DAO Racing and rider Dean Harrison ended the 2023 Isle of Man TT on a high with a hard-earned second place in today’s prestigious Senior TT.

The official Kawasaki roads squad finished runner-up to Peter Hickman after six hard-fought laps around the iconic Mountain Course in the afternoon sunshine.

After a hectic TT fortnight, the event drew to a close with the biggest race of all just after midday, with Harrison once again the second rider to set off down the famous Bray Hill.

Leading the way by a half a second at Glen Helen, Bradford’s Harrison dropped to second behind Hickman at Ballaugh and comfortably held the position all the way to the flag.

The Cumbrian squad completed two near-perfect pit stops to give Harrison the best chance possible and although he was unable to catch Hickman, he was able to build a large gap behind him to eventually beat third-placed Michael Dunlop by more than 20 seconds.

Today’s second place adds to three third places in race week’s Superbike and two Superstock races and means DAO Racing has finished on the podium in all of the races it started this year.

Dean Harrison, Rider:

“I honestly can’t complain about that, of course we come here to try and win but obviously everybody else is trying to do the same thing.

“I have to say full credit to the team. The bikes haven’t missed a beat all week, we’ve had four races together and four podiums and we’ve had a great fortnight.

“The plan was to go at the start, get the head down and be there or thereabouts at the end. I got into a good rhythm and I didn’t want to let anyone go but on the day I think second was the best we could’ve had.

“It’s been a good TT for me and the team, I’ve ridden so many laps, the weather has been brilliant and we’ve had plenty of podiums. I think I’m ready for a rest now!”

Jonny Bagnall, Team Manager:

“I’m definitely happy with that. It was a big improvement and a good way to round off the whole week.

“This is all down to the hard work from the team. They have worked flawlessly all through practice and race week and as a result the bikes have been absolutely faultless. This is a credit to all the boys who have worked tirelessly and put in the late nights – that’s where the biggest appreciation needs to go.

“Dean rode his socks off in the race, he’s definitely upped his game since the Superbike race last week and that’s apparent in the consistent times he’s posted so hats off to him and to everyone – it just wasn’t quite enough on the day.

“You have to remember that it isn’t easy racing around here, six laps are hard work and it’s one of those races where it can always be anyone’s. I’m really happy with how it’s all gone.

“Of course we’d have liked to have won, but every dog has its day doesn’t it? It just wasn’t ours today and all that means is we’ll come back next year and try again.”