Solid Points for JW Racing at Croft

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Joined for the weekend by A1 Moto Services as title sponsors at the North Yorkshire circuit, JW Racing were keen to be back on the top step of the podium for round 10 of the British Superbike Championship.

The weekend started very strongly with James never outside the top 3 and working very hard with his team to close down Billy McConnell's advantage over the rest of the field. The first Qualifying session saw Westy qualify 2nd and close down the time deficit to McConnell. The 2nd session was very promising and James was feeling on top form with his675 after qualifying 2nd; one of two riders in the 1:21's around the North Yorkshire circuit. 
 
Unfortunately the good feeling was not to last when a problem was detected with James's number 1 bike after warm up, and it was decided the risk was too great for James to ride this bike in the race leaving no option but to change to the spare bike which had not been ridden all weekend.
Despite this set back, James made a great start and settled in behind McConnell until lap 6 when the safety car came out for 3 laps. On lap 10 James made his move and had a good fight with his fellow competitor getting the better of him until lap 17 when a move by Plater allowed Billy past and as Westy retaliated on McConnell, Ben Wilson squeezed by and James was left with a disappointing 4th place. It was not until the team debrief with James that it was apparent how hard the race had been.
 
" Gutted with 4th place is an understatement. Yesterday in qualifying I had a perfect package and having to ride the spare bike today I did not have the same feeling. I had massive vibrations and chatter on the front end which pumped up my arms, and no rear grip from the start but I was determined to win the race for my team and sponsors.  I gave it absolutely everything out there today but I had nothing left on the last lap. Its one of those things but I am convinced if I was on my preferred bike it would have been a very different story. The championship is now over but I will not stop fighting and we go to Silverstone with nothing to loose. I feel robbed to have only finished 4th but I am very proud of the battle I put up in far from ideal circumstances."
 
Visit A1 Moto Services in York on Saturday 19th September at 7.00pm for a celebratory evening with bar, band and bikes!! Joining us will be the wonderful Stealer playing a fantastic selection of classic rock and James and his 675 Daytona Triumph will also be present. Come along for a good night out and a chat.