HADDINGTON racing star Paul McClung has been handed a major boost with the news he will race at the Knockhill leg of the British Superbike Championships next weekend.

McClung will race in the Ducati TriOptions Cup after being nominated by Knockhill Motor Sports Club president Niall Mackenzie, who was quick to praise the progress of the 18-year old rider.

He said: “Paul certainly has all the right traits to be a successful bike racer.

“Year on year he has improved his pace and fine-tuned his race craft, to a level, which l felt warranted a ride on the Duacti at his home round.

“I know he’ll enjoy riding the 899 Panigale and he will also gain some valuable experience in a field of high-quality riders.” The former Knox Academy pupil has impressed in every class he has raced in since his debut season in 2009 and has won a number of Scottish titles.

Having already clinched Scottish Championships at F125, Mini Twin and Superstock 600 levels, McClung hopes to race a full season in the British Superbikes events next year, but admits funding is the main drawback. He hopes that the Knockhill event can bring him increased sponsorship.

He told Courier Sport: “It’s really difficult to get sponsors but there will be a lot more people willing to sponsor [at Knockhill]. It’s a great chance for us to get our name out in the paddock.” The determined youngster admits he has already set himself goals for the race. “I’d like to be pushing for a top 10 finish,” he said.

McClung has also entered the Pirelli National Superstock 600 race at Knockhill. A busy schedule will see him take to the track 11 times over the course of the weekend; with practice, qualifying and three races to compete in.

McClung has previous British Championship experience at the Fife track, having raced in the same Superstock 600 class back in 2013, qualifying 12th out of 50 riders and running as high as sixth before mechanical issues forced him to retire.

As well as his biking success, McClung has enjoyed an impressive rugby career, which has seen the West Road resident twice turn down the opportunity to represent Scotland at under-18 level.

He added: “I want to race bikes as my job, and while I would have loved to go away to Scotland [rugby] camps, it has always come when I’ve been racing, so I’ve had to turn them down.” Tickets for the event can be booked online via the Knockhill website, or by calling 01383 723337.