SERT sixth at Suzuka 8 Hours

The Yoshimura SERT Motul team took a sixth placed finish at the iconic Suzuka 8 Hours, keeping the hopes of another world title alive ahead of the season-closing Bol d'Or.

 

Heavy rain, crashes, oil spills, and safety car interventions punctuated the event, and despite the solid result, the team was left disappointed, with everyone feeling that they had the pace to challenge for the podium or even the win.

 

From eighth on the grid Gregg Black made one of his trademark lightning starts, taking the holeshot and hitting the front. Amidst the chaos of the race the team settled in sixth at the halfway stage and remained there until the chequered flag.

Black said, "Finishing sixth is disappointing because we were convinced we had the pace to fight our way forward from eighth on the grid. I made a really strong start and we quickly showed that our race pace was competitive despite extremely tricky conditions, with a damp track, several oil-related interruptions and constantly changing weather.

 

“The team managed the race well and we were consistently among the fastest bikes on track. Unfortunately, the stop-and-go penalty, a few seconds lost in the pits and several badly timed safety car interruptions ruined our chances of closing in on the podium. I honestly believe we still had the pace to gain another one or two positions before the finish.

 

"Our new GSX-R1000R has shown genuine potential and provides a very encouraging foundation for the rest of the season. Luck wasn't on our side this time, but I'm convinced our moment will come at the Bol d'Or."

 

Linfoot added, "The race was a difficult one. Finishing sixth is obviously not the result we were aiming for. After finishing on the podium here in previous years, our expectations were much higher. On my side, I gave everything I had, completing several double stints and maintaining a solid pace throughout the race. The championship is still open, and we'll do everything we can to finish the season on a high."