Davies’ Thai Triumph Ignites Title Bid

Chaz Davies powered his way to victory in Thailand to give his World Superbikes title hopes a huge boost.

The Knighton-born flier charged up from eighth to first in just seven laps to claim his first win on the Buriram track.

Davies made it a double podium delight having finished third on Saturday and is now just 12 points off the title pacesetter.

The aruba.it Racing Ducati rider said after his 28th career win: “That was something special. At Buriram we’ve struggled every year we’ve come here.

“I think I’ve been in the gravel more times than I’ve finished the race. It’s been a hard process getting into a race-winning position so I’m glad it’s off my back.

“It was a fantastic race and to come away with a win from here makes me so happy.

“I want to thank the whole team because they have given me such a great bike.

“The Panigale R was working really well, we found a little bit more consistency and I could be more adaptable with the bike.

“It was quite hectic out there but if you can get through it’s OK, it’s so much fun. Our package is competitive and it Europe it will be like starting from zero.

“I’m looking forward to Aragon.”

Davies’ first win of the season came by by 2.1 secs from Holland’s Michael van der Mark with fellow Brit Alex Lowes third.

Reigning three-time champion Jonathan Rea was fourth but took the lead in the standings by two points from Davies’ team-mate Marco Melandri who finished seventh.

The Ulsterman, 31, said: “I felt like I could have fought for the win again, but it is what it is.

“We can go away from here with a first and a fourth, and leading the championship, so it was not a disaster. I am frustrated but with a smile on my face.”