The Honda WorldSBK Team leaves Phillip Island on a high note
as Michael van der Mark delighted the Australian crowd today with a second
place finish at Phillip Island in race two – his career best result so far in
the series. Nicky Hayden missed out on a podium finish on the last lap after a
solid race at the front, making good progress aboard his Honda CBR1000RR
Fireblade SP in what was his debut World Superbike round.
Both riders had another great start to the race and placed
themselves near the front of the field in the opening laps. Van der Mark showed
once again a great pace as he comfortably followed both factory Kawasaki riders
around the 4.455km fast and flowing Australian venue. After moving up to second
place, the 23-year-old Dutchman made a successful overtake for the lead on lap
12, which he kept for another six laps. In the final stages of the race, van
der Mark did not lose touch with the leading duo and, as Davies crashed out at
Honda corner while trying to take the lead, he moved up one place and retained
the position at the chequered flag.
With one race under his belt and some adjustments made to
his Fireblade machine settings after the warm up, Nicky Hayden was able to ride
a more consistent race and, unlike yesterday, he stayed with the front pack for
almost the whole length of the encounter. He entered the final lap in third
place and did all he could to defend his position, but eventually he was
overtaken by Davide Giugliano at Lukey Heights and had to settle for fourth.
As the first round draws to a close, Michael van der Mark
lies second in the championship standings with 36 points, while Nicky Hayden is
seventh – 16 points behind his team mate.
Note : Stories and pictures by Bonamici Racing Team
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