While the decision to move the TT 2017 Superbike race to Sunday has undoubtedly been the right one, it's also an unfortunate one for James Cowton as the McAdoo Racing rider will be forced to miss the six-lap race.
Team owner Winston McAdoo's religious beliefs mean that his machines never race on Sundays, something that all of his riders have been made aware of upon signing. And although naturally disappointed to miss the race, Yorkshire's Cowton is in total respect of his team owner's beliefs.
"Missing the Superbike race is just one of those things. It's an absolutely mega team and I was made aware of the situation regarding Sunday racing when I signed for the team. I was hoping the situation wouldn't arise but it has and I obviously stand by Winston and the team's decision and views,” Cowton told bikesportnews.com..
It's not the first time at the TT that a McAdoo Racing rider has been forced to miss the opening race of the week with Bob Jackson sitting out the Formula One race of 1998.
Aside from missing the Superbike race, Cowton has enjoyed a strong week of practice around the Mountain Course with a fastest lap of 124.828mph in the Superbike class, 123.074mph in Supersport (ninth quickest) and 115.019mph (also ninth fastest).
"Practice has been good for me and we've just been trying to get the big bike set-up and make it as comfortable as possible for me. The Supertwin is a new bike as the one I've been riding was built for Michael (Dunlop) but it's nice to ride and now it's down to me to link it all together."
