An obviously delighted Farquhar said: "Everything went according to plan. The bike went perfectly and we made the right choice of tyres.

"Although it was a bit dodgy in places, there was a dry line which I stuck to. My win breaks the domination by Suzuki and made the effort really worthwhile."

After two laps Farquhar was five seconds ahead of Cummins, making only his second appearance at Dundrod.

At the chequered flag he was 26 seconds behind the flying Farquhar, with Frost a further 20 seconds in arrears in third.

The Yamaha team boss, Jimmy Murray, said: "Having a second and third in the race almost made up for not winning. Both boys finished ahead of seasoned campaigners Adrian Archibald and last year's sensation Guy Martin."

Farquhar had the fast lap at 118.901mph almost 10mph down on Bruce Anstey's record of 127.955mph.

In the Pacemaker Press International 250 Race, Ballymoney's William Dunlop kept the family name to the fore with a light to flag victory over younger brother Michael and Darren Burns.

"That was the race I wanted to win, the only thing that took away from the victory was the retirement of John McGuinness on the opening lap at Wheelers' Corner.

"I would have liked to have beaten him," said William.

With McGuinness sidelined, William, aboard the PJ Flynn Honda, set about the task of winning, which he did by 1.4 seconds after having being ahead by over seven seconds at the halfway mark.

"After taking third last year behind Darran Lindsay and Ian Lougher I am more than happy. When the rain came on I was afraid that Michael and Darren might catch me.

"Fortunately, I kept my head down and every time I looked back I was still that bit ahead."

Burns admitted: "Another lap would have suited me but I have to hand it to Michael who used his youth and strength to good effect."

For the race William averaged 109.86mph and set the fastest lap at 112.46mph on lap two.