Hopkins Wins Both Races at Donington, Remembers 9/11

John Hopkins missed the final round before the British Superbike showdown to rest an injury on his right hand. The broken fingers weren't completely healed this weekend as the British Superbike series entered the title fight, but the pain didn't matter much to Hopkins. The American won both races today to take a slim three point advantage in the standings.

"The adrenalin kicks in and backs off the pain and that was one heck of a race, a lot of fun and it was a case of biding my time as I knew that I could be strong on the brakes at the end." said Hopkins. "The pain in my hand was severe as the race progresses and I was pleased when I came round and saw only one lap to go on my pit-board. I have to thank the doctor for getting my fingers ready in three weeks.

"These victories are very special as we remember the 9/11 tragedy, a special day of remembrance, it has been a fantastic day for me."

Hopkins is two rounds away from being the first American to win the British Superbike Championship. Of course, Hopkins will have plenty of competition over the next few races.

Hill took a second and a third place finish today and currently trails Hopkins by just three points.

Shane Byrne had a rough weekend and now sits in third place behind Hopkins and Hill. Byrne missed the podium by once place during the first race, and suffered a crash in race two. Byrne currently trails the leader by 25 points.

Race One Results

1. John Hopkins (Samsung Crescent Racing Suzuki) 30m 17.023s
2. Michael Laverty (Swan Yamaha) +0.480s
3. Tommy Hill (Swan Yamaha) +0.781s
4. Shane Byrne (HM Plant Honda) +3.920s
5. Jon Kirkham (Samsung Crescent Racing Suzuki) +6.345s
6. Josh Brookes (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +10.281s

Race Two Results

1. John Hopkins (Samsung Crescent Racing Suzuki)
2. Tommy Hill (Swan Yamaha) +1.986s
3. Jon Kirkham (Samsung Crescent Racing Suzuki) +3.315s
4. Martin Jessopp (Rapid Solicitors-Bathams Ducati) +5.978s
5. Josh Brookes (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +8.324s
6. Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +12.236s

Championship standings:

1. John Hopkins (Samsung Crescent Racing Suzuki) 568
2. Tommy Hill (Swan Yamaha) 565
3. Shane Byrne (HM Plant Honda) 543
4. Michael Laverty (Swan Yamaha) 532
5. Josh Brookes (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) 530
6. Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) 518