The opening race day of the UK #worldsbk round at Donington Park proved disappointing for the Pata #yamaha Official #worldsbk team as Alex Lowes was forced to withdraw from his home competition. After starting his debut well, new teammate Cameron Beaubier's race also ended early with a last corner accident on the opening lap.
Confident of his early progression despite the unknown tyres, track and machine, Beaubier put on a strong showing as the Superpole qualifying session began at the British circuit. Improving on his pace during the free practice sessions, the American recorded a fastest time of 1'28.617 to take ninth position and a third row start for the afternoon's 23-lap race.
Impressive off the lights, the young #yamaha rider was running sixth as his inaugural #worldsbk battle commenced and pushing hard, before a mistake at turn 12 brought his debut to an abrupt end. However, Beaubier is confident he can learn from the experiences so far and capitalise on his qualifying form as he returns to the track tomorrow for the second race, scheduled for 15:00 local time.
Following FP3, Lowes was forced to withdraw from the Donington #event, due to the shoulder injury sustained at Sepang a fortnight ago. Despite receiving both physiotherapy and injections to enable him to compete in his home race, the local hero was unable to ride for more than three or four laps before losing strength in his shoulder at such a physically demanding track, which caused Lowes problems in terms of controlling his YZF-R1. The decision was unanimous between himself, the Pata #yamaha Team, Race Direction and the #worldsbk medical team, and while he would have loved nothing more than to compete in front of his home fans, safety remained the prime concern.
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