Cheung Wai-on to take part in Isle of Man TT races

Hong Kong's Cheung Wai-on has been handed a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity to race at the Isle of Man TT meet at the end of the month, becoming the first Chinese racer at the world's most famous motorcycle race.

The 32-year-old local hero will compete with British-based team Splitlath Redmond, who have been competing in high-level superbike racing and have opened an office in Hong Kong to help develop racing in Asia. The Isle of Man TT races are scheduled from May 28 to June 7.

"I'm very grateful that Splitlath Redmond has been given me a chance to race at the Isle of Man, which is something I wanted to do ever since I took up racing as a teenager. It's an exciting time for me and something I am looking forward to," said Cheung, who has been training with his new team for the past two months in the Isle of Man.

Cheung, the most successful amateur rider at the Macau Grand Prix, has been struggling to find sponsors to pursue his career, but now has the backing to do what he does best. Married with a baby boy due in August, Cheung makes a living operating a motorcycle shop in Mong Kok.

"It would be impossible for a local racer to go it alone and compete in big races like the Isle of Man. You need support, and my new team is perfect for me because they are a professional UK team. I am just glad to be part of their plans," he said.

Cheung competed in one round of the 125cc world championships in Shanghai in 2005, but has competed only sporadically over the past eight years, struggling to find financial backing.

With Splitlath Redmond, he has returned to regular racing, enjoying considerable success competing at club level in Britain, which will help him get ready for the Isle of Man.