New Era Superclub Final Round, Cadwell Park, 7th & 8th October

For the first time this year I had a proper job to do this weekend. 38 points behind my ex-team mate with 2nd place up for grabs in the Superclub Championships - nothing less than 4 wins would be enough, even then I'd need luck on my side, but I was going to give it my best shot!

Saturday

Qualifying

The session was OK, but there were lots of damp patches after overnight rain, and 60 bikes on track made a good lap almost impossible. I thought I'd done enough for a front row start, but just missed out, qualifying 5th, so no great disaster but I'd left myself with a job to do.

Race 1

The grid was split with CB's at the back & GP125's & 80's at the front with a split start, but there were some really young 80cc riders (one just turned 11!!) who were over 20 seconds a lap slower than we were, so traffic was sure to play a part in the race. I got a cracking start, but it was Paul Russo who's bike was like a rocket ship who led, but me & Jamie Hamilton were snapping at his heels. A couple of laps in Jamie took the lead, and I got Paul into Park, only for him take me back into Mansfield's. Paul is a big guy, and when he comes through he takes no prisoners, but we swapped positions for the next 4 laps, and there  was never more than a second covering 1st to 3rd. I was unable to get to the front with slower traffic slowing us all up, but finished 3rd, with Jamie 2nd, and Paul taking the win, with just 8/10ths between us at the finish line.

Race 2

I got an OK start, but got swamped into Coppice, pushing me back to 7th. It took me a couple of laps to get back into 3rd, and luckily Jamie & Paul hadn't got too far ahead, but then the red flags came out and the race was stopped after a nasty 125 crash, giving me another shot. This would be a 5 lap sprint, and at the start I led into Coppice, but Paul passed me at the end of the Park Straight. I hung onto 2nd until Paul crashed in front of me at the Gooseneck on lap 2. Jamie got by and pulled 2 seconds on me while I composed myself before making a determined push for the win. I caught Jamie with 1 lap to go, smashing the Superclub CB500 lap record in the process, lapping almost a second a lap faster than Jamie, who looked to be struggling to keep me behind him. I tried every corner on the final lap to make a pass, but a move round the outside at Mansfield's almost saw me take to the grass, so I decided to wait until the drag to the line and see if I could get a better drive out of Barn. My plan almost worked, as I missed out on the win by 0.06 seconds. It was still mathematically possible to snatch 2nd in the Championship, and as I felt I was riding better than Jamie, and my bike seemed really good, I planned to give it everything I'd got in Sunday's 2 races.

Sunday

Qualifying

The session was very cold, but the track was mostly dry, I managed to get some good laps in at the front, qualifying 2nd, much better than Saturday, and with my starts really starting to work, I was confident for the races.

Races 1 & 2

I'll keep this relatively short, as I want to comment as little on the situation as possible. For the last half of the season I have been more than a match for Jamie Hamilton, but he was clearly rattled on Saturday, and obviously didn't fancy a head to head scrap Sunday. The bike he was put out on, in our opinion, wasn't the same as the one he rode Saturday, and in my opinion, it had so much straight line speed, there was no way it could've been a legal standard bike. In both races I flew off the line, leading into Coppice & round Charlie's, but when we hit the Park Straight, Hamilton's bike ripped past me & disappeared into the distance. It took me from Park right the way round to Barn to reel him back in (the bike seemed no faster round the twisty stuff - funny that!!) but when we exited Barn his bike ripped away from me again. I pushed hard for the next couple of laps, taking another 3/10ths off my lap record from Saturday (with a 1:46.54, 1.5 seconds faster than my best time on my last visit to the circuit), but Hamilton was lapping 3 seconds a lap faster than he had on the Saturday (and when we were at Cadwell last time). I was happy with my performance, but was fuming that Hamilton's team had seemed to pull such a stunt to make him look better than he actually is, and rob me of a chance to race him fair & square. It would've taken dad £250 to protest the bike, but we don't have the money, so I had to try to put Sunday's events to the back of my mind, and celebrate my own achievements. I finished 2nd in both races, and had done the faster ever lap around Cadwell on a CB500 in standard trim, something I will always be proud of.

So that's it for the CB's - 2nd in the New Era Club Championships, and 3rd in the Superclub Championships. Over the whole year, I've had 28 podium finishes, of which 1 was a win, 14 were 2nd places, and 13 were 3rd places. I've made loads of new friends, gained lots of admirers, and have had the most enjoyable year's racing of my career so far. Lot's of people have supported me this year, and this season couldn't have happened without the following people :-

Konrad Beeson (Photokon.com) - Greg Nichols (Jetclean) - John & Amy (T K Racing 2006) - Connie Wan Docksey & KBC Helmets - Motrax - Chris Sexton (Norfolk Water) - Graham & Nigel (G-Signs) - Jonty Dixon (2006 Hornet Champion & CB500 Legend) Putoline Oils - Hideout Leathers - Mark Sadler (GO Racing Developments) - Tim & Jacko Drummond - All of my family who have supported me - and last of all Mum & Dad, if it wasn't for them sacrificing so much I would never be able to live my dream.

Brands Hatch is looming, where this weekend I will have my debut ride on the Jeff Claridge Tigcraft/Honda 450 in the Sounds of Thunder race. Hopefully this could lead me to competing in the British Supermono Series in 2007 (finances permitting), so I'm going to give it my best shot.

 

Aaron #62

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New Era Club Rd 9, Mallory Park, 10th September

We weren't going to do any more Club rounds this year due to a lack of money, but Dad found a £50 New Era voucher from last year, and as I felt I didn't get to grips with Mallory last time I was there (over 2 seconds a lap slower than the race winner) we thought it would be good to get my confidence up before Cadwell in 3 weeks time, and see what I could get my lap times down to.

We turned up early Sunday morning (leaving home at 5am) and the circuit was covered in thick fog, but the forecast was good, so I wasn't too worried. As usual John turned out some beautifully prepared bikes, and we were treated to a free un-timed practice session (a first this year!) before the 8 minute Qualifying session. Qualifying was crowded as usual but I managed to find some clear track early on, taking almost 2 seconds off my best time when we were here in May!! I finished just a second off ex- TK Racing member Jamie Hamilton, no mean feat as Hamilton regularly practices at Mallory Park, Andy Burbidge was again on the pace in 3rd, and my team mate Nick Thornton put in a good time to fill the final place on the front row.

Race 1

I got a flier off my front row position & led into Gerrards, but Jamie came past as I had a slide coming out of Gerrards. I tailed him & felt really comfortable, but Andy came past really late on the brakes on lap 2 into Edwina's, blocking me mid-corner and not giving me the chance to get him back on the exit. We started to get into the backmarkers in the 80/125cc mixed grid really early which got in the way of me & Andy catching the leader. Just a few laps in me & Andy reeled Jamie in, but we could see Hamilton's exhaust end can had worked loose and was wobbling dangerously, meaning me & Andy were having to stay well back in case the exhaust dropped off & hit us!! We were expecting Hamilton to get black flagged so we wouldn't have to pass him, but his end can fell off in front of us at the Esses, leaving me to take avoiding action to miss it laying on the track. Me & Andy scrapped it out for the last lap, and I tried to get good drive out of the Bus Stop chicane to out-drag Andy to the line, a plan which failed by 2/100ths of a second. I was pleased with 2nd place, but knew if I could get past Andy I could go quicker, as he was braking really late, but messing up all of the slower corners. My team mate Nick got a well deserved 4th place, also beating his best time from the Club round in May, but I had dipped into the 1:01's for the first time (my best from the previous meeting, held in similar conditions, was a 1:04.1!!

Race 2

I got a great start again, and felt good behind Hamilton on lap 1. I could see where I was quicker than him, and this time we had dropped Andy off behind us. Unfortunately Nick had a huge crash at the very fast Devil's Elbow, stopping the race just 2 laps in. There was lots of concern for Nick, who had to go to Leicester A & E with chest pains. Happily we spoke to Nick later in the afternoon & he was just walking wounded - nothing broken but very sore (the same couldn't be said for his bike, which snapped in two against the metal Armco, and seized the engine when a stone from the gravel trap jammed the throttle open while it was on it's side, but the main thing was Nick was fine)

From the re-start I didn't get away so well, and once again I got stuck behind Andy with Hamilton in the lead. Andy was so late on the brakes I had no chance of passing him into Edwina's or Shaw's Hairpin, and he was blocking my lines mid corner again. I dropped back a bit early on to get through the back markers safely, and felt I could run much faster than Andy in front, I just couldn't brake as late as him & still make the corners!. I opted again for a last lap drag to the line, but as he was slow through the Bus Stop I just couldn't get the drive I needed to pip him to the line, losing out by just 1/10th of a second. The pleasing thing was that my fastest lap, which I set after I dropped back early on, was 2.5 seconds faster than I had been round Mallory before, and less than 1/10th of a second slower than the fastest CB lap of the day (although I know I could've gone quicker still without Andy in my way!!) So a 2nd & a 3rd on the day has cemented my 2nd place in the Championship, and I now feel Mallory is no longer a mystery to me!

Job done then, I've left the circuit full of confidence with the deciding Superclub Meeting 3 weeks away at Cadwell Park, where I intend to do everything I can to close the gap on my ex-team mate and secure 2nd place in the Championship. Everything's now in place for my ride on the Jeff Claridge Tigcraft Honda 450 Supermono, Sunday October 15th is the date, I'll be out in the New Era Sounds of Thunder class at my favourite circuit - Brands Hatch - and I can't wait!!

Aaron #62

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New Era Superclub Rd 8 & 9, Snetterton, 2nd/3rd September

I got back off my hols a couple of days before Snetterton, and felt really relaxed & focussed (amazing what a couple of weeks of sun & lazing around can do for you!) Qualifying went well, I felt comfortable with the bike after my "bad day at the office" at Donington, and in the 10 minute session I ended up 3rd fastest, just 0.1 secs behind Alex Gault & 0.7 behind Jamie Hamilton on pole. As usual Andy Burbidge completed the front row, and I could sense a really hard weekends racing ahead of me.

Saturday Race 1

We took to the grid just as the heavens opened, and as the CB's were running a mixed grid with the GP125s who race on slicks, we were allowed 10 minutes to change to wet tyres before the re-start. With 3 bikes in the TK Racing awning things were a little hectic, but thanks to John, Jonty & his spanner man Jamie I made it down to the holding area, with seconds to spare! I made a good start, but with a 10 lap race ahead I decided to just settle in on the first lap in the wet (but drying fast) conditions. As we exited Riches on lap 2 I was in 4th behind Andy Burbidge, Matt Bainbridge & Alex. Matt seemed to lose control on the run up to Sears & fell off. As we came round Coram I was in 2nd, still in touch with Alex, but then the red flags came out and the race was stopped. Matt was OK, just walking wounded (wish I could say the same for his bike!) and we gridded up again for a shortened 6 lap race. The first lap was really close, and as we crossed the line on lap 1 I was 4th but right with Andy, Jamie & Alex. Jamie went into Riches way too hot and crashed heavily again, and saw my chance and took the lead. This was the first time I'd led a Superclub CB race, so I just got my head down & concentrated. Right up until lap 4 dad gave me +1, but then, as the track dried, my tyres started to move around & on the fast corners I was struggling to turn & hang on to the bike, which was handling like a pogo stick as it dried out! I could sense Alex reeling me in, but couldn't go any faster. I lost the lead going into Riches on the final lap, but hung onto Alex to try a move into Russells. A bit of a moment going into Coram saw me slip back just too far, and I crossed the line in 2nd, just 0.5 off getting my first win and so close to breaking Alex's unbeaten run. I wasn't too disappointed as I gave it 100% & rode my heart out, Alex was just better on the day.

Saturday Race 2

With many stoppages and the poor weather, Race 2 was cut from 10 to 7 laps, but the track was now dry, but the wind was now getting up. Lap 1 was OK, but as Alex & Jamie battled for 1st & 2nd, I was stuck in a great battle with Andy for 3rd, which lasted all 7 laps. I've really enjoyed racing with Andy this year, he's the only "older" rider (sorry Andy!) who's consistently been a threat to me, Jamie & Alex. On this occasion we entered Russells on the final lap really close, and I had thought about having a lunge, but that's not really my style, opting instead for a good line in to try a pass on the run up to the line. I thinks Andy fluffed a gear which helped a bit, but I pipped him for 3rd by 0.1 secs, and really enjoyed a great race.

Sunday Race 1

Jamie Hamilton and his Manager Harry Corbett split from TK Racing before Race 1, and chose to ride a borrowed machine (the whole situation is very political so I can't comment on here about it, but I have to say John & Amy from TK Racing are probably the nicest people I know, and I really feel proud to have been part of Teenage Kicks Racing  this year). Back to the racing, and I got a great start, but just couldn't run at the same pace as Alex at the front. I held 2nd place over local rider Mike Jenkins for the first 5 laps, but then I started to experience an electrical cut-out between the Bombhole & Coram. My 2 second gap soon closed to a second, then before I knew it Mike had passed me. To be honest I was praying that the bike wouldn't break, and managed to hang onto 3rd. When we got the bike back John checked what he could, then just changed everything which could be faulty, and I crossed my fingers for race 2!!

Sunday Race 2

Race 2 was amazing. After a re-start due to a 125 crash, Alex cleared off at the front (breaking James Ellison's long standing lap record in the process) and left me to scrap it out with Mike, Andy & Jamie for 2nd. Every lap was a lottery as we tripped each other up, missed gears, got all sideways and generally had a blast. Every time I made it onto Jamie's back wheel I'd get tripped up, then miss gears & drop back again! I think I learnt more lessons in that 8 lap race than I've learnt all year! A last lap push for 2nd was foiled when Mike crashed into Sears on the final lap in front of me, leaving me out of the slipstream down the Revett Straight. I was a bit down to have to come away with a 4th, but had a blast out there, and really rode my ass off (which showed with me posting my fastest lap of the weekend, less than a second outside the previous lap record)

So a 4th, two 3rds and a 2nd have now put me right back in the hunt for 2nd overall in the Superclub standings - just 38 points behind now with 100 points up for grabs at the final Cadwell rounds in October, which seems a lot, but anything can happen and usually does!! Thanks to all my friends & family who came to support me, John, Amy, Jonty & Jamie his spanner monkey, and a special big thanks to Konrad Beeson  from Photokon.com and Tony for taking some cracking photos again. (Pics on Photo Gallery page of this site)

I'm at Mallory this Sunday for a Club round on the CB, but the big news is that I'm due to ride Jeff Claridge's Tigcraft/Honda 450 Supermono bike at the New Era Club round at my favourite circuit - Brands Hatch - on October 15th. This is a ride we've been talking about looking at for a while now, and with the machine based around the Honda 125 I rode last year, but with a big four stroke motor in it, I should be able to combine my last 2 years experiences to hopefully put in a good performance. If I click with the bike, there's a chance I could be competing in the British Supermono Championships next year, but that's a long way off yet, and I've got unfinished business to take care of in the CB's at Cadwell the week before!!

Thanks for the support,

Regards,

Aaron #62

 

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New Era Superclub Rd 7, Donington Park, 13th August

With Aaron now on his hols in sunny Spain (while his loving family are left at home in the rain!!) it's up to good old dad to take over Race Report duties.

Donington is a track Aaron has visited just once before, and while there he managed to almost write off the Activ8/Stealth Racing Honda RS125 he rode last year in only the second session of a track day (damaging his hand quite badly) then wobbled round in two very wet races on a very bent bike, so we weren't expecting anything spectacular from him as New Era have changed the race format mid-season, so that all he would get was one 15 minute Qualifier & one 12 lap race, with one set of points instead of two. A good number of the CB field attended a trackday on Saturday in the dry, and by all accounts a few were going really well, but when we arrived at the circuit at 7.30 on Sunday morning, it was raining and the track looked awfully wet. Even though Donington is notoriously slippery, Aaron had his race face on, & didn't seem to be bothered by the conditions.

Qualifying

Aaron took to the rain-soaked track for a busy session, as the CB's had been combined with the KTM 660's (for qualifying only) and soon settled into a rhythm. It was difficult to gauge how Aaron was going, but when he passed both Andy Burbidge (just behind Aaron in the Championship standings) and Series leader Alex Gault, we knew a good grid position was on the cards. In fact he ended up second fastest, just missing out on pole by 0.2 seconds from one of the form men of late, Matt Bainbridge. A front row start was more than we could've hoped for, and Aaron spent the next 2 hours doing a rain dance!!

The Race

All the best laid plans eh? It dried up before Aaron's race, handing the advantage back to the riders who had practiced Saturday, and with Aaron having never ridden the CB around Donington in the dry, and with brand new tyres fitted to be scrubbed in on the warm up lap, we really didn't know what to expect. Aaron set off on his warm up lap, and as he exited Redgate (turn 1) the rear tyre let go & almost spat him off. When the front tried to tuck on him going into MacLean's, he knew he was going to have problems in the race. From there it all went downhill. Aaron fluffed his start, and ended up mid-pack at Redgate, and  he came round on lap 1 in 13th place! Over the 12 lap race he survived countless slides, made loads of  mistakes, and really struggled for rear end grip for the whole race, and to be honest he seemed to settle for just not crashing! He took the chequers in 12th place, but was elevated to 11th with Alex Gault being excluded for forgetting to fit his timing transponder, then Aaron was awarded a 10 second jump start penalty (?????) pushing him back down to 13th! At Parc Ferme Aaron was frustrated and upset, to go from such a high in Qualifying to such a low in the race, and not understanding why he had no grip and the rest of the field seemed to cope OK was really hard for him to take in. At least the one race format had meant Aaron could try to forget about this one, knowing he'd only lost a few points, but Andy Burbidge's  win has pushed him past Aaron again & back into 3rd place in the standings.

Things aren't all doom & gloom, Aaron is still in sight of 2nd place, and with the next two rounds being held at our local circuit at Snetterton, he's more determined than ever to go out to prove he can cut it at the front. His biggest test will be to see if he can bounce back from his disappointment this weekend. I think everyone's entitled to a bad day at the office, and I don't think you become a bad rider in the space of a couple of hours, we all have to accept he's had a less than perfect meeting & move onwards & upwards. When we waved Aaron off on his Hols he seemed to have put it all to the back of his mind, I think the Aaron we'll see at Snetterton should do all of his Sponsors, friends & family proud.

Andy

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New Era Club Rd 7 & 8, Cadwell Park, 29th/30th July

Just before I get onto the racing, I've been criticised recently (by a fellow competitor) of maybe providing a bit of a biased or fictional race report, but this is not a new Era or T K Racing website, it's a website maintained by me & my father, and provided to keep my sponsors and potential sponsors up to speed with how my season is progressing. If you don't like what you read on here then you should choose to not read it!! I will continue to write the race reports from my point of view, as I saw it, all events are factual as are lap times, etc, sorry to rant a bit, but this needed to be said to put things straight. By all means I welcome constructive criticism, but it would appear that my excellent form in the CB500 Cup of late has surprised a few, and there are a couple who seem to be getting a bit rattled - not my problem, I hope this makes sense to the people it is aimed at, sorry to everyone else (who won't have a clue what this is all about!!) for going on a bit - RANT OVER!!!

Saturday

The last time I visited Cadwell it ended in a trip to Louth A & E, having crashed heavily in a collision with another rider on the Park straight. I have always looked at Cadwell as a more of a "road" circuit, as it's unlike the wider, more flowing circuits in the UK, with lots of blind corners & steep hills, and after losing one of my best racing mates (and probably the most talented rider I've had the pleasure of racing against) at the age of 14, I've always been spooked by the place, so I felt I needed a good meeting to boost my confidence and defeat all the demons in my head.

Qualifying

Unfortunately New Era decided to run the CB500's, Hornet 600's and Earlystocks together, and to assemble the grid as one class, so I new I had to have a good session to not get stranded mid-pack. I had to battle to pass a Hornet for the whole session who was intent on racing me rather than putting in a good lap, something which saw him run onto the grass trying to out brake me into Park with a lap of the session remaining. My time was only good enough for 3rd best of the CB500's but because of the other classes I found myself on the fourth row, while Jamie Hamilton, who had been slower than me on every lap until the last, managed to put a time in that put him on the second row, and second placed CB rider Paul Russo was one place and one row ahead of me also. My team mate Nick Thornton seemed to be really clicking with the track, as he started beside me on the grid, and although that was extra pressure for me, I was so pleased for him to have qualified so well.

Race 1

It's ages since I've started as far back as row 4, and although the CB500's would be scored separately, it would be almost impossible to get through the faster bikes ahead to make a race of it. The race went better than I expected as I got a really good start (thanks again to Graham Dance - Drag Racing legend - for his latest start line "tip") For the whole race I was stuck in an 8-way battle between 3 CB500's, 2 Hornets and 3 Earlystocks (2 of which were 1100cc Suzuki's). The Hornets & Earlystocks were holding me up in the corners, and seemed to hit warp factor 9 on the straights. I passed Paul Russo into Coppice on the last lap to move into second in the CB's, but came out of Charlie's in the wrong gear and was passed back down the straight. I crossed the line at the back of an 8 bike pack separated by less than 2 seconds for a frustrating 3rd place in the CB500 class, but I had improved my best lap time at Cadwell on a CB500 by over 3 seconds.

Race 2

This was almost a repeat of race 1, but with a 6 bike freight train with just over a second covering us all for most of the race. This time I passed Paul Russo on lap 2, and managed to hold him off for a hard-fought 2nd place, improving my PB by another second and lapping a 10/th of a second off the previous lap record set by Gav Littlewood back in 2004. I really enjoyed racing with Paul this weekend, he's a really experienced rider and was able to show me a few times where not to leave too much of a gap on the brakes! He's a hard rider but a fair one, and seems to really enjoy racing against us young-uns! My team mate Nick Thornton was also having a stunning meeting, with 2 brilliant 4th places and a huge 5 seconds a lap faster than when we were at Cadwell in March, truly awesome stuff for a guy in his Novice year. Saturday night was party night for T K Racing's John and his partner Amy. As Cadwell is only a few miles from their Caistor home, hospitality had been arranged for the team and all of the visiting team sponsors, but later on we were treated to the sight of John after a little too much to drink - dad thought it was hilarious, I was just scared!!!

Sunday

We experienced some overnight rain, which cooled things off a little after a roasting Saturday, but the track was dry as we were treated to a very busy free practice session, where I managed to try a few more lines out to try to improve on yesterday's results.

Race 1

I got a great start again, and this time me and Paul were right on the back of Jamie Hamilton as we set off down the Park straight. I'd noticed Jamie had been braking quite early for Park, and as we all closed up going in, Jamie gave it a big handful and the bike spun out, leaving me & Paul to take avoiding action to miss both Jamie and his stricken bike on the floor. I managed to pull away as the lead CB500, and left Nick behind me in 2nd to fight off the attentions of a hard charging Paul Russo. Unfortunately Nick was passed by Paul late on, but still held on for a superb 3rd place (I'm sure he'll treasure his trophy and 3rd place Cadwell hat for some time to come!). I crossed the line for my 1st win in the CB500 class, just over 7 seconds ahead of Paul, but still stuck in a battle with the big 1170cc Suzuki of Luke Brackenbury. I managed to take the Fastest Lap of the race early on, and felt I could improve further if only I wasn't getting held up in the slower corners by the heavier but faster bikes.

I'd like to dedicate my 1st win to the memory of my good friend CJ, this one was for you buddy, gone but never forgotten.

Race 2

I didn't really get the start I'd hoped for, but found myself for the first time this weekend at the back of a 3 way CB500 battle. Jamie had got the lead from his superior grid position, but me and Paul were tripping each other up for 2nd & 3rd. Saying that, we were both enjoying a really good scrap, and I replicated the Coppice pass from Saturday (not so much room this time, but I think we managed to just about not swap any paint!) to move into 2nd place. I thought I'd made a break on lap 4, when I put in a lap which beat the 2004 lap record by nearly a second (and beat my previous best lap on a CB round Cadwell by over 5 seconds!) but Paul almost matched it, and on the last lap squeezed through at the Hairpin. I tried to cut back through at Barn, but lost out on the drag to the line by just 3/100ths of a second. I wasn't too down as I really enjoyed the scrap with Paul, and managed joint fastest lap with Jamie (1:47.90)

I have to say a massive thanks to John Waller and his partner Amy Bryan for laying on such a brilliant weekend for the Team, thanks also to Amy's mother & father who manned the BBQ to keep everyone refreshed. Thanks also to John & Amy's friends & family, and TK Racing's Sponsors for coming to cheer us boys on.

When I went to receive my trophies and caps on Sunday I was chuffed to discover that I'd been nominated as New Era Man of the Meeting (for which I received an embroidered shirt) and as overall Meeting winner for Sunday I received a free tyre from Series Sponsor Holbeach Tyres.

Hopefully I have turned a corner now, and I'm really looking forward to the next Superclub meeting at Donington Park on Sunday August 13th, where I hope to put my new-found confidence to the test as I aim for my 1st Superclub victory

Aaron #62

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New Era Superclub Rd 6, Oulton Park, 8th July

We travelled up Friday when dad finished work, and slept proper Club Racer-style in the back of the trusty old transit to save time on the road minus the caravan. A good result here was vital, as I was 4th overall in the Superclub standings and needed to make up some points on the boys in front. Typically for New Era, there would be no free practice, only 10 minutes qualifying, and two 6 lap races (not nearly enough track time)

Qualifying

The weather was OK, but very cloudy & looking like it could rain at any time. The organisers decided to combine the CB500, Hornet 600 and Formula 400 classes for the timed practice, but big grids meant there were 60 bikes on track, and I just couldn't get a clear piece of track to put a flier in. Championship leader Alex Gault was fastest with what looked like an impossible time to beat, with a 1:59.77. My team mate Jamie was 2nd with a 2:02.59, and to my surprise (even though I was sure I had blown qualifying) I was 3rd, only a second behind Jamie. Matt Bainbridge completed the front row, although a further 1.2 seconds slower. Andy Burbidge didn't have a good session, having his handlebar clipped on the out lap and crashing heavily, although he would start the race, but off the back of the grid. The fastest race lap from the corresponding meeting last year in similar conditions was a 2:05.2, and my mentor (and 2004 CB500 Champion) Jonty Dixon's best was a 2:02, so although I wasn't going slow, both me & Jamie were going to have to do something really special to even catch Alex Gault on the Geoff Coxon prepared bike.

Race 1

I got a flier off my front row start, and led the pack into Old Hall. I tried to run a defensive line into Cascades, but Jamie and Alex both got a better exit and passed me going up the straight to Island. I made a couple of mistakes trying to keep up, so decided to get my head down and concentrate on my own lap, something that worked well as I started to reel Jamie in. Going into lap 4 I was right on the back of Jamie, and was already planning a move into Lodge, that was until I was blocked into (and all the way around) Foulston's by a slow backmarker with bike troubles. Although I got my head down again and lapped faster than Jamie for the last 2 laps, I took the chequers in 3rd, just a second behind Jamie, but Alex had stretched his advantage to 14 seconds at the line. My lap times were coming down consistently, and I ended up pleased with a 2:01.01, 0.8 seconds faster than Jamie's best but 2 seconds off Alex. Andy Burbidge had a stunning race from the back row to finish 4th to keep his 3rd place in the Championship. 

       

Race 2

As we went onto our warm up lap it began to spit with rain, but by the time we got back to the grid it had stopped and the track seemed dry enough. My initial start was good again, that was until the front wheel started to lift - and kept lifting!! By the time I got everything under control I was heading into Old Hall surrounded by far too many bikes for my liking (I was already down in 8th place). I moved outside and passed 3 as we rounded Old Hall, then took a fast wide line into Cascades and passed another 2. That left Chris Swarbrick in between me and the front pair of Alex & Jamie. It was Lodge before I got past Chris, so I was up into 3rd at the end of the first lap, not bad considering that start! Had the race not been cut short to 5 laps I would've caught Jamie, as I was again taking a second a lap out of him. I crossed the line in 3rd again, just behind Jamie in 2nd, with Alex continuing his unbeaten run at the front. I was really chuffed with my fastest lap of 2:00.36, but frustrated that these shortened races mean that you can't afford even the tiniest error as it takes so long against this class of rider to make time up. Andy Burbidge crashed again, this time in sight of another 4th place. With my two 3rd places I'm now sitting in 3rd place in the overall Superclub standings, still in sight of my team mate Jamie in 2nd, but the Championship has almost been decided with Alex undefeated so far this year.

I have to say I've never had to ride a bike so hard to get 3rd place, but I'm getting quicker every time I get on the bike. T K Racing are now running rearset footrests, and while I'm still getting used to the extra ground clearance they have given us a definite boost, and I can't wait to try them out at the next meeting, which is a New Era Club weekend meeting on 29th & 30th July.

Plans for the 2007 season are already taking shape, and as I'll be 16 I have lots more options open to me. Most likely at the moment is a season in the MRO in the Minitwins class on a Suzuki SV650 - all we need is a Sponsor with deep pockets to step in!!

Thanks to all of my Sponsors past & present, without your generous support I couldn't have made it this far.

Aaron #62

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New Era Superclub Rd 4 & 5, Pembrey, 17th/18th June

At last someone saw seen sense and let us under 16's do a practice day. T K Racing were at Pembrey all day Friday for some quality track time, thanks to the brilliant people down at the circuit. Alex Gault was also present, so it was good to see how we all went when the pressure was off. After snatching the fastest lap off my team mate for the 1st time at the last round at Brands, I was really pumped up for this one. The day went perfectly, no dramas and loads of quality track time.

Saturday

We woke Saturday morning to a roasting hot day, much hotter than Friday. I really struggled in the heat for the 15 minute Qualifying session, but managed 3rd fastest time, just behind my team mate Jamie in 2nd, with Alex Gault once again grabbing pole. Andy Burbidge looked very impressive, making up the front row.

Race 1

I got a good start off the front row, and in the usual bunching at Hatchets Hairpin we came out with Alex at the front, Jamie 2nd, Andy B in 3rd and me in 4th. It was obvious early on that us four were the only ones who could put really quick laps in consistently. I got by Andy into Honda Curve (a scary place to overtake!!) and for once was able to stay with Jamie. We were together for the whole race, and I did think about a move into Honda again, as Jamie seemed to back off a bit on the run out of Woodlands, but as the race wore on and the heat got more intense, I ended up with a hard-fought 3rd place. Alex had made a break at the front & took the win.

Race 2

I sat down with my "mentor" and CB500 legend Jonty Dixon at lunch to talk about my laps & where I could maybe improve, I think it's down to him and Mark Sadler from GO Racing Developments that my attitude has changed lately, they've both been putting a lot of positive thoughts in my head, and I'm now starting to believe in myself again. I got away OK again, and once again it was really tight into the first corner. Alex had got to the front, with Andy in 2nd, but me and Jamie were really close for 3rd. Going into the hairpin at the start of lap 2 Jamie passed Andy, but as they slowed each other up, I passed them both on the exit to take 2nd place. I was determined to get my head down and try to stay Alex, but Jamie squeezed by into Brooklands. I felt I was faster than Jamie, but just couldn't make any passes stick. Alex had got away at the front, so I planned a last corner move so Jamie couldn't pass me back. We came out of Honda Curve and over the line with Jamie getting the nod by 0.05 seconds! I was happy with my performance in the stifling heat, and looked forward to a cooler day on Sunday.

Sunday

Sunday was much cooler and quite cloudy, so I felt more comfortable for qualifying. Alex once again got pole, but I set 2nd fastest time and felt really on the pace. Jamie was in 3rd, and Andy B once again made up the front row. Before the race I sat down with Mark Sadler, who runs my mate Jacko Drummond in the 600 class, and he ran me through a lap of the circuit on Jack's 2D telemetry, showing me a couple of places where I could maybe improve my laps.

Race 1

At last Alex didn't get the holeshot, and Andy led on lap 1 with me, Jamie and Alex really close for the first lap. As we all went into Hatchets Hairpin on lap 2 Alex found a gap and went through, but as we came out of the corner he hit a false neutral and sat up right in front of me. Needless to say I was on a mission, and following Alex so close I had nowhere to go other than into the back of Alex and down the track on my backside. I was really frustrated as I felt good for my first win, but I couldn't blame Alex for the crash (even though he stayed on & won the race!), he felt really bad after the race and said the accident was totally his fault. The last thing I needed was a DNF - before the race I was lying in 3rd place in the Championship just 5 points behind Jamie in 2nd, so I really need to start to win races now to get some points back. The bike was fixed while I was attended to in the Medical Centre - nothing serious, just bruising & grazing on my elbow & hip.

Race 2

The 1st part of the race went pretty much as the rest had - Alex leading with me, Andy & Jamie battling for next best. 7laps in out of 10 I saw a few spots of rain on my visor, then out the back of the circuit the heavens opened. Andy got past me into 3rd on lap 8 at Hatchets Hairpin, but I went in late on the brakes into Brooklands with 2 laps to go. Following Andy I noticed he was heavy on the throttle, and was power sliding it everywhere, whereas I felt really comfortable in the tricky conditions. When the slippery surface flags came out it was obvious they would leave us out there on dry tyres for the last 2 laps, so I got my head down & put in 2 laps faster than Alex, which brought me right back up to Jamie. One more lap would've seen me pass him for 2nd, but I was happy to finish the race 3rd and keep the bike upright!

I shouldn't be disappointed with my three 3rd places, as I'm at last on race-winning pace and feeling really confident on the bike, but the DNF has put a bit of a dent in my Championship aspirations. I've taken loads of positives from this weekend, not least of all the fact that last time (my 1st visit) I was at Pembrey my best lap was a 1:10.00, this time I lapped consistently in the 1:07's, with a fastest race lap of 1:07.26, almost 3 seconds faster.  Alex has won all of the Superclub races this year, so it looks like it's going to be a scrap between me, Jamie and Andy Burbidge right up to the end of the season. I have to say thanks to John Waller for once again preparing the bike so well and for looking after me all weekend. Thanks also to Jonty Dixon & Mark Sadler who have both helped me sort out a few things in my head, and have helped me to be more confident & to start to believe in myself again, without their help I wouldn't  be up at the front. Finally a big thanks to Dad for enduring the 14 hour round trip (half of which was on Fathers Day) and getting us back home safely.

Next outing is Superclub Round 6 at Oulton Park on Saturday 6th July.

Aaron #62

Photokon

Pictures of Aaron are now to view or buy on Aaron's very own Gallery on Konrad Beeson's website. Click here to go straight to the page. Thanks to Konrad for his continued enthusiastic and generous support.

New Sponsorship Initiative

New for 2007 is the www.azmanracing.com Year Planner. We are in the process of selling advertising boxes on the poster-sized wall chart to local businesses and interested parties in a bid to bolster our flagging finances (this is the cheapest years racing we've had to date, but outgoings thanks to Aaron's racing still outweigh our family income by a frightening amount!) It's also an excellent opportunity for local companies to promote their businesses cheaply while at the same time supporting young local talent. The boxes are selling fast, so if you would like to contribute please contact us at azmanracing@tiscali.co.uk to discuss your requirements. A full list of companies involved will be published on the Sponsorship page of the site very soon - Thanks to all who have contributed so far, welcome on board!

 

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New Era Club Rd 6, Brands Hatch (Indy), 29th May

Brands Hatch Indy Circuit is my favourite UK circuit, probably because I prefer fast & flowing tracks, rather than stop-start tracks. Pity it was only a one day meeting, but I was determined to make the most of what little track time was on offer. The CB500s were again out with the KTM 660 Bracken Cup boys (the leg-out brigade!!) and with the circuit being so short, it was really hard to get a clean lap in during my 10 minute Qualifying session. Me and my team mate Jamie Hamilton went out together as we had at Oulton last week, and we swapped places with local Grays rider Paul Russo for the whole session. Jamie snatched pole with a 56.56 second lap, with me in 2nd with a 57.03, and Paul Russo 3rd with 57.06. T K Racing's third rider Nick Thornton was in 4th a little way off the pace with a 59.10, but this was his first visit to the circuit in his Rookie year. It looked like, after a few early showers, that we may just get a good dry meeting in, but as has been the case so far this season, we spent most of the time between sessions cloud watching!

Race 1

The KTMs were set off 15 seconds in front of us, and I got the holeshot and led the pack into Paddock. Jamie sneaked through on the brakes into Druids, so I settled in behind him for a few laps to see where I was faster. My plan was soon thwarted  by slow KTM riders, as I'd close in on Jamie only for him to put a KTM between us. By half race distance the red mist was coming down, and I was carving through the backmarkers like I have never done before. I had Jamie in my sights for the whole race, but was frustrated that slower riders had prevented me from getting close enough to challenge Jamie. Me and Jamie had broken well clear of the rest of the CB field, and I crossed the finish line just over a second behind Jamie, annoyed but confident that I still had a little left in the tank to push my team mate harder in Race 2. In a rather freaky moment, ex BSB racer Dave Heal and Graham Rodemark set identical fastest laps in the KTM Cup with 54.53, while me and Jamie did exactly the same thing in the CB500 class with a 56.09, something which gave me a real boost going into the next race.

Race 2

Conditions were great again as we waited for the KTMs to get away, but I fluffed my start a bit as I popped a huge wheelie, and when the front came down I whacked my bits on the tank!! Once the tears cleared from my eyes I set off after Jamie who had made a break at the front. By the second lap I had caught him up again, but was again shafted by the KTM backmarkers for most of the race, but really enjoyed bumping & barging my way through the pack!. At last, with just 2 laps to go I found a little clear track and really got my head down, determined to catch Jamie, sensing my first CB500 Cup win. For the whole of the last lap I could feel Jamie coming back to me, and was right on his back wheel coming out of Clearways on the run up to the flag, but I lost out at the chequers by just 2/10ths. I set the fastest lap on lap 9 with a 55.93, then bettered it with a 55.90 on the final lap, being the only CB500 rider to break into the 55's. I still couldn't help feeling disappointed that I was so close to getting my first win of the year, but at last I'm on race winning pace, and feeling really confident and comfortable on the CB500, and really looking forward to the next Superclub meeting at Pembrey in 3 weeks time.

Thanks to my new Sponsor Greg Nichols from Jetclean who came to watch with his bike-mad mate Mick (hope you're off the crutches & back on a bike soon), as did Richard & Stacey from Bovis Homes, thanks also to Andy, Bev and all of my family who came to support me, and especially my Mum for laying on food and drinks for everyone. Finally a big thanks to Konrad Beeson from Photokon for coming over to photograph me again, he really is the a top bloke & his pictures are top quality.

Roll on Pembrey!

Azman #62

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New Era Superclub Rd 3, Oulton Park, 20th May

I felt pretty much recovered after my bout of the flu, spurred on by the great news about my new sponsors Jetclean, and even a really bad weather forecast couldn't dampen my enthusiasm for this one. It has to be said I've not had the start to the season I had been hoping for, and although I've been at the right end of the grid, machine woes, bad weather, bad luck & a lack of confidence have forced me into kicking myself up the backside, and getting my season back on track. With this being one of the one day meetings this year, we arrived at the circuit at 10 o'clock Friday night, dad had a couple of drinks while me & Gaulty (Alex Jnr!) wheelied round the paddock & biked the circuit by torch light!! For the first time in ages we left our trusty old caravan at home, opting for a speedier journey to & from the circuit, and slept in the back of the van, but with the rain keeping me up all night I wasn't in the best of moods Saturday morning.

Qualifying

I had a plan for Qualifying, although it was fairly simple - get with the first bike that looked quick & stick to it! No free practice only 10 minutes Qualifying in the pouring rain, and 44 bikes on circuit  meant that if I got it wrong, my meeting could be over before it started. Me and my team mate Jamie went out together, and managed to push each other through the slower traffic. We felt our lap times were coming down, and just managed to sneak through for a 5th lap before the chequers came out, but our flying lap was thwarted by a slower KTM. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that although Alex Gault had got pole again, Jamie was 2nd, and I was 4th on the grid, with just 8/10ths separating us, with the fast Novice rider Chris Pickersgill making up the front row.

Race 1

I've had some tips on getting off the line from one of my sponsors, Graham Dance from G Signs. (multiple British and European Drag Racing Champion - Superstreet Bikes class). Thanks to Graham I was second into Old Hall behind Jamie on lap 1, but having to wait 20 seconds on the line for the KTM Bracken Cup lads to get away had caused my visor mist up. and going down into Cascades I had to guess my braking & entry points, and on the run up through Island I had been passed by 5 bikes, putting me down to 7th. Once I got going my visor cleared I set off after the leading bunch. On lap 2 my team mate Jamie Hamilton lost the front together with Erol Ahmet going down into Cascades, elevating me to 5th (although that's not the way I like to gain places, but both riders were up & OK). I then got passed by Andy Burbidge and decided, although it was raining & there was loads of standing water, there would be no more "Mr Nice Guy". Andy seemed to disappear really quickly, so I pushed hard and passed Richie Gelder into Old Hall & Phil Higgins into Shell Oils Hairpin on lap 4 in  the 6 lap race. I could see Andy coming back to me, and I tagged onto him on lap 5. I wasn't too sure where to make my move, but Andy made my mind up for me when he entered Foulston's Chicane in 1st gear instead of 2nd  - SIDEWAYS! -  The rest of the lap had me head down and arse up, but as we entered the final corner (Lodge) Andy sneaked up my inside, but I squared it off and nailed it, beating Andy and claiming 4th place by a 1/10th of a second. Finally I'm starting to really enjoy the CB500 Cup. That race really got me pumped up, although I really felt for my team mate Jamie, I was really looking forward to another wet race in the afternoon.

Race 2

Graham's tips for my starts worked wonders again as I got the holeshot & led into Old Hall, although I got passed by Gaulty Jnr. , Chris Pickersgill, Paul Russo & Jamie on lap 1. This time I found it easier to stay with the faster riders, although it was now raining hard and visibility was really poor. Alex & Jamie had made a break for it, but as we crossed the line at the end of the 3rd lap I was ready to make my move on Chris & Paul. That was until I saw waved yellows at Old Hall, followed by red flags at Foulston's. It was Jamie who had a massive crash at Old Hall, his second of the day, resulting in a race result from the end of the 3rd lap. I was both gutted for both Jamie and myself, as I knew I was more than fast enough to pass both the riders ahead of me, but Jamie's well-being was more important, and we were all relieved when he returned to the TK Racing camp, battered & bruised, but still with that big stupid grin on his face!! With Jamie's exclusion for being the cause of the stoppage, I claimed another pleasing 4th place, leaving me in 4th place in the Superclub standings, just 10 points off Chris Pickersgill in 2nd, but with Gaulty Jnr. way in the lead after winning all of the first 6 races.

I believe I've now turned a corner, thanks to the help of Graham from G Signs, Jonty Dixon with his special "words of wisdom", John and Harry from T K Racing, and most of all my family, I believe my Championship is back on the rails. Next outing is New Era Club at Brands Hatch Indy on Bank Holiday Monday (my favourite circuit) where I'm 2nd in the Championship, hoping to close the gap on fellow T K racing member Jamie Hamilton, and with 3rd T K rider Nick Thornton lying 3rd, things are looking good for the team.

Aaron #62

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New major Sponsor announced

Shortly after returning from Snetterton last weekend we were contacted by Greg Nichols from Suffolk-based company Jetclean. Greg is now Sponsoring Aaron financially for the rest of the 2006 season at least, and the money he has kindly donated will go to help out with race entry fees, and to purchase a Motocross bike for Aaron to train on in between race meetings. Greg and his father John also own Leiston Plant Hire, and NJB Contractors. We would like to thank Greg & John for their generosity, and look forward to working with them to promote their businesses in the coming months.

New Era Club Rd 5, Mallory Park, 14th May

Mallory was a very quiet & chilled out meeting, with no pressure of Superclub points at stake. TK Racing were present just to give me, Jamie & Nick some valuable track time ahead of the next Superclub round at Oulton Park this Saturday. Qualifying went really well. The plan was to try to stick with my team mate Jamie Hamilton, as he has been round Mallory several times, and was certain to be fastest. Our times were very similar, with Jamie grabbing pole for the races, but my time was only 4/100ths slower. TK Racing's third rider Nick Thornton completed a TK Racing 1-2-3 with 3rd best time.

Race 1

My start was good, but Jamie was able to put a couple of Hornets and a KTM 660 Supermotard between us on the first lap, and as I had trouble passing the KTM and making it stick, I had to settle for 2nd place behind Jamie, with Nick taking an impressive 3rd place.

Race 2

I got away with Jamie this time, but lost out under braking into Edwina's, and got stuck behind that KTM again. To make matters worse, Nick had really got to grips with the circuit, and was pushing me hard in all of the braking areas. We both managed to force our way past the KTM, but I was struggling a bit under braking, feeling very tired, with a lot of arm-pump. (The tiredness was actually the start of a flu virus, which has kept me off school since). Nick passed me on the penultimate lap at the hairpin, but going into the last lap I was already planning to snatch 2nd place back. With Nick having followed me for the whole race, we approached Edwina's with Nick not sure how late he could brake. I just kept my line, and as Nick ran on a bit into the chicane, I nipped back past him, and held on to the finish line. That was another TK Racing clean sweep then, with Jamie taking the 2 wins, Me with 2 seconds and Nick taking a well-deserved 2 thirds, but I'm sure things will be a lot more difficult at Oulton this weekend. I'm hoping to be fully fit, but only time will tell. One things for sure, fit or not, I'll be out at Oulton to try to close the gap on the Championship leaders.

Thanks to my team mates Jamie & Nick for a really fun race meeting, and to Longshot Racing's Harry Corbett for helping me out with my riding, I'm looking forward to working closely with Harry and John Waller over the coming months to improve even further.

Aaron #62

 

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New Era Superclub Rd 1 & 2, Snetterton, 6th & 7th May

This is where the season kicks off properly, and it seems ages since my last Superclub meeting. I missed out on Friday practice because there is now an 18 year old age limit, but had a great night in the paddock catching up with old friends.

Saturday

Saturday morning was fine & dry, and the 10 minute Qualifying session went OK. With a big grid of 25 Honda CB500s, I qualified 5th, 1.5 seconds off pole sitter & old mate Alex Gault, and a second faster than the pole time from the corresponding meeting last year.

Race 1

From the second row I made possibly the worst start I've ever made, and came over the line on lap 1 down in 12th place - not the start I'd been dreaming of. Getting through the mid-pack riders was difficult, these guys were front runners in the CB500 Cup last year, and ride REALLY hard! Race 1 was a 10 lapper, and it was spitting with rain for most of the race, but didn't seem to affect the track too badly.  I eventually fought my way up to 5th at the finish, but was lapping at the same pace as the leaders, setting the 3rd fastest lap of the race (just 8/100ths off Jamie's fastest lap, and over 2 seconds faster than the races from last year!) The race was won by Alex, with my team mate Jamie Hamilton second.

Race 2

My worst fears were to come true for Race 2, it rained just before we went out, and having never raced the CB500 in the wet I didn't have a clue what to expect. I got off the line really well, but took it too easy on lap 1 of the shortened 6 lap race, and came round in 9th place. I upped the pace every lap, and found it easier to pass riders in the tricky wet & greasy conditions. I was in 6th place going into the final lap, but could see I was catching a bunch of 3 riders. I caught them coming into Russells, and managed to out-drag Chris Pickersgill on the run up to the line, snatching 5th, and just missing out on the battle for 3rd. I once again set the 3rd fastest lap time of the race, which was won by Alex Gault. I felt really good in the wet, and was looking forward to Sunday's races, but we were to miss out on morning practice due to a back-log of races caused by an unbelievable number of red flags caused by the awful track conditions.

Sunday

Race 1

Sunday morning was wet & miserable, and we didn't get out for our first race until lunchtime. I felt good on the warm up lap, but there was so much spray & standing water that I knew visibility would be a problem. I got off the line really well, holding my position on the run up to Riches, but had my handlebars clipped as I was passed before the turn, sending me into the mother of all wobbles. When I finally got the bike under control I was almost last, and desperate to make up lost time. I came across the line way down in 17th place, and with the race only scheduled for 8 laps salvaging valuable points was the only thing on my mind. By lap 7 I as up to 9th place, and took last year's pole-sitter Richie Gelder at Sears for 8th place. At the end of the straight however, I made a huge mistake when I missed my braking point, unable to see a thing through the spray being kicked up by the trio of Gamble, Higgins & Pickersgill who I had caught up. I just managed to avoid crashing, but allowed Richie past on the outside at Coram, so a poor 9th place it was. The rider who clipped me at the start apologised after, which sums up the CB500 Cup perfectly, they are all really nice guys off the track, but its pretty ruthless stuff once the flag drops!

Race 2

I got a great start and at the end of lap 1 was in 6th place. I think I was too eager to catch the leaders though, as I kept making silly mistakes, and just didn't feel comfortable getting on the gas where the others were. I lost a place to Chris Pickersgill, and finished the race in 7th place, not brilliant considering I went so well in the wet on Saturday. I think my big moment in Race 1 had affected my confidence more than I had realised, so I think I need to work on my aggression before my next outing on Sunday May 14th at Mallory Park, which was one of my worst meetings last year on the 125GP. I'm hoping for a dry day, so I can really start to ride the CB hard, and make some ground up on my team mate Jamie Hamilton, and the already impressive Alex Gault. I do feel I have lots of speed to come yet though, and can't wait for the next race.

Thanks to John at TK Racing for looking after the bike, all of my family & friends for coming to support me over the weekend, Tim & Jack Drummond for the excellent company (stunning rides in the 600 races, but so unlucky to have a big off), Mark Sadler from GO Racing Developments, Jonty & Jamie, and Konrad Beeson at www.photokon.com for the great pics, hopefully I will soon be able to give them all something to really cheer about.

Thanks for your continued support & interest,

Aaron #62

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New Era Club Rd 3 & 4, Pembrey, 8th & 9th April 2006

All 3 members of TK Racing were again present at this, our last "shake-down" meeting before the Superclub season gets under way in May. We left home Friday morning, and arrived at a sunny & cold Pembrey early afternoon. After the practice day had finished, I walked the circuit with my good mate Jacko Drummond, who showed me some lines, and pointed out the bumpy bits!! My team mate Jamie Hamilton had been to Pembrey previously with the MRO, so had a massive advantage going into this weekend - my aim was to try to stay with him!

Saturday

We were treated to a 25 minute Qualifier, followed by 2 x 12 lap races (about 15 minutes each). As soon as my Qualifier got under way I knew something was wrong with my bike. I was unable to hold a line, and the bike was "bouncing" everywhere - when we got the bike back in the awning at the end of the session, John noticed that one of the rear shocks had broken, and left me with no rear suspension. I had managed to put in a half decent lap time regardless, and found myself 3rd of the CB500's, behind Andy Burbidge, with Jamie 2 seconds ahead of me on pole.

Race 1

I got an OK start, and kept Jamie in sight for a couple of laps, but got caught up in a race-long scrap with Nigel Slater (Honda Hornet 600). Although I had a really good race, holding on to Nigel for the whole race, Jamie got away at the front, and took the race, with me in 2nd, and Andy Burbidge back in 3rd. My bike was at last feeling really good, so the plan for the rest of the weekend was to get as close to Jamie as possible, learn the circuit, and try a few things out. Unfortunately out team mate Nick crashed out of 3rd place at the fast but bumpy Honda Curve, but was able to make it out for Race 2.

Race 2

I got a better start this time, and hung onto Jamie again for a few laps, but lack of track knowledge was leading me into making small mistakes, and with Pembrey being such a flowing circuit, a few mistakes add up to a whole heap of lost time. My good laps were only half a second slower than Jamie's, so although I had to settle for 2nd again, with Andy again taking 3rd, my confidence was now on the up, and I was really enjoying the circuit & riding well within myself.

Sunday

Only 10 minutes qualifying & a damp circuit caught me out a bit in the morning session, but still managed the 2nd best time behind Jamie, with the 3rd member of TK Racing Nick Thornton upping the pace and Qualifying 3rd.

Race 1

Both races were scheduled to be 15 laps today, but after I got my best start of the weekend, and was sticking with Jamie, GP125 rider Oliver Harrison ran wide beside me coming out of Dibeni and highsided on the rough kerbs, almost taking me out. The session was red flagged, and on the restart, I settled into 2nd and concentrated on trying some different lines, some worked & some clearly didn't - but that's the whole point of doing these Club Meetings, experimenting without the pressure of worrying about Championship points. Jamie took another win, I took 2nd, and our team mate Nick made it a TK Racing 1-2-3.

Race 2

The weather had been getting colder, and there was a threat of sleet in the air, but I decided to try to improve my fastest lap for the weekend in the final race. With the track feeling very cold & slippery for the first couple of laps, I settled into 2nd place, and started to push mid-race, and achieved my goal on the final lap, putting in a 1:10.00, about 1.5 seconds slower than Jamie's fastest of the weekend. TK Racing again finished with a 1-2-3, with Nick improving all the time back in 3rd.

I've taken many positives from my first visit to Pembrey, I'm really starting to feel good on the CB500 in race conditions, and enjoyed the flowing nature of the circuit. Things are definitely on the up, and I'm now relishing the challenge of my first Superclub meeting at Snetterton on May 6th & 7th.

Aaron #62

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New Era Club Rd 1 & 2, Cadwell Park, 25th/26th March 2006

The line-up for Teenage Kicks Racing 2006 has now been finalised. Me (obviously!), 15 year old Jamie Hamilton (ex- Aprillia Superteens & MRO GP125s) from Ballyclare in Northern Ireland, and 22 year old Novice rider Nick Thornton from Hethersett in Norfolk will make up the 3 man team to contest the 2006 New Era Honda Superclub CB500 Cup. As me and Jamie are unable to practice or test at most UK circuits until we are 16, TK Racing owner John Waller has decided to let us also contest the 11 round New Era Club Championships so that we can gain much-needed track time on our new bikes.

                   

Nick Thornton (46) Aaron Easter (62) and Jamie Hamilton (38)

On to Cadwell Park then (my least favourite UK circuit) for my first meeting on the TK Racing CB500s. All 3 TK Racing riders were present, as were several Superclub riders, so we were sure to be tested first time out.

Saturday

The Club Championships format isn't the best, with just one 8 minute Timed Practice to Qualify for grid position, then 2 x 6 lap races, so we had very little time to get our heads round the bikes or the circuit. Qualifying was wet (but beginning to dry) and I qualified 4th, Jamie was 5th, and Nick a really impressive 7th, considering this was his first ever Road Racing meeting.

Race 1

The CB/Hornets race was the first after lunch, but a decision to restart 10 minutes early caught the Team out, with John still changing wheels (and me on the toilet!) as we were called to the holding area. Jamie made it out for the warm up lap, but me and Nick (and 2 other riders) were held on the slip road and prevented from joining the others. we were let out after the field had passed, and formed on the grid. As the lights went out, I launched off the line OK, but was struggling to change gear, and entered Coppice in last place! Once I got going, I started to pick my way through the slower CB's and Hornets, and by lap 4 I had caught ex 250 GP rider Andy Burbidge in 3rd place. I managed to squeeze past on lap 5, and was catching my team mate Jamie Hamilton in 2nd, but ran out of laps, and finished my first race in 3rd place. After such a rubbish start I was more than pleased, that was until I was handed a 20 second penalty for not starting off the back of the grid. However, after putting my case to the Clerk of the Course, who agreed that I hadn't gained any advantage as I was last into Coppice anyway, the Penalty was overturned and my 3rd place reinstated.

Race 2

The whole TK Racing Team was down in the holding area 5 minutes early for Race 2! I struggled again with my gears off the line, and once again slipped back down the field. Jamie had got a flier & cleared off at the front, and I also charged through the field, but got caught up in the scrap for 2nd place involving Andy Burbidge and Martin Carr. Still trying to get to grips with Cadwell and the big Honda, I felt much faster than the 2 riders in front, but couldn't generate the extra speed needed to pass them, I gave it one last go coming out of Barn and onto the Finish straight on the final lap, and managed to pip Martin by 0.03 seconds, but lost out to Andy by 0.01, still 3rd place was an excellent result considering my gear changing problems at the start. Jamie held on to get his first win, and Nick finished his first day with two 8th places, but had improved his lap times considerably.

Sunday

For Sunday me & John decided to switch my bikes over, and change my boots, in a bid to cure my problems with changing gear. I would now be back on the bike I rode at Nogaro, and felt much happier as the first race approached.

Race 1

I got a much better start this time (at last!) and managed to hang onto my 4th place on lap 1, but Jamie had nailed it again (it has since come to light that he has been practicing his starts and out laps back in Ireland - note to self "need to practice starts!") From lap 1 however, I was having trouble under heavy braking, with the handlebars shaking violently on the entrance to Mansfield's, The Mountain, and The Hairpin.  Up ahead Andy had made a break and was hounding Jamie, I was passed by Paul Russo, Martin Carr and Brian Gamble, and was getting more annoyed with the bikes handling. Having considered pulling in, I decided to have one last push on the last lap, and managed to pass Brian round the outside into the Gooseneck, and with backmarkers in sight, I squeezed passed Martin coming out of Barn to take a very hard-fought 4th place, behind Paul Russo in 3rd, Andy Burbidge in 2nd, and with a bike obviously handling better than mine (but riding so well all the same!) Jamie Hamilton with another race win. On inspection, there had been a problem with my front suspension, and the forks had been bottoming out under heavy braking, so some adjustments were made, and I was really revved up for the final race.

Race 2

I got a flier off the line, and tipped into Coppice in 3rd place. Jamie had again streaked off ahead, seemingly able to pull 3 or 4 seconds on the whole field every time. I was passed by both Martin Carr & Brian Gamble again, but passed them back coming out of Barn, only to get nudged back into 5th into Coppice. This was really enjoyable stuff, really close racing, but all of us giving each other room. On the run down the Park straight on Lap 2 I tailed Brian & Martin, and as we all braked for Park, another rider (who I won't name) clipped me from behind, sending me and my bike tumbling down the track. I seemed to slide and tumble for an age, thinking all the time "please don't let me get run over" as I could sense bikes all around me. I came to rest on the edge of the circuit and crawled onto the grass, feeling like I'd gone ten rounds with Mike Tyson. The Marshalls were great (thanks to everyone who helped me) and offered to red flag the race, but apart from my bike (smashed exhaust system, two bent wheels and a smashed fuel tank), leathers and helmet looking decidedly second hand, and a really painful left elbow, I didn't feel too bad all things considered! My Hideout leathers and KBC helmet had really saved me from serious injury, but I did have to endure a trip to Louth A & E for an X-Ray on the elbow, which was just badly bruised and grazed.

This meeting was a real eye opener for me, and any thoughts I had of an easy ride disappeared after Race 1 on Saturday! The CB 500 Cup is easily the most competitive Series I have raced in to date, and up until I my massive crash, the whole weekend had been great and a whole lot of fun. Massive thanks to John at TK Racing for preparing the bikes and looking after me all weekend, all the circuit Officials and Medical Staff who were fantastic, Tim and Jack Drummond and their Technician Mark (the Nogaro crew!!), Mark at Holbeach Tyres, Putoline Oils, Motrax, Stealth for coming to cheer me on, and Mum, Dad, Rach & Weeman for being there for me (sorry for ruining Mothers Day Mum!)

Overall (apart from the crash) it was an excellent weekend for Teenage Kicks Racing. Jamie cleared up with a 2nd & three wins, I managed two 3rds and a 4th, even with all of my problems (which we WILL have ironed out by Pembrey in 2 weeks time!) and Nick who managed to stick to Superclub regular Sam Parry like glue in the last race - stunning stuff for his first ever meeting.

Next meeting is another Club event at Pembrey, Carmarthen (Wales) on April 8th & 9th. I'm hoping to be fully fit by then, although we are facing a battle to have my leathers fixed in time, but Kate at Hideout has never let me down before, so fingers crossed. This will be TK Racing's final preparation for the Superclub opener at Snetterton on May 6th & 7th, so I hope to be on the pace by the end of the weekend, and hopefully beating Jamie into the first corner!

From now on it's "ELBOWS OUT, ARSE UP AND HEAD DOWN" - I can't wait!!

Aaron #62

 

 

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Testing - Nogaro, 21st - 24th February 2006

We've just returned from a thoroughly enjoyable 4 days testing at the Circuit Paul Armagnac, Nogaro, in South Western France. The trip was made more enjoyable by the wonderful organisation of the event by Track Moto Trackdays, and the company of Aaron's leathers Sponsor Konrad Beeson (www.photokon.com) and Tim & 16 year old Jack "Jacko" Drummond, who have been "racing" friends of ours since Aaron's Conti Cup days back in 2003/2004. While this would be Aaron's first official ride on board the Teenage Kicks Racing CB500's, it would also be Jacko's first dry test on his '05 Yamaha R6 in preparation for the 2006 ACU Star 600cc Championships. It has to be said that both Aaron & Jacko behaved & performed impeccably on & off the circuit all week, and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience - here's how the week went....................

Day 1 - Tuesday

The format for the whole week was to be 2 groups - Fast & ACU - with 30 mins alternating sessions. With several BSB Superstock riders in the Fast group, we chose the ACU group for Aaron, and most of the day was spent with Aaron familiarising himself with the circuit layout and getting a feel for his No. 1 "Dry" bike. This was the first event to be held at the circuit since a fair part of it had been re-surfaced and altered to improve safety, but most riders found the new surface to be very slippery, and extremely uneven in places. Something we have introduced for Aaron in 2006 is an onboard Lap Timer, which seemed to already be helping him with consistently improving his lap times, and at the end of the day he ended with a PB of 1'53.54 secs.

Day 2 - Wednesday

After a cold but dry day on Tuesday, we were greeted by a wet and cold circuit after overnight rain, so Aaron did the morning sessions on his No. 2 "Wet" bike, but as with most riders he found the newly re-laid parts of the circuit very slippery, so after the customary 2 hour lunch break, and with the track almost dry, he reverted back to the Dry bike. Aaron had already gained much respect down pit lane with the other riders, with many of the track day "specialists" struggling to stay with Aaron in the corners, and he had also been singled out by a friend of the Joe Darcy Racing Team (who compete in the Spanish Championships) who took to following Aaron around the track with an onboard video camera (with some impressive results!). Jacko & Aaron were really clicking now, and seemed to be spurring each other on to improve with every single session. Aaron picked up the pace considerably in the final session of the day, and with a PB of 1'51.26 set himself a target for Thursday of breaking into the 1'50's for the first time.

Day 3 - Thursday

Frost greeted us at the circuit in the morning, but that didn't stop Aaron lapping faster with every session, and when the sun broke through after lunch, both Aaron & Jacko set about reducing their PB's even further. Aaron had a new front tyre fitted, and by the end of the day had brought his PB down to an impressive 1'49.98, with Jacko also setting his fastest time of the week so far, dipping into the 1'38's.

A steak & chips night was planned down in the town that night with all of our new friends from pit lane, and a great night was had by all. Aaron & Jacko seemed to be fitting in & getting on well with the other riders, despite the obvious age gap, and it was pleasing to hear so many of the older & more experienced riders commending the youngsters on their awesome cornering speed and natural ability to be able to suss out the fastest lines very quickly.

Day 4 - Friday

A good number of riders had opted not to do the full day on Friday to return home that night, leading to a really relaxed atmosphere in pit lane on our arrival. With an "open" pit lane, blue skies, and sunshine, Aaron was first out on circuit and looked in a determined mood. He decided to use the session before lunch to attempt a "Superpole" lap, so he did an out lap, flying lap, and returned to the pits, hoping he would be able to crack the 1'48 barrier. His time was a stunning 1'47.65, and with the fastest Hornet 600 lapping in the 1'46's, we both agreed that would be a good way to end his search for a quick lap!! After lunch the circuit was put under red flags so that the riders left could practice their starts on the grid. Aaron, having never performed a start on the CB500 before, managed two textbook starts, before the circuit was closed to remove 2 dogs which had got onto the Start/Finish straight!! At this point, we all decided that would be a good time to pack up & head back to the Hotel for our last night out on the town. We had all enjoyed the perfect week, Aaron & Jacko had really clicked with their bikes, and left the circuit with words of praise for their obvious talents still ringing in their ears.

Big thanks go out to Tony, Trevor, Dean & Kerry at Track Moto for laying on such a superb event, to Konrad at Photokon for the stunning photos & the spanky new leathers, to "The Rockit" for the onboard video of Aaron (if anyone would like a copy please let me know & I will send you a disc in the post), to Connie & all at KBC Europe for the superb new VR2 helmets, to Motrax & Putoline for their kind support, to John & Jonty at Teenage Kicks Racing for supplying the bikes for the trip, and last but no means least to Tim & Jacko Drummond for making the trip so enjoyable, it wouldn't have been the same without them.

Hears to a prosperous 2006 - Aaron is now confident he'll be right at the sharp end of the CB500 Cup grid come Cadwell Park in March, let's just hope we don't get the awful weather conditions we experienced there last year.

 

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Here we go again!!

Aaron is about to embark on his most exciting year of racing in his 5 year career, and since his last ride on the Teenage Kicks Racing CB500's at Rockingham in November 2005 the Team set-up has been progressing at pace, and is now looking very polished indeed. Aaron has a new personal Sponsor in the shape of top Sports Photographer Konrad Beeson. Konrad is one of Aaron's growing band of admirers, and will be supplying Aaron's self-designed Hideout leathers for the 2006 season. Both Aaron and I are looking forward to working closely with Konrad to promote his company Photokon (visit his website at www.photokon.com).

John Waller and Jonty Dixon from TK Racing have been busy over the winter buying in more race bikes & spares for the Team, and as the rider chosen to spearhead the Team, Aaron will now have the luxury of two John Waller-prepared machines at every meeting, and enough spares & technical back-up to enable him to be a realistic title contender in his Superclub CB500 Cup Rookie year.

Jonty has been busy down at Seastar Superbikes with Aaron's two machines, getting the bikes set up on the Seastar Dyno, so that we now have two race-ready machines for pre-season testing. This is where the whole thing goes a bit pear-shaped though, as was the case in 2005, Aaron is excluded from testing at Trackdays & Practice sessions at all major UK circuits until the age of 16, due to the same Insurance issues which thwarted his progress last year. Our plan to test at Rockingham Raceway with Track Moto has come to nothing, as the circuit is undergoing an overhaul, and is closed until late April at least.

A sign of our determination to give 2006 our very best shot is the fact that, without UK tracktime, we have chosen to bite the bullet (and break the bank!!) to take Aaron on a 4 day test session at the Nogaro Circuit in the South of France, beginning on Tuesday 21st February. Although putting a major dent in our 2006 budget, doing this test should give Aaron the best possible chance of challenging for the Superclub Championship from Round 1. This year is going to be a case of removing all of the doubts & obstacles for Aaron, so that he feels he is getting a fair shot at the title, something which John & Jonty at TK Racing feel he is more than capable of. Four days intense testing should be enough for him to be able to mould his style to the big 500cc fourstroke twins, and start to push the bikes almost to their limits. We will post a full account of our time in France on our return.

I think the last word should come from the Aaron himself - "If all goes to plan I should be hitting the ground running in 2006, and I'm relishing the thought of riding in my new Team, Teenage Kicks Racing (thanks to mum for thinking of the name!). I'm also looking forward to learning from John & Jonty, and would like to thank Konrad Beeson, KBC (Helmets )Europe -the new VR2 is stunning- and Kate at Hideout for looking after me again. I'm sure that between us all we'll be a real force to be reckoned with - practice or no practice!!" - Aaron

Here's to a fantastic season,

Andy Easter