Gary Mason - Photo Credit: Jon Jessop Photography
Quattro Plant Kawasaki made a strong start to the 2012 MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship with both riders finishing in the top ten in Brands Hatch. Gary Mason was fifth in the only race to go ahead after overtaking Shane Byrne on the final lap and the Lichfield rider was delighted given the team's difficult pre-season preparation.
“I am delighted with this weekend's result. To come away in the top six and on the front row of the grid for the re-run is the best possible start to the season. Coming to Brands Hatch we were a little on the back foot with testing, but we managed to pull it all together when it mattered, which is fantastic for the team. We have three days before Thruxton, so we need to keep working on our chassis development and build on our great start.”
Teammate Freddy Foray marked his BSB debut with ninth despite several near-crashes and the Frenchman is now looking forward to his next challenge at Thruxton this weekend.
“The track conditions today were very slippery. After my 20th near miss I managed to stay focused and change my riding style, so I really pleased with my top 10 finish, but a little disappointed I could not go faster. The bike is performing well, but we still have to make some changes to get it where I would like it to be. My 9th place is a good result for me and the team. I have never been to Thruxton and Gary (Mason) tells me it is a fast bumpy circuit, so unlike this weekend, where we have had additional track time, I have a lot of work to do in a short space of time. It should be fun and I am looking forward to it.”
