Mercer to make TT debut in 2009

Mercer was invited by TT organisers to compete in 2009

Kent rider Steve Mercer has announced he will make his debut at the Isle of Man TT in 2009.

The 26-year-old, from Maidstone, has competed in both the British Superstock and Superbike Championships.

Mercer, who won the MRO Superstock Championship in 2006, will take part in a road race for the first time at the Macau Grand Prix.

He said: "The TT was not in my plans until recently but the more I thought about it the more I wanted to do it."

Mercer was one of 16 British riders who visited the island in August after being invited to take part in next year's event as part of the TT's rider recruitment programme.

When the first bike came through, I thought to myself 'I want some of that'

Steve Mercer

"The visit to the island in August was ideal preparation. I was really impressed with what I saw and we were given a great insight into the mountain course," he said.

"We were also able to see some of the Manx GP, which was a real highlight.

"I watched at the bottom of Bray Hill and when the first bike came through I thought to myself 'I want some of that.'"