The Olympic Torch visited Brands Hatch today and was welcomed by reigning BSB champion Tommy Hill and former Olympic athlete Derek Redmond.
The visit took place six weeks before the Paralympic Road Cycling events that will take place at the Kent circuit in September.
The Torch visited Brands Hatch during the latest round of the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship, and teams, riders and fans were able to watch a short photoshoot take place on the circuit. Craig Preece, a soldier who was forced to have a leg amputated after being wounded in Afghanistan, rode with the torch from the traditional start line to Paddock Hill Bend.
Preece said: “That was absolutely amazing to be part of it; I am absolutely buzzing! To do this and to see the Superbikes was phenomenal really. For me this is massive. Hopefully in four years time I can be in the Paralympics team. It was excellent but was over almost as soon as it had begun.”
Defending British Superbike champion Hill said: “It was great to see it here at Brands Hatch as the Olympics will be such a big event for the country. It is good for it to visit the track when we are here for BSB as there is always such a great crowd here. It was great to be part of it and now we can look forward to getting our weekend started.”
Redmond, who also co-owns British Superbike team Splitlath Redmond Racing, said: “It’s great to see the Olympic spirit here at Brands Hatch today. I think it’s brilliant that the Olympic Games are stepping out and getting involved in different sports like BSB. Having competed in two Olympic Games and been to several others over the years, to have my old sport here linking up with the one I’m heavily involved in now is fantastic. There was a good turn-out from the public here to see it arrive, and the support and cheers from everyone as it went by show just how excited the country is about the games. I’m very proud to have been involved.”
The Paralympic Road Cycling events will take place at Brands Hatch on 5-8 September. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.tickets.london2012.com. The seventh round of the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship takes place this weekend (20-22 July) and tickets are available on the gate from £13, with free entry for children aged 12 and under. For more information, call 0843 453 9000 or visit www.brandshatch.co.uk