Rarely has the New Zealand Superbike Championship been so closely fought as this year. Before the last event on the Taupo circuit on 24 and 25 March, Andrew Stroud, the title holder, and Robbie Bugden, both had their chances of bagging the title. It was finally the Australian rider who won the battle, winning both races of the weekend. But that didn't make Stroud lose his sense of humour as can be seen when he affirmed: 'It's all right to let the Australians win from time to time, that's good for international relations!'
Riding for Team Volvo Group Suzuki/ Triple R Racing, supported technically by Motul, Bugden affirmed after the event: 'We've had ups and downs throughout the season, but winning this title is a great satisfaction. I must express my most sincere thanks for all the team; they gave all they could to win this title and I'm most grateful to them.' For him, Taupo was a dream weekend, with the pole position, two wins and the lap record.
Alongside the New Zealand Championship, Bugden is participating in the Australian Superbike Championship with Team Volvo Group Suzuki. At the second round, at the Darwin circuit on 21 and 22 April, he managed to podium, with a third place overall in the races. This performance allows him to rank third in the championship.
Standings
01// Robbie Bugden, 182,5 pts MOTUL
02// Andrew Stroud, 145 pts
03// Sloan Frost, 124,5 pts
