Mallory Park British Superbikes: Cal Crutchlow disappointed not to be on pole for home race

Cal Crutchlow has kept his run of consecutive front row starts going this weekend at Mallory Park, but couldn’t hide his disappointment at not being at the top for his home race.

Crutchlow, who sees the Leicestershire circuit as his most local coming from Coventry, set the fourth fastest time of the qualifying session today with a 56.135.

But despite ending the day as the top Honda rider, he was still disappointed not to be three places higher.

H said: “It’s good to continue our 100% record of front row starts, it’s just a shame not to get pole for my home race!

“I’ve been consistent and fast in all sessions really, so that’s the main thing.

“It’s essential around here to get a good start, especially as no-one is really any faster than anyone else.

“It’s going to be a war out there tomorrow: I’ve just got to get away well, be consistent and see what happens at the end of the 30 laps.”

On the other side of the HM Plant Honda garage, Leon Haslam said his starts in tomorrow’s races are vital for a top result.

The 11-time British Superbike race winner qualified in fifth position with a 56.234, one place behind his team-mate.

“Yes it would be nice to be on the front row, but the times are so close!

“I really need some results from Mallory Park, so tomorrow is going to be important.

“We’ve got to get a good start and hang in there for the full race distance and see what happens.

“With everyone running at the same pace it’s going to make for two, very interesting races.”