Ever-improving Ben Stafford has moved into the top ten of the Pirelli National Superstock 600 Championship after another promising points finish.
Saracen’s Head ace Stafford was unfortunate to only finish 13th at round five, with the heavy rain at Scotland’s Knockhill track costing him at least two positions.
It was a different story on Friday, with the riders enjoying the unusual treat of warm sunshine for free practice and qualifying one (Q1). Stafford had only ridden the circuit once before – but likes it. However, after free practice in the morning session the Silicone Engineering team found themselves still unsure on gearing and had some issues with setup.
Some changes to the bike were made for Q1 and Stafford settled down for the task in hand.
After the two group’s times were combined, Stafford found himself in 14th place at the end of Q1.
Amazingly, 0.4 of a second would have jumped him up to sixth spot, highlighting just how competitive the class is.
Saturday’s Q2 was cancelled due to overnight storms and the torrential rain, which actually damaged the track into turn one. With track repairs taking priority, Stafford had to settle for his Q1 position on the grid.
The weather on Sunday was better, but rain still threatened and was forecast for 2pm – just 15 minutes before the race was due to start.
Still, it didn’t stop proceedings and, after a solid start, Stafford settled down to the job and soon got into the racing rhythm.
Steadily working his way through the field, the South Holland star progressed to 11th place and was right on the heels of the next bunch as rain started to fall.
The race was then called to a halt – and due to the BSB ruling on positions when races are declared, Stafford was demoted to 13th.
Although the conclusion to the race was far from ideal for the Silicone ace, bringing home more valuable points and climbing into the top ten overall made it another weekend to remember.
All of these are positive signs, showing how the youngster is steadily learning the craft and edging to the front in his first full year at this discipline.
The next round is at Brands Hatch’s Indy circuit on the July 17-19.
As ever, Stafford thanks his many sponsors for their continued support.
