Rookie rider finishes first Moto3 season in the top ten

YOUNG Moto3 British Talent Cup rider from Melksham,  Ryan Hitchcock, completed a “fantastic” rookie season in tenth position at Brands Hatch last weekend. Ryan, who only turned 13-years-old recently, finished with a 15th and 10th place finish at the final round.

 Jeremy Ryan reports, “It was Hitchcock’s first visit to the Kent circuit and he made real progress during the free practice sessions on Friday. There was a lot to learn on a 2.7-mile circuit which would see the youngster compete in two 14-lap races over the weekend. 

“It rained overnight and the track was still damp for the early morning qualifying session on Saturday. The riders went out on wet tyres but with the track neither completely wet nor drying it was another new experience for Hitchcock aboard his Moto3 machine. His lap time of 1:55.388 saw him qualify 19th for race one later that afternoon.

“Although the temperature remained low as the first race got under way, the track had dried sufficiently for the riders to line up with slick tyres. Starting 19th, Hitchcock dropped a position on the opening lap of the weekend. However, he soon found his tempo as he moved into 18th spot a lap later. He was in a group of riders battling for 15th spot. By the middle of the race his group of riders had closed in on the one ahead. There was now a pack of nine riders from 10th to 18th position. After completing almost 38 miles of the Brands Hatch GP circuit Hitchcock crossed the finish line in 15th to claim another championship point.  

“The temperature had risen somewhat for the second race early on Sunday afternoon. Hitchcock started the race from 12th place and quickly made up a position on the first lap. Positions then changed quickly as Hitchcock battled within a group of seven riders. Whilst making good progress, he was also aided by a couple of riders crashing out on Cooper Straight.

“Nine laps of the race done and Hitchcock was up to 9th. However, the racing was far from over as at one stage he was muscled back down to 11th. He worked his way back, passed one of the riders ,before crossing the line in 10th position.

“It has been a great first Moto3 season for Ryan Hitchcock, who is one of the youngest competitors in the class. He scored points in all 10 races, one of only two riders to do so and finished the championship with 64 points and in tenth position overall.”

Ryan said, “It has been an amazing season. I have loved every minute of it. I have learned so much. Thanks to Wilson Racing for preparing such a great bike and for helping me learn as a rider this year. Also I would like to thank my sponsors Oxford Racing, Ducati Moto-Rapido, NGUK,113 Events, Apollo installations, Studio Creative Services, LS2 Helmets and M4Karting. See you again in 2021.”

Picture: Ryan Hitchcock (43) in action.