June 6, 2009 (Fort William, Scotland) – The track here in Fort William, Scotland has seen a few changes this year, included an all new wood section. Besides some subtle changes, the course remains largely unchanged. Massive braking holes are present along with many concrete-like berms, which were there before practice runs started. The upper section of the track was swept before practice started in order to remove much of the loose gravel.

The weather here has run the gamut from sun and 25c on Wednesday, to snow on Friday during top-80 practice, to heavy rains at the top of the course during Saturday’s practice runs. Forecast is now for sun and warm temperatures through to the finals tomorrow, but the weather here can change drastically in a matter of minutes, so it is really anyone’s guess.

Look for Canada’s Steve Smith (MS Evil Racing) and Claire Buchar (Chain Reaction Cycles/Intense) to lead the charge for the Canucks. Smith has had bad luck here in the past, with massive crashes and injuries, but is now ready to post a good result and has looked fast all week in what is turning into his best season to date.