Ray makes first Superbike podium

Motorsport

Bradley Ray stormed to his first ever British Superbike podium in a scintillating race two at Oulton Park.

Lydd’s finest came from 10th on the grid before passing established racers to finish in third.

The weekend got off to a dream start for Ray, who on Friday was third quickest in the first free practice session in difficult conditions and ninth in the second free practice in the afternoon.

On Saturday, Ray was 13th in the third and final free practice before going on to qualify 11th later in the day. He was again top Suzuki rider.

In race one, the 20-year-old moved his way up the field, dicing with regular front runners, such as Leon Haslam, John Hopkins and Shane Byrne.

The race was cut short after leader Dan Linfoot retired, leaving fluid on the circuit. Ray finished seventh and top Suzuki.

In race two, Ray was already eighth by the end of the first lap.

From then on, he surged through the field, passing Byrne, Josh Brookes and Christian Iddon in quick succession before hunting down race leader Jake Dixon and the two riders behind him, Linfoot and Haslam.

Within four laps, Ray was right with the leaders and he passed Dixon, which put him third.

At the chequered flag, Ray finished in third 0.114 seconds behind winner Linfoot and 0.060 seconds from Leon Haslam in second.

Ray remains the top Suzuki rider in the championship and moves up to 13th place, on 110 points.

The next round the series move Assen, Holland, September 29. sees to on

Picture: Bonnie Lane No.28 Bradley Ray in action at Oulton Park