COmeback kid Tom Leonard has paid tribute to his supporters after ending a hugely successful season on a high note.
The Hartburn bike ace returned to the saddle for the first time in 12 years this season, dedicating his comeback to his close pal, former racer and Gazette writer Andy McGladdery, who was tragically killed in a road crash.
And he brought the season down on his Buff Headwear Thundersport 500 Championship campaign with a trio of victories and a second place.
That excellent run of results confirmed his second place finish in the final championship standings.
“It was all looking a bit grim after qualification,” he admitted, “a lowly 12th position and the worst grid position of the year at a circuit that’s short, intense and tiring.”
But in each of the opening day’s races he carved his way through the pack to the front and emerge a clear victor by more than a second.
On day two he continued his great form with another win and a second.
“This is a fantastic way to end the season, finishing on such a high and proving we’ll be a force come next year,” said Leonard.
“The final race on the Sunday was scrappy and both the other riders I was dicing with were up to some crazy tricks round Gerards Bend.
“I’d like to thank all who have supported and followed us during the year, and especially those who have made commitments both financial and time wise, it’s been great and couldn’t have happened without these key characters.
“Particular thanks to my crew who have kept me focused and not let me lose sight of the reasons of our desicion to compete again.”
It was also a cracking weekend for Stockton’s Colin Mooney who wrapped up second place overall in the Seniors Cup.
He stormed to four class victories to make it a great weekend for Teesside.
Mooney will also be competing in next year’s series and, like Leonard, be eager to go one place better.
Young Jak Liddle from Middlesbrough has learned much and progressed well in his first full season of racing, although his final weekend was marred by a crash which caused burns to his elbows and side.
He’s a tough cookie though and now he’s looking forward to a season on Supersport 600 machines in 2015.
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