Rainman Rutter reigns
Two further faultless displays of riding from Bennetts British
Superbike Championship leader Shane Byrne marked round six
of the series at Mallory Park in Leicestershire. However,
it was not enough to secure another double victory for the
Airwaves Ducati rider.
The opening race of the day ran in dry conditions and produced
familiar results with Shakey Byrne claiming the top step of
the podium, followed by HM Plant Honda team-mates Leon Haslam
and Cal Crutchlow respectively. Drama came in the form of
an opening lap crash for Leon Camier, forcing him to retire
early form the race. Michael Rutter and Michael Laverty also
ran off the track with Rutter unable to re-join the action.
A reversal of fortunes in race two saw Laverty crash out
of contention while leading the pack with a comfortable advantage.
However, former Kirkby Mallory resident Rutter surprised the
crowd with a seemingly easy victory. Tyre choice proved crucial
for the second 30-lap battle of the day.
The race was declared wet but with a drying track and bright
sunshine, selecting the right tyres enabled Rutter to reap
the rewards. He was followed past the chequered flag by Shakey
and Crutchlow, who enjoyed an impressive charge through the
field in the second half of the race.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship race one result:
1. S. Byrne 28:33.049; 2. L. Haslam +1.024; 3. C. Crutchlow
+1.147
Bennetts British Superbike Championship race two result:
1. M. Rutter 18:41.592; 2. S. Byrne +4.405; 3. C. Crutchlow
+4.596
Bennetts British Superbike championship standings (after
round six)
1. Byrne 280; 2. Crutchlow 183; 3. Camier 160; 4. Haslam 148;
5. M. Rutter 127; 6. Sykes 126; 7. Ellison 119; 8. Laverty
84; 9. Andrews 69; 10. Easton 62
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