Elite Roads pole for Queensland’s Mad Mike
Queenslander ‘Mad’ Mike Jones (Ducati Panagale FE) has claimed the Elite Roads Pole Position Award for Desmosport Ducati in a superb performance in Qualifying for Round 4 of the 2019 Motul Pirelli Australian Superbike Championship this weekend (July 5-7). Jones’ pole time of 1:12.609 was quicker than the previous qualifying record set in 2018 by the man he replaced at Desmosport Ducati, Aussie Superbike legend Troy Bayliss.
“Absolutely ecstatic with pole position here at my home round” said an elated Jones after qualifying.” It’s really important at a track like Morgan Park to get away from the front of the field, so it’s just perfect” he said.
To take an extra point for the championship as well is a good bonus, so I’m very happy and can’t be more thankful to the team for their efforts.”
Jones was first to break through the 1:13s mark early in the session, a 1:12.958 putting the local on provisional pole position early. Jones went faster again with 1 12.922 with 2 minutes to go, then a further 1:12.609 to beat Bayliss’ previous qualifying record and seal the deal.
Yamaha’s Cru Halliday (Yamaha Racing Team, Yamaha YZF R1) saved his run until late in the second session, clocking his best of 1:12.855 to secure his berth alongside Jones on the front row. Wayne Maxwell (Team Suzuki ECSTAR Australia, Suzuki GSX-R) consolidated his pace in yesterday’s practice session, completing the front row of the grid with a 1:13.046.
Penrite Honda’s Troy Herfoss (Honda CBR SP) did not exit the pitlane in the second session until the closing minutes, his time of 1:13.127 securing him a spot on the second row ahead of championship leader Bryan Staring (Kawasaki BCperformance, Kawasaki ZX10RR, 1:13.377) and Daniel Falzon (Yamaha Racing Team, Yamaha YZF R1, 1:13.390).
Round 4 of the 2019 Motul Pirelli Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) continues from Morgan Park, Queensland until July 7. For updates, information, and to purchase tickets, visit ASBK.com.au
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Images courtesy of Andrew Gosling – tbg sport
