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| Bentley Chases Bryan Hill at Timaru Pic: Andrew Bright |
Bentley is currently sitting in second place in the series with 149 points , behind Bryan Hill who has 186 points and is confident on closing the gap using his experience on the more familiar North Island tracks.
Bentley admits doing the the South Island rounds for the first time was a huge learning curve for him, knowing only some of his fellow competitor’s abilities, learning the tracks in a very short amount of time whilst setting up the different gearing and suspension requirements which each track demanded and some fast tyre changing due to constant changeable weather conditions seeing him getting to the grid with only seconds to spare. “ At times it was stressful, I have to thank Robert Taylor and Dennis Shaw from Kiwi Suspension Solutions for all of their help with technical advice and assistance, as well as Nick Southerwood who is one of my rivals and Superlite championship leader Glen Williams, for all their knowledge and support during each round, it’s been fantastic” Bentley says
Coming second in the NZ Grand Prix and taking pole position at round two in Timaru's Levels Raceway quickly highlighted that his talent, determination and practical race strategy was all paying off. Bentley knew if he rode consistently and kept his South Island competition in check he would then be in a good position to turn the tables on them in the North.
“I thoroughly enjoyed all three tracks . Powerbuilt Raceway Ruapuna in Christchurch was probably the favourite. Levels I found hard work, just with an aching left thigh and wrist towards the end of each race but in saying that when I qualified on pole and saw some friends, my wife and a sponsor all excited and indicating number one , I was stoked . The esse’s at Teretonga were awesome for passing. It’s been a fantastic experience, some disappointing times and a couple of close moments but following these instances I had good performances so overall it’s been really positive . Sharing a pit with my mate Kyle Hammond provided the humour we all needed. I ended up nominating Kyle for the commentator's OOOOP’s Award, which he won after looking at the wrong starting lights on his first race at the Teretonga! It really has been a wonderful family holiday with bike racing. Thanks to all my sponsors for everything they have contributed, assisted and supported us with throughout our championship campaign ” Bentley says.
Bentley is keeping his race strategy for the next two meetings very close to his chest but indicates strongly his determination to win the NZ TT at Hampton Downs and his aim to qualify well so he has a good opportunity for the Castrol Power 1 Time Attack Challenge which runs along side the main championship. The top six qualifiers at each round score points towards the overall qualifying series.
Team Bentley Racing has been proudly sponsored by: The Office Relocation Company, Susan Ure of Motto TT, The Station Sport’s Bar and Cafe, TSS Red Baron through Nationwide Accessories, Pirelli Tyres and Zany Zues.
To follow Team Bentley Racing go to www.teambentley.co.nz here you will find the latest race reports and on going updates from the team.
Words: Dee Wintle On behalf of NZSBK .
Pic: Andrew Bright
