New lap record for Andrews at Cartagena test.

Piranha Racing rider Simon Andrews has laid down an early marker for this year's British Supersport Championship after setting a new lap record during a recent pre-season test at the Cartagena circuit in Spain.

With several other Supersport and Superbike teams at the circuit Andrews and Piranha Racing were able to measure themselves against some of this year's competition. After getting himself dialled back into the R6, Andrews' times began to tumble before he eventually broke the lap record on the final day.

Andy Colbourne the Piranha Racing team manager reported that he was delighted with Andrews' progress.

"As we are using the same Yamaha R6 from last season we know how to get the best from the chassis which has allowed Race Techniques to focus on the engine and management systems over the winter," he said.

"We had a long list of items for Simon to test and once he got into a groove he was really able to pick up the pace. Every alteration we made to the engine management system allowed him to chip away at his times so we know we are heading in the right direction. It was a very positive test all round and we are confident Simon will be up there from the first race."

Andrews commented that it was his first opportunity to get back on the R6 and really blow away the off-season cobwebs.

"The team had an extensive testing programme scheduled for Cartagena," he continued, "It was a case of working through the list and once we had it all sorted I went after a quick time and managed to better the lap record which was a real bonus. I can't wait for the first race."

The team are now readying themselves for a final shakedown at Silverstone next week before a return to the circuit for the season opener at the end of March.