Virgin Media Yamaha rider, BJ Toal faces a stiff challenge as he lines up on the grid for the fourth round of the Fuchs-Silkolene British Supersport Championship at Donington Park on Bank Holiday Monday (26th May).
Changeable weather conditions worked against the Omagh rider during the two qualifying sessions. With the initial qualifying session dry, BJ worked on improving his ideal sector times. However, with time running down on the clock BJ failed to find the final second reduction in lap time that would elevate his Virgin Media Yamaha onto the front two rows.
Rain fell persistently over the 2.5-mile Leicestershire circuit from the lunch break on, meaning qualifying times from the dry morning session would stand. The afternoon's wet qualifying session saw a large number of the Supersport riders succumb to the extremely slippery track conditions, including BJ.
BJ will be looking for another strong start to elevate himself up into the top ten on the first lap. He proved he was capable of exactly that the last time out at Brands Hatch, where he claimed a fifth place finish in dry conditions from the fourth row of the grid.
Monday's 18-lap Supersport live televised spectacular is scheduled to blast off at 13.50 (26 May).
BJ Toal: "I'm really frustrated with my qualifying. I was right up there in the first free practice and felt really comfortable on the bike. We've only changed a few very minor things but I can only look to myself for the change in performance. I had a small crash in the wet but was on a fast lap so have found my limit there. The change in the weather from Q1 to Q2 means that I'll have a big task ahead and will be reliant upon a good start. I'm confident I can turn it around for the race."
Rob McElnea, Team Principal: "It's no doubt that BJ has a bit of work to do tomorrow. If the race is as wet as it is forecast there is no telling what will happen, it's a great leveller for the guys. With a good start he can claw back some places and have a strong race."
Combined Qualifying Result:1. Pitt (Honda)
2. Rea (Honda)
3. Richards (Triumph)
4. Kennaugh (Yamaha)
5. Brogan (Honda)
18. BJ Toal (Virgin Media Yamaha)Eurosport 2 Live TV Broadcast Window, 12.30 - 16.30 (Monday 26 May)
Channel 525 Virgin Media
Images: Steve Eyton
