Aaron Clarke is making the step up to the National Superstock 1000 Championship this year – and is looking forward to the new challenge in his first race at Silverstone over the Easter weekend.
Riding a BMW this year, Kirton race ace Clarke took part in some winter testing at Cartagena in Spain where he got to grips with the new bike and made adjustments during his four days of experimenting.
Ahead of the new season, the former DraperRacing talent admits that he’s had a busy off-season –but thanked everyone for helping him get race ready.
Clarke said: “I loved my time in Spain getting to grips with the big girl. We encountered a few issues with the brakes and electronics on the first two days but then we made some huge steps forward on days three and four and ended up with a really good feel for the bike.
“Just before the first wheel of 2019 turns, I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has helped me get to this point.
“It’s been a flat out off-season and there is still plenty to do ahead of round one, but we are getting there.
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to my sponsors PS Higgins & Dee Rance, all AC Club 500 members, all product sponsors and finally all of my AC Club 50 members.
“Another special thanks to Kev and Clare, Mark and the Beetons plus all my family for their constant support. You really are keeping the dream alight and I hope to do you all proud this season.”
Clarke will begin his 2019 campaign at Silverstone over the Easter weekend and will have three races to contest. Races one and two on Saturday with a few minutes stop for refuelling and tyre change plus a third on Sunday.
Timetable
Friday: FP1 – 12.15pm; FP2 – 4.55pm.
Saturday: Qualifying – 9.40am. Race one & two (24 laps each) – 2.45pm.
Sunday: Warm-up – 9.15am; 24-lap race – 2.55pm.
