RACE REPORT
PHILLIP ISLAND 4-5 DECEMBER
The Mount Gambier team of Daniel Falzon, Liam Wilkinson, Levi Day and Michael Brenton has claimed victory in the recent 6 hr Endurance Race, held at Phillip Island.
The team came through winning first place in the 600 Superstock class and taking out a 13th overall position amongst the 38 strong entry list.
The three day event gave the boys plenty of track time to get to know the bike, a Kawasaki ZX6, provided by team manager Rick Wilkinson.
The fastest qualifying time set by Daniel Falzon put them 17th of the grid and earned Daniel his place as starting rider. The LeMans style start was a crowd favourite, with the riders running to their bikes on the fall of the national flag.
A race strategy prepared by Jon Falzon had each rider on the bike for two sessions of 22 laps/ 40 mins at a time. Taking into consideration fuel consumption, tyre changes & safety car scenarios and a big ask of Michael Brenton to take the sessions with most worn tyres was invaluable as his experience gave us the benefit of only two tyre changes, this formula proved very successful.
A great ride by all, especially Levi with his first real ride on a 600, the aim was to be well paced as we watched race favourites and many more experienced riders take a tumble or succumb to machine problems. By around lap 160 we felt the possibility of victory and the excitement was building. The team decided on Liam to bring the bike home, to see him pass on pit straight with his fist waving in the air was a scene for jubilance among the team, as was their appearance on the winners podium, a remarkable achievement for such a diverse team of riders.
The riders were part of a larger team who managed the pit stops throughout the day. Headed by Dave Wilkinson, the crew of Rick Wilkinson, Joe &Jon Falzon, Darren & Dave Trotter and Rob Day worked like a ‘well oiled machine’ managing fuel stops, wheel changes, lap board and timing.
A great success for the Mt. Gambier MC & LCC, who can claim each rider as a member. Thanks to all for their help & support, a weekend not to be forgotten.
Last Modified on 08/03/2011 17:19