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World Supersport: Craig Jones at Nürburgring

© Raceline Photography
By blue2bikes June 18 2008
Craig Jones opted out of racing at the British Supersport round held at Donington Park a few weeks ago, in anticipation of his damaged hand healing in readiness for his assault on the World Supersport races to be held at the Nürburgring in Germany over last weekend.

It was a decision that was to prove decisive, as Craig upped his qualifying position from the earlier session to end up just a tenth of a second down on pole sitter Broc Parkes - and finish in second position on the grid in readiness for the race.

Having set up his bike for race conditions, Craig was pleased with his second placing on the grid, stating, “We found a good race setting and I was dropping my lap times consistently, then the yellow flags were shown and, considering this is a new circuit for us, I think my Parkalgar Honda team did a great job. Tomorrow I just want to get my head down and get it all together and go for a race win.”

As the race got underway, Craig and his team-mate Miguel Praia were involved in a first corner crash, which meant them both getting onto their second machines for a restart. Fortunately Craig was not injured and, although not having set up his spare machine for race conditions, Craig got a good start and got his head down to gain a very creditable fifth position finish.

Craig said after the race, “The first race was over even before it began - as I tipped into the first corner I was skittled out and was looking at the sky. The race was then red flagged and I was able to return to the pits and get onto my second machine. It was always going to be a tough challenge, as my spare Parkalgar Honda machine had not turned a wheel all weekend, so I just gave it my best shot.

“I could be disappointed with a fifth place finish, but I am pleased with the outcome having attained that position on my spare machine. Getting out in the race was a must, and to come away with points and retain my sixth placing in the championship, so we are still in touching distance of the lead so it is still all to play for.”


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