If anyone created a list of Britain’s most successful motorcycle racers of all time, it would surely include Barry Sheene, Mike Hailwood, John McGuinness and Niall Mackenzie. (If you disagree, you can register on the RideSafe BackSafe forum and argue it out amongst yourselves!).
Niall Mackenzie was Scottish 500cc Production Champion in 1982, a Yamaha Pro Am World Cup winner in 1983, British 350cc Champion in 1984 & 1985 and British 250cc Champion in 1985 & 1986. He finished in the top ten of the World Championships (now known as MotoGP) six times between 1987 and 1994. Most notably, he was British Champion (now known as British Superbikes) in 1996, 1997 and 1998 and is still the only man to win three consecutive British Championships. If you love your stats, take a look at www.niall-mackenzie.com/profile for more information.
Niall currently works as a pundit for Sky Sports television, as a Chief Road Tester for Two Wheels Only magazine and is also a Track Day Chief Instructor at both Knockhill and Donington Park.
Being a popular celebrity, Niall (and his mate James Whitham) run busy diaries. But we are hoping to gain their support and attendance at several RideSafe BackSafe events during 2009. For the time being, here is a quick profile . . .
Name: Niall Macfarlane Mackenzie
Date of Birth: 19th July 1961
Star sign: Cancer
Greatest achievement so far?
3 BSB Titles and 4th place in the 500cc World Championship were good but winning my first Supersport race at 47 was up there too!
What is keeping you busy this year?
T.W.O. magazine testing and track day instruction and my two sons in their first season of racing.
Favourite meal at the end of a great day?
Haggis Chips and curry sauce
If you had more time to yourself, what hobby would you enjoy more of?
Off road riding
What would be your dream bike?
A mint yellow Yamaha FS1E DX
What really makes you smile?
Harry Hill, my kids and my wife.
Worst pet hate?
People whistling while they work
Any phobias?
Being locked in the boot of a car would freak me out.
What is the best bit of advice you could give to bikers on the road?
Expect the unexpected and always keep your wits about you.
Thank you, Niall.
