Race reports
Ben Wilson Racing #15 Now on facebook
31st August 2010
31st August 2010
We have now got a group up and running on face book,
You can put messages and photos on.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=137545962955144&ref=ts
You can put messages and photos on.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=137545962955144&ref=ts
Round 9 Cadwell Park
31st August 2010
31st August 2010
BEN WILSON – CADWELL PARK
After two non-finishes at Cadwell Park over the past year Ben Wilson made sure of a strong finish this time around and rode to a fantastic third place in round nine of the British Supersport championship at his home track on Monday to move back into fourth place in the rider points with three rounds remaining.
The Gearlink Kawasaki rider from Kirton near Boston shrugged off any thoughts of his previous problems and throughout the weekend remained within the top four.
With only three to a row instead of the usual four, Wilson found himself starting his campaign from the head of row two but his usual lightening start saw him nip ahead of series leader and pole setter Sam Lowes to take the lead on the run to Coppice.
But his lead was short-lived as Lowes passed him at Park corner. He was demoted to third when Billy McConnell made a desperate dive at the chicane which nearly resulted in Wilson being pushed off the track. But although he lost momentum he recovered well and continued on his way in third place.
On lap four McConnell crashed out of the race gifting second place back to Wilson but he was under immense pressure from the following pack who challenged for position at every opportunity.
But Wilson hung on in there and although he was temporarily demoted to fourth on lap 12 he clawed his way back past multi TT winner Ian Hutchinson and hunted down James Westmoreland who by this time had moved into second place. Wilson was not to be denied and on the penultimate lap he regained second place at the Hairpin and looked to be in a comfortable position to take the runner up spot.
But just before they crossed the line to start the final lap the race was red-flagged for an incident further down field. A result was declared on positions reached on lap 14 meaning Wilson was placed third and not second.
“The bike ran well and the tyre held out, we had a good race although it was a bit disappointing to have the race stopped just as I had got in front of Westy. But I still got on the podium and we moved up to fourth in the championship,” said Ben. “We are only three points behind Gowland who holds third in the championship so there is everything to race for at Croft next time out. Hopefully we can bag another good result and that will take us back up into the top three.”
With his points tally increased to 100 Wilson is just three points away from the top three but McConnell is only a point behind him so a top result at Croft on September 12 is essential. Wilson was third in last year’s race at the North Yorkshire circuit and will be striving for another good result in two week’s time.
By Helen Pask
After two non-finishes at Cadwell Park over the past year Ben Wilson made sure of a strong finish this time around and rode to a fantastic third place in round nine of the British Supersport championship at his home track on Monday to move back into fourth place in the rider points with three rounds remaining.
The Gearlink Kawasaki rider from Kirton near Boston shrugged off any thoughts of his previous problems and throughout the weekend remained within the top four.
With only three to a row instead of the usual four, Wilson found himself starting his campaign from the head of row two but his usual lightening start saw him nip ahead of series leader and pole setter Sam Lowes to take the lead on the run to Coppice.
But his lead was short-lived as Lowes passed him at Park corner. He was demoted to third when Billy McConnell made a desperate dive at the chicane which nearly resulted in Wilson being pushed off the track. But although he lost momentum he recovered well and continued on his way in third place.
On lap four McConnell crashed out of the race gifting second place back to Wilson but he was under immense pressure from the following pack who challenged for position at every opportunity.
But Wilson hung on in there and although he was temporarily demoted to fourth on lap 12 he clawed his way back past multi TT winner Ian Hutchinson and hunted down James Westmoreland who by this time had moved into second place. Wilson was not to be denied and on the penultimate lap he regained second place at the Hairpin and looked to be in a comfortable position to take the runner up spot.
But just before they crossed the line to start the final lap the race was red-flagged for an incident further down field. A result was declared on positions reached on lap 14 meaning Wilson was placed third and not second.
“The bike ran well and the tyre held out, we had a good race although it was a bit disappointing to have the race stopped just as I had got in front of Westy. But I still got on the podium and we moved up to fourth in the championship,” said Ben. “We are only three points behind Gowland who holds third in the championship so there is everything to race for at Croft next time out. Hopefully we can bag another good result and that will take us back up into the top three.”
With his points tally increased to 100 Wilson is just three points away from the top three but McConnell is only a point behind him so a top result at Croft on September 12 is essential. Wilson was third in last year’s race at the North Yorkshire circuit and will be striving for another good result in two week’s time.
By Helen Pask
Cadwell Park Preview
22nd August 2010
22nd August 2010
BEN WILSON – CADWELL PREVIEW
Lincolnshire based British Supersport rider Ben Wilson has only a short distance to travel for the next round of his championship campaign as Cadwell Park near Louth hosts round nine of the championship over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Wilson, from Kirton near Boston is currently fifth in the rider standings and will be striving for a good result on local tarmac to edge closer to the series leaders.
In the previous round at Brands Hatch Wilson was mixing it at the front of the field and looking promising for a podium finish to his race. But in the latter stages he encountered problems with rear grip and dropped back to complete the race in sixth place.
The Gearlink Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has proved beyond doubt that it is capable of winning races and Wilson will be striving for a top result in front of his family and local fans this weekend.
“I am looking forward to racing again at Cadwell and anticipating a good race,” said Wilson. “The Supersport championship has been very close so far this season but I am sure that I will be there or there about when we cross the finish line at Cadwell.”
Free practice and qualifying take place over Saturday and Sunday with a full programme of racing on Monday. The British Supersport race is scheduled to begin at 3.50pm on Monday over 16 laps of the Lincolnshire circuit.
Lincolnshire based British Supersport rider Ben Wilson has only a short distance to travel for the next round of his championship campaign as Cadwell Park near Louth hosts round nine of the championship over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Wilson, from Kirton near Boston is currently fifth in the rider standings and will be striving for a good result on local tarmac to edge closer to the series leaders.
In the previous round at Brands Hatch Wilson was mixing it at the front of the field and looking promising for a podium finish to his race. But in the latter stages he encountered problems with rear grip and dropped back to complete the race in sixth place.
The Gearlink Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has proved beyond doubt that it is capable of winning races and Wilson will be striving for a top result in front of his family and local fans this weekend.
“I am looking forward to racing again at Cadwell and anticipating a good race,” said Wilson. “The Supersport championship has been very close so far this season but I am sure that I will be there or there about when we cross the finish line at Cadwell.”
Free practice and qualifying take place over Saturday and Sunday with a full programme of racing on Monday. The British Supersport race is scheduled to begin at 3.50pm on Monday over 16 laps of the Lincolnshire circuit.
Round 8 -Brands Hatch GP
09th August 2010
09th August 2010
Despite leading the field around the opening lap Ben Wilson completed round eight of the British Supersport championship at Brands Hatch on Sunday in sixth place to pick up a further 10 championship points and remains in fifth place in the overall standings with four rounds remaining in the series.
The 28-year-old Gearlink Kawasaki rider from Kirton near Boston completed his qualifying in fifth place and began his campaign from a second row grid position behind pole setter James Westmoreland.
No one would take a bet as to who would be leading the race at the first corner as Wilson is renowned for his lightening starts and Sunday was no exception. He shot off the line like a scalded cat to lead the field around Paddock Hill Bend but he had close company in the form of championship leader Sam Lowes who was looking to extend his series lead with a win. Lowes took over at the front on lap two and one lap later Wilson was relegated to third as Sam’s twin brother Alex moved ahead to chase his brother.
The action was fast and furious and Wilson was soon relegated to fourth place. But the action was halted when the pace car was deployed because of an accident further down field.
As the car left the track three laps later the race was back on and Wilson got the best drive around Druids to regain third place. The riders were all bunched together and Wilson came under pressure from Graham Gowland who eventually got past on lap 13 of 16.
By this time it was obvious that Wilson was having problems with rear grip as he was struggling to hold the bike on cornering and it wasn’t long before Jason O’Halloran and Ian Hutchinson caught the luckless Lincolnshire rider and put him under immense pressure as they headed into the final lap.
Try as he may, Wilson was unable to fend off the attack and was beaten back to cross the finish line just 0.3seconds adrift in sixth position.
“I rode the wheels off the bike but was still not able to finish any further upfield than sixth. I am very disappointed and it is obvious that we still have a few issues that we need to resolve so we can get some grip towards the end of a race. We have to address this to keep the bike on the pace to the chequered flag and we will be working hard to find a solution ahead of the next round at Cadwell Park.”
Wilson remains in fifth place in the rider standings but if the tyre problems can be solved that could change as Wilson has the advantage of the next round being on home tarmac at Cadwell Park on August Bank Holiday Monday. (August 30.)
By Helen Pask
The 28-year-old Gearlink Kawasaki rider from Kirton near Boston completed his qualifying in fifth place and began his campaign from a second row grid position behind pole setter James Westmoreland.
No one would take a bet as to who would be leading the race at the first corner as Wilson is renowned for his lightening starts and Sunday was no exception. He shot off the line like a scalded cat to lead the field around Paddock Hill Bend but he had close company in the form of championship leader Sam Lowes who was looking to extend his series lead with a win. Lowes took over at the front on lap two and one lap later Wilson was relegated to third as Sam’s twin brother Alex moved ahead to chase his brother.
The action was fast and furious and Wilson was soon relegated to fourth place. But the action was halted when the pace car was deployed because of an accident further down field.
As the car left the track three laps later the race was back on and Wilson got the best drive around Druids to regain third place. The riders were all bunched together and Wilson came under pressure from Graham Gowland who eventually got past on lap 13 of 16.
By this time it was obvious that Wilson was having problems with rear grip as he was struggling to hold the bike on cornering and it wasn’t long before Jason O’Halloran and Ian Hutchinson caught the luckless Lincolnshire rider and put him under immense pressure as they headed into the final lap.
Try as he may, Wilson was unable to fend off the attack and was beaten back to cross the finish line just 0.3seconds adrift in sixth position.
“I rode the wheels off the bike but was still not able to finish any further upfield than sixth. I am very disappointed and it is obvious that we still have a few issues that we need to resolve so we can get some grip towards the end of a race. We have to address this to keep the bike on the pace to the chequered flag and we will be working hard to find a solution ahead of the next round at Cadwell Park.”
Wilson remains in fifth place in the rider standings but if the tyre problems can be solved that could change as Wilson has the advantage of the next round being on home tarmac at Cadwell Park on August Bank Holiday Monday. (August 30.)
By Helen Pask
Brands Hatch GP Preview
31st July 2010
31st July 2010
Ben Wilson from Kirton near Boston is anticipating another strong result when he travels to Brands Hatch in Kent for round eight of the British Supersport championship that takes place on the 2.3-mile Grand Prix circuit on August 8.
The Gearlink Kawasaki ace usually goes well at Brands Hatch and is itching to get back in the saddle after the three week break when he will be aiming his sights at a top result to keep in touch with the championship leaders as we head into the final five races in the 2010 series.
Wilson currently lies in fifth place in the overall rider standings but in touching distance of third place and a good result at Brands Hatch could see him move back up the order.
“I am really looking forward to getting back to race action,” said Wilson. “I have been training hard and am relishing the thought of racing again at Brands Hatch. In last year’s race on the GP circuit I scored a good result and there is no reason why I can’t do that again this time. The Gearlink Kawasaki Supersport machine is a top bike and I have proved already this season I can run at the front. You can be sure I will be putting 110% effort into the race on Sunday to score as many points as possible to close the gap to the series leader.”
Free practice and qualifying take place on Friday and Saturday with the 16-lap British Supersport race scheduled to start at 4.55pm on Sunday.
By Helen Pask
The Gearlink Kawasaki ace usually goes well at Brands Hatch and is itching to get back in the saddle after the three week break when he will be aiming his sights at a top result to keep in touch with the championship leaders as we head into the final five races in the 2010 series.
Wilson currently lies in fifth place in the overall rider standings but in touching distance of third place and a good result at Brands Hatch could see him move back up the order.
“I am really looking forward to getting back to race action,” said Wilson. “I have been training hard and am relishing the thought of racing again at Brands Hatch. In last year’s race on the GP circuit I scored a good result and there is no reason why I can’t do that again this time. The Gearlink Kawasaki Supersport machine is a top bike and I have proved already this season I can run at the front. You can be sure I will be putting 110% effort into the race on Sunday to score as many points as possible to close the gap to the series leader.”
Free practice and qualifying take place on Friday and Saturday with the 16-lap British Supersport race scheduled to start at 4.55pm on Sunday.
By Helen Pask
Round 7 - Snetterton
18th July 2010
18th July 2010
BEN WILSON FIFTH AT SNETTERTON
Despite a disappointing qualifying position, Ben Wilson powered his Gearlink Kawasaki through to fifth place in round seven of the British Supersport championship at Snetterton in Norfolk on Sunday and although he picked up a further 11 championship points he was overtaken in the title race by race winner Graeme Gowland.
Practice and qualifying were disrupted by a problem with the track surface at Russell’s chicane and the subsequent delay meant that qualifying was reduced to just one 30-minute session instead of the usual two. Wilson from Kirton near Boston was only able to record a fast enough time to claim a start from row three of the grid down in 11th place and explained: “I really do not know what happened in qualifying; it just didn’t work out for me. I was unable to put a fast lap together and therefore I am left to start Sunday’s race from the third row. I need to get away quickly if I am going to be in the hunt for maximum points tomorrow.”
True to his word, Wilson got away to a flyer and made up five places on the first lap, crossing the start line on lap two in sixth position. He moved up to fourth one lap later and then to third on lap four where he remained for the majority of the race. Although he challenged fellow Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes for second place on more than one occasion he was unable to make the move stick and as the race progressed into the final stages his tyre began to wear and he was forced to slow.
With three laps remaining, Wilson was reeled in by Daniel Cooper and on the final lap was caught and passed by Glen Richards which left him to cross the finish line in fifth position.
Although not quite the result he had hoped for Wilson had the consolation of recording the fastest lap of the race with a time of 1m 07.598s – 103.95mph on lap three of 20.
“I am disappointed with that result,” said Wilson. “I was holding third for the majority of the time and holding strong with the leaders. I thought I could have a go at them towards the end but the tyre went off with about six laps to go and from there onwards I started on a bit of a downer but that’s the way it goes, fifth is better than nothing! Its not a bad result from where we qualified so we have turned it around a little bit and hopefully we can carry this on and do a better job at Brands Hatch.”
Race winner Graeme Gowland scored maximum points and overhauled Wilson in the rider standings. He now trails Gowland by 13 points in fifth place but a good result at Brands Hatch in the next round could see him reverse that once again and put him right back in contention for a top three placing.
By Helen Pask
Despite a disappointing qualifying position, Ben Wilson powered his Gearlink Kawasaki through to fifth place in round seven of the British Supersport championship at Snetterton in Norfolk on Sunday and although he picked up a further 11 championship points he was overtaken in the title race by race winner Graeme Gowland.
Practice and qualifying were disrupted by a problem with the track surface at Russell’s chicane and the subsequent delay meant that qualifying was reduced to just one 30-minute session instead of the usual two. Wilson from Kirton near Boston was only able to record a fast enough time to claim a start from row three of the grid down in 11th place and explained: “I really do not know what happened in qualifying; it just didn’t work out for me. I was unable to put a fast lap together and therefore I am left to start Sunday’s race from the third row. I need to get away quickly if I am going to be in the hunt for maximum points tomorrow.”
True to his word, Wilson got away to a flyer and made up five places on the first lap, crossing the start line on lap two in sixth position. He moved up to fourth one lap later and then to third on lap four where he remained for the majority of the race. Although he challenged fellow Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes for second place on more than one occasion he was unable to make the move stick and as the race progressed into the final stages his tyre began to wear and he was forced to slow.
With three laps remaining, Wilson was reeled in by Daniel Cooper and on the final lap was caught and passed by Glen Richards which left him to cross the finish line in fifth position.
Although not quite the result he had hoped for Wilson had the consolation of recording the fastest lap of the race with a time of 1m 07.598s – 103.95mph on lap three of 20.
“I am disappointed with that result,” said Wilson. “I was holding third for the majority of the time and holding strong with the leaders. I thought I could have a go at them towards the end but the tyre went off with about six laps to go and from there onwards I started on a bit of a downer but that’s the way it goes, fifth is better than nothing! Its not a bad result from where we qualified so we have turned it around a little bit and hopefully we can carry this on and do a better job at Brands Hatch.”
Race winner Graeme Gowland scored maximum points and overhauled Wilson in the rider standings. He now trails Gowland by 13 points in fifth place but a good result at Brands Hatch in the next round could see him reverse that once again and put him right back in contention for a top three placing.
By Helen Pask
Snetterton Preview
12th July 2010
12th July 2010
BEN WILSON – SNETTERTON PREVIEW
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson from Kirton near Boston is busy preparing for round seven of the British Supersport championship that takes place at Snetterton in Norfolk on Sunday where in last year’s race he rode to eighth position.
Wilson recorded the runner up spot in the last round at a wet and windy Knockhill and will be hoping for a similar result at Snetterton. But he will have a difficult job on his hands as the circuit is one of the fastest tracks on the British Supersport calendar and he will have to pull out all the stops if he is to get up into the top three.
Currently placed fourth in the rider standings it is imperative that Wilson has a good run on Sunday to maintain that position and edge closer to Billy McConnell who hold third place with a 20 point advantage over the Lincolnshire rider.
“I realise that the pace will be hot,” said Wilson. “But with the backing of Gearlink Kawasaki and the Ninja ZX-6R underneath me I will be going all out for a strong result. Let’s hope the weather behaves itself this weekend and we can get some good racing under our belts.”
Free practice and qualifying take place on Friday and Saturday followed by a 20-lap race at 3.45pm on Sunday that will benefit from live television coverage on British Eurosport 2.
By Helen Pask
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson from Kirton near Boston is busy preparing for round seven of the British Supersport championship that takes place at Snetterton in Norfolk on Sunday where in last year’s race he rode to eighth position.
Wilson recorded the runner up spot in the last round at a wet and windy Knockhill and will be hoping for a similar result at Snetterton. But he will have a difficult job on his hands as the circuit is one of the fastest tracks on the British Supersport calendar and he will have to pull out all the stops if he is to get up into the top three.
Currently placed fourth in the rider standings it is imperative that Wilson has a good run on Sunday to maintain that position and edge closer to Billy McConnell who hold third place with a 20 point advantage over the Lincolnshire rider.
“I realise that the pace will be hot,” said Wilson. “But with the backing of Gearlink Kawasaki and the Ninja ZX-6R underneath me I will be going all out for a strong result. Let’s hope the weather behaves itself this weekend and we can get some good racing under our belts.”
Free practice and qualifying take place on Friday and Saturday followed by a 20-lap race at 3.45pm on Sunday that will benefit from live television coverage on British Eurosport 2.
By Helen Pask
Round 6 - Knockhill
04th July 2010
04th July 2010
SECOND PLACE FOR BEN WILSON AT KNOCKHILL
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson rode to a strong second place at a rain swept Knockhill in round six of the British Supersport championship on Sunday to move back up to fourth in the title chase.
Qualifying didn’t go quite to plan for the Lincolnshire rider from Kirton near Boston and he had to be content with a start from the head of the third row as ninth fastest rider.
But as race day dawned the promised heavy rain arrived causing havoc to the race programme. Following a lengthy delay the Supersport race was reduced to 15 laps and got underway in wet and windy conditions.
Wilson shrugged off the wind and rain and got away to a good start moving through to take up fifth position on the first lap. He was demoted to sixth one lap later and his progress was thwarted when the pace car was deployed for a couple of laps. But once the race resumed Wilson got his head down and edged nearer to the riders ahead taking both Ian Hutchinson and Dan Cooper in one foul swoop at the hairpin on lap 10 to secure second place and begin his charge towards the race leader some way ahead.
But the red flag came into play and brought the race to an early end when two riders went down and a result was declared at 13 laps distance giving Wilson the runner up spot and 20 championship points.
“I am happy enough with second today,” said Wilson. “We didn’t get the result we wanted in qualifying but my times have been pretty consistent in the wet and the dry and to finish in second place has put me back up to fourth so I am pleased about that. The wind didn’t really bother me as I was concentrating on my race. It was the same for everybody and we made it count. I would like to thank Gearlink Kawasaki and the team and everyone who has helped me and I am delighted to have been able to repay them with a podium finish.”
The next round is at Snetterton in Norfolk on July 18 when Wilson will be hoping for better weather and another strong result to edge him nearer to the championship leader.
By Helen Pask
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson rode to a strong second place at a rain swept Knockhill in round six of the British Supersport championship on Sunday to move back up to fourth in the title chase.
Qualifying didn’t go quite to plan for the Lincolnshire rider from Kirton near Boston and he had to be content with a start from the head of the third row as ninth fastest rider.
But as race day dawned the promised heavy rain arrived causing havoc to the race programme. Following a lengthy delay the Supersport race was reduced to 15 laps and got underway in wet and windy conditions.
Wilson shrugged off the wind and rain and got away to a good start moving through to take up fifth position on the first lap. He was demoted to sixth one lap later and his progress was thwarted when the pace car was deployed for a couple of laps. But once the race resumed Wilson got his head down and edged nearer to the riders ahead taking both Ian Hutchinson and Dan Cooper in one foul swoop at the hairpin on lap 10 to secure second place and begin his charge towards the race leader some way ahead.
But the red flag came into play and brought the race to an early end when two riders went down and a result was declared at 13 laps distance giving Wilson the runner up spot and 20 championship points.
“I am happy enough with second today,” said Wilson. “We didn’t get the result we wanted in qualifying but my times have been pretty consistent in the wet and the dry and to finish in second place has put me back up to fourth so I am pleased about that. The wind didn’t really bother me as I was concentrating on my race. It was the same for everybody and we made it count. I would like to thank Gearlink Kawasaki and the team and everyone who has helped me and I am delighted to have been able to repay them with a podium finish.”
The next round is at Snetterton in Norfolk on July 18 when Wilson will be hoping for better weather and another strong result to edge him nearer to the championship leader.
By Helen Pask
Round 5 - Mallory Park
27th June 2010
27th June 2010
BEN WILSON – MALLORY
What began as a promising weekend for Ben Wilson ended in disappointment as a technical problem caused him to drop down the field and end his race in seventh place.
Wilson from Kirton near Boston was competing in round five of the British Supersport championship at Mallory Park on Sunday and throughout free practice and qualifying he was consistently running within the top three or four and looking good to repeat his result from last year’s visit to the Leicestershire venue when he completed his race in second place.
Qualifying went well for the Gearlink Kawasaki rider and he began his campaign from a front row grid position in fourth place. As the lights went out Wilson got away to his usual lightening start and led the field around the short 1.41-mile circuit. He maintained his race lead for the first two laps but was overhauled by Billy McConnell on lap three and relegated further to third place when Westmoreland also moved ahead.
The safety car was deployed for a couple of laps for a crash further down the field and once it left the track it wasn’t long before fellow Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes nipped past Wilson at Edwina’s on lap 10 of 25.
It was obvious that Wilson has some sort of problem but he maintained fourth place through the next 10 laps until the group of riders behind him began to steadily reel him in. Glen Richards was the first to move ahead at the hairpin swiftly followed by Jack Kennedy and Graeme Gowland leaving Wilson to complete his race in a disappointing seventh place.
“I am really disappointed,” said Wilson. “I felt comfy in the lead and when McConnell came past me I felt I could run with him but then on lap three the bike developed an electrical problem which prevented the bike from revving and so I slowly dropped back from fourth to seventh. But at least we were on the pace again and where we needed to be until the bike played up and then it was all taken out of my hands.”
This result sees Wilson maintain his sixth place in the rider standings on 43 points with the next round at Knockhill in Scotland this coming weekend, July 4. The Scottish venue was the scene of Wilson’s and Gearlink Kawasaki’s first race win in the Supersport class and a repeat performance could move him back up into contention with the championship leaders.
By Helen Pask
What began as a promising weekend for Ben Wilson ended in disappointment as a technical problem caused him to drop down the field and end his race in seventh place.
Wilson from Kirton near Boston was competing in round five of the British Supersport championship at Mallory Park on Sunday and throughout free practice and qualifying he was consistently running within the top three or four and looking good to repeat his result from last year’s visit to the Leicestershire venue when he completed his race in second place.
Qualifying went well for the Gearlink Kawasaki rider and he began his campaign from a front row grid position in fourth place. As the lights went out Wilson got away to his usual lightening start and led the field around the short 1.41-mile circuit. He maintained his race lead for the first two laps but was overhauled by Billy McConnell on lap three and relegated further to third place when Westmoreland also moved ahead.
The safety car was deployed for a couple of laps for a crash further down the field and once it left the track it wasn’t long before fellow Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes nipped past Wilson at Edwina’s on lap 10 of 25.
It was obvious that Wilson has some sort of problem but he maintained fourth place through the next 10 laps until the group of riders behind him began to steadily reel him in. Glen Richards was the first to move ahead at the hairpin swiftly followed by Jack Kennedy and Graeme Gowland leaving Wilson to complete his race in a disappointing seventh place.
“I am really disappointed,” said Wilson. “I felt comfy in the lead and when McConnell came past me I felt I could run with him but then on lap three the bike developed an electrical problem which prevented the bike from revving and so I slowly dropped back from fourth to seventh. But at least we were on the pace again and where we needed to be until the bike played up and then it was all taken out of my hands.”
This result sees Wilson maintain his sixth place in the rider standings on 43 points with the next round at Knockhill in Scotland this coming weekend, July 4. The Scottish venue was the scene of Wilson’s and Gearlink Kawasaki’s first race win in the Supersport class and a repeat performance could move him back up into contention with the championship leaders.
By Helen Pask
Round 4 - Cadwell Park
23rd May 2010
23rd May 2010
BEN WILSON CRASHES AT CADWELL
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson was looking promising for the win ahead of round four of the British Supersport championship at his local circuit of Cadwell Park on Sunday but his race plans came to nothing when he crashed at Hall Bends, his race over on the first lap.
Following his race win at Oulton Park in the previous round of the series, Wilson was confident he could do well at his local circuit. Throughout the weekend the race ace from Kirton near Boston had been on the pace and in the thick of the action during practice and qualifying.
In each session he was amongst the top three and after posting his fastest ever time on a Supersport machine in final qualifying he claimed a front row start to Sunday’s race as third fastest rider. The times were close and just two tenths of a second separated the top three riders with Wilson posting a career best time of 1m 29.504s to claim a front row start to Sunday’s 16 lap encounter.
“I am happy enough with third as I am on the front row for the race start,” said Wilson. “Today was the fastest I have ever been around Cadwell on a Supersport machine. The Gearlink Kawasaki has been fantastic so far this weekend; it’s done everything it says on the tin so I am looking forward to a great race tomorrow for Gearlink Kawasaki.”
Wilson was again on the pace in morning warm-up. He was second fastest in the 10-minute session and equalled his earlier qualifying time as he put the Gearlink Kawasaki machine through its paces ahead of the race.
In glorious sunshine Wilson took his place on the grid for what looked to be a close and exciting battle for supremacy and as the lights went out he was quick off the line to establish the lead as the riders headed towards turn one. But Billy McConnell managed to get his Yamaha in front of Wilson and the pair sped off along Park straight. But as he negotiated Hall Bends the luckless Lincolnshire ace crashed uninjured and spent the remainder of the race watching from the marshals’ post, his race over.
“I am gutted,” said a disappointed Ben Wilson. “The weekend was looking really promising for me and we were set for a really good result. Hall Bends is my strongest point of the circuit and I have negotiated it without a hitch on hundreds of occasions over the years. Today it just went wrong for me and I am so disappointed. The boys at Gearlink Kawasaki have worked so hard this weekend to give me a competitive set up and I am gutted not to have been able to give them a good result.”
As a result of his non finish, Wilson drops from third to sixth in the rider standings on 34 points but a good result in the next round could see him edge nearer to the series leader James Westmoreland who now holds a 34 point advantage over Wilson.
By Helen Pask
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson was looking promising for the win ahead of round four of the British Supersport championship at his local circuit of Cadwell Park on Sunday but his race plans came to nothing when he crashed at Hall Bends, his race over on the first lap.
Following his race win at Oulton Park in the previous round of the series, Wilson was confident he could do well at his local circuit. Throughout the weekend the race ace from Kirton near Boston had been on the pace and in the thick of the action during practice and qualifying.
In each session he was amongst the top three and after posting his fastest ever time on a Supersport machine in final qualifying he claimed a front row start to Sunday’s race as third fastest rider. The times were close and just two tenths of a second separated the top three riders with Wilson posting a career best time of 1m 29.504s to claim a front row start to Sunday’s 16 lap encounter.
“I am happy enough with third as I am on the front row for the race start,” said Wilson. “Today was the fastest I have ever been around Cadwell on a Supersport machine. The Gearlink Kawasaki has been fantastic so far this weekend; it’s done everything it says on the tin so I am looking forward to a great race tomorrow for Gearlink Kawasaki.”
Wilson was again on the pace in morning warm-up. He was second fastest in the 10-minute session and equalled his earlier qualifying time as he put the Gearlink Kawasaki machine through its paces ahead of the race.
In glorious sunshine Wilson took his place on the grid for what looked to be a close and exciting battle for supremacy and as the lights went out he was quick off the line to establish the lead as the riders headed towards turn one. But Billy McConnell managed to get his Yamaha in front of Wilson and the pair sped off along Park straight. But as he negotiated Hall Bends the luckless Lincolnshire ace crashed uninjured and spent the remainder of the race watching from the marshals’ post, his race over.
“I am gutted,” said a disappointed Ben Wilson. “The weekend was looking really promising for me and we were set for a really good result. Hall Bends is my strongest point of the circuit and I have negotiated it without a hitch on hundreds of occasions over the years. Today it just went wrong for me and I am so disappointed. The boys at Gearlink Kawasaki have worked so hard this weekend to give me a competitive set up and I am gutted not to have been able to give them a good result.”
As a result of his non finish, Wilson drops from third to sixth in the rider standings on 34 points but a good result in the next round could see him edge nearer to the series leader James Westmoreland who now holds a 34 point advantage over Wilson.
By Helen Pask
Round 3 - Oulton Park
03rd May 2010
03rd May 2010
BEN WILSON WINS AT OULTON PARK
Gearlink Kawasaki ace Ben Wilson took a fantastic win in round three of the Fuchs/Silkolene British Supersport championship at Oulton Park on Monday to edge his way up to third place in the rider standings and is now just 11 points away from the series lead.
Wilson from Kirton near Boston was only able to qualify for a third row start in 11th position but made up for that with his usual lightening start in the rain affected race which had been reduced to 12 laps because of the poor weather conditions. He took up fourth place on the opening lap before moving up to third one lap later and then to second on lap three. But things took a dramatic turn when race leader Ian Hutchinson fell at Hizzy’s gifting the lead to Wilson.
The top three riders pulled well clear of the pack with Wilson steering the Gearlink Kawasaki away to build up a substantial lead. But the safety car was deployed on lap five to allow the marshals to sweep the mud from the track after a crash, which allowed the rest of the field to catch up. Although they gained ground on Wilson he remained in control at the front and when the car left the track the race was back on.
Wilson continued to hold the lead and although fellow Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes remained right in his wheel tracks he fended off the attack and took the chequered flag with an advantage of 0.3seconds over his rival.
“That was a good result for me and also for Gearlink Kawasaki,” said an elated Ben Wilson. “I didn’t do so well in qualifying but was third fastest in morning warm up so was optimistic of a good result. But then when the rain came down I didn’t know what to expect. A lot of people did fall off but we were strong in the wet conditions so it was a really good result for us. We were given a seven minute wet practice prior to the race but we didn’t bother with that, we just wanted to get on with it. I would like to say a big thank you to the team as they have worked really hard this weekend so I am really chuffed to have been able to give them the win today. Of course I had to be fairly cautious in the wet conditions but once I got in front there was no way anyone was coming past me. I wanted that win, not just for myself but the whole of the Gearlink Kawasaki team and also my personal sponsors, without whose support I would not even be racing.”
This win sees Wilson leapfrog up the standings from 10th place to third and with the next round at his local circuit of Cadwell Park in three week’s time on May 23 he will be hungry for another win to move nearer to the series lead.
By Helen Pask
Gearlink Kawasaki ace Ben Wilson took a fantastic win in round three of the Fuchs/Silkolene British Supersport championship at Oulton Park on Monday to edge his way up to third place in the rider standings and is now just 11 points away from the series lead.
Wilson from Kirton near Boston was only able to qualify for a third row start in 11th position but made up for that with his usual lightening start in the rain affected race which had been reduced to 12 laps because of the poor weather conditions. He took up fourth place on the opening lap before moving up to third one lap later and then to second on lap three. But things took a dramatic turn when race leader Ian Hutchinson fell at Hizzy’s gifting the lead to Wilson.
The top three riders pulled well clear of the pack with Wilson steering the Gearlink Kawasaki away to build up a substantial lead. But the safety car was deployed on lap five to allow the marshals to sweep the mud from the track after a crash, which allowed the rest of the field to catch up. Although they gained ground on Wilson he remained in control at the front and when the car left the track the race was back on.
Wilson continued to hold the lead and although fellow Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes remained right in his wheel tracks he fended off the attack and took the chequered flag with an advantage of 0.3seconds over his rival.
“That was a good result for me and also for Gearlink Kawasaki,” said an elated Ben Wilson. “I didn’t do so well in qualifying but was third fastest in morning warm up so was optimistic of a good result. But then when the rain came down I didn’t know what to expect. A lot of people did fall off but we were strong in the wet conditions so it was a really good result for us. We were given a seven minute wet practice prior to the race but we didn’t bother with that, we just wanted to get on with it. I would like to say a big thank you to the team as they have worked really hard this weekend so I am really chuffed to have been able to give them the win today. Of course I had to be fairly cautious in the wet conditions but once I got in front there was no way anyone was coming past me. I wanted that win, not just for myself but the whole of the Gearlink Kawasaki team and also my personal sponsors, without whose support I would not even be racing.”
This win sees Wilson leapfrog up the standings from 10th place to third and with the next round at his local circuit of Cadwell Park in three week’s time on May 23 he will be hungry for another win to move nearer to the series lead.
By Helen Pask
Round 2 - Thruxton
18th April 2010
18th April 2010
BEN WILSON SCORES AT THRUXTON
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson bounced back from his recent crash at Brands Hatch to get onto the score sheets with a fine seventh place in round two of the Fuchs/Silkolene British Supersport championship at Thruxton in Hampshire on Tuesday.
Although not the result he really wanted he was content to pick up nine championship points and get his championship challenge underway.
Qualifying threw up some issues with the Gearlink Kawasaki’s electrical system and the team worked hard throughout qualifying to resolve the problem. The Lincolnshire rider from Kirton near Boston rode through his problems to qualify for a second row start to Sunday’s 18-lap encounter and was quick to get away at the start of the race.
He shot from eighth to third at the first corner and was seen to challenge for second place a few seconds later. But he made a mistake and dropped back down the order losing the tow from the riders ahead.
He held his position in eighth place throughout much of the 18 lapper, eventually making up a place to crossing the finish line in seventh position.
“We got some points on the board today but in all honesty that’s not what we are here to do,” said Ben. “I was up in the top three on the first lap but then made a mistake and let three or four bikes come past me and lost the tow. We have had a few suspension problems throughout the weekend but we are going the right way and on the way back to where we ought to be.”
The nine points won at Thruxton put Wilson onto the leaderboard in joint 10th position. Not where he wanted to be after two rounds of the series but something to build on.
The next round is at Oulton Park over the May Day bank holiday weekend, race day being Monday, May 3. Wilson will be looking for a strong finish to move further towards the top of the leaderboard.
By Helen Pask
Gearlink Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson bounced back from his recent crash at Brands Hatch to get onto the score sheets with a fine seventh place in round two of the Fuchs/Silkolene British Supersport championship at Thruxton in Hampshire on Tuesday.
Although not the result he really wanted he was content to pick up nine championship points and get his championship challenge underway.
Qualifying threw up some issues with the Gearlink Kawasaki’s electrical system and the team worked hard throughout qualifying to resolve the problem. The Lincolnshire rider from Kirton near Boston rode through his problems to qualify for a second row start to Sunday’s 18-lap encounter and was quick to get away at the start of the race.
He shot from eighth to third at the first corner and was seen to challenge for second place a few seconds later. But he made a mistake and dropped back down the order losing the tow from the riders ahead.
He held his position in eighth place throughout much of the 18 lapper, eventually making up a place to crossing the finish line in seventh position.
“We got some points on the board today but in all honesty that’s not what we are here to do,” said Ben. “I was up in the top three on the first lap but then made a mistake and let three or four bikes come past me and lost the tow. We have had a few suspension problems throughout the weekend but we are going the right way and on the way back to where we ought to be.”
The nine points won at Thruxton put Wilson onto the leaderboard in joint 10th position. Not where he wanted to be after two rounds of the series but something to build on.
The next round is at Oulton Park over the May Day bank holiday weekend, race day being Monday, May 3. Wilson will be looking for a strong finish to move further towards the top of the leaderboard.
By Helen Pask
Round 1 - Brands Hatch Indy
05th April 2010
05th April 2010
WEEKEND TO FORGET FOR WILSON
Brands Hatch was a weekend to forget for Boston rider Ben Wilson who
crashed heavily mid race on Monday. He was riding in the first round of the
2010 British Supersport championship for Gearlink Kawasaki and had been
suffering with rear grip all weekend.
Free practice on Friday was a washout with heavy rain impeding the riders’
progress. But eventually the rain went away and Wilson completed his
qualifying in eighth place for a second row start.
As the race got underway Wilson was quick to get off the line and settled
into fourth place as they rounded Paddock Hill but as they approached Druids
he was pushed wide and forced to drop back as the pack negotiated the tight
hairpin.
Although it took him a couple of laps to recover, the 29 year old Lincolnshire
rider soon made it back to eighth place to give chase to the leaders some way
ahead. As the laps went by Wilson edged nearer to the riders just ahead of him.
But just as he had them in his sights he highsided at Clark Curve and landed
heavily. Luckily he was shaken but not stirred! No serious injuries and he
should be fit for Thruxton.
“I have been having a few problems with grip at that part of the course
throughout the weekend and it caught me out again in the race,” explained a
battered and bruised Ben Wilson. “I am very lucky to have come away from
such a big crash without broken bones but I did suffer extensive bruising to my
shoulder, legs and back which are painful and no doubt once the bruises come
out it will look even worse. But I will be at Thruxton in two week’s time when
I hope to be able to bring a good result back to the team and start my season
from there.”
The next round is at the super-fast Thruxton circuit on April 18.
By Helen Pask
Brands Hatch was a weekend to forget for Boston rider Ben Wilson who
crashed heavily mid race on Monday. He was riding in the first round of the
2010 British Supersport championship for Gearlink Kawasaki and had been
suffering with rear grip all weekend.
Free practice on Friday was a washout with heavy rain impeding the riders’
progress. But eventually the rain went away and Wilson completed his
qualifying in eighth place for a second row start.
As the race got underway Wilson was quick to get off the line and settled
into fourth place as they rounded Paddock Hill but as they approached Druids
he was pushed wide and forced to drop back as the pack negotiated the tight
hairpin.
Although it took him a couple of laps to recover, the 29 year old Lincolnshire
rider soon made it back to eighth place to give chase to the leaders some way
ahead. As the laps went by Wilson edged nearer to the riders just ahead of him.
But just as he had them in his sights he highsided at Clark Curve and landed
heavily. Luckily he was shaken but not stirred! No serious injuries and he
should be fit for Thruxton.
“I have been having a few problems with grip at that part of the course
throughout the weekend and it caught me out again in the race,” explained a
battered and bruised Ben Wilson. “I am very lucky to have come away from
such a big crash without broken bones but I did suffer extensive bruising to my
shoulder, legs and back which are painful and no doubt once the bruises come
out it will look even worse. But I will be at Thruxton in two week’s time when
I hope to be able to bring a good result back to the team and start my season
from there.”
The next round is at the super-fast Thruxton circuit on April 18.
By Helen Pask
