The FIM conducted its final circuit inspection on Friday, to ensure that the revamped track meets with the organisation’s strict regulations. Major investment over the past five months brings the venue in line with other top European, Middle Eastern and Asian circuits in terms of safety standards.

Just one day before the inspection, Donington Park opened its doors for the first No Limits track day of the year with over 200 riders on track.  “Hearing the sound of motorcycles on the track again really was something special,” said Donington Park Racing’s Chairman Kevin Wheatcroft. “The whole team deserves appreciation for their hard work in getting to this point. With the time lost due to bad weather over the winter, the major effort has had to focus on restoring and preparing the track itself to meet FIM regulations and bring World Superbikes back.”

Donington Park’s focus on creating a positive experience for the fans includes new and improved spectator areas, specifically at Redgate Corner and Hollywood bank. A new section of the infield will be open to the public, accessed via the Esses Tunnel and allowing fans to watch the racing from Redgate, Hollywood, Craner Curves, the Old Hairpin and right up to McLeans. Access into the circuit has been greatly improved (thankfully) with the addition of a new main entrance near the Exhibition Centre at gate 20, allowed by the removal of the railway carriage. Five permanent WC blocks will be completely revamped in time for World Superbikes with new fittings and lighting to greatly improve the standard of the facilities – so you might even be able to take the missus without her complaining about all the wee on the floor…

We can’t wait to get back to Donny – it’s fantastic to see the circuit coming alive again – see more on their website, where you can also buy tickets for WSB (or call 0844 873 7343 to order).

2011 Donington Park Bike Calendar

March 25/26/27 – FIM Superbike World Championship

April 9/10 – Thundersport GB Donington Superbike Masters

May 2 – Donington Classic Motorcycle Revival

August 20/21 – FIM World Endurance Championship

September 10/11 – British Superbike Championship

October 22/23 – Thundersport GB Motorcycle Championship Finals

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The National circuit will be available for all those missing the excitement of this unique track for just £159 for either Saturday or Sunday. Top BSB instructors Niall Mackenzie and Chris Walker will be on hand whilst the extensive Focused Events hire fleet is available for hire. Track day prepared Supersport machinery is available with a choice of the Ducati 848, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, Suzuki GSX-R600 or Yamaha YZF-R6.

The track weekend will also host a round of the TTXGP ‘zero emissions’ series (practice on Saturday lunch break, race Sunday lunch break).

For more information on this, and any other, Focused Events activities – call 0845 0267272, or visit their website.

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“The Plans to re-open the new improved Donington Park Race Track are progressing well. The Project advisors, led by ex Aggregate Industries Director Philip Barltrop and Duncan Green of Pick Everard Consulting Engineers, have met John Symes of the MSA, and we are currently finalising plans and costings for the works to repair the damage done in and around the Race Track at Donington Park.

“We are confident that the new improved Race Track can be re-opened, subject to obtaining the necessary Racing Licences, during August 2010. Donington Park Race Director, Robert Fearnall, is working on an appropriate Race Programme for 2010 which we will announce as soon as possible. The re-opening of Donington Park will ensure that the Circuit is once again available for National and International Motor Sport.”

Clearly there are still many hoops to jump through, and a lot of work to be done, before we can expect to enjoy the circuit again – but this is still fantastic news, and very encouraging for the future of the circuit.

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