Source: BSB.

Rapid Solicitors Kawasaki’s Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne marginally edged out Josh Brookes in the final MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship test session of the day at Donington Park, with the pair eclipsing the circuit BSB lap record.

Byrne and Brookes’ best time were both faster than last year’s BSB pole position lap of the circuit with the pair swapping place at the top of the times until the chequered flag of the final session, as the title rivals bid to have the edge ahead of the Brands Hatch opener.

“It was a long session this afternoon and we did pretty much a full race distance and then had time to try one or two other things,” Byrne said. “I am really happy with the pace we have, running faster than we did in last year’s race here.

“To be back up at that level already is good and I was not out there to finish second! I am fully motivated for the season and can’t wait to get started now as we want that title back.”

Jakub Smrz and the Millsport Ducati team held third position after a strong start to their campaign with Chris ‘Stalker’ Walker locking out fourth place on the leading Lloyds British GBmoto Racing Kawasaki.

James Westmoreland was the fastest of the BMW contenders ending the opening official test fifth fastest, with four different manufacturers featured in the top five.

Australian Josh Waters was 18th fastest overall, 2.737s off the pace of Byrne and 10 positions behind Tyco Suzuki teammate John Hopkins.

Kawasaki-mounted Aussie rookie Mitchell Carr was one place behind Waters in 19th, 2.778s off the front-running times.