2008 looks set to be the year that GSE Racing returns to the top of the British Superbike tree after Shane Byrne's stunning run of form this year.
So, as the series tips over the half way point,
Crash.net took the time to catch up with team manager Colin Wright to mull over the season so far, the team's plans for the future and even chat about some of our more regular
Crash.net Forum members...
Crash.net:
Firstly, Colin, has the season surpassed your expectations?
CW:
We can never surpass our expectations because our expectations are high. Traditionally, Airwaves Ducati and previously GSE Racing have done a remarkable job. We need to be there. Our primary goal is to get results and win races and championships, so we haven't exceeded our expectations, but we have been getting firsts and seconds from Shane. Our bonus has been taking a bit of a hammering though! It is good, it is very good in fact, but we won't be happy until we've won the championship.
Crash.net:
Have you suggested to Shakey that it's worth trying to consolidate his lead now he has such a huge advantage?
CW:
I haven't spoken to him about that scenario because when a rider is riding as well as Shane is; me speaking to him on that subject wouldn't help at this moment in time. We may talk to him with three or four races to go because if he has a crash it could ruin the chances of the championship. But Shane knows that, he doesn't need telling. In the past I have had to say that because the rider is expecting more than they can achieve, but I don't need to discuss that with Shane.
Crash.net:
It is an argument that regularly comes up in
Crash.net Forums - is Shakey the defining factor this year, or is it the Ducati 1098 bike?
CW:
I keep an eye on the forums and what surprises me, in some cases, is the certain few people who believe they have the answer. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but – and Shane will agree with this, Airwaves will agree with this – it takes all three parts of a puzzle to win a championship. The rider is very important, the motorcycle is very important and so is the team. We have those three ingredients this year.
