I think he's just 'saving himself' for Friday   The point about Bruce being older may be poignant, so - it's not just 'the new generation coming through' to consider. Maybe bettering the '26' will keep him going? Clearly, he's been unable to 'break' the opposition on the first lap, which he used to do, plus - he's getting very little seat time, compared to the past years (doing Endurance etc) For all the stars to be aligned,  everything perfect with the bike - and the mental attitude in harmony with all makes for a comfortable race, but it must be a bit 'rattling' having so many riders now capable of running in the 130 bracket. Roll on Friday, and the Senior. One way or another, it's shaped up to be a cracking race!!