Inaugural Marvin (Skinny) Robinson Memorial Trophy champion Paul DeCouto yesterday paid tribute to the late 600cc Superbike racer who died a year ago from injuries sustained in a crash at the Bermuda Motorsports Park in St.David's.

The 38-year-old managing director of Cycle Care beat out current 600cc Superbike points leader Shannon Caisey and Bermuda Motorcycle Racing Club (BMRC) president David Jones to win a race dedicated to the memory of a close friend who touched many lives - both on and off the race track.

"Everyone loved Skinny and it's an honour to win a trophy dedicated to him that I now get to keep in my home for a year. I am going to put it next to his picture that I have in my trophy cabinet," the victorious DeCouto said.

"Skinny played a big part of what I know of the sport. We grew up together and Skinny was my best friend. To win this trophy was something I really wanted to do because it hit close to home for me.

"I know Skinny would be proud of me now knowing I won. He was a positive role model, a great person and a great rider as well who is going to be sadly missed."

Starting second on the grid, DeCouto jumped out to an early lead that he protected before eventually taking the chequered flag some six seconds ahead of nearest rival Caisey. Jones finished further back in third.

DeCouto was delighted with the day's harvest which, fittingly, he dedicated to the late Robinson who also played youth football with PHC Zebras.

"Skinny was a people person who connected with everybody and the sport itself took a blow when we lost him. He had a very positive influence on the whole sport itself," he added.

"People really looked forward to seeing Skinny because they loved the way he rode and his memory lives on forever through me because a lot of my riding style and confidence came from knowing him."