Linfoot crashes out of contention at Macau
15-11-2008
42nd Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix
Saturday 15th November 2008
Weather: Dry, sunny, 24 degrees
Dan Linfoot saw his dream of a podium finish in his first ever Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix end after crashing out on the opening lap of the 15-lap race, breaking his left collarbone in the process.
Dan had made a strong start onboard the Rob Mac Racing Yamaha and was battling with Supersport pole man Keith Amor along the sixth gear straight when he lost control under braking for the tight first gear Lisboa corner. In the crash Dan unavoidably collided with New Zealand rider Bruce Anstey and German Rico Penzkofer, but fortunately neither rider was hurt.
Dan however was taken to hospital in central Macau for x-rays where a clean break of his left collarbone was diagnosed. The 20 year old is due to return to the UK at the beginning of next week where he will have the broken bone plated to ensure a strong and quick recovery.
"It's so frustrating and I'm gutted for myself and the team. In every session since I arrived I got quicker and I really thought we were going to be able to run at the front today." said Dan.
"I made a good start and was up there fighting with the Superbikes. I got level with Keith (Amor) on the long straight and thought I could pass him. I braked where I had been during qualifying, but because I was on an inside line I just couldn't get the bike stopped in time. I collided with Bruce (Anstey) and Rico (Penzkofer), which unfortunately ended their races." he explained
"On the plus side at least it's the end of the season so if I had to break something; I guess now is the right time and not the middle of the year. This is the first major bone I've broken in my body during my entire racing career, but I've got time to rest now so I'll be back to full fitness and ready for next season no problem." he concluded.
The Superbike race was won by Stuart Easton (Honda) second was Michael Rutter (Ducati) with John McGuiness (Honda) in third.
Television coverage of the race can be seen on Motors TV on Sunday 16th November from 14.00 UK time.
Sponsors
Team Beowulf Racing.
The great race at the new Portimao circuit brings an end to our season in World Superbike Superstock 600, with riders Gino Rea and Dan Linfoot.
The season has been a success with Gino third and Dan fifth in the championship standings following three victories and five additional podiums in total. The results have also acted as a stepping stone to the riders for next season, with both securing high profile, career progressing rides for 2009.
Thank you for all of the emails, calls, texts and visits throughout the year. It has been much appreciated.
