Kiyonari secures Brands double

Eurosport - Sun, 03 Aug 18:26:00 2008

Rookie rider Ryuichi Kiyonari claimed his first wins on the World Superbike stage with an impressive double at Brands Hatch.

The Honda rider, the reigning British Superbike champion, drew on his knowledge of the Fawkham track to outclass his more recognised rivals.
Kiyonari chased down runaway championship leader Troy Bayliss in the opening race to claim his maiden victory before battling it out with his Japanese countryman and 11-year veteran Noriyuki Haga in race two.

"I am very happy with the way this weekend has gone," Kiyonari said.
"I had a lot of pressure from Haga in race two and on many corners it made me make mistakes.
"I am very happy with the wins."

Bayliss extended his lead at the top of the championship standings to 82 points, with four rounds remaining, after he claimed second place behind Kiyonari in the first race.

Despite a disappointing 11th-placed finish in race two, after starting on pole the Australian was content with his weekend's work.

"I am just focusing on getting podiums at this stage," said Bayliss, whose nearest rival Max Neukirchner recorded finishes of seventh and fourth.

But the day belonged to Kiyonari who had served notice of his affinity with the Brands Hatch circuit on Saturday when he qualified third quickest.

Despite a lacklustre start to the opening race when he dropped back to seventh, the Honda rider's track knowledge proved crucial as he quickly picked off his rivals as he chased down Superpole winner Bayliss.

The Japanese rider was on the back of the Australian by the seventh lap when Haga slipped out of contention after losing his front end at Surtess.

Kiyonari eventually took the lead four laps from the end of the 25-lap race before easily outpacing Bayliss, who was forced to hold off the late surge of Max Biaggi to claim second.

Kiyonari and Haga dominated the second race as they embarked on an enthralling battle well ahead of the field.

They traded the lead on several occasions before a last-lap mistake from Haga, who was losing ground on his younger colleague, finally settled their duel.

Australian Troy Corser claimed third place in the final race to draw to within 10 points of second-placed Neukirchner in the overall standings.

Donington Park will host the next round of the season next month as the riders enjoy a four-week break.

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