MSS Colchester Kawasaki update***NEW***

MSS Colchester Kawasaki update***NEW***

23rd Apr, 2010 to 23rd May, 2010

Sunday, 18th April 2010

MSS COLCHESTER KAWASAKI GET THEIR SEASON INTO GEAR AT THRUXTON BSB

MSS Colchester Kawasaki team boss Nick Morgan declared "the season starts here" after strong performances in both Superbikes and Superstock at Thruxton.

Gary Mason was well on the pace in the Superbike class with fast lap times and two solid rides. Running as high as 6th, Gary finished 8th and 10th after gaining his first meaningful track time this season. Gary posted the second fastest time in Race 1 meaning that under the new rules he started Race 2 in second position. Gary was unlucky to be pipped by just 0.02 seconds by Alistair Seeley in the second race.

Howie Mainwaring experienced a feat of endurance as he raced in both Superbike and Superstock classes, standing in for the injured Simon Andrews. In the Superstock class Howie got a lightning holeshot to lead the pack for much of the race. He then kept the sun drenched audience on the edge of their seats as he battled the experienced Steve Plater for the lead. Described by the Eurosport commentary team as 'an engineer and part-time model!', Howie eventually finished runner-up to the veteran rider, Plater.

Simon Andrews was a battered spectator as he supported his team from the pit garage. Simon watched as Howie was taken out early in the first Superbike race by another rider, meaning his bike was then declared unusable for the second race.

MSS Colchester Kawasaki team boss Nick Morgan commented, "It feels like the season has really started now after the disappointment of Brands Hatch. We were off the pace at Brands but now we've made massive progression. Although Gary's positions weren't earth-shattering, his lap times throughout the weekend were right on the pace. We had Phil Borley on loan from the World Superbike team and he gave us great direction with the data and we've got good mileage this weekend. Howie was fantastic in Superstock and rode a really mature race. He worked hard and impressed the team in Superbike qualifying but was unlucky to be taken out. Our Junior Superstock rider, Danny Buchan, came here for the first time this weekend and got a top ten which is very impressive for a 16 year-old. For now it's back to the workshop and build on this performance for Oulton Park."

Gary Mason said, "I feel really positive after the weekend; we ran good lap times and got some positive results. Obviously I'm a bit disappointed with the actual positions but it was all so close. The team is working really well and I agree with Nick, it feels like we've made a huge leap this weekend."

Howie Mainwaring added, "I feel tired now after so many practice and race sessions and it was a great experience getting out on the Superbike. Superstock went really well and I had a fantastic battle with Plater, I'm feeling pleased to hold a strong second in the Championship."

For more information on MSS Colchester Kawasaki and for high-resolution images please contact:

Harley Stephens - media@msscolchester.com (01732 761006 - 07943 059985)

Notes:

•    MSS Colchester Kawasaki is the official Kawasaki Motors UK British Superbike entry

•    For more about the team and riders visit; www.msscolchesterkawasaki.com