16.05.10 | Toseland battles for points in Kyalami
James Toseland strengthened his 5th position in the World Superbike Championship standings this weekend at Kyalami, South Africa. Finishing 7th in Race One and then 6th in Race Two, the Sterilgarda Yamaha rider ensured he is still in contention for a 3rd World title, lying on 125 Championship points.
From 2nd on the grid, BKS supported James initially got away first from the line, then slotted into 2nd as the field tipped into turn one. Enjoying numerous tight battles throughout the race, problems with grip saw the double World Champion eventually slip down to 7th. James didnt get away as well in the second race, falling to 9th. For the remainder of the 24 lap race, the Yorkshireman fought his way back up to finish in 6th, despite grip problems once again.
Weve had issues with grip all day, and I really couldnt do anything more out there. Weve not had an opportunity all weekend to do a long run on one tyre, so we went in to the races a bit blind. But the team has worked really, really hard, actually theyve been faultless. So a 6th and a 7th isnt ideal, but is the best we could do on the day. Weve proved in qualifying yesterday we are fast, so Im looking forward to the next round and seeing what we can do there.
Fan's comments
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JAN WITHERINGTON
Well done, considering the tyre problems and your injuries you rode a good race, more points on the board for the world championship! Keep it up you're still in with a good chance of being world champ again! Looking forward to Salt Lake, let's hope you're on the top step! Jan
EGehlen
James, you did a great job. You gave what you could. So look forward and head up. You can do it. I still believe in you. Your the man for the title!
Greetings Evelyn
Paula
To the best looking guy on the track,and we all know it,great achievement in getting where you did on the grid,despite the crash in Monza and the bruises!Just goes to show,you've got what it takes to carry on regardless,hope Salt Lake brings you a 1st!x
Liesbeth
Dear James,
What a spectacular race one in Kyalami! You really kept on figthing for your place in the race. Unfortunately the grip with the tyre was not good enough for holding on.
I'm really happy, you did not had to much problems with your injury from Monza. It was more than good to see you race this weekend!!!
James, you're still on track! The championship is still OPEN and I'm sure you can do it. Good luck for the next race! See you.
With greetings, Liesbeth from The Netherlands.
bikerjude
Shame you were still so battered from Monza that you couldn't do a "stint" to test tyre life - but 19 points ahead of 6th place can't be bad.
Should be fighting fit for the next round - well done.