In a trackside survey conducted by the Championship’s title sponsor, Bennetts, at the final rounds of the BSB Championship and on-line during the season, JR topped the polls as the rider fans would most like to go out for a ride with and go for a pillion ride with. John confirmed his status as the fans favourite rider when he topped the poll of which rider they would like to invite round for dinner and came a close second in the Rider of the Year accolade.
JR is currently resting at home as he recovers from injuries sustained in a heavy crash at the final round of the 2005 season at Brands Hatch in Kent in October. Now retired from racing, the fans’ Champion is expected to make a full recovery.
“I can’t believe I’ve been named as the fans’ favourite,” said JR. “All I can say is thank you so much to all the fans who voted for me, it’s a real honour and means more to me than I can describe.
“At times I’m still in considerable pain with my injuries, but being at home with my family and in familiar surroundings really helps. News like this also gives me a real lift and I cannot thank the fans enough for their support over the years. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Superbike fans are the best in the world bar none.
“I’d like to say a big thanks to everyone who sent messages and cards to me via the team. I’m delighted that the team wants me to stay involved next year and that I’ll still be able to meet my fans and friends in the world of racing. I hope to see you all at the races in 2006 and I’m looking forward to my new career with Rizla Suzuki.”
In the same survey, the fans voted Rizla Suzuki as their favourite team.
Rizla Suzuki team owner, Paul Denning, said: “We are delighted the fans have voted for Rizla Suzuki as their favourite team. We really appreciate the support during a difficult year – we are already planning for next season and a more successful campaign.”
Full Results:
Favourite British Superbike Championship Team: 1. Rizla Suzuki 2. Airwaves Ducati 3. HM Plant Honda
BSB Fans ‘Rider of the Year’: 1. Michael Rutter – HM Plant Honda 2. John Reynolds – Rizla Suzuki 3. Leon Haslam – Airwaves Ducati
BSB ‘Most Improved Rider’: 1. Leon Haslam – Airwaves Ducati 2. Ryuichi Kiyonari – HM Plant Honda 3. Gregorio Lavilla – Airwaves Ducati
Favourite Rider to go out for a ride with: John Reynolds
Favourite Rider to ride pillion with: John Reynolds
Favourite Rider to invite round to dinner: John Reynolds
Best Track for viewing: 1. Silverstone 2: Brands Hatch / Cadwell Park 3: Mallory Park
Best Track for action: 1. Silverstone 2. Brands Hatch 3. Oulton Park
Best Track for atmosphere: 1. Silverstone 2. Brands Hatch 3. Cadwell Park
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