TAS Suzuki confirm Donald out of the 2009 TT
Two-times TT winner Cameron Donald is out of the 2009 Isle of Man TT, his team has confirmed.
The Australian, who on Thursday evening became the fastest person ever around the Mountain circuit, crashed during the final practice session on Friday.
Just 24 hours after lapping at an average speed of more than 131mph, Donald slipped off his Suzuki GSX-R1000 Superstock machine at Keppel Gate.
A statement from the TAS Suzuki team explained the Melbourne resident missed a gear, forcing him to run wide onto the grass.
He did his best to stay on-board, but eventually crashed on the uneven surface, dislocating his left shoulder and suffering a minor back injury.
Team principal Philip Neill confirmed the crash had ended Donald’s involvement in this year’s TT.
He said:
‘We’ve certainly been brought down to earth with his incident. Thankfully Cameron wasn’t seriously injured, but is obviously disappointed to be out of this year’s TT.’
‘Bruce Anstey has also had a phenomenal practice week on his stable of GSX–R machinery, and is quietly confident of adding to his TT tally.’
‘We will continue to give Bruce everything he needs, and hopefully our close knit team can put a smile on Cameron’s face with a Relentless Suzuki win.’
The first race of the 2009 TT, the Dainese Superbike TT, was due to take place today (Saturday), but has been postponed due to the weather. An announcement will be made at midday about the possibility of racing taking place on Sunday.