The first two rounds of the World Supersport Championship in Qatar and Australia proved the 2007 series to be one of the most competitive yet. The third round will take place at Donington Park this weekend and once again it could be anyone's race. However, HANNspree Ten Kate Honda riders Kenan Sofuoglu and Sébastien Charpentier are ready for the challenge.
Series leader Kenan Sofuoglu wowed the crowds during the first two races of the season by securing two podium finishes - including the first race win of the season. He displayed inch-perfect riding that betrayed his years and relative inexperience and placed him at the top of the championship standings. Sofuoglu is currently seven-points clear of closest rival Fabien Foret and heads to Donington Park in a confident mood.
Sofuoglu's team-mate and defending World Supersport Champion Sébastien Charpentier is ninth in the standings following a mixed start to the season. However, the double-title winning Frenchman is now more determined than ever to prove that he is capable of securing a hat-trick of wins for HANNspree Ten Kate Honda. Although his team-mate holds the advantage, it is Charpentier who has the benefit of experience when racing the Honda CBR600RR and he is sure to use this to his advantage.
Ronald ten Kate. Team Manager:
"The Supersport season really started with a bang for HANNspree Ten Kate Honda - the first race win on the new CBR600RR at the first round was more than we could have hoped for. Kenan has been exceeding all our expectations so far. He is riding with maturity and style and he is bringing in the results for the team. Sébastien has not had the best start, but I am confident in his ability - it's early days and he is determined to succeed. Donington Park promises to be an exciting race."
Sébastien Charpentier;
"It's been a difficult start for me. However the team has worked really hard on the development of the new bike so there is no reason why I shouldn't be back at the top for Donington. I'm more than ready for the next race."
Kenan Sofuoglu;
"I am so happy with the way things have gone so far and I'd like to thank the team for getting the bike to such a high standard. I was so happy to get two podium finishes, but I am trying to look forward to the race ahead because you can't take anything for granted. I have never ridden at Donington Park before so I can't wait to get to grips with the circuit."
The third round of the 2007 World Supersport Championship will take place at Donington Park from 30 March-1 April 2007. For information on tickets and pricing visit www.donington-park.co.uk.
