The Virgin Mobile Yamaha British Superbike team head to Donington Park, Derbyshire this weekend (8th/9th April) for the second round of the 2006 Bennetts British Superbike Championship. All three young riders, Tommy Hill, Billy McConnell and Kieran Clarke, are eager to build on their positive start at the opening round at Brands Hatch.
Lead rider, 21 year old Tommy Hill from Lingfield in Surrey was unlucky in the first race when he had a coming together with another rider before crashing out uninjured. In the second race Hill clocked up a solid 6th place and gained some valuable championship points. Derbyshire based Kieran Clarke, 20, was in a good points position in the second race but with the tricky weather conditions slipped out on the white lines.
Star of the show in the first round was rookie Billy McConnell who caused a major upset at the start of the season. Virgin Mobile Cup champion 2005 McConnell almost made it to the podium in his first Superbike round. Ahead of the experienced pack including current BSB Champion Gregorio Lavilla, Billy was in second position before slipping off in the wet with 7 laps to go. Team Manager, Rob McElnea reflects; “Billy was incredible in his first British Superbike race! He showed no respect for the older, more experienced riders. He showed an amazing ability to step up to their level and his performance has given the whole team a huge lift at the beginning of the Season.”
Team Virgin Mobile Yamaha head to Donington with renewed optimism. Tommy Hill said: “I really can’t wait to get back on the grid. Brands Hatch has never been a lucky circuit for me, but I was pleased with the start to the season. The main thing is the tyres and bike are feeling fantastic and we are all really confident that we can get results.”
Team mate Kieran Clarke, is a big fan of the 2.5 mile track and, like Hill, is feeling confident: “Donington Park is my local circuit and with home support, I am keen to do well. I made a stupid mistake at Brands because I was in a strong points position and just got carried away and crashed out!
The Man of the Moment Aussie Billy McConnell who now lives in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire says: “I was thrilled with my performance at Brands. I felt totally happy on the bike and the Pirelli tyre choice worked perfect. I had to pinch myself when I went past Greg and Leon and then lapped my mate Glen Richards and Shaky Byrne! Donington is one of my best tracks, I am feeling confident and can't wait for the weekend."
Team boss Rob McElnea is excited about watching his team of young guns develop and perform: “I am a realist, we knew that these young lads would make occasional mistakes. It was a gamble to head up such a young team but Billy showed that the gamble can pay off. The important thing is that we keep focussed and work hard as it is a long season ahead.”
Related Linkswww.virginmobileracing.com
