Always a circuit to add a bit of drama to the British Superbike Season, Thruxton is known for its tyre-eating surface and restricted access to any testing, making it quite a level playing field for all riders across all classes. The fast, flowing 2.35 mile Andover circuit has always been a bit of a ‘Marmite’ track for many, with guaranteed nail-biting action.
Returning to the Superbike seat, Fraser Rogers was given the ‘OK’ from medical to race; however both rider and team knew that expectations were low and the concentration was more on how Rogers felt returning to racing after his training accident resulted in two broken tibias. Another highlight of the weekend was for the Pirelli National Superstock Series, as Truelove and Winfield were to compete twice with a race on Saturday and Sunday.
After narrowly missing out by 0.2s for the Fast 15 qualifier, Rogers set off for the 20 lap race from P16. Quickly getting into the points, Rogers found himself battling closely on lap 1 when the Honda machine of Bourne closed Rogers line causing contact and Rogers to lose control and crash. Taken to medical for checks, it was deemed that Rogers would be OK, if indeed, incredibly lucky!
As the Superstock riders lined up for race one, Winfield knew he had some work to do. After a very frustrating qualifying session earlier that day, Winfield was to start from P17 on the grid whilst teammate Truelove set-off from P9. Never without drama, the race got underway with Winfield pursuing at least a top 10 finish. As Winfield progressed through the race and making several passes, it was time to battle with Truelove. With equally propelled machines, it was a great show of will and determination to succeed. Winfield just making a further pass in time to bring home a P8 finish with Truelove crossing the line soon after in P10.
Race Two was just as fiery for the Superstock 1000 class, with the teammates sharing row 3 of the grid – both eager for a great closing result of the weekend. The 15 lap race saw both riders get off to a great start, with Truelove initially passing Winfield from the start, but Winfield closed the door to move away with the sharp end of the competitors. By the last 3 laps of the race, it really was too close to call – with commentators suggesting that Winfield may be on for his first Superstock podium finish as he held on to P4 in to the last lap of the race. A collision towards the last corner of Owens and Neave meant that looked even more possible, however both riders were able to keep the last remaining rubber on the ground to pass the chequered flag with Winfield in 4th and Truelove in 7th, adjusted to an overall P6 finish due to the time penalty applied to the #43 machine of Tom Oliver.
Rogers valiantly rode on for the 10 lap Sprint Race, bringing back a respectable 17th. However it was decided shortly after that due to the previous crash exacerbating Rogers current injuries, the team would withdraw any further risk and therefore no Race Three.
