Brands Hatch British Superbikes: Jon Kirkham and Rob McElnea comment on surreal weekend

Looking back over a hectic weekend, Karl Harris’ replacement Jon Kirkham, finished ninth and 10th in his first races on the Rob Mac Racing Yamaha R1.

Reviewing his British Superbike race performances, Kirkham told MCN:
 
“I got a bad start in the first Superbike race and had a lot of work to do but managed 9th.
 
“The second race I struggled with cramp but was determined to get into the top 10.
 
“To be honest with you I’m knackered, I’m race fit for my Superstock and R1 schedule but to ride a Superbike is a different challenge.

“I’m so pleased to be offered this opportunity and hopefully I did the team proud.”
 
Team principal Rob McElnea was full of praise for Kirkham, and commented on his outing on the R1 Superbike:
 
“What a massive challenge Jon has risen to this weekend.
 
“I was forced to put him in a really difficult situation but when it mattered he rose to the occasion.
 
“It was a massive ask and he did not put a foot wrong. To ride our bike like that was a testament to his season. We knew his potential and have nurtured that all year but this really proves his talent.”

With no riders signed for next season, Kirkham could just have put himself in the frame for the full-time ride in Rob Mac Squad in 2009.