By blue2bikes
March 24 2005

Gregorio Lavilla, not required by Rizla Suzuki after the announcement of John Reynolds’ return, has secured himself a ride at the Easter weekend’s first race of the British Superbike season - taking place at Brands Hatch - aboard the Airwaves Ducati in place of James Haydon.

James, having fallen hard in testing last week at Albacete, and damaging his left hand, has been withdrawn from the race line-up this morning, as his hand has not healed as quickly as liked. Withdrawing James is a decision made to ensure he rides for the team during the rest of the season, and he should be fit enough for the second round taking place at Thruxton.

James Haydon in 2004 - photo © Raceline Photography

Team Manager Colin Wright said, “I am very disappointed James is not riding this weekend, but extremely pleased to have secured the services of such an experienced World Championship rider as Gregorio. James is working hard to recover, and this decision has been made in order for him to take part in the following twelve rounds.”

Gregorio has a vast experience of riding different bikes, and gets the most out of the bike he is riding. After such a good showing last year at Thruxton, when riding for the injured Yukio Kagayama aboard the Rizla Suzuki, it is not surprising that he has been snapped up by a team who is wanting a step in rider of such quality.

I wouldn’t be surprised if in the future he will be a regular rider in the BSB series, should he give a good showing this coming weekend.

Get well soon James, you will be missed.

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To buy the photograph shown above, visit Raceline Photography