Last updated at 15:22, Thursday, 24 July 2008

ALLENDALE bike racer Graeme Gowland had a crashing end to his weekend in the eighth round of the World Supersport Championship at the famous Czech Republic circuit of Brno.

Gowla, as he is better known, had qualified with the 25th fastest time, only 2.5 seconds off pole setter Australian Broc Parkes on his first visit to the 5 km long circuit.

However, with Fabien Foret and Garry McCoy suffering injuries and therefore unable to participate in Sunday’s 18 lap race, Gowla would start from the 23rd grid slot.

Gowla got off the line well when the lights went out and made progress through the pack on his Berry Racing Honda.

Unfortunately, he made a mistake going into turn three, and went down, taking out Miguel Praia and Jesco Gunther on the way.

Fortunately, all three riders walked away uninjured.

Graeme said: “I am absolutely gutted. I just was trying too hard to get away with the front guys in the first lap, which is really important.

“I got pushed to the inside on the entry to the third corner and went in too fast.

“I am really sorry to have taken Miguel and Jesco down.”

Gowland will next be in action in front of the British crowds at the Kent circuit of Brands Hatch over the weekend of August 1- 3.

First published at 13:33, Thursday, 24 July 2008
Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk