Scars Racing Ducati and Luke Stapleford enjoyed another outstanding weekend in the Quattro British Supersport Championship at Snetterton, claiming a race victory and a third-place finish to extend their lead at the top of the championship standings.
Stapleford was the class of the field from the outset, setting the pace in every practice and qualifying session before securing pole position for both races aboard the Scars Racing Ducati.
Saturday’s 10-lap Sprint race developed into a thrilling battle with Oli Bayliss, son of former British and World Superbike Champion Troy Bayliss. The pair exchanged positions throughout an entertaining contest before Stapleford made a decisive move on the final lap to secure a superb victory.
Lining up on pole once again for Sunday’s feature race, Stapleford’s challenge was made considerably harder by rear grip issues from the opening laps. Despite the setback, he expertly managed the problem throughout the race and, as the fuel load reduced, his pace improved. A determined ride saw him fight back to claim third place, extending his championship advantage to 36 points.
Luke Stapleford said:
“It was a bit of a mixed weekend. The bike was fantastic throughout practice and qualifying and I couldn’t have asked for more. The first race was a brilliant battle with Oli and we pushed each other hard from start to finish. I saw a small opportunity on the final lap, went for it and thankfully it paid off.
“I was really up for the second race, but from the opening lap I struggled with rear grip. As the fuel load came down the bike improved, but it was still a real challenge. To come away with third place and extend our championship lead is really satisfying because those points could prove crucial later in the season.
“A huge thank you to the whole Scars Racing Ducati team, our sponsors and my personal supporters. Everyone worked incredibly hard all weekend and we’re in a great position heading into the next round.
“I’m really looking forward to wildcarding in next weekend’s World Supersport round at Donington Park with the Feel Racing Ducati Team. It’s a fantastic opportunity and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve.”
Scars Racing Ducati Team Co-Owner Leigh Finlay was equally pleased with the team’s performance.
“Considering the issue we experienced in Sunday’s race, we’re delighted to come away with a win and another podium finish. Championships are won through consistency and every point is important.
“The team did a fantastic job all weekend and we’re now looking forward to Donington before heading straight to Brands Hatch.”
The team now turns its attention to a busy period, beginning with a wildcard appearance in the FIM Supersport World Championship at Donington Park next weekend in partnership with the Feel Racing Ducati Team. That will be followed by another round of the Quattro British Supersport Championship at Brands Hatch as Stapleford looks to build on his championship advantage.
