PARKALGAR HONDA racer Craig Jones finished third fastest at the World Supersport two-day Valencia test in Spain, less than 0.1seconds away from the top spot on the time sheets.
After a tough second round race at Phillip Island in Australia earlier this month, Parkalgar Honda and Jones were looking for a good performance at the test in advance of returning to race at the circuit in three weeks time on April 6th.
“We achieved everything we needed from this test,” enthused Jones, who completed 108-laps over both days. “Right from the off this morning I was quick and led the timesheets. In the afternoon I was hoping for more of the same and to lead the test but a few issues with fuel pressure meant I was confined to the garage and had little chance of going faster.
“At the end of the day I went out and tried for a quick lap but I ended up crashing uninjured at slow speed at the hairpin. Overall I am delighted with the test and will be coming back to go for the podium or better in the race.”
Parkalgar Honda racer Miguel Praia was well inside his personal best for the track, finishing 13th overall, just over one second behind his team mate after completing 99-laps in total.
Praia said: “I am very happy to be so much faster than ever before at Valencia, the test has been good for me and the whole team. I have a strong race set-up and think there is more to come for the race. I am back competing within the top 15 which is my objective.”
Times:
1. Roccoli (Yamaha Lorenzini by Leoni) 1’37.159; 2. Nannelli (HANNspree Honda Althea) 1’37.159; 3. Jones (Parkalgar Honda) 1’37.236; 4. Rea (HANNspree Ten Kate Honda) 1’37.557; 5. Fujiwara (Kawasaki Gil Motorsport) 1’37.572; 6. Veneman (Ressoftware Suzuki) 1’37.748; 7. Pitt (HANNspree Ten Kate Honda) 1’37.787; 8. Walker (Kawasaki Gil Motorsport) 1’37.872; 9. Gowland (Benjan Racing Team Honda) 1’37.972; 10. Vizziello (Berry Racing Honda) 1’38.031