IN Competition Aprilia focused its efforts on the Sportbike class at Thruxton Circuit this weekend, with Alfie Davidson delivering a strong performance aboard the Aprilia RS 660 to secure 6th and 3rd-place finishes.

It was a challenging start to the weekend for Alfie, who suffered a rare crash during Friday’s session and consequently missed valuable track time. Despite the setback, he worked hard in qualifying and was just 0.4 seconds off the pace, but the close competition meant he would start Saturday’s opening race from 13th on the grid.

Alfie made a strong start and immediately found himself amongst the leading group. He fought hard through the opening laps, making up several positions in what was a chaotic race. Riding intelligently and keeping his composure, he brought the Aprilia home in a well-earned sixth place.

That result saw Alfie move up to fifth on the grid for Sunday’s second race, where he was determined to fight for a stronger result. Another frantic contest saw positions constantly changing, with Alfie remaining firmly in contention at the sharp end throughout. The incredibly close nature of the race was highlighted by the fact that the top five riders were separated by just 0.3 seconds as they crossed the finish line.

After another hard-fought race, Alfie crossed the line in third place, securing a valuable podium and, importantly, maintaining his 18-point lead in the Sportbike Championship standings.

Alfie Davidson

“I knew before coming to Thruxton that it was going to be a challenging weekend as it’s one of the less technical circuits, which creates bigger groups of riders.

“Despite that, I’m happy with the results we achieved and we’ve still left with an 18-point Championship lead. It was always going to be damage limitation there, but a good haul of points came in our direction.

“I’m feeling really happy and confident going into the final three rounds, as they are my favourite tracks on the calendar, so my eyes are firmly set on them!

“Thank you to the whole IN Competition Aprilia team for throwing everything at me this weekend to make sure the bike was perfect, and to all my family and team sponsors. It’s much appreciated.”

Ian Newton – Team Owner

“We decided this weekend to put all our efforts into Alfie. Jack admittedly struggles around Thruxton and we made a mutual decision for him to sit this round out.

“Alfie had a little tip-off on Friday, but it didn’t deter him. He worked hard all weekend and kept his Championship alive by riding sensibly and with confidence.

“It was always going to be a tricky track, but he rode with confidence and pushed hard all weekend to secure the results he did. We’re very happy with what he achieved and are looking forward to his remaining rounds.

“Thanks to the whole team for working so hard and to all our team partners for continuing to support us every weekend.”

With three rounds remaining, Alfie heads into the final stages of the Championship with an 18-point advantage, and the IN Competition Aprilia team will now turn its attention to the remaining races as the title fight intensifies.