Stacey’s double success saw him join an elite band of 27 newcomers who have won at the North West 200 at their first attempt.

New Zealander Bruce Anstey was the last rider to achieve the feat in a 1000cc class back in 2002, while former British 125cc champion Christian Elkin triumphed on his bow in the 250cc category five years later.

“I didn’t plan to come here and win, but if you’re ever in with a chance of winning you’re going to try and win. You’re not going to say, ‘I’m just a newcomer, I’m going to knock it off a bit and finish second.

“The plan was just to come here, have a successful North West 200 and come away safe and sound. It gelled, it clicked, it was fun, it was a nice environment, and we came away happy.”

The British Superbike race winner saw off the determined challenge of home hero Michael Dunlop to take the Superstock honours and then fended off Dean Harrison and North West 200 Superbike wins record holder Glenn Irwin to claim victory in the feature event.

“I’ve never raced against Michael anywhere in my career so to race against him here was so special. Thinking of all his heritage. His family have all raced round here,” enthused Stacey.

“Then to race against Glenn and Dean. Glenn has won so many races round here (a record 12 Superbike wins), and then to beat Glenn as well, you can’t describe it.

“It’s like you’re gliding through clouds when you’re racing round here and when things are going well you’re just floating, you’re on another level, and adrenaline takes over.

“You finish the race and you don’t know how you did it.”



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