Sofuoglu makes dream WSS comeback
He's now back in World Supersport with a bang, winning today's race over fellow Kawasaki rider Fabien Foret, with Aussies Broc Parkes thirdTurkey’s Kenan Sofuoglu has made a fairytale return to the World Supersport (WSS) ranks with victory in today’s season-opening race at Phillip Island, as Australia’s Broc Parkes made a late charge to finish third.
Sofuoglu, the two-time WSS champion, picked his way to the front of a gripping five-way battle for top spot in the last few laps, and then fended off Frenchman Fabien Foret at the death knell to make it a 1-2 for Kawasaki. It was also Sofuoglu’s second WSS win at Phillip Island, the first coming on a Honda in 2009.
Sofuoglu has returned to the WSS ranks in 2012 after spending 2011 in Moto2.
Parkes, who started from pole position, spent most of the 15-lap race in fifth position, attempting to preserve his tyres. But he was perhaps playing it too conservatively, but the consolation was pinching third sport from Jules Cluzel (Honda) on the final run down Gardner Straight.
Briton Sam Lowes (Honda) faded in the last few laps to finish in fifth, ahead of Sheridan Morais (Kawasaki), Ronan Quarmby (Honda) and Alex Baldolini (Triumph).
Melbourne rider Jed Metcher made an excellent WSS debut, and was on track for a top 10 finish on his Russian-backed Yamaha before his rear tyre lost all grip. He still completed the event in 11th, ahead of a number of seasoned WSS competitors.
For full results, visit www.wsbk.com.au.
Round two of the championship will be held at Imola, Italy on April 1.
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