Metcher impresses in first World Supersport ride
The 21-year-old Aussie had been running as high as ninth with a couple of laps remaining, but tyre wear forced the 2011 European Superstock 600 champion to ease off. The result was still a good start to Metcher's first WSS season, and also earned the Aussie 5 points, an impressive start to his title chase.
In a weekend marked by extreme heat, Metcher was ecstatic to finish in the points in the shortened 15 lap race. The decision to shorten the race distance proved to be the right one as riders struggled to find grip in the latter stages. Jed lost out to Ianuzzo and Pezek and had to settle for eleventh.
"I'm extremely grateful to be given this fantastic opportunity to race at this level by the Rivamoto, I'm happy with the result today and how the team has gelled. The progression over the week shows that we are working in the right direction and I'd like to keep this momentum going to the next round.
"Thanks to K-Tech suspension for making all the changes we needed and for the incredible support here on the Island. I am very grateful to Dad and everyone who has supported the Rivamoto team. Thanks to Jeremy McWilliams, Andrew Harrison, Marc Moyano, Terry Armstrong, Dean Oughtred, Pete Lyons, Eduard Blokin, my family and all the support from the crew", said Jed.
RivaMoto team manager Jeremy McWilliams, himself no stanger to Phillip Island, added, "We can't praise Jed enough for that effort, his approach to the challenge is focussed and his feedback is precise. We're all extremely pleased with this result; it's a dream start to the season. Thanks to the team and local help for the effort in making this possible."
Jed and the RivaMoto team move to Italy for the next test session before round two of the 2012 World Supersport Championship at Imola on April 1st.