Image: Foremost Media.

Leading Superbike riders have largely managed to avoid injuries in a bruising Sunday race day at One Raceway, including Max Stauffer, Anthony West and Cam Dunker after the trio went down in spectacular fashion together in race two.

Penrite Racing SBK teammates Stauffer and Dunker, as well as former grand prix veteran West, were involved in the incident that caused a red flag stoppage, but soon cleared of any major injuries post-race.

“I don’t know what to say about this weekend, it started quite well and in all honesty, I felt okay coming off the back of the injury and was happy with fifth in qualifying,” Stauffer recalled after triggering the pile-up. “I was however disappointed with fourth in race one and was ready to make amends in race two.

“We made a small change to the bike and it seemed to make a world of difference for me – I felt so strong, but unfortunately, a small mistake caused a really big highside for me and was also unfortunate to take out my teammate and great mate Cam and Westy. That was disappointing, but I was pushing for a good result and these things happen. I’m glad everyone was okay and I look forward to the Bend in November.”

Dunker, who had claimed a front row start and then also scored a breakout premier class podium in the opening race with a third-place result, was caught up in the melee, denying him any chance of finishing inside the top three overall.

“Mixed weekend here at One Raceway in Goulburn,” the 16-year-old said. “Overall we made some good steps forward and I felt good as the weekend progressed. I managed to get my first front row and first podium in the Superbikes, so I’m stoked about that. It was a bit of a shame about the last race though, but we are all good and ready for the next one.”

It was a similar story for West, who made a welcome return to the podium with an impressive second position in the opening encounter at 43 years of age, but was hospitalised after collecting Stauffer’s stricken R1 – with Dunker in turn hitting West’s bike – and also later cleared of injuries. All three are intending to race-on at The Bend’s final round next month.

“Just to let everyone know I’m okay,” West confirmed. “A little bruised, but happy to have nothing serious. Thank for everyone’s support and messages. I remember clearly the crash and don’t put any blame on Max Stauffer and hope he will be ready for the next race, as I will be. Also thanks to Cameron Dunker for not running me over as he just flew over the top of me… Huge thanks to my team Addicted To Track for putting in the hard work, it was a great weekend.”

The opening race was also a damaging one at the revamped facility, which saw three-time champion Glenn Allerton crash out only to return later for the final outing, and the retiring Bryan Staring crashed out altogether in causing a red flag, but also later declared that he avoided major injuries. Yamaha Racing Team’s Cru Halliday sat out race day with shoulder damage after crashing during Thursday’s shakedown session.