Source: Supplied.

Australian Mike Jones has met his target of a top five series finish in the Superstock 1000 European Championship (STK1000), claiming fourth at the weekend’s finale in Spain to secure the position in his rookie campaign.

The Aruba.it Racing – Junior Team rider battled for a podium finish at the Jerez circuit, however fell just shy of the box by less than a second in hard-fought race.

Jones expressed his satisfaction of achieving his top five goal, stating the season has been a year of learning and improvement on the international stage.

“The last race of the season was pretty good for me,” Jones reflected. “We fought for the podium throughout it, finishing fourth but ultimately seizing the goal of closing the championship within the top five. It’s been an incredible season, one of learning and improvement, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity the team has given me.

“Coming in as a rookie, it hasn’t been easy to race in Europe, so this is a good achievement for me and most of all a platform to build off for next year. I think I’ve proven to myself I have the potential to fight for the win in this championship and I hope to have another go at it next year.”

Jones’ plans for 2018 are yet to be determined, although the Queensland-native is hopeful to return to the STK1000 series in order to have another crack at the championship.