BSB: Haslam: 'I have to pick my fights'

Leon Haslam heads into this weekend’s MCE British Superbike title decider with one hand on the trophy after a commanding performance in the opening two Showdown rounds.

With his rivals struggling, Haslam has been able to etch out a 32-point lead over second placed Josh Brookes with Shane Byrne a further point back in third.

But while Haslam boasts a comfortable position, the fact he’s become somewhat of a perennial bridesmaid throughout his racing career – often finishing second but never quite clinching the crown whether it be in British or World Superbikes – will no doubt be playing on his mind.

“Going in to Brands 32 points in the lead is better than being 32 points behind,” Haslam said. “There are two people who can take it away from me and to do that one of them has to win all three races and all I have to do is make sure I’m not too far behind.

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“I have to pick my battles and try not to risk too much, but I am a racer so if I can win a race I’ll go to win a race!”

Haslam has never approached the final round of a series in a position where the title was his to lose. He’s been in contention before, just like he was last year, but this year as long as he stays on and finishes towards the sharp end, the trophy is his.

“I went in last year 17 points behind, so I had to win all three races to take the championship if nothing happened to Shakey. This year it’s different as those two are going to be fighting for the wins. We’ll approach the weekend as normal, try and get the bike working the best we can and if we can win the first race then that puts us in a strong position.”

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