Lee Johnston finished fifth in Saturday’s Macau Grand Prix. The Maguiresbridge rider held a podium position for much of the race, but fell away over the closing laps to finish fifth behind winner Stuart Easton.

The challenging street circuit in the Far East gives the riders no room for error, as they complete lap after lap between the Armco barriers and brick walls of the unforgiving track. It is a very technical test of rider and machine through a city centre. On Lee’s previous visit to the circuit he finished ninth, but he had targeted at least a podium finish this time around.

In front of huge fanatical crowds Lee started well and had taken his Pirtek Honda bike to third on the grid after the qualifying session, setting his best time just six minutes from the end of the session. With a spot on the front row secured he was in buoyant mood the day before the event, but illness was to play its part in the final outcome.

On waking on the morning of the race Lee was struck down by flu. Despite feeling unwell he decided to get on the bike and take on the likes of Michael Rutter and lap record holder Stuart Easton. Lee started well and although Easton was unchallenged at the head of the pack, the local rider was locked in a battle with Rutter for second spot. Rutter made a poor start and allowed Lee past on the first lap. Lee held on to second place for three laps, but with the effects of his illness kicking in, Lee was struggling to maintain his pace as the gruelling race progressed. On lap four Rutter eased past, and before the chequered flag fell Gary Johnston and Jessopp had also eclipsed the Fermanagh man as he grew tired.

Lee now travels to Thailand where he will complete a successful season with a race that forms part of the Asian Championship.