TT 2014: Dunlop dominates Superbike TT as Anstey boosts lap record to 132mph

Michael Dunlop has dominated the opening race of the 2014 Isle of Man TT, taking victory in the Dainese Superbike TT after leading virtually from the start after opening the race with not one but two lap record breaking laps.

James Hillier was the quickest rider to Glen Helen on the opening lap, holding off the Tyco Suzuki of Guy Martin by only a second, before Dunlop hauled them both in and cleared off into the distance, catching and passing to lead on the road as well as the time sheets.

The real battle on was for third, with Conor Cummins moving forwards to pass Hillier and Dean Harrison, as well as his Honda Pro Racing teammate John McGuinness. Michael Rutter was also a man on the move, as a series of fast laps late in the race to take fifth.

However, Dunlop was unable to hold that lap record for long, and Bruce Anstey became the first man to break the 132mph average speed on the last lap as he tried desperately to close on the podium after running wide at the Nook on the opening lap and costing himself enough time to remove himself from contention.

20-time TT winner John McGuinness was forced to settle for seventh place as his wrist injury continues to hamper him, while Gary Johnson was forced out with an engine failure at the Creg na Baa.

Newcomer Peter Hickman has an amazing debut on the Mountain circuit, taking 14th place with a lap of 126.195mph as well as taking the lead in the privateers championship. Martin Jessopp and Danny Webb both picked up bronze replicas in 26th and 37th, posting their best laps at 123.470 and 120.508 respectively.