Hi Folks
You have probably noticed that the 2012 season was a bit of a disappointment for me, initially not being able to compete after falling during my annual snowboarding trip in February and when I could ride, I struggled with fitness as the injury was causing me problems.
The doctors have finally given me a clean bill of health in relation to my shoulder, the MRI scan picked up a fracture which has now healed and no longer gives me any pain, so no surgery is required. It's still not 100% but I'm hoping this will improve over time.
Whilst I've not been racing I've thought long and hard about the whole scene, the cost, the effort, the hard work and the fact that I've had some annual leave left at the end of the year and I've come to the sad conclusion that I'm not enjoying it enough anymore to justify it all.
So I have cancelled my gym membership and decided to hang up my leathers and announce my retirement from road racing with immediate effect. Its not something I've taken lightly and I'm not quite sure how I'm going to fill the void or re-create the buzz of competing.
It's been a long road, 12 years of ups and downs, tears and tantrums, some trophies, a lot of hard work, a lot of travelling and lots of fun, but it's time to try something else. I'm not sure what, but I'll think of something!!
The list of personal thanks could be endless, and apologies if I have missed anyone out, but in no particular order there have been some very special people around me, my girlfriend Louise who helped make it all possible, my parents, my brother Stuart and Claire, Cheryl Ruddy, Big Ju, Charlie, Sean and Big Daz for twirling spanners over the years, Claire for the endless cups of coffee, bacon butties and van cake, Paul Meadows for all his art and web work, Grandad Albert Hornbuckle RIP, Richard Glover for his amazing photography, Nicola, Paul and Karl Gatenby, Rob and Janet Hall, Sue Pollin, Shiela Oldfield, Steve Tomes for his advice and Phil Murden for inspiring me in the first place .
I am not forgetting Kerrigan Read #100, Stu Hall #17, Rob Oldfield #28, Kingsley Ruddy #29, Graham Taylor #17, Jamie Harrison #91, Rob Simcock #31 and Lee Wilson #80, Christian "Bomber" Slater #166 and Alan "Bez" Beresford for some amazing racing and paddock support, everyone else I have raced with or against over the years, all the EMRA, New Era and Derby Phoenix officials and medical staff. Dr Nikki Thomas, Marshall's Sue and Paul Hunt, Orange Simon (& Ree) and the rest of the Orange army. Without your support none of us could do it! Mark Wright at Holbeach Tyres, Gary Hartshorne at Bridgestone Tyres, Gav Goddard at GIA Engineering, Colin Davies at Shockwave Suspension; Dave East of East Engineering Ltd; Jamie and Paul at Granby Motors, Chris Utting (for the paintwork) and John at BTK Leathers.
Finally to all my sponsors who have remained loyal and helped me over the years KBC Helmets (Connie, Loz and Amanda); Sprint Dampers (Jono); NGK Spark Plugs; SPR Dyno (Sam and Pete); Chatsworth Signs (Paul); Lindstrand Leathers (John and Anders); Censol (John & Andrew); Pidcock Motorcycles (Mark, Chris Pidcock and Sam).
I'd just like to say a BIG THANK YOU to you all for your support, assistance, guidance, friendship, sportsmanship and most of all being there. Its been one hell of a journey.
Jagger
#19
PS: Louise will be publishing details of the Jagger Racing Fantasy Riders competition for 2013 in the next couple of weeks. Look out for the email.
Showing posts with label website. Show all posts
Showing posts with label website. Show all posts
Sunday, 10 February 2013
Monday, 28 February 2011
The 2011 Season is starting....
Hi Folks
Well, we're back again, after a reasonably quiet winter, the preperations are well underway for this year's racing with Derby Phoenix, again in the 751-1300 Fourstroke Class. I'm keen to get back at it!!
Any of you able to make the journey to any of the meetings to support me and the "Team" (that's you) we'll greatly appreciate your attendance.
The Jagger Racing Fantasy League (sign up here, http://www.fantasyriders.com) has been set up and with the first round of World Superbikes at the weekend from Phillip Island in Australia, we await the results being posted shortly. To join see our Contact Us page.
Hope to catch up with you soon.
Cheers
Jagger
Well, we're back again, after a reasonably quiet winter, the preperations are well underway for this year's racing with Derby Phoenix, again in the 751-1300 Fourstroke Class. I'm keen to get back at it!!
Any of you able to make the journey to any of the meetings to support me and the "Team" (that's you) we'll greatly appreciate your attendance.
The Jagger Racing Fantasy League (sign up here, http://www.fantasyriders.com) has been set up and with the first round of World Superbikes at the weekend from Phillip Island in Australia, we await the results being posted shortly. To join see our Contact Us page.
Hope to catch up with you soon.
Cheers
Jagger
Saturday, 20 November 2010
2011 Provisional Dates
Published provisional dates for next year's rounds of Derby Phoenix Championship.
Monday, 17 May 2010
Cadwell Park Rounds 3 & 4
(Sorry for the delay folks, here's the Cadwell report!)
After a reasonable points tally/1st meeting Phil was hoping for a bit more luck at Cadwell as it's possibly his favourite circuit.....
He did the usual test day on the Saturday but couldn't seem to get in the groove or feel comfortable, posting times much slower than the norm. Admittedly it wasn't that warm but he was still disappointed.
Sunday's racing began dry but very cold with a freezing wind making the track surface quite slick. A steady start moved Phil up a few places but struggling to recreate the form from last year he slipped back to 8th (his starting position).
Race 2 was very similar and although his best lap time was fractionally quicker, frustratingly he was fractionally slower over the 8 lap distance, crossing the line a lonely 10th place.
Monday was again bright and warm in the sun but a bitterly cold wind was literally howling across the circuit from Park through to Charlie's. Slightly better lap times were no consolation for his 11th place finish, chasing two rivals over the line separated by less than 3/10ths of a second at the end of the 10 lap race.
The final race of the day was delayed by some time as the circuit was cleared following an accident. Phil lined up hoping for a change in fortune or at least improving his times! Getting a better start he was away with the front runners in 9th, passing a rival on the brakes into Park moving him up to 8th and on the next lap slid by another on the way into Mansfield. When one of the front runners slid off Phil was promoted to 6th and had a comfortable gap behind him, unfortunately he wasn't aware of this and continuing to push he slid off on the 7th lap, luckily without injury although the bike wasn't so lucky.....
Phil would like to say a big thanks to Big Ju & Claire and Charlie for all their help and Stu & Claire, Kath & Lou Lou, Colin & Julie, John, Tracy and Chris and family for coming along to show support, it's much appreciated.
Cheers Jagger
After a reasonable points tally/1st meeting Phil was hoping for a bit more luck at Cadwell as it's possibly his favourite circuit.....
He did the usual test day on the Saturday but couldn't seem to get in the groove or feel comfortable, posting times much slower than the norm. Admittedly it wasn't that warm but he was still disappointed.
Sunday's racing began dry but very cold with a freezing wind making the track surface quite slick. A steady start moved Phil up a few places but struggling to recreate the form from last year he slipped back to 8th (his starting position).
Race 2 was very similar and although his best lap time was fractionally quicker, frustratingly he was fractionally slower over the 8 lap distance, crossing the line a lonely 10th place.
Monday was again bright and warm in the sun but a bitterly cold wind was literally howling across the circuit from Park through to Charlie's. Slightly better lap times were no consolation for his 11th place finish, chasing two rivals over the line separated by less than 3/10ths of a second at the end of the 10 lap race.
The final race of the day was delayed by some time as the circuit was cleared following an accident. Phil lined up hoping for a change in fortune or at least improving his times! Getting a better start he was away with the front runners in 9th, passing a rival on the brakes into Park moving him up to 8th and on the next lap slid by another on the way into Mansfield. When one of the front runners slid off Phil was promoted to 6th and had a comfortable gap behind him, unfortunately he wasn't aware of this and continuing to push he slid off on the 7th lap, luckily without injury although the bike wasn't so lucky.....
Phil would like to say a big thanks to Big Ju & Claire and Charlie for all their help and Stu & Claire, Kath & Lou Lou, Colin & Julie, John, Tracy and Chris and family for coming along to show support, it's much appreciated.
Cheers Jagger
Monday, 22 February 2010
The 2010 Season starts soon.....
As the season start draws ever closer, the preparations are underway.
The race entries are in, the test days are booked and the bike is not too far from being ready. We just need to get rider racing fit and we're good to go.
The 2010 season dates have been confirmed, published and we would welcome anyone of you joining us at any of the meetings throughout the year. Cadwell is Phil's favourite but Anglesey is the most picturesque.
Keep checking for the soon to be re-launched website and of course, we will keep posting on the blog throughout the season.
Good luck Phil & hope to catch up with some of you soon.
Lou
PS: The Fantasy Riders 2010 competition has opened officially and we will shortly be setting up the Jagger Racing League table for the fifth year. So get choosing and register your teams in time for the first race meeting at Phillip Island in Australia on 26th - 28th February for the first round of the World Superbike Championship. THAT'S THIS WEEKEND FOLKS!
There are a number of changes to this years competition; some of the new features include the option to create 'Personal Leagues' with a Message Board function, 3 different game strategies and there'll be a 'Budget Boost' for everyone in June (exact date tba).
The race entries are in, the test days are booked and the bike is not too far from being ready. We just need to get rider racing fit and we're good to go.
The 2010 season dates have been confirmed, published and we would welcome anyone of you joining us at any of the meetings throughout the year. Cadwell is Phil's favourite but Anglesey is the most picturesque.
Keep checking for the soon to be re-launched website and of course, we will keep posting on the blog throughout the season.
Good luck Phil & hope to catch up with some of you soon.
Lou
PS: The Fantasy Riders 2010 competition has opened officially and we will shortly be setting up the Jagger Racing League table for the fifth year. So get choosing and register your teams in time for the first race meeting at Phillip Island in Australia on 26th - 28th February for the first round of the World Superbike Championship. THAT'S THIS WEEKEND FOLKS!
There are a number of changes to this years competition; some of the new features include the option to create 'Personal Leagues' with a Message Board function, 3 different game strategies and there'll be a 'Budget Boost' for everyone in June (exact date tba).
Friday, 11 December 2009
CLOSE SEASON CHANGES
We'd like to inform users of www.jagger-racing.co.uk that the website is currently off-line as we prepare for the 2010 season. In the meantime you can still catch up with the latest news here on the blog (which you'll come to direct from www.jagger-racing.co.uk during the close season), see our latest photos here on Flickr and catch up with us here on our Facebook group page.
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
The Season Finale
Hello!
Well here we are, 6 months and 12+1 rounds later (if Angel Nieto doesn't use THAT number, neither do I!) and the season is over. After much hard work, stress, anger, frustration and money, we are at the end of another finally enjoyable season's racing.
Although the last round was cancelled due to the bad weather I felt my riding had improved and I was hoping to continue my run of point scoring rides. With a little bit of luck and some solid points at Top 10 finish in the Championship was possible.
Testing on Friday was a nice and relaxed affair and with little adjustments needed ran pretty smoothly although my times in the morning were slightly quicker than in the afternoon. Choosing to miss the last session of the day, the bike was readied for Saturday's racing.
Practice on Saturday was used to scrub in the new tyres and pads and after 3 laps I returned to the paddock. After finally scoring consistent points at the past two meetings I was now automatically seeded onto the grid in 11th place (12th in Championship) which theoretically made my starts easier. Unfortunately I made it a lot harder for myself by making a rubbish start as I struggled to keep the front end down. A bit of hard work later, coupled with some luck through the back markers, saw me finish 8th. The second race start was still poor by my standards although I did manage to wheelie the entire length of the start straight whilst keeping the throttle pinned! As the race settled down, I became involved in a battle for 7th place with two other riders, finishing 9th, covered by a second and a half.
Sunday's racing was greeted with glorious sunshine and set the scene for the final day's racing of the year. After a better start and race pace I was unable to match the times from Saturday but crossed the line in a lonely 7th place, 5 seconds adrift of 6th and 7 seconds in front of 8th. The last race turned out to be an absolute blinder! Possibly one of the most enjoyable and intense races I have had. A reasonable start saw me running near the front and I was soon trading places and very nearly paintwork! with one of my rivals. I was trying every move I knew and at one point was alongside him over the Mountain only to be nearly pushed onto the grass heading into Hall Bends. I finally pressured him into a mistake at the Chicane as we came upon a back marker and as he was forced to ride through, I took up the lead. Pushing as hard as I could to hold him off, the race was abruptly brought to a close following a nasty accident at the start of lap 9. With the race result classified from lap 7, I secured 6th place although it was somewhat soured when I learnt it was a good friend who was involved in the accident.
The lap times over the weekend were fractionally slower than my personal best, set in July this year, but the consistent points scored in all four races this enabled me to gain 10th place in the Championship.
I'd like to say a big THANKS to Big Ju & Claire, Igor & Nicola and my brother Stu & Claire for coming down to support me, it really was a fantastic end to the season.
See you all back on the grid next year.
Jagger
Well here we are, 6 months and 12+1 rounds later (if Angel Nieto doesn't use THAT number, neither do I!) and the season is over. After much hard work, stress, anger, frustration and money, we are at the end of another finally enjoyable season's racing.
Although the last round was cancelled due to the bad weather I felt my riding had improved and I was hoping to continue my run of point scoring rides. With a little bit of luck and some solid points at Top 10 finish in the Championship was possible.
Testing on Friday was a nice and relaxed affair and with little adjustments needed ran pretty smoothly although my times in the morning were slightly quicker than in the afternoon. Choosing to miss the last session of the day, the bike was readied for Saturday's racing.
Practice on Saturday was used to scrub in the new tyres and pads and after 3 laps I returned to the paddock. After finally scoring consistent points at the past two meetings I was now automatically seeded onto the grid in 11th place (12th in Championship) which theoretically made my starts easier. Unfortunately I made it a lot harder for myself by making a rubbish start as I struggled to keep the front end down. A bit of hard work later, coupled with some luck through the back markers, saw me finish 8th. The second race start was still poor by my standards although I did manage to wheelie the entire length of the start straight whilst keeping the throttle pinned! As the race settled down, I became involved in a battle for 7th place with two other riders, finishing 9th, covered by a second and a half.
Sunday's racing was greeted with glorious sunshine and set the scene for the final day's racing of the year. After a better start and race pace I was unable to match the times from Saturday but crossed the line in a lonely 7th place, 5 seconds adrift of 6th and 7 seconds in front of 8th. The last race turned out to be an absolute blinder! Possibly one of the most enjoyable and intense races I have had. A reasonable start saw me running near the front and I was soon trading places and very nearly paintwork! with one of my rivals. I was trying every move I knew and at one point was alongside him over the Mountain only to be nearly pushed onto the grass heading into Hall Bends. I finally pressured him into a mistake at the Chicane as we came upon a back marker and as he was forced to ride through, I took up the lead. Pushing as hard as I could to hold him off, the race was abruptly brought to a close following a nasty accident at the start of lap 9. With the race result classified from lap 7, I secured 6th place although it was somewhat soured when I learnt it was a good friend who was involved in the accident.
The lap times over the weekend were fractionally slower than my personal best, set in July this year, but the consistent points scored in all four races this enabled me to gain 10th place in the Championship.
I'd like to say a big THANKS to Big Ju & Claire, Igor & Nicola and my brother Stu & Claire for coming down to support me, it really was a fantastic end to the season.
See you all back on the grid next year.
Jagger
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
Cadwell, Lincolnshire - 19 & 20 Septmber
Well the season draws to a close, and a rather abrupt one!
Due to the early start to Donington Park preparations for 2010 and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the final two day round scheduled for 3 & 4 October have been cancelled.
But, we'll be at Cadwell this weekend hoping to finish the season in a Top 10 position.
If anyone wants to join us this weekend, we'd welcome your company. So dig out your shorts and your thermals, you never know at Cadwell and head on over.
Racing is Satuday 19th and Sunday 20th with Phil taking part in the test day on Friday 18th September.
Hope some of you will be able to make it. If not check out the Blog next week and our Cadwell review.
Cheers
Lou
Due to the early start to Donington Park preparations for 2010 and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the final two day round scheduled for 3 & 4 October have been cancelled.
But, we'll be at Cadwell this weekend hoping to finish the season in a Top 10 position.
If anyone wants to join us this weekend, we'd welcome your company. So dig out your shorts and your thermals, you never know at Cadwell and head on over.
Racing is Satuday 19th and Sunday 20th with Phil taking part in the test day on Friday 18th September.
Hope some of you will be able to make it. If not check out the Blog next week and our Cadwell review.
Cheers
Lou
Sunday, 23 August 2009
Gone with the Wind!!!
Even before the team arrived at Anglesey, the weather report for the weekend was grim. Although the journey up was in glorious late evening sunshine, as soon as we started setting up camp, the wind began to cause problems. Friday's test was fairly straight forward in sunny conditions, and after a few minor changes to the setup the bike was readied for Saturday's racing.
An average start from 10th on the grid made it difficult for me to make up any places and taking the outside line round The Banking I tried to clawback a few positions, all to no avail. As the race settled into the usual rhythm, I couldn't quite match the pace of the leaders although I was managing to keep 7th and 8th in sight. I tried to reel them in but finished quite a lonely 9th, matching my previous personal best of 1:12.30 just over 2.5 seconds adrift but 8 seconds clear of 10th.
In race 2 I again made a poor start by my own standards, getting pushed wide into the first turn. The first few laps were quite eventful with a number of fallers and incidents. I soon settled into a rhythm and was closing on the rider in front when the oil flags went out round the entire circuit. Normally this wouldn't have been a problem but coupled with a few minor slides made me lose confidence in the amount of grip and my lap times suffered. I recovered in the final 2 laps and started to reel in 5th place and very nearly put a move into the Corkscrew, but wasn't quite close enough to pull it off cleanly. Slightly frustrated, 6th place was good for the Championship.
A few minor changes were planned for Sunday's racing but I was unable to try them as extremely strong winds overnight/early morning made the track unsafe and the meeting was cancelled.
A big thanks to Charlie, Colin & Steve for making the long journey to support me. Look forward to seeing you all at Cadwell next month.
Cheers
Jagger
An average start from 10th on the grid made it difficult for me to make up any places and taking the outside line round The Banking I tried to clawback a few positions, all to no avail. As the race settled into the usual rhythm, I couldn't quite match the pace of the leaders although I was managing to keep 7th and 8th in sight. I tried to reel them in but finished quite a lonely 9th, matching my previous personal best of 1:12.30 just over 2.5 seconds adrift but 8 seconds clear of 10th.
In race 2 I again made a poor start by my own standards, getting pushed wide into the first turn. The first few laps were quite eventful with a number of fallers and incidents. I soon settled into a rhythm and was closing on the rider in front when the oil flags went out round the entire circuit. Normally this wouldn't have been a problem but coupled with a few minor slides made me lose confidence in the amount of grip and my lap times suffered. I recovered in the final 2 laps and started to reel in 5th place and very nearly put a move into the Corkscrew, but wasn't quite close enough to pull it off cleanly. Slightly frustrated, 6th place was good for the Championship.
A few minor changes were planned for Sunday's racing but I was unable to try them as extremely strong winds overnight/early morning made the track unsafe and the meeting was cancelled.
A big thanks to Charlie, Colin & Steve for making the long journey to support me. Look forward to seeing you all at Cadwell next month.
Cheers
Jagger
Monday, 17 August 2009
Anglesey, Wales - 22/23 August
Hi All,
We're heading to Anglesey in Wales again this weekend for hopefully some great weather (as usual) and a great weekend's racing. Phil has enjoyed the circuit every time we have been and last year had some top 3 results on the Coastal Circuit.
Phil will be using the track day on Friday to familiarise himself again with the circuit, we have raced there this year but on the GP circuit. Racing is both Saturday and Sunday 22 and 23 August.
There are only three remaining Championship rounds, so, if you've not been to see us yet and don't mind the journey to a beautiful coastal circuit, we'll be happy to have you join us at Anglesey or at any of the remaining rounds below:-
Rounds 12 & 13 - Cadwell - September 19 & 20
Rounds 14 & 15 - Donington Park, Leicestershire - Oct 3 & 4
If, however, you unable to make a meeting, remember that a detailed blog report is uploaded onto the website and the photos from the event too as soon as possible. If you have comments please feel free to send these via the website or to info@jagger-racing.co.uk.
Cheers for reading.
Lou
We're heading to Anglesey in Wales again this weekend for hopefully some great weather (as usual) and a great weekend's racing. Phil has enjoyed the circuit every time we have been and last year had some top 3 results on the Coastal Circuit.
Phil will be using the track day on Friday to familiarise himself again with the circuit, we have raced there this year but on the GP circuit. Racing is both Saturday and Sunday 22 and 23 August.
There are only three remaining Championship rounds, so, if you've not been to see us yet and don't mind the journey to a beautiful coastal circuit, we'll be happy to have you join us at Anglesey or at any of the remaining rounds below:-
Rounds 12 & 13 - Cadwell - September 19 & 20
Rounds 14 & 15 - Donington Park, Leicestershire - Oct 3 & 4
If, however, you unable to make a meeting, remember that a detailed blog report is uploaded onto the website and the photos from the event too as soon as possible. If you have comments please feel free to send these via the website or to info@jagger-racing.co.uk.
Cheers for reading.
Lou
Monday, 27 July 2009
Jagger "FINALLY" Racing
After much soul searching, frustration and disappointment during the first part of the season, this weekend saw a return to form for Phil and the Team.
After having the damaged shock repaired, Phil was pleased to learn he was running a good pace on the practice day and after fitting new brake pads and tyres for Saturday managed to finish race 1, 9th from 22nd on the grid, setting a personal best in the process, albeit by a few 10ths. The second race was easier as he didn't have to fight through the traffic and again posted a faster lap time by almost a second, finishing 8th.
The Team enjoyed a relaxed Saturday night and with Phil's spirits raised and a fantastic start to Sunday's race 1, he was running a solid 4th but began to fade from lap 6 onwards, finishing 8th. Although disappointed he was pleased to learn he'd beaten his best lap time yet again, this time a 1:35.20. Upon investigation, it was found that the rear shock had failed yet again, slowing the steering which would explain Phil's arm pump! Luckily the shock was temporarily repaired and Phil made the last race and a 7th place finish.
In all, the Team enjoyed a fantastic weekend of racing, the weather held off and was sunny most of the time, Phil would like to say a personal thanks to Stu & Claire for their assistance, Phil Murden and his son Sam for their support and encouragement (and laughs), and Colin at 100% Suspension for the emergency shock repairs.
See you all at Anglesey,
Lou
After having the damaged shock repaired, Phil was pleased to learn he was running a good pace on the practice day and after fitting new brake pads and tyres for Saturday managed to finish race 1, 9th from 22nd on the grid, setting a personal best in the process, albeit by a few 10ths. The second race was easier as he didn't have to fight through the traffic and again posted a faster lap time by almost a second, finishing 8th.
The Team enjoyed a relaxed Saturday night and with Phil's spirits raised and a fantastic start to Sunday's race 1, he was running a solid 4th but began to fade from lap 6 onwards, finishing 8th. Although disappointed he was pleased to learn he'd beaten his best lap time yet again, this time a 1:35.20. Upon investigation, it was found that the rear shock had failed yet again, slowing the steering which would explain Phil's arm pump! Luckily the shock was temporarily repaired and Phil made the last race and a 7th place finish.
In all, the Team enjoyed a fantastic weekend of racing, the weather held off and was sunny most of the time, Phil would like to say a personal thanks to Stu & Claire for their assistance, Phil Murden and his son Sam for their support and encouragement (and laughs), and Colin at 100% Suspension for the emergency shock repairs.
See you all at Anglesey,
Lou
Wednesday, 22 July 2009
Cadwell Park, Lincolnshire - Saturday/Sunday 25/26 July
Hi folks,
Apologies to the delay in updating the blog but Phil and I have only just got back from the Motos Classiques in Chimay, Belgium.
The weather at Oulton Park wasn't great and it is Cadwell this weekend, one of Phil's favourite circuits, fingers crossed for sunshine.
We'll be using the test day on Friday to get some valuable track time with racing on both days. Hope to see some of you?
Lou
Apologies to the delay in updating the blog but Phil and I have only just got back from the Motos Classiques in Chimay, Belgium.
The weather at Oulton Park wasn't great and it is Cadwell this weekend, one of Phil's favourite circuits, fingers crossed for sunshine.
We'll be using the test day on Friday to get some valuable track time with racing on both days. Hope to see some of you?
Lou
Saturday, 11 July 2009
Oulton Park - Round 7 - 4th July
Hello again!
It's all been happening since I last posted on here!
Following the Anglesey 'incident' the bike was stripped and I found out the Ohlins shock's pre-load adjuster was leaking. Not a massive problem in itself, but it did explain why the bike responded so well to the new 'taller' Bridgestone. Colin at Shockwave looked at it and I was told Ohlins want it back under warranty as "they are aware there is a problem with the TTX!?". As it couldn't get fixed by the time we went to Oulton it was set at the correct 'sag' and it's being fixed as I type......
Which brings me onto Oulton....
The usual test day prior to the meeting was a bit of a farce to be honest due to the weather, dry, heavy rain, dry again, more rain! then dry for the last session. But I did manage to get my head into the track and quite enjoyed myself!
Race day was dry and a quick run round for practice got the adrenaline coursing through the veins. The first race was OK, 20th on the grid and a reasonable start got me up to 12th on the first lap. At the flag I was disappointed with my position of 16th as I was hanging onto and then began to close on the group in front of me but couldn't quite get there. I had lapped Oulton quicker than on the K5 though, so it wasn't all bad.
Race two started really well and I was 8th as we ran round the back of the circuit, unfortunately I was a little too eager going into Hizzy's Chicane and as the rear of the bike slid round on the brakes I was forced to run straight on through the cones. By the time I rejoined the action I was down in 12th place but although I lost a few places by the end of the race I was even more frustrated to learn that I was slower than the first outing and although I hadn't gained any places with my shortcut on the first lap I was given a 5 second penalty. Charming! It actually felt like I was going really well too and had a few dices with other riders.
On a positive note I have made some changes to the bike and indeed have a few more planned too, before the next outing at Cadwell the end of the month......
Keep tuning in and I'll catch you all soon.
Jagger
It's all been happening since I last posted on here!
Following the Anglesey 'incident' the bike was stripped and I found out the Ohlins shock's pre-load adjuster was leaking. Not a massive problem in itself, but it did explain why the bike responded so well to the new 'taller' Bridgestone. Colin at Shockwave looked at it and I was told Ohlins want it back under warranty as "they are aware there is a problem with the TTX!?". As it couldn't get fixed by the time we went to Oulton it was set at the correct 'sag' and it's being fixed as I type......
Which brings me onto Oulton....
The usual test day prior to the meeting was a bit of a farce to be honest due to the weather, dry, heavy rain, dry again, more rain! then dry for the last session. But I did manage to get my head into the track and quite enjoyed myself!
Race day was dry and a quick run round for practice got the adrenaline coursing through the veins. The first race was OK, 20th on the grid and a reasonable start got me up to 12th on the first lap. At the flag I was disappointed with my position of 16th as I was hanging onto and then began to close on the group in front of me but couldn't quite get there. I had lapped Oulton quicker than on the K5 though, so it wasn't all bad.
Race two started really well and I was 8th as we ran round the back of the circuit, unfortunately I was a little too eager going into Hizzy's Chicane and as the rear of the bike slid round on the brakes I was forced to run straight on through the cones. By the time I rejoined the action I was down in 12th place but although I lost a few places by the end of the race I was even more frustrated to learn that I was slower than the first outing and although I hadn't gained any places with my shortcut on the first lap I was given a 5 second penalty. Charming! It actually felt like I was going really well too and had a few dices with other riders.
On a positive note I have made some changes to the bike and indeed have a few more planned too, before the next outing at Cadwell the end of the month......
Keep tuning in and I'll catch you all soon.
Jagger
Saturday, 6 June 2009
Anglesey - Rounds 5 & 6 - 30/31 May
If you've been following my Blog you'll have picked up that this season hasn't exactly gone to plan or some might say even started! It's hard to explain - and even harder to swallow! After my good form last year I was hoping to continue to progress and make a good showing in the Phoenix Championship but without the pressure of the Superclub Championship that I've been doing for the last five years. I can't quite put my finger on it frustratingly and that's the worst bit...........
So, on to Anglesey....
We arrived Thurs evening for the test day Friday and the paddock was PACKED! Friday went well aside from a delay for 4hrs due to the sea mist coming in and affecting visibility. I'd got a new Bridgestone rear slick to test and put this on for the last session. I'd been running round in the 1.37/38's quite comfortably but as I rode into the pits as the session was red flagged Lou told me I was running 35's! The bike was loads better and the tyre was very impressive too. I decided to save the tyre for Saturday and fit a new front and new pads, scrubbing them in during practice.
Well up for Race 1, I got a great start from the 4th row and settled into 7th place. The flying lap was a 1.38, lap 2 1.34 and into the 33's on lap 3. The bike felt really good and I felt comfortable sitting on the back of the group that ran up to 3rd place. Unfortunately that's where the fairy tale ended! I 'lost' the front onto the back straight just as I was hooking 4th gear......just when it felt like I'd found my mojo!
I rebuilt the bike (luckily it wasn't too badly damaged) and not making the 2nd race I ran at the back of the Novice race for 2 laps just check it out.
Sunday was ok, the first race was from the back of the grid (34th?) finishing 18th and race two I went from 18th to 12th but not running as quick as Saturday's pace.
Despite the results it was a good weekend with fantastic weather and also big thanks to the 'Tres Hombres' (Colin, Luke and Steve) who came over to support me at their FIRST race meeting! Cheers lads.
Catch ya'll later.
Jagger
So, on to Anglesey....
We arrived Thurs evening for the test day Friday and the paddock was PACKED! Friday went well aside from a delay for 4hrs due to the sea mist coming in and affecting visibility. I'd got a new Bridgestone rear slick to test and put this on for the last session. I'd been running round in the 1.37/38's quite comfortably but as I rode into the pits as the session was red flagged Lou told me I was running 35's! The bike was loads better and the tyre was very impressive too. I decided to save the tyre for Saturday and fit a new front and new pads, scrubbing them in during practice.
Well up for Race 1, I got a great start from the 4th row and settled into 7th place. The flying lap was a 1.38, lap 2 1.34 and into the 33's on lap 3. The bike felt really good and I felt comfortable sitting on the back of the group that ran up to 3rd place. Unfortunately that's where the fairy tale ended! I 'lost' the front onto the back straight just as I was hooking 4th gear......just when it felt like I'd found my mojo!
I rebuilt the bike (luckily it wasn't too badly damaged) and not making the 2nd race I ran at the back of the Novice race for 2 laps just check it out.
Sunday was ok, the first race was from the back of the grid (34th?) finishing 18th and race two I went from 18th to 12th but not running as quick as Saturday's pace.
Despite the results it was a good weekend with fantastic weather and also big thanks to the 'Tres Hombres' (Colin, Luke and Steve) who came over to support me at their FIRST race meeting! Cheers lads.
Catch ya'll later.
Jagger
Monday, 25 May 2009
Anglesey, Wales this weekend 29-31 May 2009
Hello folks
As you will have read, the first two rounds didn't quite go as planned (or indeed as hoped!), the problems have been identified with the quickshifter and should now have been fixed. The biggest problem, i.e. my fitness, has been receiving some attention too, I've been working quite hard in the gym in the hope of regaining my form from last year.
I had some good results at Anglesey last year with New Era, so I'm looking forward to going back. I have only ridden the Coastal circuit and the Full circuit is being used this time, so we have a track day planned for Friday. Racing is Saturday/Sunday so if anyone would like a great day (or weekend) out by the seaside please feel free to come and join us.
Fingers crossed!!
Jagger
PS: check out the following link for a video of me at Donington in 2005, that was kindly made up for me by Jon Blackwell, click here.
As you will have read, the first two rounds didn't quite go as planned (or indeed as hoped!), the problems have been identified with the quickshifter and should now have been fixed. The biggest problem, i.e. my fitness, has been receiving some attention too, I've been working quite hard in the gym in the hope of regaining my form from last year.
I had some good results at Anglesey last year with New Era, so I'm looking forward to going back. I have only ridden the Coastal circuit and the Full circuit is being used this time, so we have a track day planned for Friday. Racing is Saturday/Sunday so if anyone would like a great day (or weekend) out by the seaside please feel free to come and join us.
Fingers crossed!!
Jagger
PS: check out the following link for a video of me at Donington in 2005, that was kindly made up for me by Jon Blackwell, click here.
Tuesday, 5 May 2009
Cadwell Park - Rounds 3 & 4 - 3/5 May
Following a few tweaks and adjustments after the first meeting, I headed off to Cadwell with the intention of getting the Season off to a start! I even managed to get to the gym for some much needed fitness work. I've always enjoyed riding the circuit and was looking forward to running the K8. Testing on Saturday was pretty straightforward and a few adjustments to the suspension cleaned up the tyres nicely. The bike didn't feel as though it was doing anything wrong but no matter how hard I tried I couldn't get near my previous times. I gave the bike a quick check over, new pads and tyres ready for race day and an early night.
I got excellent starts in all of the races (and restarts), and although my fitness didn't seem as bad as Croft, I really struggled with 'arm pump'(it was that bad on Sunday I couldn't even hold a drink afterwards!). The only saving grace was a reasonable result in Saturday's second race. From 18 to 8th in tricky, damp conditions.
Really disapointed with my lap times and it was gutting to run as high as 4th only to disappear backwards as the races went on.
Back to the gym again!?
Catch you later,
Jagger
I got excellent starts in all of the races (and restarts), and although my fitness didn't seem as bad as Croft, I really struggled with 'arm pump'(it was that bad on Sunday I couldn't even hold a drink afterwards!). The only saving grace was a reasonable result in Saturday's second race. From 18 to 8th in tricky, damp conditions.
Really disapointed with my lap times and it was gutting to run as high as 4th only to disappear backwards as the races went on.
Back to the gym again!?
Catch you later,
Jagger
Tuesday, 3 February 2009
WELCOME TO OUR BLOG!
Welcome to the brand new Jagger Racing weblog! This blog will run alongside our main website and will provide you with all the very latest news and views from the Jagger Racing team!
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