Troy Stephens Racing 28

Not exactly how I wanted my weekend to go! A little trip to the ED and feeling a bit sore today, no major injuries so I’ll be back soon. Back at the track today though to support the team at Elevate Racing.

A very delayed recap for Rounds 3 & 4 of the NZSBK Championship, better late than never.

Round 3 – Hampton Downs
I came into the weekend excited to be at my home track, even though it was my first time on the full international layout. We had a few issues during the test day but felt like we’d made good progress heading into qualifying, where I managed to put it P5.

Race 1 didn’t quite go to plan, with the same issue popping up into Turn 2 on lap 1, making it tough to stay with the pack. The team worked hard overnight and we saw a big improvement in Race 2. I was able to run with the group and brought it home in 6th, just 0.06 seconds off 4th, even while running a stock ECU. Unfortunately, the issue returned on the in-lap, and again twice in Race 3, putting me on the back foot.

Overall, I was happy with the progress but a bit frustrated not being able to fully get on top of the issue.

Round 4 – Taupō
Another new track for me, but the team came in confident after identifying the issue during the week — a clutch problem that was being exaggerated by my riding style (a bit of a carryover from my dirt track days). With a few adjustments to both the bike and my approach, things started to click.

Test day went well, and I really enjoyed the wet conditions in practice, setting the 2nd fastest time. Qualifying saw me back in P5.

Race 1 was shaping up to be a great one, battling closely with my teammate Sam right up to the final lap. Unfortunately, I had a big moment into Turn 1, getting thrown forward onto the tank and triggering my airbag suit, which ended my race early.

Race 2 was another tight battle with Sam, and he managed to take it by just 0.06 seconds. Race 3 was more of the same, but a small mistake gave Sam a gap he held to the line, finishing 1.5 seconds ahead.

All in all, a really positive weekend, no bike issues, strong racing, and I absolutely loved the track.

Series Wrap-Up
The season didn’t quite go to plan overall, but I’ve learned a huge amount, made solid progress, and had a great time along the way. Grateful for the experience and the people I met throughout the series.

Thanks to everyone who’s supported me this season — it means a lot.

Also a huge congratulations to Hunter Charlett Racing for taking out the championship and Ryder Chamberlain and Billy Macrae Racing for your podiums, you 3 were soo fast all series.

Elevate Racing
Issy Smith Racing
Samuel Chave Racing

📸ASP🔥