At the outset it appeared highly probable that the changeable weather was likely to play a big part and so it proved.

Fresh back from his podium place at the Isle of Man TT and successful runs at the Irish North West 200, former track rival and close friend Keith Amor was the most likely thorn in Bruce's side.

Keith, originally from Falkirk and now based in Ireland, was out on his Wilson Craig Racing Honda Fireblade for the first race. With Keith on pole and Bruce second a good start was key to both riders. Keith led into the first turn while Danderhall rider Michael Robertson managed to squeeze himself in front of Bruce.

Two laps later Bruce charged past Michael on the brakes into the hairpin, by which time he had lost the tow from Keith Amor. With raindrops starting to fall Bruce played a tactical game and finished a safe second. Nearest championship rival Torquil Paterson had run wide braking from 150mph for the high speed Duffus dip and retired from the race. Another visitor Jimmy Storrar took third place from Robertson, resulting in Bruce increasing his points lead by eight points.

On Sunday morning the heavy rain caused all sorts of issues. The rain stopped shortly before the premier class were due out for the second Scottish Championship leg. Tyre choice was now in the lap of the gods.

For several laps Bruce led the field but, as the track dried, Torquil Paterson edged to the front. With his wet tyres rapidly deteriorating Bruce had to fend off veteran Inverness rider Donald McFadyen twice on the brakes at the hairpin to secure his second spot and 20 points.
Injured from a big accident in an earlier 600cc race Michael Robertson hung on well for fourth.

Now 52 points clear in the championship Bruce explained: "It was really difficult out there today with such a fast pace in horrible conditions. Whilst I'm never happy finishing second I had to settle for that as my tyres were destroyed after four laps.