Hopper Third, Extends Lead
Cycle News Staff | October 8, 2011
Swan Yamaha’s Michael Laverty won the first of three British Superbike races today at Brands Hatch, but John Hopkins did exactly what he set out to do – finish on the podium and keep title rival Tommy Hill behind him.
With Laverty out front and having a race-long battle for the win with pole sitter Josh Brookes, Hopkins was content with third. Hill and the Swan Yamaha, however, made a serious push at Hopkins on the final lap, passing him once only to be repassed. Hopkins and his Samsung Crescent Suzuki ended up third by just .107 of a second.
Laverty, meanwhile, held on for his third win of the year – just .396 of a second in front of Brookes.
James Ellison finished fifth on the sorrymate.com Honda – just .134 of a second behind Hill. Shane Byrne was sixth on the HM Plant Honda after starting 18th on the grid.
With two races remaining in the series, Hopkins gained three points on Hill. He now leads 625-614. Laverty is third with 590 points.
Superbike Race 1
1. Michael Laverty (Yamaha)
2. Josh Brookes (Suzuki)
3. John Hopkins (Suzuki)
4. Tommy Hill (Yamaha)
5. James Ellison (Honda)
6. Shane Byrne (Honda)
7. Michael Rutter (Ducati)
8. Jon Kirkham (Suzuki)
9. Graeme Gowland (Honda)
10. Martin Jessopp (Ducati)
