Waldmann, McWilliams share World GP wins

A crowd of over 30,000 saw Ralf Waldmann and Jeremy McWilliams share race wins during the World GP Bike Legends event at the Sachsenring Classic.

After last year's inaugural World GP event at Jerez, fans flocked to the German circuit to see icons such as Wayne Gardner and Freddie Spencer back in action, riding the remarkable 500cc two-stroke machines that made their era so special.

Following Saturday morning's practice session the starting grid was confirmed with Spencer, Garry McCoy and Gardner making up the front row for both eagerly-anticipated encounters.
Race 1
Local hero Waldmann made a good start but had to fight hard with Spencer to maintain his lead to the finish. A 20-time grand prix winner, Waldmann said: "My Suzuki went so well, especially out of the corners."

Spencer was also elated and reckoned the ex-Kenny Roberts Jr. Suzuki RGV500 was a sensational ride. "It's very smooth and fast," he said. "It's a bike I've always wanted to ride."

McWilliams completed the rostrum in third.
Results:
1. Ralf Waldmann (GER) - 1986 Suzuki RG500 Mk10
2. Freddie Spencer (USA) - 1999 Suzuki RGV500 XR89
3. Jeremy McWilliams (GBR) - 2015 Ronax 500
Race 2
Although originally due to ride a 2002 Proton KR3, McWilliams switched to one of the two 500cc V4 machines fielded by Ronax and, after giving feedback and advice on suspension set-up, the fast Ulsterman was able to secure victory in the second race.

Despite the confidence shown in his Suzuki RGV, this time Spencer had to settle for third behind a hard-charging Yamaha-mounted McCoy.

Adding to the sense of occasion, six-time world champion and Sachsenring legend Jim Redman thoroughly enjoyed what will be his final race and reiterated how much he loves the circuit.

"This is a very special place for me," he said. "I had thought that maybe I could span 60 years in motorcycle racing, but I'll be 85 in November so now is probably a good time to stop!"

Unfortunately, former world champion and World GP Bike Legends ambassador Gardner (AUS) experienced technical problems with his 1991 Cagiva V591 and so the expected front-runner was unable to score a podium in either outing.
Results:
1. Jeremy McWilliams (GBR) - 2015 Ronax 500
2. Garry McCoy (AUS) - 1995 Yamaha YZR500
3. Freddie Spencer (USA) - 1999 Suzuki RGV500 XR89

Many of the World GP Legends riders including Gardner, Spencer, Read and de Radigu?s will be back in action as part of the festivities at next month's Silverstone Classic (29-31 July).