No points for G&S riders

Both G&S Racing Kawasaki riders completed their Superstock 1000 race at Brands Hatch without incident on Sunday - although just a little too far down the finishing order to bring points back to the team.
Tom Fisher on the Brands Hatch track. Photo: Dave Yeomans.Tom Fisher on the Brands Hatch track. Photo: Dave Yeomans.
Tom Fisher on the Brands Hatch track. Photo: Dave Yeomans.

Despite the forecast being for rain, the weather at Brands Hatch turned out to be fine and sunny on race day, the first time Tom Fisher and Kevin Van Leuven had ridden in dry conditions so far this season.

Fisher completed his qualifying in 15th place for the Wyberton-based team, to begin his race from the fifth row.

But he didn’t get the best of starts and lost ground to 17th on the opening lap.

The pace was hot and there were few passing places on the short Indy circuit.

There were a few issues with the front end which hindered his progress somewhat and he lost a few places mid race and, although he was circulating considerably faster than ever before, Fisher had to be satisfied with a finish in 21st place.

This was only the third outing on the big bike for Van Leuven after moving up from the 600 class, but he is adjusting well to the bike and improving with every outing.

He began the race in 28th position but made up places to 25th on lap five of 24.

He maintained his position and lined up Neil Bainbridge for a pass which he implemented on lap 17.

Vaun Leuven then had to fend off the attention of Nick Anderson who was hoping to take his position, but the Dutchman was having none of it and maintained 24th place to the flag.

Team manager Mark Fisher said: “We have to take the positives from Brands and convert them into results at Donington.

“Both riders have a one-lap pace for qualifying but just haven’t quite got the race pace.

“We did have a few issues with the front end but both Tom and Kevin have posted lap times far better than ever before, which is great.

“The Brands Hatch Indy circuit is notorious for very few passing places.

“The only two safe places to pass are Paddock Hill and Graham Hill and the rest of the track layout is tight and twisty.

“You can’t take your eye off the ball for a second or you find yourself in the gravel.

“But both my riders completed the race unscathed and have gained in experience so I am happy enough with that.”

The next round is at Donington Park on May 29.

Related topics: