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The 2011 Metzeler Superstock 1000 season ended on a slightly disappointing note for GBmoto at Brands Hatch last weekend. After earlier delays in the schedule, the race had already been reduced to just 8 laps, before the start. With Tristan Palmer and Gary Johnson both making great starts and running in third and fifth respectively, two serious ‘red flag’ incidents on the opening lap resulted in the race being subsequently cancelled. With Richard Cooper having already secured the championship title at the previous round, the Race Director focussed on other championship races that were still to be decided at Brands Hatch.
Looking back on the team's first season in the British Superbike paddock, GBmoto Racing is very proud of its achievements, however work is already well underway as they prepare for new challenges next year. Leading rider Tristan Palmer, already has a contract with the team, for an assault on the 2012 British Superbike Championship; an early confidence building sign. Tristan has delivered the best results of the four riders who rode the distinctive purple ‘stockers’ in 2011, which include three race wins, five podium finishes, three pole positions, two fastest laps, one new lap record and a fourth in the championship overall.
GBmoto’s final championship position could have been so much better, if it wasn't for some technical errors part way through the season, resulting in penalties being imposed by the series' governing body, MSVR. However the team is now wiser and has put in place key procedures to ensure that future race results are not diluted by factors away from the track.
Throughout the season GBmoto Racing has openly experimented with a number of riders on their second Honda CBR1000, taking the opportunity to explore other avenues to seek top results on track. This has also allowed the team to gain valuable knowledge and experience on machine set-up and which team personnel and structure works best. The Sussex based team, are hoping to put all of this to good use in the premier class in 2012.
Terry Liquorish, Team General Manager, said: “The team would like to sincerely thank everyone who has been involved with GBmoto Racing this year. Without our sponsors, we couldn't have competed anywhere near as effectively. Without our dedicated crew, we would never have made it onto the track. Without the patience and understanding of our friends and families, we wouldn't be able to all follow our passion in this great world of motorcycle racing”.
GBmoto Racing hopes to see you all in 2012 - stay tuned for more exciting developments and announcements in the coming weeks and months.
Tristan Palmer, Rider:
Obviously we had a very good start to the season, which set up a pretty good year overall. For a new team in the British championships, I think we did an outstanding job. The bikes were competitive all year and I worked hard for the results. Losing those points made a big difference, but overall I'm pleased with how it went. The plans for next year are working out really well so far, and I'm looking forward to taking a new shot at British Superbikes.
Mark Smith-Halvorsen, Team Principal:
I want to personally thank every single person that makes up GBmoto Racing, because everyone has worked fantastically well together from a standing start, for eighteen months, to get us where we are today. That's been reflected in our success. Huge thanks to our brilliant sponsors who understood our passion, focus and determination – without them, this show wouldn’t be on the road. Then recognition should go to our suppliers who have provided us with best products to do a top job. We're very much looking forward to building on all these relationships going forward into 2012 and beyond. |
