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news
14 Mar 2008
Jones on leading pace
PARKALGAR HONDA racer Craig Jones finished third fastest at the World Supersport two-day Valencia test in Spain, less than 0.1seconds away from the top spot on the time sheets.
After a tough second round race at Phillip Island in Australia earlier this month, Parkalgar Honda and Jones were looking for a good performance at the test in advance of returning to race at the circuit in three weeks time on April 6th.
“We achieved everything we needed from this test,” enthused Jones, who completed 108-laps over both days. “Right from the off this morning I was quick and led the timesheets. In the afternoon I was hoping for more of the same and to lead the test but a few issues with fuel pressure meant I was confined to the garage and had little chance of going faster.
“At the end of the day I went out and tried for a quick lap but I ended up crashing uninjured at slow speed at the hairpin. Overall I am delighted with the test and will be coming back to go for the podium or better in the race.”
Parkalgar Honda racer Miguel Praia was well inside his personal best for the track, finishing 13th overall, just over one second behind his team mate after completing 99-laps in total.
Praia said: “I am very happy to be so much faster than ever before at Valencia, the test has been good for me and the whole team. I have a strong race set-up and think there is more to come for the race. I am back competing within the top 15 which is my objective.”
Yamaha’s Massimo Roccoli was the fastest rider over both days of the test, which was held in perfect weather conditions.
Parkalgar Honda Team Manager Simon Buckmaster said: “Yesterday was all about finding a good race set-up and today about developing that further. Both days have been a big success and while it would have been nicer for Craig to have topped the test, a fuel pressure issue meant he was robbed of track time in the afternoon. It’s clear that he will be a race contender when we return here.
“Miguel has bounced back from a tough last race and is now into the top 15 and looking good on his bike. He can go for a top 10 finish in the race with confidence when we return.
“Parkalgar Honda has some new engine parts and developments to try before the next round, so everything is looking positive and both team morale and rider confidence is high. We can’t wait to come back and race.”
Final Test Times:
1. Roccoli (Yamaha Lorenzini by Leoni) 1'37.159;
2. Nannelli (HANNspree Honda Althea) 1'37.159;
3. CRAIG JONES (PARKALGAR HONDA) 1'37.236;
4. Rea (HANNspree Ten Kate Honda) 1'37.557;
5. Fujiwara (Kawasaki Gil Motorsport) 1'37.572;
6. Veneman (Ressoftware Suzuki) 1'37.748;
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13: MIGUEL PRAIA (PARKALGAR HONDA) 1:38.558
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