Unexpected crash leaves Rea wondering after Race 1 in Donington World Superbike

Technical issues sensationally spat Johnny Rea off in Race 1 at Donington today while in a healthy 2^nd position. Rea lead for most of the race as Chaz Davies gave it up following a low side at Goddards. Eventual race winner Tom Sykes nipped past Rea at Redgate and from there on his lap times dropped dramatically. With 3 laps to go, the ZX10RR highsided leaving a bewildered Rea in the gravel who then returned to the bike instantly to examine the rear tyre.

Eugene Laverty finished 13^th after starting from 6^th having a difficult race in the end. Initially getting away from the line in 8^th, Laverty was steadily caught and passed, perhaps choosing the wrong tyre in the hope that rain might appear during the race.

2 more races from Donington park tomorrow on Eurosport with Johnny and Eugene as well as Irish interest in the World SuperSport race as Jack Kennedy has qualified a superb 5^th on the Profile Racing Triumph 657R.

Words: Andy Quinn

Images courtesy of Eurosport, Aaron Scott and Eugene Laverty.