More practice means more racing for Steve Plater

Honda star Steve Plater will contest five races at the 2010 North West 200 following a decision to increase practice time.

Roads around the famous Portrush Triangle will close on the Thursday before the big race day from 9.30am to 3pm to allow competitors extra track time.

Plater, a multiple winner at the North West, was already due to contest both Superbike and both Supersport races for the HM Plant Honda squad, but the confirmation of additional practice time has led to the team entering the popular Lincolnshire rider in the Superstock event as well.

The reigning British Supersport Champion and 2009 Senior TT winner said the extra practice time was directly responsible for the decision to enter a fifth race at the NW200.

He said:

"Seasoned riders will be more relaxed and less likely to make mistakes, whilst rookie riders will have additional time on their own to get to know the course during daylight hours."

"I believe it's a very professional approach and provides a much safer competitor environment. With this in mind I have decided to contest the Superstock event as well as the other four races."

North West 200 race director Mervyn Whyte added:

"Our NW200 management team is proud of the event's ongoing growth and development but are mindful that safety must always be our top priority. The new daytime practice on Thursday will replicate Race Day conditions such as road temperatures, setting sun and timing, so enabling riders to become very familiar with course layout."

In addition to the North West 200, Woodhall Spa's Plater will contest the Isle of Man TT again, alongside John McGuinness, and race in the national superstock championship.