Eight-time winner on top
The King of Macau is on provisional pole after the first qualifying session.
Eight-time winner Michael Rutter went fastest with a stunning final lap to be just under a second quicker than Martin Jessopp.
Third is Ian Hutchinson followed by John McGuinness, Gary Johnson and Horst Saiger.
Ramsey Rocket Conor Cummins is in 8th position on the overall time sheets with fellow Manx rider Dan Kneen 15th.
There is further qualifying on Friday with the 50th Macau Grand Prix taking place on Saturday.
Ulster Grand Prix could return in 2027
Netball: Manx Rams suffer second defeat in closely fought match in Singapore
Football: Union Mills and Ramsey play out eight-goal thriller
Rugby: Ramsey through to Cheshire Bowl final
Hockey: Bacchas A closing in on Premier League title