Thrilling British Superbike Championship at Thruxton: A Record Weekend
Thruxton Circuit played host to an extraordinary weekend as the Bennetts British Superbike Championship (BSB) returned at the weekend (Friday 9 - Sunday 11 August). With a record crowd in attendance across the weekend. Perfect summer weather, and a jam-packed schedule of racing and entertainment, made the event a resounding success, offering fans a thrilling experience both on and off the track.
Record-Breaking Crowds and Electric Atmosphere
This year’s BSB weekend at Thruxton attracted a record-breaking crowd, with fans flocking to the circuit. The atmosphere was electric from start to finish, with spectators enjoying not only the high-octane racing but also a wide array of off-track activities. Live music, stunning stunt displays, a bustling trade village, classic bike displays, face painting for the kids, and a variety of food and drink options kept everyone entertained throughout the weekend. The combination of world-class racing and engaging family-friendly entertainment made for an unforgettable experience.
BSB Race 1: Ryde Wins Seven Rider Tussle
Saturday’s opening race set the tone for the weekend, with Kyle Ryde delivering a thrilling victory that left the record crowd on the edge of their seats. The race featured seven riders in a dramatic battle for the win, with the lead changing hands multiple times on the final lap. Ryde ultimately emerged victorious, narrowly holding off Vickers, who secured second place. Jason O'Halloran completed the podium, while local favourite Tommy Bridewell finished a close fourth, having lead the race at the start of the last lap!
Race 2: Vickers Storms to Victory from 15th on the Grid
Sunday’s racing action kicked off with Ryan Vickers delivering a spectacular performance in the second race, charging from 15th on the grid to take a commanding victory. After a red-flagged start and a five-lap sprint to the finish, Vickers made his move, overtaking Max Cook and Danny Kent to claim the win. Cook celebrated his first-ever podium finish in BSB, much to the delight of the cheering fans, while Kent took third place.
Race 3: Vickers Completes a Dominant Double
The final race of the weekend saw Ryan Vickers continue his winning streak, securing his second victory of the day and seventh of the season. Vickers managed the race with precision, taking the lead on the fifth lap and holding off challenges from Danny Kent and Billy McConnell to cross the finish line and take the chequered flag. Kent’s second-place finish and McConnell’s podium rounded out a successful weekend for both riders. Kyle Ryde and Charlie Nesbitt completed the top five, while Tommy Bridewell, despite a quickshifter issue, fought back to finish sixth. The crowd erupted in applause as Vickers celebrated his double win with a burnout in front of fans at the chicane, capping off a weekend of thrilling racing.
Support Races Deliver More Excitement
The support races added even more drama and excitement to the weekend, with several nail-biting finishes.
Pirelli National Sportbike with Moneybarn Vehicle Finance: Ash Barnes was declared the winner of a dramatic closing race after the leaders crashed on the final lap. Despite Thomas Strudwick crossing the line first, a penalty for cutting the course dropped him to third, promoting Barnes to victory and Rhys Stephenson to second.
R&G British Talent Cup: Wildcard Marco Morelli showcased his early weekend form by taking a dominant win, finishing more than two seconds ahead of Filip Surowiak. Julian Correa rounded out the podium in a race shortened by two laps due to crashes further down the field.
ABK Beer 0% BMW Motorrad F 900 R Cup: Thomas Strudwick fended off fierce competition from Nikki Coates and Barry Burrell to take a narrow win in the Main Event. The race saw a thrilling battle, with Strudwick emerging victorious by just 0.067 seconds.
Pirelli National Superstock with Moneybarn Vehicle Finance: Luke Mossey triumphed in a dramatic final lap showdown, beating Josh Owens to the line. Scott Swann had led late in the race but crashed out, leaving Mossey and Owens to battle for victory, with Mossey ultimately coming out on top.
A Spectacular and Unforgettable Weekend
The Bennetts British Superbike Championship once again proved why it is one of the highlights of the motorsport calendar. With record crowds, stunning races, and brilliant off-track entertainment for all the family, the weekend was a huge success.
Thruxton Circuit extends a heartfelt thank you to all the fans, teams, riders and officials who contributed to making this event one for the history books. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year for more high-speed action and unforgettable moments at Thruxton.