|
Bermudian motorcycle talent Jediah Cumbermack reflected on a high-speed learning curve and encouraging pace following a dramatic weekend of racing at Hampshire’s iconic Thruxton Circuit.
Making his debut at the fastest circuit on the British calendar, the youngster quickly adapted to the technical demands of the high-speed layout, battling through grid penalties and race incidents to showcase genuine front-running pace.
Grid penalty hurdles in Race 1
Cumbermack's weekend got off to a demanding start during qualifying when a technical issue with a melting tyre sticker forced him to start from the rear of the grid for Race 1.
Despite the setback, he launched an aggressive recovery ride, carving his way through the pack to salvage a 14th-place finish.
"My first time racing at Thruxton was a weekend I won’t forget," Cumbermack said. "From the moment I went out for FP1, I immediately fell in love with the circuit. It’s fast, technical, and challenging. The main challenge throughout was finding the right gearing and getting everything dialled in.
"For Race 1, I had to start from the back of the grid after my tyre sticker melted off in qualifying. Despite that, I got a decent start and managed to work my way through to salvage P14. It gave me valuable experience and something to build on."
Heartbreak in Race 2 lead battle
Starting from 12th on the grid in Race 2, Cumbermack mounted an immediate charge, slicing through the order into ninth place during the opening laps.
After running wide and dropping slightly off the pace, the Bermudian regrouped to battle his way back up to 11th, remaining in touch with the lead pack contesting the podium positions.
However, his race came to an abrupt halt at the final chicane when contact with a rival ahead forced him out of the contest.
"Going into Race 2, I was ready to fight," Cumbermack added. "I made a strong start and worked my way up to P9 within the first few laps. I made a mistake and dropped back, but I regrouped and fought back to P11. I was still within the lead group and could see the riders fighting for the win.
"Unfortunately, going into the final chicane, I clipped another rider after they made a mistake, which forced me to sit out the remainder of the race. It was a disappointing way to end, especially knowing I had the pace to fight at the front, but there were plenty of positives. It was a huge learning experience, and I showed I have the speed to run with the lead group."
|
