Toseland determined to overcome hand pain
Added on Thursday, March 25th, 2010 by Carole Nash Editor
Toseland determined to overcome hand pain
James Toseland has admitted that he is still suffering some pain in his hand but will still race at Portimao this weekend as he looks to make up for his disappointing start to the World Superbikes season.
Toseland suffered two crashes in Australia, one in free practice and another in race one, leaving him with just one tenth place to his name in what was a nightmare start to the season for Yamaha, with the former MotoGP rider injuring his left hand in the process.
After initial fears that the injury may have been worse that first suspected, Toseland was given the all-clear to race this weekend in the Algarve and he is determined to ensure that his and Yamaha’s season gets a belated kick-start.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” said the former world champion. “We had a tough time in Australia but I believe the team has been working really hard in the meantime and the test went well in Misano. My hand is nearly back to normal although there’s still a bit of pain. I’m basically looking forward to getting out on track and seeing what progress we’ve made to catch up.”
Teammate Cal Crutchlow didn’t fare much better in Australia, with a crash in race one preceding a ninth place finish in race two but he is also heading to Portugal in a positive mood.
“I’m really keen to get to Portugal and get back on the bike,” said Cal Crutchlow. “Last time I raced here I won the world title in Supersport so I have good feelings for the track. I’m going to put 100% into my efforts this weekend as always and we’ll see what happens with the progress the guys have made over the last couple of weeks.”
