Rizla Suzuki benefit from the rain-soaked Mallory BSB round

Rizla Suzuki were one of the few teams to benefit from practice being rained-off at Mallory Park, having already tested at the track only a few weeks earlier.

Chris Walker got off to a blistering start in both races from eighth. In the opener he was always in contention for the podium and ended up fourth. In the second race he was at the front again and fighting for third when a red flag brought the race to an early end with him in sixth place.

Walker said: “It’s a relief to be racing in the dry for the first time in what seems like ages. It’s also great to be running at the front at a technically-difficult track and that goes to prove the sort of progress Rizla Suzuki has made in the last few rounds, we are getting closer and closer to challenging for race wins, which is just what we all want.

“Thanks to all the Stalker fans who made the trip to support me today. It was great to hear the cheers in the crowd and I really enjoyed myself. Everything is starting to come together and I can’t wait until the next round to keep the momentum going.”

Cal Crutchlow, starting from 11th, made early progress in the opening race and was looking strong for a top six finish until his quick-shifter malfunctioned and he was reduced to manual gear changes, ending up ninth. In race two he set the second fastest lap of the race and was menacing for the podium when the red flag cut his challenge short.

Crutchlow said: “The second race was slightly disappointing as it was red flagged and I was sure I had the speed to take a couple of the riders in front – fourth or even third may have been possible. However, I’ve equalled my best-ever BSB fifth place from last week and I’m happy with that, it shows we are capable of running consistently toward the front of the field.

“Mallory Park is my home circuit and the fans have been really great this weekend. It’s been tough with a lack of practice and qualification but I’m leaving here knowing we are at our most competitive of the season and now targeting podium finishes for the rest of the year. Bring it on.”