News

News 6th August 2007 - Ulster Grand Prix 2007 - Iceman Trophy

Well here we are again at the UGP. A year has passed since we witnessed Guy Martin blaze his way to 4 victories in a memorable meeting.

It was also memorable for the big likeable Belgian, Patrik van Gils, whose performances last year earned him the Iceman Trophy. This Trophy is awarded in memory of Joakim Karlsson, a Swedish rider who first tasted real road racing at the famous Dundrod circuit in 2004. Sadly Joakim lost his life during a practice session at the 2005 TT races.

He is still much missed by the many friends and fans he met in his all too short association with real road racing in this country and the Isle of Man and this is demonstrated by the generosity of the sponsors who contribute annually to this Trophy which is created in his name and is presented to the ‘best performing Foreign Rider – non UK/Irish race licence holder’

As the proud project leader of this Trophy, I would like thank all the previous sponsors of this, and the NW200 and TT Iceman Trophies, but in particular, a special thanks to this year’s UGP sponsors who are:

Allan Frew (Annandale design), Noel Johnston (Nibbles catering), The Dundrod & District Motorcycle Racing Club, Trevor Lindsay and John O’Neill (John O’Neill Racing)

These friends of Joakim help to keep Joakim alive among us all in providing this year’s cash prize award which will see £1,000.00 being presented to the best performance at the UGP by one of these far travelled racers.

Here’s hoping the weather and the racing are top notch for this hard working club and everyone’s dreams are achieved and all competitors return safely after treating us mortals to the ‘best show on earth – at the UGP’

John Hope
Iceman Trophy Project Leader