A fantastic weekend – at just 16 years old the ever improving James Webb gets first podium and enjoys every minute.

 James says -

Free Practice:
I went out just to get bedded in and get my lines sorted out and to make some changes to the bike to suit the track.  I ended up doing an alright lap time 1.02.1 that made me second fastest I was happy with that and I didn’t feel like I was trying. 

Qualifying:
I really wanted to get on the front row of the grid so that I could get away with the front lot at the start of the race, but I knew to do that I would have to get some clear laps in, in qualifying.  I pushed my way to the front of the queue so that I could get out first but I got stuck behind some slower riders so I rode through the pit lane and back out so I had a clear track in front of me.  I managed to get up to 3rd place and held it for ages, then I came in the pits for a rest and to think about how I could improve.  I went back out and I knew I could get pole or at least had a good chance of getting it.  After a few laps I went fastest but then lost it again but then I got it back and held on to it until the chequered flag came out but Tom Grant was behind and just beat me to it.  I was really happy with second though. 

Race:
I got off to an ok start but got a bit boxed in at the 2nd corner and dropped back to 5th but I made my way back up to 3rd and was right behind Jim Rose but by this time Tom had got away and was about 4 seconds in front.  I could not really get close enough to Jim to make a move on him or find the right time or place, but we got stuck behind a back marker going through the bus stop.  I tried to get a good drive coming out so I could make a go for it on the way to the line but it nearly high-sided me so I lost out.  I was really happy with 3rd place and my first podium.  With very few chances to practice I am really pleased with my progress so far and hope that I can continue to improve.  Looking forward to Snetterton. 

James would like to thank James Reidhaven of Gelatine Rocks and Kit from Diamond Couriers for their help this year and all his family and friends for their support.  He would also like to wish his brother Danny good luck in Jerez this weekend.   

James Webb
#17