Clean sweep for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty won his seventh World Supersport Championship race from 11 starts at the Nurburgring in Germany to slash the gap in the title fight to just eight points with two races remaining.
With Eugene’s main title rival Kenan Sofuoglu finishing third, it means the Irishman can now win the Championship if he wins the last two races – something he wasn’t able to do before today’s result. The next and penultimate round of the Championship is at Imola in Italy on September 26th.
Eugene: “We needed that and it was not easy. We went a wrong direction with our set-up and the bike was a little loose in the race. I knew I had to break Kenan though so had to push the whole race and Gino came with me. The nice thing now is the title race is in my hands which it wasn’t before – if I win both the last races then I will be Champion. That’s a big ask as Kenan is strong particularly at Imola but with Parkalgar Honda I have the bike, package and team to do it.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene rode a great race and controlled it from the front. In the second half of the last lap he was masterful the way he kept momentum through the corners but selected the lines to defend his position. A great result and it is game on in the title race. Miguel was good in warm-up and on for a top 10 result when he went wide at turn one and crashed. He remounted to score two points and it shows the fight he has and he remains in touch for a top 10 Championship position.”
Race Result
1: LAVERTY, PARKALGAR HONDA
2: Rea, Honda +0.058
3: Sofuoglu, Honda +5.072
4: Parkes, Kawasaki +15.890
5: Foret, Kawasaki +16.911
6: Davies, Triumph +28.380
7: Salom, Triumph +28.495
8: Roccoli, Honda +28.578
9: Pirro, Honda +28.787
10: Tamburini, Yamaha +1:02.199
14: PRAIA (PARKALGAR HONDA) +1:51.319
Championship Positions (after 11 of 13 rounds)
1: Sofuoglu 219
2: LAVERTY (PARKALGAR HONDA) 211
3: Lascorz 168
4: Davies 136
5: Rea 103
6: Salom 89
7: Harms 86
8: Pirro 65
9: Lagrive 65
10: Foret 63
13: PRAIA (PARKALGAR HONDA) 59
05/09/2010 17:05
Laverty shows class to take pole
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty leapt from provisional fifth to pole position in final qualification for the 11th round of the World Supersport Championship at Nurburgring in Germany, showing real class and pace whilst Miguel Praia improved his lap times but dropped to 15th.
Laverty must beat Sofuoglu in tomorrow’s race to keep the pressure on in the title fight; he is currently second in the standings just 17-points behind with three races remaining. The race takes place at 1330 local time on Sunday 5th September.
Eugene: “We needed to get an advantage over the Turk and we did that. I made six laps within 2/10ths of each other and well over one-second faster than yesterday. We have made a good step with my Parkalgar Honda and my riding. We have played with the gearing as it is a bit of a compromise around here and also with the geometry of the bike. My Honda has improved a lot completing the corner and is nimble while providing excellent feedback from the rear. I think the race will be between Kenan and myself; he wants to win the race and has shown that so it should be a good battle between the pair of us at the front.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene was very good today and completed several 1m58secs laps in a row which is impressive and shows his class. He has sorted out any issues with his bike and riding and is going to be battling for another win and keeping as much pressure as possible on Kenan. Miguel is not where he should be in 15th – if he had timed his final run better and got another lap or two on a new tyre he should have achieved the top 10 - that is where we expect him to finish in the race.”
Final Qualifying
1 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′58.415
2 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′58.557
3 23 B. PARKES AUS Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′58.617
4 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′58.654
5 4 G. REA GBR Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′59.110
6 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′59.277
7 99 F. FORET FRA Team Lorenzini by Leoni Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′59.374
8 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′59.381
9 55 M. ROCCOLI ITA Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′59.492
10 18 M. AITCHISON AUS Kuja Racing Honda CBR600RR 1′59.895
15 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 2′00.213.
04/09/2010 20:08
Laverty rises to the challenge
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty is provisionally fifth and Miguel Praia 13th on the grid for Sunday’s 11th round of the World Supersport Championship at the Nurburgring in Germany after a frustrating day held them back from showing their true potential.
There is another practice and qualifying session tomorrow before the race takes place at 1330 local time on Sunday, September 5th. To follow the team visit the website at Parkalgar Honda.
Eugene: “We were fastest in the morning session and had a really good direction for the afternoon. The lap times were coming easy and we were very positive but then the qualifying session turned into one of ‘those sessions’ where nothing seems to come together. I set my fastest lap early on a used tyre then had an electrical problem that was fixed. I then had a slow speed crash, changed bike and the front tyre gave me no feel. I changed that but by then the rear tyre was shot and after that I struggled to get into my rhythm on either bike. It’s a case of lessons learnt and looking forward to tomorrow, we know we can run at the front and just want to put this session behind us.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene had a slow speed crash mid qualifying and that lost him momentum. There was no injury or damage and at the end he was looking good for second place but lost time on his last sector to finish fifth. Miguel had an electrical problem in the morning that meant he effectively lost the session. Given that, he rode very well in qualifying to take 13th. It’s been a frustrating day but we are rising to the challenge and expect a lot more tomorrow – the weather forecast is good so we should be able to improve both riders.”
First qualification
1 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′59.276
2 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′59.277
3 4 G. REA GBR Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′59.807
4 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′59.818
5 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′59.964
6 99 F. FORET FRA Team Lorenzini by Leoni Kawasaki ZX-6R 2′00.104
7 23 B. PARKES AUS Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 2′00.275
8 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 2′00.423
9 14 M. LAGRIVE FRA ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 2′00.535
10 18 M. AITCHISON AUS Kuja Racing Honda CBR600RR 2′00.538
13 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 2′01.266
04/09/2010 10:05
Laverty Wins!
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty won a nail-biting 10th round of the World Supersport Championship at Silverstone in the UK while his team mate Miguel Praia scored a career best sixth in the best ever race day result for the Portuguese owned, UK operated team.
The battle for the win was between Eugene and Kenan Sofuoglu on another Honda and neither gave an inch until the last lap when Eugene made a decisive pass and held on to take his sixth victory out of 10 starts to win in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
Miguel starting from 12th finished a career best sixth, less than four seconds from the podium in what is his best race performance ever at World Championship level.
Eugene: “It is nice to win our home race and it was a tough one. My plan had to change several times through the race. First I made a break but then Kenan put in some quick laps and then I decided to drop back and see where he was weak. I spotted his weak areas but he could have been sandbagging so I passed him again on the last lap with plenty of corners to spare and found that he really was weaker and not pretending. It is especially nice to beat Kenan in this sort of race because he is not used to losing this sort of fight and that makes it an important psychological win. My Parkalgar Honda was brilliant, we ran faster lap times than I expected and it was the best bike on the day.”
Miguel: “My Parkalgar Honda was perfect and I was very comfortable running the pace to fight for fifth and sixth places. When Chaz (Davies) passed me he was quite aggressive and sideways and I lost two places. I then sat behind Lagrive and we were catching Harms. I left my overtake on Lagrive too late to then make a pass on Chaz but I am delighted with my new personal best. I was only three-seconds from the podium and in the top six; I am so very happy and must thank my Parkalgar Honda team, the bike they gave me was fantastic.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “The best ever results for the Parkalgar Honda team at its second home round in the UK. This win goes with Eugene’s victory at our home track of Parkalgar in Portugal in 2009 as a highlight for us all. Well done to Eugene, he beat Kenan fair and square and the race for the title is very much alive. Miguel rode an inspired race from a poor qualifying position of 12th – his potential is now starting to come through and as a team we are proud of him. Christian has shown superb promise racing against the best riders in the World and UK – it would be interesting to see how well he would perform if he had more experience on the bike and with our team; I think he would surprise a lot of people. Well done to the whole Parkalgar Honda squad and thank you to the many fans and supporters that came to see us this weekend.”
Race Result
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) Parkalgar Honda CBR600RR 34′35.068 (163,829 kph)
2 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 0.220
3 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 12.451
4 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 13.683
5 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 13.839
6 117 Praia M. (POR) Parkalgar Honda CBR600RR 15.699
7 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 16.709
8 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 17.593
9 55 Roccoli M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 22.837
10 11 Lowes S. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 23.092
17 21 Iddon C. (GBR) Parkalgar Honda CBR600RR 55.198
Championship Positions (After 10 of 13 rounds)
1: Sofuoglu 203
2: Laverty Parkalgar Honda 186
3: Lascorz 168
4: Davies 126
5: Rea 83
6: Harms 82
7: Salom 80
8: Lagrive 65
9: Fujiwara 60
10: Pirro 58
11: Praia Parkalgar Honda 57
01/08/2010 20:38
Pole for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty took a brilliant pole position at his home track at Silverstone in the UK beating off his title rivals to set up a thrilling 10th round of the World Supersport Championship.
Miguel Praia will start from 12th and the third row of the grid after a tough qualifying session when he failed to improve on his lap time from yesterday. Wild card rider for this round Christian Iddon took 2.5seconds from his lap time yesterday and will start from 23rd on his World Championship debut. The race takes place on Sunday August 1st at 1330 local time at Silverstone in the UK. Also at the Track Eugene Laverty Merchandise will be on sale at George Whites stand. Located just behind the start/finish grandstands.
Eugene: “There is not much in it at the front of the grid. I am happy to get a pole position here at the team’s second home round after Parkalgar in Portugal – especially as I made mistakes on my last two-laps. The difference in lap times from using a worn to a new tyre is very little; I can do similar lap times on either. I think we are in a good position, our race set-up is strong.”
Miguel: “After my crash late in yesterday’s qualifying I approached today differently and tried to go through my crash corner in a different gear. I tried in second gear, the same as Eugene, but it didn’t work for me. In the end I went back to third gear and it was better. In the second half of the session I tried to go quickly by myself and found that I have a good rhythm for the race – even though I am disappointed to have dropped down the grid; it is very close here, I am only 1-second from pole position.”
Christian: “Before the session I had a chat with Eugene and he told me the lines I need to take. I am still riding more like a Superbike and struggling to let the bike run through the corners; I want to stop it, turn and fire out but that doesn’t work on a 600. But the important thing is I am quicker than before and making progress every session – for the first time I could feel the bike move and now have an idea where some limits are. The Parkalgar Honda bike and team are absolutely mega and in the race I want to try and get with the group in front and challenge inside the top 20.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “That was a great qualifying lap from Eugene and he backed it up with several laps close to the same time, he is in good shape to contest the win. Miguel was consistent but didn’t improve his lap time – he needs to dig very deep now and keep his confidence high for the race because he is better than 12th place as qualifying suggests. Christian has really cut his lap times and is learning fast, if he can find more in warm-up then a top 20 result is possible for him which would be outstanding given the level of competition here.”
Final Qualifying
1: LAVERTY, PARKALGAR HONDA 2:09.426
2: Sofuoglu +0.030
3: Lascorz +0.035
4: Tamburini +0.111
5: Harms +0.390
6: Rea +0.390
7: Fujiwara +0.764
8: Roccoli +0.830
9: Davies +0.832
10: Salom +0.836
12: PRAIA, PARKALGAR HONDA +1.012
23: IDDON, PARKALGAR HONDA +3.358
31/07/2010 21:43
Provisional Pole for Eugene
PARKALGAR HONDA racer Eugene Laverty took provisional pole position and Miguel Praia is right behind him on the grid at the head of the second row in fifth after the first qualifying session for the 10th round of the World Supersport Championship at Silverstone in the UK.
Wild card Parkalgar Honda racer for this round Christian Iddon is 26th on his debut to World Championship racing. There is another practice and qualifying session tomorrow before the race takes place at 1330 local time on Sunday, August 1st. To follow the team click on Parkalgar Honda.
Eugene: “This morning was OK but I wasn’t getting the feedback I wanted from my Parkalgar Honda so this afternoon we worked on that and made improvements. After that we concentrated on finding more rear grip; around here there are some corners where the bike was spinning up a lot and we want to get it hooking up and driving more. The rest of the field has caught up with us faster than we would have liked but that’s racing. There are four more races to go and I am not even thinking of this as a home round – just four races to go to challenge for the Championship and to do our best.”
Miguel: “I expected to be in the top five today after our test here as it is a long track and difficult to learn so we had a small advantage. I crashed right at the end when I was going for a fastest lap and this is disappointing as I felt good - I lost the front but I am OK and unhurt. After today the other riders have now learnt the track and tomorrow I will have to work hard to maintain my pace and want to compete for the second row.”
Christian: “I had a bit of a moment when I ran on to the astro turf and it went sideways but apart from that I am just trying to learn my way around the track and am aiming to knock one-second per lap per session from my times. The Parkalgar Honda is absolutely mint but there is a lot to learn here and I think I am still riding with a Superbike style and need to let the bike flow more. I’m enjoying it, riding against the best in the world, these lads are as good as they get.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Excellent efforts by Eugene and Miguel to head up the first and second rows at our second home round at Silverstone in the UK. Both riders are looking very good and have more to come. Christian is learning quickly and making progress – we will help him concentrate on his riding, lines and how to get the most from the bike this evening and expect him to go faster tomorrow. It has been a good day for the Parkalgar Honda team.”
First Qualification
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) Honda CBR600RR 2'09.826
2 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 2'09.916
3 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 2'09.987
4 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 2'10.069
5 117 Praia M. (POR) Honda CBR600RR 2'10.438
6 44 Tamburini R. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 2'10.689
7 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 2'10.761
8 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 2'10.915
9 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 2'11.195
10 17 McConnell B. (AUS) Yamaha YZF R6 2'11.339
26 21 Iddon C. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 2'15.172.
30/07/2010 21:53
Home run required for Laverty
EUGENE LAVERTY will settle for nothing short of victory at the 10th round of the World Supersport Championship at Silverstone this Sunday August 1st as he battles to keep his and Parkalgar Honda’s title challenge alive.
The UK round is effectively the team’s second home round of the year as the squad is based out of the nearby county of Lincolnshire. The first home round took place in March at the spectacular Parkalgar circuit near Portimao in Portugal which is the team title sponsor and owner.
Eugene : “I am hoping for a better result at Silverstone, I need a good home run, All I can do now is win races and close the gap on Kenan and Joan. There’s not much in it and I will be giving it my all this weekend.”
Eugene is 22-points behind series leader Kenan Sofuoglu on another Honda with just four rounds remaining. He has already won five races so far this year and after a test at Silverstone last week he already knows the layout of the new circuit and will be putting as much pressure as possible on his rivals.
Parkalgar Honda ace Miguel Praia is coming off a brilliant seventh place career best result at Brno in the Czech Republic and is looking for a repeat performance at Silverstone. Miguel said: “I feel good physically, have a lot of faith in my Parkalgar Honda team and motorcycle and want to match or beat my seventh place at the last round. The test at Silverstone last week was good and I think the fast nature of the circuit and the long lap will be to my advantage. I hope the British fans will get behind me and the team.”
For this round, British Supermoto supremo Christian Iddon will be racing as a wild-card on a third Parkalgar Honda race bike. The super-skilled racer is trying road racing and hoping to make a mark on the biggest stage of them all at Silverstone.
Parkalgar Honda Team Manager Simon Buckmaster said: “We welcome Christian to the team for his home round and will do all we can to get him into the points, although that will not be easy with a strong line-up of British wild-card riders joining the regulars on the grid. It is a big opportunity for him to show what he can do.
“Eugene needs to win and Miguel is on great form, the weekend is as simple as that for us. The British fans are very supportive of us and I hope they get behind us again this weekend.”
There is practice and qualifying on Friday and Saturday before the race takes place at 1330 local time on Sunday, August 1st.
30/07/2010 14:37
Laverty Brno blog
The picture tells a different story to my weekend at Brno doesn’t it? That was following a great practice session, which in honesty was the story of my weekend up until 13.40 on Sunday afternoon. A lot of people have asked me how I’m feeling this week after the disappointment of the race on Sunday. Obviously it wasn’t ideal having the bike break down but I prefer not to dwell on things and instead I’ve moved on. There were many positives in the race up until that stage, the bike was handling great and in the braking zone I was very, very strong. As I watched the remainder of the race back in the garage I was cheering for Lascorz to take the win because that would have reduced the gap to Sofuoglu at the head of the table but in fairness to Kenan he rode a great last lap.
Magny-Cours looks set to be the title decider. I have a 22 point gap to close down on Sofuoglu but I’ve done that already this season after Valencia and I can do it again. With just four races remaining I really need victories which isn’t a bad position to be in. I’d prefer to be on the attack rather than in Kenan’s position where he will have to be on the defense.
Silverstone is the next round and it is essentially my home race. I’ve tested there already and it’s a fantastic circuit, there’s few tracks that give you that kind of buzz and I enjoyed every lap. The Moto2 lap times were very impressive when they raced there so that’s got to be the target for us on August 1st!
This week I’m in Austria at the Red Bull Diagnostics and Training Centre. I love it here, the place is remote and quiet which gives me a chance to reflect on things... That is when when I’m not being put through my paces on the bicycle and treadmill! Not most people’s idea of fun.
Wish me luck, I could use some in the coming months.
Eugene
15/07/2010 13:11
Laverty DNF at Brno
Laverty’s hopes of extending his advantage at the top of the leaderboard were scuppered six laps in when he pulled off the circuit with a technical issue on his Parkalgar Honda.
Laverty: “Obviously I’m disappointed with how my day went but this is racing after all. That’s the first breakdown we’ve had this year and unfortunately it happened during a race. My bike felt really good on the first lap, it was handling so well and I could brake incredibly late. I moved to the front confident of victory but the moment I took the lead my bike began losing power.
All is not lost however, I was in a similar position in the title race after Valencia earlier in the year and I bounced back with three wins in a row. I intend to do the same again.”
Championship Standings
1: SOFUOGLU 183
2 : LASCORZ 168
3: Laverty PARKALGAR HONDA 161
4 : DAVIES 113
5: SALOM 72
6 : HARMS 71
7 : REA 67
8 : FUJIWARA 59
9: PIRRO 58
10: LAGRIVE 56
12: Praia PARKALGAR HONDA 47
15/07/2010 13:06
Front row for Laverty while Praia impresses
PARKALGAR HONDA ace Eugene Laverty took third place on the front row of the grid for the ninth round of the World Supersport Championship at Brno in the Czech Republic despite crashing with more than 10-minutes to go while Miguel Praia finished a well-deserved 10th.
Eugene was caught out by a bump on the entry to the first corner and is unhurt – he came back to the garage but finished the session watching the timing screens. Qualification took place in blistering sunshine and high temperatures. The race starts at 1330CET on Sunday, July 11th. To keep up to date with the race weekend go to www.eugenelaverty.com
Eugene: “I was caught out by that bump, it was completely unexpected. I should have saved the crash but it just went on and down – I am a bit annoyed. I came back to the pits but decided not to go out again and watched the timing screens. I am pleased that I managed to stay on the front row as it got fast towards the end. Overall the setting of my Parkalgar Honda is very good and I am happy with it, I can run quick lap times consistently. I now know that bump is there so I’ll be avoiding it in the race.”
Miguel: “I am very happy to get into the 2mins 3seconds bracket but a little disappointed not to have stuck on the second row, the pace was very hot, just like the weather. I can run quick lap times here and I am enjoying the circuit, I think I can have a good race tomorrow. My Parkalgar Honda is good and if I can get away with the riders just in front of me then I will be able to compete with them, I need a good start.”
Simon Buckmaster, Team Manger Parkalgar Honda: “Eugene was unfortunate to crash on a bump and miss the last part of the session because I am sure he could have gone faster. As it is he is on the front row and can run a very fast race pace; he will be in the fight for the victory. Miguel has genuinely impressed by taking 10th and running fast lap times. He will need a good start as he is in a bunch of riders very closely matched - but if he does he can compete inside the top 10.”
Final Qualifying
1: Lascorz, Kawasaki 2:02.800
2: Fujiwara, Kawasaki +0.017
3: Laverty, Parkalgar Honda +0.282
4: Foret, Kawasaki +0.393
5: Sofuoglu, Honda +0.597
6: Pirro, Honda +0.621
7: Rea, Honda +0.650
8: Davies, Triumph +0.841
9: Harms, Honda +0.957
10: Praia, Parkalgar Honda +1.159.
10/07/2010 22:19
Strong strat for Laverty
EUGENE LAVERTY took a comfortable second and Miguel Praia an impressive eighth for Parkalgar Honda in the first qualifying session for the ninth round of the World Supersport Championship at Brno in the Czech Republic.
In glorious sunshine, both riders improved throughout the day and are in positive frames of mind. Wild card racer Daniel Bukowski from Poland on a PTR prepared Bogdanka Honda CBR600RR took more than a second from his personal best at the circuit to finish 15th. There is another practice and qualifying session on Saturday before the race takes place at 1330CET on Sunday, July 11th. To follow Eugene go to www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “This morning when we started I had very little rear end grip and the front end was not giving me the feedback I wanted. We worked on the settings and this afternoon we have found a good setting with the forks and there is now more rear grip. We have things we want to improve but overall we are not in a bad position and working hard to improve.”
Miguel: “This morning I was as high as third and I am happy with a close eighth this afternoon in qualifying. I am only a couple of 10ths away from the front row and my lap times are consistent – I can do more than one lap quickly. We are working on the chassis of my Parkalgar Honda, it is good but there are some areas we will try to make better for tomorrow. I like Brno and I am happy with my physical condition and preparation for this race, I feel I am in my best ever shape.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “A strong start to the weekend for Parkalgar Honda with Eugene right at the front and Miguel showing genuine pace to get on to the second row and be within touching distance of the front row. We have good race pace with Eugene and there is more work we can do to improve that – as well as going for one fast lap. It’s another positive day for Miguel carrying on his good form from Misano. He is on the second row and there is a real chance he can maintain that tomorrow.”
First Qualifying
1: Fujiwara, Kawasaki 2:02.817
2: Laverty, Parkalgar Honda +0.901
3: Lascorz, Kawasaki +1.085
4: Pirro, Honda +1.182
5: Foret, Kawasaki +1.327
6: Salom, Triumph +1.340
7: Sofuoglu, Honda +1.341
8: Praia, Parkalgar Honda +1.364
9: Harms, Honda +1.491
10: Rea, Honda +1.593.
09/07/2010 22:22
Laverty Misano Blog
At last I’m back in the lead of the World Championship! With just five rounds remaining we’re entering a very important stage of the season so now is a perfect time to be back at the top.
Misano was not an easy weekend. On Friday I suffered a small front end crash which confirmed the poor feedback I was received from the front of the bike. I wasn’t confident to push the front hard until we made a breakthrough with our chassis setting during Sunday morning warm up. Only then did I believe that I could make a break from the pack in the race and win at ease.
As if Friday hadn’t proved tough enough I suffered a big crash on Saturday morning when the Russian rider Eduard Blokhin came back across my path and forced me to jump off the right side of the bike. I fell awkwardly and twisted my neck in the spill so I was really pissed off when Blokhin failed to apologise for making a stupid error.
Nevertheless I kept my focus on what mattered, fighting for the victory. I sat at the front of the race and bided my time then at mid distance I made a break for it. My plan worked perfectly as Sofuoglu panicked time and time again running off the track in a desperate attempt to stop me from getting away! Kenan only managed to finish 3rd after making several mistakes so that allowed me to take over from him at the top of the standings.
It’s a great feeling to be back on top and I hope to maintain my position right to the end of the season! Brno is next up, another win sure would be nice.
Catch you all next time,
Eugene
29/06/2010 17:07
Laverty Wins to reclaim lead in title Race
PARKALGAR HONDA star Eugene Laverty comfortably won his fifth race from eight starts at Misano in Italy and claimed the lead in the World Supersport Championship by three points while his team mate Miguel Praia enjoyed a career best equalling ninth.
In glorious sunshine Eugene took the lead on lap three and controlled the race until the chequered flag while Miguel was involved in a race long battle for ninth. The ninth round of the World Supersport Championship takes place at Brno in the Czech Republic on July 11th. For more information on the team visit www.eugenelaverty.com .
Eugene: “Early on in the race I bided my time as I didn’t want to make any silly mistakes, then I got into the lead and kept pushing. When Kenan made a mistake I went for it. My Parkalgar Honda was spot on; we made a break-through on front end feel in warm-up and then we improved it again for the race – we got the bike doing exactly what I wanted it to do so it’s a big thank you to the whole team. It is a relief and weight off my shoulders to be back in the lead of the Championship. I got to within one point and it reminded me of last year when I got close but it always went away from me so it’s nice to get into the lead where we belong and to have five wins out of eight races.”
Miguel: “That is my equal best result of my career so I am happy. I was comfortable although it was a hard hot race. I lost a little time at the start and that meant I missed the tow to the group fighting for sixth – eighth. The times were close and I think if I had got the start then I could have competed for those places. My Parkalgar Honda was absolutely fantastic and when I got in front of Salom I made a break with some quick laps so he couldn’t overtake me on the last lap. I think it has been a good race meeting.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene rode great, it was a flawless race. The three usual riders were at the front but Kenan made a couple of mistakes and that allowed us a comfortable win. It is nice to be back in the lead of the World Championship for the first time since the opening round but there are five rounds still to go and may the best man win. Miguel rode the best race of his career in my opinion, he deserved ninth place. It could have been better if he had got away faster but nothing can be taken away from him, he did a good job and it’s been a great day for the whole Parkalgar Honda team.”
Race Result
1. Eugene Laverty?(Parkalgar Honda)?36′46.369
2. Joan Lascorz?(Kawasaki Motocard.com)?36′50.245
3. Kenan Sofuoglu?(HANNspree Ten Kate Honda)?36′52.926
4. Chaz Davies?(ParkinGO Triumph BE1)?36′59.184
5. Roberto Tamburini?(Bike Service R.T.)?36′59.296
6. Robbin Harms?(Harms Benjan Racing)?37′00.617
7. Massimo Roccoli?(Intermoto Czech)?37′06.010
8. Fabien Foret?(Team Lorenzini by Leoni)?37′10.729
9. Miguel Praia?(Parkalgar Honda)?37′22.629
10. David Salom?(ParkinGO BE1 Triumph)?37′22.967
Championship Positions (after eight of 13 rounds)
1: Laverty PARKALGAR HONDA 161
2: Sofuoglu 158
3: Lascorz 148
4: Davies 97
5: Salom 64
6: Harms 61
7: Pirro 58
8: Rea 54
9: Lagrive 49
10: Fujiwara 48
13: Praia PARKALGAR HONDA 38
27/06/2010 17:17
Strong second for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA ace Eugene Laverty will start from a strong second place on the grid for tomorrow’s eighth round of the World Supersport Championship at Misano in Italy after being pipped to pole position in the dying seconds by Michele Pirro.
Miguel Praia will start from 12th on the second Parkalgar Honda and is riding well. With perfect weather conditions predicted, the race is scheduled for 1330 CET on Sunday, June 27th. Keep up-to-date with all news on www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “I am happy enough; when I did that lap I knew it was good for the front row and then on my last fast lap I came upon traffic. Second is positive, especially with Kenan is on the second row. I had a set-back this morning and lost time when a backmarker took me out but we got back out and continued to work on front end set-up. Everyone is in the same situation here trying to make the best front end setting possible but I am happy now with my Parkalgar Honda. I have two bikes for tomorrow, one for hot and one for cold weather but I would prefer hot as I think Kenan is a little weaker in that weather – but saying that I also expect him to be right at the front in the race.”
Miguel: “In the morning when I started to do 1m40secs laps I thought maybe the second row was possible - but then everyone started riding faster and it was not enough. I think 12th and the third row is better than recent qualifying and I take that as a positive. My Parkalgar team has done a great job setting up my bike and I am confident and happy looking forward to the race.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Parkalgar Honda is happy with Eugene second on the grid. Pirro put in a good lap and that helped to push his team mate Sofuoglu on to the second row; he’ll need a good start from there. It would be nice to think that Pirro could beat Sofuoglu tomorrow but that’s unlikely to be allowed. Eugene has found good settings so we are confident for the race. Miguel this morning rode one of the best sessions of his career but in qualifying he lost some momentum. He has stayed on the third row which puts him right in the fight for a good result and he is one row ahead of his recent qualifying which is encouraging.”
Final Qualifying
1. Michele Pirro?(HANNspree Ten Kate Honda)?1′38.444
2. Eugene Laverty?(Parkalgar Honda)?1′38.611
3. Roberto Tamburini?(Bike Service R.T.)?1′38.911
4. Joan Lascorz?(Kawasaki Motocard.com)?1′39.019
5. Gino Rea?(Intermoto Czech)?1′39.224
6. Kenan Sofuoglu?(HANNspree Ten Kate Honda)?1′39.277
7. Chaz Davies?(ParkinGO Triumph BE1)?1′39.371
8. Massimo Roccoli?(Intermoto Czech)?1′39.383
9. Robbin Harms?(Harms Benjan Racing)?1′39.492
10. Fabien Foret?(Team Lorenzini by Leoni)?1′39.773
12. Miguel Praia?(Parkalgar Honda)?1′40.553.
26/06/2010 20:13
Provisional Pole for Happy Eugene
PARKALGAR HONDA racer Eugene Laverty is on provisional pole position for Sunday’s eighth round of the World Supersport Championship at Misano in Italy, one of his favourite circuits.
Miguel Praia on the second Parkalgar Honda is 12th after the opening qualification. A further practice and qualification will take place tomorrow before the race on Sunday 27th June at 1330CET. Keep up to date with Eugene’s weekend on www.eugenelaverty.com
Eugene: “I was caught out early on by the front tyre - Kenan (Sofuoglu) had exactly the same crash at a different corner. I tried squeezing the brake a little harder than normal and there was little feel from the tyre and it let go. I came back to the pits and made a few adjustments and tried a few different tyres and I think we got it as good as we could for the conditions today. My laps at the end were good but I think we can improve further and get into the 1m38secs bracket. The rear end of my Parkalgar Honda is good and we are working on the front end to help me braking into the corners and entry speed. The first speed trap is after the fast kink and I am a lot faster through there than anyone else. You have to learn to be brave through there and my experience on two-strokes has helped me and now I just love the fast sections on any bike.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Four laps into qualifying and Eugene slid off losing the front end and is OK. After that we worked hard for front end feel and made big improvements – and there is more still to come. He did two good laps at the end; it wasn’t a single 1m39sec lap but a series of them which is good. Miguel was higher earlier on but moved back at the end – it is encouraging and he is in contention. He will have to work hard but he should be able to lap in the 1m40secs bracket – he rode better today that his position suggests.”
First Qualifying
1. Eugene Laverty?(Parkalgar Honda)?1′39.437
2. Michele Pirro?(HANNspree Ten Kate Honda)?1′39.555
3. Roberto Tamburini?(Bike Service R.T.)?1′39.869
4. Kenan Sofuoglu?(HANNspree Ten Kate Honda)?1′39.919
5. Gino Rea?(Intermoto Czech)?1′40.048
6. Joan Lascorz?(Kawasaki Motocard.com)?1′40.126
7. Chaz Davies?(ParkinGO Triumph BE1)?1′40.243
8. David Salom?(ParkinGO BE1 Triumph)?1′40.622
9. Massimo Roccoli?(Intermoto Czech)?1′40.770
10. Matthieu Lagrive?(ParkinGO Triumph BE1)?1′41.098
12. Miguel Praia?(Parkalgar Honda)?1′41.298
25/06/2010 20:12
"I like Misano; it is one of my favourite circuits" - Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA World Supersport Championship contender Eugene Laverty is looking forward to Misano in Italy and the eighth round of the World Supersport Championship this weekend as it is one of his favourite circuits and he wants to notch up his fifth win of the year.
Miguel Praia is glad the series is back in Europe and will be aiming for his best ever result on the second Parkalgar Honda race bike. There is practice and qualifying on Friday and Saturday before the race takes place at 1330 CET on Sunday 27th June.
Eugene: “I like Misano, whatever bike I ride on at the circuit I am quick, whether a 250cc GP bike or my Parkalgar Honda. It is one of my favourite circuits and I genuinely get on well with it. It makes a difference when you go into a race weekend with a positive attitude. I think it will be the usual three at the front – me, Kenan Sofuoglu and Joan Lascorz – and Chaz Davies is starting to be more regular at the front as well. I am looking to add to my tally of wins and take points off Kenan in the Championship; it’s as simple as that.”
Miguel: “Misano has been good for the team so far and I especially like to race in Europe. Recently with all the travelling it interrupts my training regime but now after a break I am back to normal. I have been training very hard and I am fully motivated to have a strong second half of the season. I think the amount of my training and focus means I have a good chance of equalling or bettering my 10th place result from last year.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene has taken 95 points out of the last 100 and Misano is a really good track for Parkalgar Honda. There are six races to go and we are looking for a win this weekend and to pull points back on Kenan. We could do with Lascorz finishing second to Eugene so that we can leave leading the World Championship – or even better if Pirro was to beat Kenan at his home track it could be a Honda 1-2-3. Miguel scored a 10th at Misano last year and we hope he will bounce back after a disappointing result at the last round with a new personal best in Italy, he and the team are certainly motivated enough. Miguel and I have discussed that he needs to work on focus and concentration in every session in order to help us achieve that. There are 27 starters for this weekend’s race which is a bigger grid and that is good for the Championship.”
24/06/2010 20:57
Laverty Salt Lake City blog
I enjoyed another great weekend in America taking home 20 points for 2nd position. We had big problems during the race so I was relieved to finish 2nd. It’s important that on our bad days we still finish strong as that’s what will win the championship.
On Friday I was well clear of the field but Kenan did well to bridge the gap to me at the front. He pipped me for pole position but what surprised me was how many riders managed a one off demon lap. Most riders who finished in the top 10 in the race didn’t get to within one second of their qualifying lap time, albeit on the same tyres!
The race was again a boring one to watch. The way I’ve raced this season has forced Lascorz and Sofuloglu to change the way they go about their racing. They know that I go flat out from flag to flag so to race with me they’ve been forced to do the same. Rather than sussing the race out for the first half we’re all going as fast as possible on every single lap! Kenan’s pace was a few tenths a lap faster and so he was able to get a gap. That’s all it takes when we’re riding to the maximum for the entire race.
I’m looking forward to these few weeks off in Ireland. It’s been a hectic start to the season with very few days spent in my new home. Pippa and I will be getting on with some DIY before Misano kicks off again in a month’s time!
Speak to you all then,
Eugene
04/06/2010 23:48
Laverty keeps up pressure in title race
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty took second place at today’s seventh round of the World Supersport Championship at Miller Motorsports Park in the USA after a tense race-long battle with his two title rivals.
Miguel Praia started and finished in 14th place to score valuable points and will be looking to improve at the next round at Misano in Italy on June 27th. To follow all the team news visit www.parkalgar-honda.com.
Eugene: “There is so much grip around Miller Motorsports Park that the tyre spun on the rim and that happened early in the race, causing me to suffer major vibrations through the front end. It was not comfortable and this is a problem we have had before and we must look for solutions as it cost me the chance to compete with Kenan for the race win. I always knew my Parkalgar Honda would be faster in the second half of the race but towards the end I really had to push to keep Lascorz behind me. I am pretty content with second but would have been disappointed with third – we are fighting for the title and I cannot afford to lose points like that. It’s been solid points today and six behind the title lead is very little. I am looking forward to a couple of weekends off, getting into my training and I’m also going to see Snow Patrol before getting back to business at Misano.”
Miguel: “The race didn’t go exactly to plan. My pace was OK and as expected but I went into the first corner hard trying to overtake a couple of riders and was blocked, causing me to lose around one-second on the opening lap. That was enough to lose the tow on the group in front. My Parkalgar Honda was good and I was happy with it. Now we have time before the next race to recover, rest and also focus on my fitness because when you are racing and travelling as much as we do it is hard to train properly.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene got a good start but we always knew it would be a tough fight and congratulations to Kenan on winning; we can’t win them all. Overall not a bad race as we have pulled some further points on Lascorz and are only six points behind the lead – Eugene is keeping the pressure on. There will be three riders in this title fight right until the end. We go to Misano next which is a good track for us and we will be giving our all to win there for sure. Today Miguel was not fast enough in the first half of the race. Towards the end he got faster but had to settle for the points. Knowing his potential this is a disappointing race for him but we will all pull together to get him up the results sheet at the next round.”
Race Result
1 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 33′45.278 (157,002 kph)
2 50 Laverty E. (IRL) Honda CBR600RR 1.028
3 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1.673
4 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 13.209
5 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 14.209
6 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 14.386
7 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 14.603
8 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 20.582
9 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 22.895
10 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 27.100
14 117 Praia M. (POR) Parkalgar Honda CBR600RR 41.986
Championship Positions (after seven of 13 rounds)
1: Sofuoglu 142
2: Laverty Parkalgar Honda 136
3: Lascorz 128
4: Davies 84
5: Pirro 58
6: Salom 58
7: Rea 54
8: Harms 51
9: Fujiwara 48
10: Lagrive 44
13: Praia Parkalgar Honda 31
01/06/2010 00:34
"We have more in the bag" - Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA ace Eugene Laverty missed out on pole position by less than 8/100ths of a second to fellow Honda racer Kenan Sofuoglu at the seventh round of the World Supersport Championship at Miller Motorsports Park near Salt Lake City in the USA.
Portuguese Parkalgar Honda racer Miguel Praia crashed in the morning practice but came back to improve his lap time in qualifying, ending up 14th with high hopes of finishing higher in the race now he has found a confidence inspiring set-up on his bike. The race is at 1330 local time on Monday, May 31st – Memorial Day in the USA.
Eugene: “That was really close and I am surprised by just how many riders managed the quick lap times. We are consistent but I think we have more in the bag. The raise in temperature caught us out a little and we need to go further to improve my Parkalgar Honda. Basically there is a lot of grip here and we need the bike to work differently with it by improving the rear end. I am looking forward to warm-up before the race because we know what we need to do. Kenan and Joan are right there and it is going to be a hard race.”
Miguel: “I crashed in practice this morning and that hurt us preparing for qualification. I ended up with the lap time I wanted and my Parkalgar Honda team stiffened the forks for me this afternoon and my bike felt much better. Now we will try something more in warm-up to go faster but I know I can run good times by myself. My starting position is not the best but I think we can get a decent result in the race.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Sofuoglu dug deep to beat Eugene by 8/100ths of a second and Lascorz has closed in as well. Eugene is still looking good with very consistent and fast lap times. We expect nothing less than a big fight for the win but that is what we are going for. Miguel’s crew did a great job fixing his bike after this morning’s crash and he has improved by nearly a second today, however, his poor first three sessions are letting him down by placing him down the grid – he will need a superb first lap tomorrow to get up with the riders in front and go for a top 10 finish.”
Final Qualifying
1 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′51.281
2 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′51.363
3 26 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′51.461
4 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′51.531
5 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′51.656
6 7 C. DAVIES GBR ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 1′51.797
7 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′51.929
8 99 F. FORET FRA Team Lorenzini by Leoni Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.033
9 127 R. HARMS DEN Harms Benjan Racing Honda CBR600RR 1′52.248
10 40 J. DISALVO USA ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′52.287
14 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′53.37
01/06/2010 00:28
Laverty sets circuit best lap at Miller
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty claimed provisional pole position in commanding style for the seventh round of the World Supersport Championship at Miller Motorsports Park near Salt Lake City in the USA - as the only rider to dip under 1m 52seconds and setting a new outright best Supersport lap time.
Miguel Praia finished 14th and will be looking to improve his position in final practice and qualifying tomorrow before the race takes place at 1330 local time on Monday, 31st May, Memorial Day in the USA.
Eugene: “It was good to get a 1m51s lap. First I got a 1m51.9s and then I managed a 1m51.6s lap and thought no-one would beat that today so stayed out and got a better understanding of the feeling of my Parkalgar Honda. I knew I could do a quick lap this morning but to set the quickest ever Supersport lap here was excellent this afternoon. Miller Motorsports Park suits the Honda and my riding style very well, especially the first part of the lap which is fast and flowing; I enjoy riding here. I think the others are now playing catch up. Kenan is a bit behind but he did the same last year and was a full second a lap faster in the race; saying that I think I have moved the goalposts and I am pushing the other riders hard.”
Miguel: “I am disappointed not to be in the top 10 and I must understand why I have not been able to do this. I like this circuit and it suits my Parkalgar Honda so now I must work on my riding and make big improvements. I will speak with my team and see how they can help me, as well as looking at the data and finding where I can go faster.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “It was a really good day for Eugene and a new best lap. There are a few things we can improve and we will be doing everything we can to put him in the best possible situation so he can win another race. Miguel simply didn’t get up to speed fast enough. He needs to improve himself and he already knows if he qualifies better his race results will improve. His crew will be doing all they can to help him but now it is time for him to dig deep.”
First Qualification
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) Parkalgar Honda CBR600RR 1′51.652
2 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.211
3 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 1′52.310
4 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′52.328
5 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.509
6 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.534
7 40 DiSalvo J. (USA) Triumph Daytona 675 1′52.607
8 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 1′52.646
9 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′52.732
10 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′53.015
14 117 Praia M. (POR) Parkalgar Honda CBR600RR 1′54.313
30/05/2010 06:15
Looking for four in a row
PARKALGAR Honda travels to Salt Lake City in the USA with the aim of winning its fourth race in a row and fifth of the season as Eugene Laverty’s title bid gathers momentum.
Parkalgar Honda racer Miguel Praia is looking forward to the race as it is a track he enjoys and expects to secure a strong result after finding new focus on his riding skills at the previous round. The seventh round of the Supersport World Championship is at Miller Motorsports near Salt Lake City and will take place on Monday 31st May rather than the usual Sunday race.
Eugene: “This bunch of races I have really been looking forward to - I have won the first three and now go to Salt lake and Misano knowing I really like them and last year got on well there right from the word go. I expect it to be a tougher race than Kyalami as Joan will be back in the mix with Kenan and myself. I think most people will prefer that as it may be a more exciting race but to be honest I like the races where I get away in front and have time to admire the scenery… I will be keeping any eye on Kenan in the last laps - I worry about him as I know what he is capable of and last year his last ditch overtake was out of control. It makes me appreciate racing with Joan. Most of the team is heading to Las Vegas for a short break before the race so I am happy to be spending time with them away from the track and work environment, they are great lads.”
Miguel: “My hopes are high for America, I really enjoyed the track and event last year right until I crashed and even after I crashed. I am capable of the top eight I think. My Parkalgar Honda is good and suits the circuit well. I also have a new focus on my riding, I want to be faster right from first practice - this is something I have spoken with my team about and I appreciate the help, I want to be quick from the word go.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “There is only one point in it at the top of the Championship so that is quite exciting and it has been a fantastic performance from Eugene in the last three races that has got us there. We want four in a row at Salt Lake but we will be hoping that Kenan plays fair this time. Miguel is concentrating on going quicker earlier in the weekend so we will be helping him achieve that and working towards a good points scoring finish.”
30/05/2010 01:25
Laverty Kyalami Blog
I finally did it, I won three races in a row! I’d never managed that in any championship before so it was a great feeling crossing the line on the back wheel on Sunday at Kyalami.
The weekend started brilliantly and continued that way throughout. I was fastest in every session except Sunday morning warm up and although Kenan kept me honest during the first half of the race I had it pretty easy to the chequered flag. It’s hard to believe that I’ve won four from six races yet I’m still not leading the championship, but that just shows how costly a crash can be. My spill in Portimao means that I’m sat one point behind Sofuoglu in the championship.
Parkalgar Honda are doing a fantastic job and our bike is more than a match for anyone else out there. The team reacted after Valencia and squeezed a few more brake horsepower out of the Honda, they want to win the championship as much as I do and that’s an important factor in our success.
On Monday after the race we visited soccer City where the World Cup final will be played. It was an impressive stadium but I was more taken aback by the poverty surrounding the perimeter. How can the government put so much money into bringing the World Cup to South Africa when there are so many people living in poverty? There’s no way the World Cup will bring enough revenue to the country to cover the costs of building all those stadiums.
Pippa and I enjoyed our flight home as we got upgrading to Business Class which was a first for both of us! The pilot was a big bike fan and brought us up out of ‘cattle class’. He’d been to Kyalami to watch the race as well and turned out to be a really nice man. I really enjoyed chatting with him, he was clearly big into his racing as he talked about Michael and John’s great results at the Oulton round of the BSB.
That’s all folks, sorry for making the races so boring lately but that’s the way I like em!
Eugene
19/05/2010 23:55
Hat Trick for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty scored his first ever hat-trick three-victories in a row when he won the sixth round of the World Supersport Championship at Kyalami in South Africa, leading from the first lap to the chequered flag – making it four wins out of six starts this season.
Miguel Praia dug deep and finished a competitive 10th to round off a good day for the Portuguese circuit backed Parkalgar Honda team. The next round of the Championship is in the USA at Miller Motorsports Park on Monday May 31st. For all of the team news, pictures and to buy team merchandise or tuning for your road or race bike, visit www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “Kenan kept me honest for the first half of the race but my Parkalgar Honda was very good and was managing the tyre well so I was able to push and go for a break in the second half. I think at the same time Kenan’s tyre was starting to wear which helped. This is my first ever three wins on the trot in any Championship and it has been a long time coming. It’s nice to leave here almost leading the Championship, it is all to play for now in the second half of the season.”
Miguel: “That was much better in the race – Mark Woodage made some changes to my Parkalgar Honda after qualifying and immediately in warm-up I was faster. My team has done a fantastic job, thank you. My pace was good in the middle of the race and I caught the group in front and passed them but then I lost a little rear grip and couldn’t go with Salom. I then lost ninth place to Rea on the last corner but this does not hide the fact it was a good race for me and much better than last year. I also feel we have made a good change to my bike that will help in future races, I am confident.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene rode the perfect race and although Kenan put pressure on him he controlled it from the front; it was fantastic. We have broke the pole position duck by winning from the front and that means it doesn’t matter where we qualify in the future. We are only one-point off the lead of the Championship and the whole team did a great job. Miguel did ride well today and showed desire and ambition. He beat some good people and now we need to get him focussed on bringing that performance to practice and qualifying so he can step up and be fighting with the group in front.”
Race Result
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 39′13.215 (149,399 kph)
2 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 4.184
3 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 9.609
4 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 12.912
5 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 23.383
6 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 25.252
7 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 25.315
8 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 27.087
9 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 32.358
10 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 32.476
Championship Positions (after six of 13 rounds)
1: Sofuoglu 117
2: LAVERTY PARKALGAR HONDA 116
3: Lascorz 112
4: Davies 71
5: Salom 49
6: Pirro 47
7: Rea 47
8: Harms 43
9: Lagrive 40
10: Fujiwara 38
11: Roccoli 29
12: PRAIA PARKALGAR HONDA 29
19/05/2010 23:47
Pole For Eugene Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty took pole position for Sunday’s sixth round of the World Supersport Championship at Kyalami, continuing his impressive form after being fastest in every session.
Miguel Praia improved his lap time on his Parkalgar Honda but slipped to 15th on the grid. The race is tomorrow, Sunday 16th May at 1330CET. Follow all the action on www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “I wasn’t sure I wanted pole position but now I’ve got it I’m cool. We improved my Parkalgar Honda further in the direction of last year’s set-up and there is still a bit more to come. I am not 100 per cent happy with the bike but then as a rider you never are. My main rival is Kenan; he is right on the limit and pushing hard. I thought Lascorz may have got it together by now but it may be too late for him and he could be fighting for third tomorrow – I don’t think he’ll get away with Kenan and I. It will be a scrap between the pair of us for the win and an interesting race. I have had two poles earlier this year and failed to win; I want to set that straight tomorrow.”
Miguel: “That was not too good; it took me longer than I wanted to get into my rhythm and I don‘t think I could have gone much faster. I need to find a little more speed in warm up and will be talking with my crew chief to see what we can try in the morning.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “I’m happy with Eugene, he set pole time without using his last tyre and while working on set-up. No-one has won from pole this year yet so let’s hope it is third time lucky for Eugene. Miguel was below par. He has the package with his Parkalgar Honda and the potential is there but he has to learn to find his form during practice if he wants to make the step up and compete at the next level.”
Final Qualifying
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGA HONDA CBR600RR 1′40.812
2 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 1′40.896
3 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′41.415
4 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′41.415
5 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 1′41.418
6 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 1′41.675
7 55 Roccoli M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′41.700
8 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′41.856
9 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 1′41.874
10 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 1′42.060
15 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′43.133
16/05/2010 10:27
Provisional Pole for Eugene
AFTER winning at Monza in Italy last Sunday Parkalgar Honda racer Eugene Laverty has piled more pressure on his rivals by taking provisional pole position at Kyalami in South Africa for this Sunday’s sixth round of the World Supersport Championship.
In good weather conditions Miguel Praia suffered a crash in the morning session and ended up an uncharacteristic 17th in first qualifying with plenty of work to do tomorrow. The race takes place at 1330CET on Sunday 16th May and you can follow the progress of the team on www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “My Parkalgar Honda has been good from the word go, we have a decent setting from here last year to start with. We have worked on the chassis to help with the bumps; it feels more like a motocross track at times. Tomorrow we will concentrate on improving the bike under braking but to be honest we are not far away already. I still have to make my race tyre choice and will be focussing on that as well.”
Miguel: “I crashed at the first corner on the first fast lap this morning – it was completely my fault and it cost me half a session. I wanted to go fast right from the start and went into the corner too quickly; but fortunately I am not injured and I must thank my team for preparing the second bike for me to use, it was good. While my position is not great I am OK as the gap to the second row is not much and if I had not lost the time on track I think I would have been there. I am optimistic for tomorrow.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene has a good fast pace at the moment and it appears along with Sofuoglu the pair of them have an advantage on everyone else. Miguel made a silly mistake on his first flying lap in the morning that cost him track time and that has reflected in his position. We have spoken and he will learn from it and tomorrow we expect him to be fighting further up the field.”
First Qualifying
1 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′42.246
2 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′42.352
3 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′42.584
4 34 R. QUARMBY RSA BikeFin SafeSky Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′42.807
5 14 M. LAGRIVE FRA ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 1′42.992
6 26 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′43.132
7 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′43.339
8 55 M. ROCCOLI ITA Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′43.988
9 38 L. ISAACS RSA BikeFin SafeSky Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′44.037
10 40 J. DISALVO USA ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′44.231
17 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′45.825 3.579
16/05/2010 10:23
Laverty Monza Blog
If I was Italian I would say that Monza was a beautiful race! I didn’t make the best of starts but somehow I managed to take the lead from the outside going into turn one and I never looked back. I rode like hell to try and get a gap because I didn’t want it coming down to a last lap fight on those long straights, especially with three riders involved. I didn’t think I’d be able to get away but I did just that and although Sofuoglu had the same pace as me I had a fair gap over him all race so he wasn’t able to challenge me. I got the lap record to boot so that topped a great race! As we went up to podium we were asked to sign the history book which has the list of all the winners and runners up from Monza over the years so it was nice to join a piece of Monza’s great history.
It was a fantastic fortnight for the Laverty family with me winning back to back races as well as my brother John taking his debut BSB podium and my brother Michael taking his debut BSB victory. Not many families can claim to have achieved such a feat so our parents ought to be very proud for working so hard to give us this opportunity.
I’m in South Africa ready for the Kyalami round so I’ll be stopping by again in less than a week’s time to report on that one. Wish me luck!
Eugene
14/05/2010 11:25
Laverty and Parkalgar Honda dominate
PARKALGAR HONDA ace Eugene Laverty led from the first corner to the chequered flag to win the fifth round of the World Supersport Championship at Monza in Italy – giving him three wins out of five races in 2010 to date.
Miguel Praia improved as the race progressed, bringing his Parkalgar Honda home in a respectable 10th after starting from 13th on the grid. The sixth round of the World Championship is in one week’s time at Kyalami in South Africa.
You can buy signed Eugene Laverty and Miguel Praia Team T-shirts through the Parkalgar Honda website at www.parkalgarhonda.com for £25 delivered.
Eugene: “I led into the first corner – I was able to brake late and pass the other two. Then I tried to make a break and read my pit board to control the gap. I was using my rear brake a little too much and cooked it so the oil boiled over and was on my boot towards the end. Kenan in second place kept me honest but it is great to get this win – my first back to back victories. Thanks to everyone in the team and it’s good that the Championship race is now much closer. I hope we can get the flights to South Africa OK as I like the circuit and had a good result there last year.”
Miguel: “My Parkalgar Honda was perfect in the race and I grew in confidence with every lap. At the end I was catching the group in front and if there had been a few more laps I think I could have attacked them and improved my position. I am happy with my race performance but I need to find a way to perform like this from the start of practice on a Friday for the whole race weekend. Today shows that we have the potential and I am glad that we are racing again next weekend as we can continue to improve.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “There’s not much to say about Eugene’s performance it was simply mega. He won the race in the first two laps because he made the break and after that the first three matched each other’s lap times. Great job well done and three victories out of five races is impressive. Miguel also rode well – he was 1.1seconds faster in the race than he was in qualifying. If he was to get to that level quicker in the weekend he would be finishing in the top eight – he nearly caught the group fighting for seventh this race. It was a good 10th place and we will be encouraging him to get up to speed quicker at the next round.”
Race Result
1 2 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 1′47.767
2 1 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 2.817
3 3 26 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 16 3.043
4 4 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 21.238
5 7 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 16 22.003
6 11 14 M. LAGRIVE FRA ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 16 22.056
7 9 7 C. DAVIES GBR ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 16 30.724
8 6 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 16 30.730
9 8 4 G. REA GBR Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 16 30.857
10 13 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 16 32.265
Championship Positions (after five of 13 rounds)
1: Lascorz 101
2: Sofuoglu 97
3: Laverty Parkalgar Honda 91
4: Davies 55
5: Salom 40
6: Rea 40
7: Harms 35
8: Pirro 34
9: Fujiwara 34
10: Lagrive 30
13: Praia Parkalgar Honda 23
09/05/2010 19:16
Laverty comfortable second on the grid
PARKALGAR HONDA racer Eugene Laverty was one of only two riders to get below the 1m 48sec barrier in qualifying for tomorrow’s fifth round of the World Supersport Championship at Monza in Italy and will start the race from second on the grid.
Miguel Praia on his Parkalgar Honda improved his lap times from yesterday and will start from 13th knowing he needs to work harder to improve in the race. The race is on Sunday at 1330 CET. Keep up to date with the team at www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “I am actually happy not to be on pole after recent experiences of taking pole but not winning the races – I prefer to win races. Right at the end of the session I managed two 1m 47secs laps and that is good. We got through good work with our tyres and in the dry cool and wet conditions we are there and ready to race. If it heats up and is dry tomorrow we have a couple of things to try to go faster as well. It will be the same three riders going for the win in the dry with maybe one or two others showing their faces if it is wet. I’m relaxed and looking forward to the race.”
Miguel: “We finished pretty much where we expected despite improving my lap times. To be honest, I thought I could have gone a second a lap faster than this but it didn’t happen. I can run these lap times consistently and that should be good enough for the top 10 – especially if I can get with a group and use the slipstream to my benefit; my Parkalgar Honda is quick. I am using this weekend to try and understand how I make the next big step in performance and I will be discussing how to improve my riding with the team.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “That was an exciting qualifying session and while we were edged by Kenan we are happy with second on the grid; we have taken two poles recently and not won races while won two races from non-pole starts. We expect the top three or four usual suspects to be racing for the victory and Eugene has a great race chance. Miguel has the same Parkalgar Honda bike as Eugene and should be performing better than 13th place – he needs to be more aggressive and work harder to get a good result tomorrow, he has the package and opportunity to be fighting for the top eight. Whether rain or shine tomorrow we are ready for the race.”
Final Qualifying
1 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′47.848
2 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′47.962
3 26 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′48.233
4 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′48.367
5 99 F. FORET FRA Team Lorenzini by Leoni Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′48.483
6 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′48.523
7 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′48.965
8 4 G. REA GBR Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′49.029
9 7 C. DAVIES GBR ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 1′49.068
10 55 M. ROCCOLI ITA Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′49.369
13 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′50.324
09/05/2010 10:59
Eugene blasts to provisional pole at Monza
PARKALGAR HONDA racer Eugene Laverty is on provisional pole position for Sunday’s fifth round of the World Supersport Championship at Monza in Italy.
Miguel Praia on his Parkalgar Honda is 12th but has the potential to compete in the top eight. There is another practice and qualifying session tomorrow before the race on Sunday at 1330 CET. Keep up to date with the team at www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “That was a really good day. In the morning I got out early in the dry and set the fastest time of the session. Then when it rained I was able to use the time to work on the wet set-up of my Parkalgar Honda. This afternoon we just improved the bike a lot in a short space of time. It feels so much better than it did last year and I have a lot of confidence in the front end and the chassis. If it rains tomorrow then we know we have a good dry set-up for the race on Sunday regardless. The engine on the Parkalgar Honda is good; Ten Kate and Kawasaki are on a par with us and it is very close though.”
Miguel: “My qualifying position today is not so bad and most importantly we know how to improve my lap times. I just hope that it is dry tomorrow so that I can improve my starting position and compete for the second row. I am confident and my Parkalgar Honda is very quick, so there is every chance to do well this weekend.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “An impressive day from the Parkalgar Honda team. Eugene tried a couple of new tyre combinations and was consistently fast; he is right there and leading the pack on the first with plenty more to come from him as his confidence builds further. Miguel does have the pace for top eight here and ran in that position for some time in the session. He needs to work a bit harder on tucking in and his riding that will help him – he knows that and will be looking to get well into the top 10 in qualifying tomorrow providing it is dry.”
First Qualifying
1 50 E. LAVERTY IRL Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′48.303
2 25 D. SALOM ESP ParkinGO BE1 Triumph Triumph Daytona 675 1′48.523
3 26 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′48.663 0
4 99 F. FORET FRA Team Lorenzini by Leoni Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′48.743
5 54 K. SOFUOGLU TUR HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′48.938
6 51 M. PIRRO ITA HANNspree Ten Kate Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′49.448
7 37 K. FUJIWARA JPN Kawasaki Motocard.com Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′49.534
8 14 M. LAGRIVE FRA ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Triumph Daytona 675 1′49.620
9 45 G. VIZZIELLO ITA Velmotor 2000 Honda CBR600RR 1′49.687
10 55 M. ROCCOLI ITA Intermoto Czech Honda CBR600RR 1′50.043 1
12 117 M. PRAIA POR Parkalgar Honda Honda CBR600RR 1′50.734
09/05/2010 10:57
Eugene's Assen Blog
What a great weekend! Finally I have the chance to talk about a victory again after two disastrous races finishing off the podium. I really enjoyed my time in Austria and it give me the chance to recoup after a hectic start to the season. I arrived in Assen a new man, even though I had to hop on a train from Munich to Amsterdam as my flight was cancelled! Damn volcanic ash caused havoc but nevertheless I was happy to make it there well on time.
On the track I was at the sharp end all weekend, but I still thought it would be a fight for 2nd in the race with the pace that Sofuoglu was demonstrating. We worked hard all weekend to chase him down but importantly we focussed on finding the best setting rather than worry to much about his lap times. When the race began I could tell that Kenan wasn’t very comfortable so I set about going to the front. I knew I had the speed to break away from both Sofuoglu and Foret but Lascorz was stuck to me like glue. With a few laps remaining Joan made a big mistake which allowed me a gap but I was sure I had something for him either way.
A win was just what we needed after a poor two rounds. We’re back in the title hunt and the bike is the best it’s ever been by some way so I’m confident we’re going to be very strong from here on in. The title race will take shape after these next three races as we will then be headed into the latter half of the season.
My Assen victory along with my fellow countryman Johnny Rea’s superbike double marked a memorable weekend for us both. We both came through the Red Bull Rookies programme in the UK so it proves that youth development projects find and then nurture young talent. Red Bull and Honda Racing did a great job with the two of us in the British Championship and we learnt a hell of a lot during a short space of time. We owe a lot of thanks to everyone involved and they ought to have been very proud as they watched us land ‘the treble’ on Sunday!
Until next time,
Eugene
30/04/2010 00:10
Fantastic win for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty won his second race of the season in commanding style at the fourth round of the World Supersport Championship at Assen in Holland – his second win at the circuit in two-years.
Miguel Praia lifted his game from 15th on the grid to finish a well-deserved 10th by the chequered flag. The next race is at Monza in Italy in two weeks time on Sunday, 9th May. Follow the progress of Eugene on www.eugenelaverty.com
Eugene: “That was a fantastic race for me; I did not expect to ride away with it. As the race went on my lap times came down and my Parkalgar Honda got better and better. Whenever Joan passed me I hit straight back and was able to ride away, which made for an easier last lap compared to when I won here last year. Thank you to everyone in the Parkalgar Honda team, they have done a fantastic job with my bike at the workshops and here at the track, we have got more out of the bike and that is what has given us victory.”
Miguel: “At the end of the day 10th is not such a bad result. In warm up we changed the bike to the same setting as Parkalgar after I had been struggling through the fast corners and immediately felt more comfortable. I was able to lap consistently which is what we wanted and knew we could be in contention for the top 10. I simply got in my rhythm and my Parkalgar Honda bike and team were fantastic. It has helped my Championship position and with two weeks before the next race I will have time to totally heal my wrist and ankle and will be stronger at Monza.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “That was a great day for Parkalgar Honda and just what we needed after two tough rounds. Eugene was brilliant and did his fastest time on the penultimate lap which is impressive. Miguel came through in the race after a hard couple of days practice and qualifying and it is good that he got a top 10 finish. He has got some of his fight back and looks better for it. A brilliant team effort from Parkalgar Honda and we will go from here with plenty of optimism for the coming rounds.”
Race Result
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 34′45.753 (164,629 kph)
2 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 2.796
3 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 2.962
4 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 23.040
5 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 26.338
6 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 32.544
7 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 36.591
8 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 36.697
9 55 Roccoli M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 36.879
10 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 47.288
Championship Positions (after four of 13 rounds)
1: Lascorz 85
2: Sofuoglu 77
3: Laverty PARKALGAR HONDA 66
4: Davies 46
5: Harms 35
6: Rea 33
7: Salom 32
8: Foret 28
9: Roccoli 24
10: Fujiwara 23
13: Praia PARKALGAR HONDA 17
25/04/2010 23:32
Laverty impresses to net second on the grid
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty slashed his lap time from yesterday to take second place on the grid for tomorrow’s fourth round of the World Supersport Championship at Assen in Holland.
Pole position went to Honda’s Kenan Sofuoglu at his team’s home track. The race starts tomorrow, Sunday 25th April at 1330 CET and for a full report and pictures from Parkalgar Honda visit www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “On my last run I was on my best combination of front and rear tyre and when I did my fastest lap I knew it was good enough for the front row but decided to stay out rather than come in and try a new tyre. I did six laps in the 1m 38s and despite Kenan crashing at the end he is the strongest rider at the moment and I’ll be doing all I can to beat him tomorrow. Last year in qualification Cal was untouchable and we beat him so I am positive about the race. I am actually happier in second than on pole position because after the last two poles I have had two disastrous races. Last year we only had one pole and it didn’t hurt us so I am very happy in second and know what I’ve got to do.”
Miguel: “That could have been better…we definitely struggled and didn’t expect to be 15th. All session we couldn’t find grip so at the end we reverted to the morning’s settings and immediately I was quicker; but it was late and we couldn’t make any big strides forward. We need to have a deep look at our settings and try to improve – we need to go faster and understand why we didn’t do so in qualification.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene was impressive with six fast laps in succession at the end on his race set-up and tyres. Kenan crashing shows just how hard he was pushing as well and that means Parkalgar Honda has a chance at the top honours in the race. Miguel should be better than his qualification position and we will be looking at how we can help him as a rider improve. Well done to the team for their hard work on the dyno and preparation for this event, our Parkalgar Honda is one of the quickest out there after we found more horsepower last week and I am proud of the effort everyone is putting in to keep us at the front.”
Final Qualification
1 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 1′37.908
2 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′38.421
3 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′38.567
4 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′38.660
5 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′38.780
6 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 1′38.961
7 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′39.087
8 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 1′39.143
9 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 1′39.202
10 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 1′39.327
25/04/2010 02:33
Front row for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA ace Eugene Laverty took fourth place and a provisional front row start during first qualification for Sunday’s fourth round of the World Supersport Championship at Assen in Holland.
The race takes place at 1330 on Sunday, 25th April at the historic Assen circuit in North Holland. Follow the action over the weekend on www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “I ended up on the front row which is what I wanted as it could always rain here tomorrow. I put a lot of laps on a tyre and worked on my race settings and we have got some rear grip and will continue to improve things. The Parkalgar Honda chassis is working well and I have a lot of confidence in the front end and can push hard. There is more to come from me on this bike. I also really like the new section, it is ballsy and you need to be committed.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “I am happy that Eugene is on the front row and looking at his lap times he is strong over race distance. Sofuoglu is the danger rider here at Ten Kate’s home track and is riding well – he’s a good target for us to aim for tomorrow. Miguel has more work to do on changing direction through the fast sections and we will be working with him to help him.”
First Qualifying
1 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 1′38.250
2 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′38.567
3 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′38.780
4 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′39.002
5 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 1′39.143
6 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 1′39.405
7 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′39.638
8 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′39.785
9 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 1′39.822
10 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 1′40.092
12 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′40.720
24/04/2010 11:16
Eugene's Valencia Blog
Well well, another tough race. At least I managed to stay onboard this time! In all seriousness though the race just didn’t go as planned. Again I found myself on pole position but changing track conditions caught us out for the second race in succession. In qualifying the track temperature wasn’t too dissimilar to the race yet when I started my 23 laps around Valencia in the lead I knew I wasn’t going to be able to stay there for long. Immediately I had no initial grip, something I hadn’t experienced all weekend. Qualifying is working out well right now but I’d be more than happy to exchange those for race wins, who wouldn’t? Sunday just hasn’t been our day lately but hopefully we can change all that at Assen.
I’m now sat 24 points back from Lascorz in the championship but with 10 rounds remaining it’s still all to play for. I know I’ve got the pace to win at each and every round, Valencia was after all my bogey track yet I smashed the circuit record in qualifying. Last year I entered some rounds knowing that certain factors could stand in the way of victory, but this year no circuit raises a problem for us. My two main rivals Lascorz and Sofuoglu have both enjoyed great starts to the season, however the pendulum can swing both ways.
I travelled to the first round of the BSB championship the weekend between Portimao and Valencia to watch my brothers at Brands Hatch. John turned an awful start to the weekend into two top 10 results and is proving himself to be the leading Kawasaki rider. Michael on the other hand endured a terrible weekend with a niggling electrical problem on his only bike. Nevertheless he salvaged one 4th position so he didn’t leave Round One empty handed!
I’ve just arrived in Austria for a week of testing and training at the Red Bull Diagnostics and Training Center. I enjoy spending time here so I’m looking forward to it rather than dreading it as some riders would! I fly direct from here to the Netherlands next week for Round Four at Assen, I won there last year so I’m definitely after more of the same this time around.
Eugene
13/04/2010 13:12
Hard Race for Laverty
EUGENE LAVERTY finished fifth scoring hard-earned points for Parkalgar Honda in the hotly-contested third round of the World Supersport Championship at Valencia in Spain.
Pole sitter Laverty is a clear third in the Championship while Praia is 14th. The fourth round of the Championship is at Assen in Holland in two-week’s time on 25th April. For more information on Eugene visit www.eugenelaverty.com .
Eugene: “I struggled for rear grip for the entire race. I choose the same tyre that worked yesterday but it was warmer today. This tyre and setting are good for me as it gives feel and for one-lap it is great, hence our two pole positions but for racing it is not performing. I am going to have to go back to settings that are not quite as good for feel but give more grip over a race distance. We have been here before and we know what to do. I was nursing my tyre right to the end – I had so many moments both front and rear. The result is better than Portugal and we will be back at Assen stronger than ever, that I promise.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Eugene struggled for grip through the race right from the start. We know what changes he needs to make to his Parkalgar Honda in order to get the grip back and that is the direction we will go for the next round. I told Miguel at the start he needed just to finish and get some points in light of his injuries. With Assen two weeks away it will allow us to refocus our aim for Miguel to finish top 10 in the Championship.”
Race Result
1 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 37′32.610 (147,213 kph)
2 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 3.193
3 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 5.417
4 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 8.317
5 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 10.757
6 4 Rea G. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 38.866
7 14 Lagrive M. (FRA) Triumph Daytona 675 38.926
8 5 Lundh A. (SWE) Honda CBR600RR 50.902
9 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 56.653
10 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′01.495
11 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′06.573
12 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′18.142
Championship Positions (after three of 13 races)
1: Lascorz 65
2: Sofuoglu 61
3: Laverty PARKALGAR HONDA 41
4: Davies 33
5: Salom 32
11/04/2010 17:52
Pole and circuit record for Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty smashed the circuit best ever lap for a Supersport bike on his way to pole position at the third round of the World Championship at Valencia in Spain.
Eugene: “It was nice to get pole as it wasn’t expected. I thought I could do a 35:8 and that would keep me on the front row so I made sure I did that and when I looked at my dash it said 35:6 and I knew it was a decent lap. In morning warm-up I’ll be looking to do more laps on the rear tyre I favour to ensure it is good for the race distance. We had to go back a bit today as we worked on the rear grip of my Parkalgar Honda and to get it right is a small window so we will need to keep on top of that. I used to think of Valencia as my bogey circuit but I have worked hard on that and believe all tracks are the same, simply corners and straights and there is no reason I cannot do well here.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “That was an incredible ride by Eugene; he only used two tyres the entire session. It shows his level of confidence in his Parkalgar Honda and himself; on a worn tyre he put in some fast race laps and then switched to a new tyre. He had time for two quick laps but instead he held back for a gap in traffic and just completed one and that was all he needed. He’s in good shape for the race. Miguel is trying very hard this weekend and it is not coming together for him yet. He was up on time on his last lap but crashed in sector three which was a shame. He will be working with his crew to find something in morning warm-up and we will do all we can to support him.”
Final Qualification
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1'35.658
2 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1'35.740
3 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 1'36.002
4 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1'36.015
5 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 1'36.252
6 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 1'36.291
7 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1'36.346
8 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1'36.593
9 40 DiSalvo J. (USA) Triumph Daytona 675 1'36.968
10 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 1'37.064
14 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1'38.027.
The race takes place tomorrow, Sunday 11th April at 1330 CET at the stadium circuit on the east coast of Spain. To keep updated Eugene’s progress go to www.eugenelaverty.com
10/04/2010 20:39
Laverty and Praia confident
PARKALGAR HONDA racers Eugene Laverty and Miguel Praia got off to a confident start in first qualifying for the third round of the World Supersport Championship at Valencia in Spain, taking fourth and 12th places respectively.
In good weather, the two riders gradually built their pace and tried out various settings on their Parkalgar Honda race bikes during practice and qualification and ended the day in positive mood for the rest of the weekend. There is another practice and qualifying session tomorrow before the race at 1330 CET on Sunday, April 11th. Keep up-to-date with Eugene on www.eugenelaverty.com.
Miguel: “It was a hard start to the day in practice and I struggled to get up to speed. Valencia demands a lot of feedback from the front of my Parkalgar Honda and we have changed the position of my handlebars to help put more weight over the front for this. It is a new position for me but this afternoon we made a couple of changes to my chassis and I am much happier now – my lap time is not so bad, especially when you consider that a couple of the other teams tested here last week. We will look through the data and see how we can generally improve the chassis and grip. Now we have a good starting position for tomorrow and I am sure we will go quicker.”
Eugene: “My Parkalgar Honda is really good and I am very happy with today’s performance. We worked on the rear end grip issues that surfaced at the last round and while I won’t say we have completely cured them I will say we are definitely going in the right direction. I am confident for a front row start as my fastest lap was done on the tyre I do not prefer – if we change that I know I can go faster and it’s nice to have a bit in hand. There are no major issues, I am pleased with the bike and team and it is always good when the Championship leader is behind you.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “It’s been a good day for the team, a confident start to the weekend. Eugene is comfortable on his bike and set a front row time on the tyre he doesn’t prefer so that is encouraging as there is more to come. Miguel is trying a few things with his bike and they should pay off for him, I am sure he will be able to dig deep tomorrow to challenge for the top 10. A quick mention to CIA Insurance which has joined the team as a partner for the rest of the year – it’s good to have them back with us and anyone who needs bike insurance should give them a call and support companies that support our sport; not to mention their rates for bikes are excellent.”
First Qualification
1 37 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′36.319
2 26 Lascorz J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′36.585
3 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′36.709
4 50 Laverty E. (IRL) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′36.778
5 25 Salom D. (ESP) Triumph Daytona 675 1′36.792
6 7 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 1′36.933
7 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 1′37.532
8 127 Harms R. (DEN) Honda CBR600RR 1′37.541
9 40 DiSalvo J. (USA) Triumph Daytona 675 1′37.658
10 55 Roccoli M. (ITA) Honda CBR600RR 1′38.020
11 99 Foret F. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-6R 1′38.143
12 117 Praia M. (POR) PARKALGAR HONDA CBR600RR 1′38.355
09/04/2010 19:19
Parkalgar Honda Wake-up call
PARKALGAR HONDA travels to Valencia in Spain this weekend for the third round of the World Supersport Championship with a steely focus to get back to winning ways.
Eugene Laverty is determined to emulate his opening round performance and win while Miguel Praia is smarting from being robbed of a best ever finish by a technical problem at the last round and wanting to put it right in Spain. There are practice and qualifying sessions on Friday and Saturday before the race takes place at 1330 on Sunday 11th April. Keep track of Eugene’s progress on www.eugenelaverty.com.
Eugene: “I am looking forward to Valencia although it will be a bit of a challenge. In 2009 we struggled there before we found the best set-up for the Honda chassis at the following round. I believe that all race circuits are just corners connected by straights and now we know the set-up of my Parkalgar Honda. I expect Lascorz to be strong as it is his home circuit and the Ten Kate bikes will be good after they tested as well. I have learnt an important lesson from the last round at Parkalgar and I am more focussed. Every weekend we are going for the victory regardless of the circuit.”
Miguel: “I am in good form and can’t wait to get racing this weekend. I am disappointed by not finishing at Parkalgar but realistically I was challenging for sixth-seventh and that is my best ever performance. I know I am riding well and the Parkalgar Honda is very strong. I want to continue where I left off and get into the top eight this weekend; we now know it is very possible.”
Simon Buckmaster, Team Manager, Parkalgar Honda: “It is time for Parkalgar Honda to hit back after a below par performance at our home circuit last time – that was our wake up call for the whole team and we will want a big improvement at Valencia. Lascorz and Sofuoglu got it wrong in Australia and we got it wrong in Portugal, it is that simple. One of the things that doesn’t help is that we qualify late in the afternoon and race in the early afternoon – conditions can be dramatically different each day and that doesn’t aid set up. That said it is the same for everyone but it would be nice to factor in some consistency and I have asked the organisers to change the timing for the good of all teams.”
09/04/2010 15:56
Eugene's Portimao blog
Welcome to my first instalment as an EYBIS supported rider! I’m back home in Northern Ireland following Round two at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, the circuit owned by my team Parkalgar Honda. Unfortunately I didn’t enjoy the same result as last season when I won the race by more than three seconds. This time around I crashed out with just a few laps remaining. Up until then I’d led the majority of the race even though I was suffering with a few handling problems. Sofuoglu and Lascorz came passed so I decided to sit behind them for a few laps to suss out whether I would have a chance to fight with them on the final lap.
My race soon turned to disaster when I hit the inside kerb on turn four and went down. I never give up though and so long as the bike starts I’m going to get back on it! I managed to salvage 11th position on a bike that was completely destroyed, most worrying was that the front brake reservoir had been left behind in the gravel trap so I knew that the front brake could stop working at any moment. Thankfully I had just enough brake fluid left to last a couple of laps as it stopped working on the slowing down lap.
The most important thing is that I learn from my mistake. I don’t like to dwell on things; it’s best to assess the error, understand how to improve and move on. The gap to the lead of the championship is eleven points which is nothing at this stage.
The weather at home was horrendous yesterday and it has continued to rain today. I guess the sky is just trying to say ‘Welcome home’! Next Monday I will fly to England for the day to watch my brothers Michael and John competing in the first round of the British Superbike Championship before I head to Valencia for Round three. Make sure and stop by again in a fortnight for my next instalment.
Until next time,
Eugene
31/03/2010 00:22
Parkalgar Honda frustrated at home
PARKALGAR HONDA racers Eugene Laverty and Miguel Praia left the team’s home track of Portimao frustrated with an 11th and DNF to show for their efforts but confident that they will do better at the next round of the World Supersport Championship.
Laverty led for the first 15-laps of the race before dicing with rivals Kenan Sofuoglu on a Honda and Joan Lascorz on a Kawasaki. He crashed out of third on lap 17 but remounted to take 11th on a severely damaged bike. Praia was enjoying the best race of his career, fighting for seventh place when his bike lost power suddenly on the same lap as his team mate crashed. The third round of the World Championship is at Valencia in Spain in two-week’s time on Sunday 11th April. Go to www.eugenelaverty.com for more info.
Miguel: “I was comfortable riding with Fujiwara and Foret and was preparing to make a big effort on the last laps to go for the places in front – fifth was possible I think – when my bike lost power suddenly and unexpectedly. The good news is that I made a strong start, I think running fifth in the first corners. I was then able to ride with the group fighting for fifth to eighth and our race pace was better than qualifying so we have some big positives to take with us for the rest of the season; it shows what we can achieve. For the fans that came here to support us – thank you very much.”
Eugene: “That didn’t go to plan and at the start I struggled a little with a full tank of fuel. I had the lead so I pushed hard and used the best part of the tyre trying to get away but Lazcorz and Sofuoglu came back at me. When they passed me I was trying hard to stay with them and drove hard out of turn three up to the blind turn four. I just touched the kerb slightly but that was enough to lose the front end. I picked my Parkalgar Honda up and thankfully we operate a strategy that uses the very best parts to survive any crashes and it was rideable. I was losing brake pressure as the master cylinder had emptied so I was lucky the race finish was only a couple of laps later and glad to take 11th. Thanks to all the Portuguese fans and my team for their support, these points could make a big difference at the end of the season in the title race.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “Miguel was riding his best race and competing further up the field than ever before so we are sorry that he was not able to finish. Eugene was fighting at the front of the race for the win and crashed out while pushing hard. We expect him to push hard and go for the win every weekend. He did well to pick up a much damaged bike and race to 11th place. We didn’t get the results we wanted or deserved this weekend but the attitude from the riders and the team is to never give up and we will learn from this and be stronger at Valencia. Thank you to the circuit and the fans for making us so welcome here.”
Race Result
1: Sofuoglu
2: Lascorz +0.031
3: Pirro +8.879
4: Davies +15.270
5: Foret +22.096
6: Fujiwara +23.041
7: Harms +30.830
8: Rea +35.171
9: Roccoli +35.225
10: Salom +35.239
11: LAVERTY PARKALGAR HONDA +49.540
DNF: PRAIA PARKALGAR HONDA
Championship Positions (after two of 13 rounds)
1: Sofuoglu 41
2: Lascorz 40
3: LAVERTY PARKALGAR HONDA 30
4: Foret 22
5: Salom 19
6: Harms 18
13: PRAIA PARKALGAR HONDA 7
28/03/2010 17:49
Pole For Eugene Laverty
PARKALGAR HONDA’S Eugene Laverty took a well-earned pole position while Miguel Praia secured a strong eighth during final qualification for the second round of the World Supersport Championship at the team’s home circuit at Portimao in Portugal.
Sunny warm conditions changed during the session as the wind came up, forcing riders to adjust their style to compensate. The fans were out in force to support the Parkalgar Honda duo and more are expected tomorrow for the race which starts at 1330 local time at the dramatic high-tech circuit. To keep updated go to www.eugenelaverty.com
Eugene: “That’s my second ever pole position and the last time was here at this circuit at the end of 2009, so I am really happy and glad to do it at Parkalgar. The wind came up during the session and may have made a difference but we concentrated on what we wanted to do which was test front and rear tyres. We can improve the front end of our Parkalgar Honda and we will see what we can do in the morning warm-up. I call on all the Portuguese bike fans to come here tomorrow to support me and Miguel – it makes a difference and will help us in our title challenge.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “It was hard work but in the end Eugene took a well-earned pole position. He has won two races in a row now – here last year and then Phillip Island last month; we all want it to be a hat-trick and it would mean a lot to the team’s home support at our own track in Portugal. Miguel is once again on the second row here at his home track and given himself a great opportunity to fight for a top six finish and take his personal best ever result. Well done to all of the Parkalgar Honda team, great work today.”
Final Qualification
1: LAVERTY PARKALGAR HONDA 1:45.169
2: Sofuoglu +0.144
3: Pirro +0.659
4: Lascorz +0.734
5: Foret +0.913
6: Davies +0.992
7: Fujiwara +1.246
8: PRAIA PARKALGAR HONDA +1.397
9: Salom + 1.485
10: Disalvo +1.610
27/03/2010 20:40
Confidence high ahead of Portimao
PARKALGAR HONDA Portuguese racer Miguel Praia is looking for the ‘race of his life’ to get a top five finish at this weekend’s second round of the World Supersport Championship at his and the team’s home circuit at Portimao in Portugal.
World Championship leader and first round winner Eugene Laverty will be looking to repeat his 2009 victory on home soil for Parkalgar Honda and give the Portuguese fans plenty to cheer. There are practice and qualifying sessions on Friday and Saturday before the race at 1330 GMT on Sunday, March 28th, at the state-of-the-art world track of the year near Portimao.
Eugene: “We know from last year’s race and the January test - as well as our performance at Phillip Island - that we are in good shape but will continue to work on set-up; you never get bored at Portimao, it is that sort of a circuit and there is always something to improve. I think Joan and Kenan will be strong and while they didn’t focus on race set-up in Australia, the tyre life problems there are fairly unique and in Portugal if you can do one fast lap you can probably do them for the whole race. It is great to get the support of the local fans in Portugal; they really get behind the whole team. I have been training hard in the nice spring weather and I am refreshed and ready for the race.”
Simon Buckmaster, Parkalgar Honda Team Manager: “We are going home to Parkalgar as the favourites to win the race after victory in the opening round and in the last round at Portimao last year. But it certainly won’t be easy as Joan Lascorz is strong and last year Kenan Sofuoglu showed he could ride a quick race and kept the pressure on behind Eugene. Miguel comes here after equalling his best ever result but he didn’t ride his best ever race to do so. If he can ride to his potential then he can score a good result on home soil and we’ll be doing all we can to support him.
26/03/2010 20:36
