Superbikes title to be decided at Brands Hatch (From News Shopper)

Superbikes title to be decided at Brands Hatch

12:27pm Thursday 4th October 2012 in Sport

THE British Superbike Championship will reach a thrilling climax at Brands Hatch next weekend.

Tens of thousands of fans are expected to descend on the legendary Kent Grand Prix circuit between October 12 and October 14 for the triple-header round which will decide the 2012 title.

Six riders representing five different manufacturers from six different teams can still win the coveted title, which concluded in dramatic style last year when Tommy Hill won the Championship on the final lap by just 0.006s.

Kent ace Shane Byrne arrives at his home round as the championship leader.

The Rapid Solicitors Kawasaki rider has a slender nine point advantage following a double podium finish last weekend at Silverstone and is on target to equal a record third championship title.

Byrne said: “We are racing on the edge and there are only three races to go at Brands Hatch, which is one of my favourite circuits, so fingers crossed.

“I have had some good results there in the past so with any luck we can again next weekend.

“I don’t want to make predications as I am taking each race as it comes. I will do my best and hopefully that will take care of the title.

“It will certainly provide great entertainment.”

Australian Josh Brookes lies second in the standings and the Tyco Suzuki rider, renowned for his no-holds-barred riding style, could yet ruin Byrne’s hopes of a third title.

However, young gun Alex Lowes arrives at Brands Hatch as the rider on form following a spectacular double win last time out at Silverstone.

Lowes’ performances fired him back into title contention and he is strongly poised in third place.

Defending champion Tommy Hill faces a tough task to retain his crown; he trails series leader Byrne by 42 points but will be giving it everything in the three races for Swan Yamaha, while both Michael Laverty and Tommy Bridewell could yet stage a major upset on the Grand Prix circuit.

Supporting the three BSB races will be the Motorpoint British Supersport Championship, the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 and 600 Championships, the Monster Energy Motostar Championship, the one make Triumph Triple Challenge and the Eastern Airways British Sidecar Championship.

Fans can meet the riders during a free of charge pit walk on Sunday’s raceday and big screens around the circuit mean you won’t miss any of the incredible action.

Advance tickets for the final round of the 2012 British Superbike Championship at Brands Hatch on October 12, 13 and 14 are available from £25, with free entry for children aged 12 and under.

For more information, visit brandshatch.co.uk or call 0843 453 9000.

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