.”