Rizla Suzuki champions at Donington.

Rizla Suzuki's John Reynolds took third place in the first race to secure his third British Superbike Championship at Donington Park Sunday.

Reynolds finished fifth in the final race of the season after riding defensively to help his team mate.

"What a fantastic day," said Reynolds. "Thank you to Rizla Suzuki for supplying the best bike and team this season and well done to Yuki for getting on the Championship podium in third.

"It's hard to put my feelings into words right now. I think after I have a few beers it will be a lot easier and let me tell you, I plan to do a serious amount of celebrating this evening. The last word for the 2004 season goes to my fans - thank you, this number one plate is dedicated to you all for your support and belief in me and Rizla Suzuki."

Team-mate Yukio Kagayama scraped home in 14th after a dramatic off track excursion at Craner Curves that left him with it all to do in the second race to keep a hold on third place in the series.

The Japanese ace was up to the task in the second race, finishing fourth and taking third overall in the championship standings.

"Congratulations to John-san for winning Championship," commented Kagayama. "This is title he deserves and Rizla Suzuki deserves. I am happy to finish third overall, this is almost unbelievable result when I remember my injuries at start of season.

"I am Factory Suzuki rider and I honestly say, Crescent Rizla Suzuki is brilliant best team I ever have pleasure to ride for. This is big honour for me to be rider for this team and big honour to ride in front of British fans. Thank you!"

"The champagne has never tasted so good," said team manager Paul Denning. "This is the climax of a season of extremely hard work and determination and is no less than JR, Yuki, every single team member and every single fan of Rizla Suzuki deserves. Saying that, I need to single out the whole Rizla Suzuki technical crew - we have a team of skilled, dedicated people who deserve nothing less than to be champions.

"Thanks to all our sponsors and partners for their support through thick and thin; there is no doubt we couldn't have achieved this success without you. It's time to taste some more of that champagne this evening before getting back to work for next year. See you all again in 2005!"