Troy Bayliss Classic Slideshow

INCLEMENT weather didn’t stop thousands of race fans heading to Taree for the annual Troy Bayliss Classic, held January 16.

Unfortunately, the final had to be cancelled due to poor weather. A disappointed Bayliss said, “I would have chopped off my other pinky to be able to run the Americana, Superpole and Troy Bayliss Classic.”

Taree Motorcycle Club has recently resurfaced the oil-based track, which provided some close racing throughout the heats.

The intense rivalry of four-time World Champion, Finish rider Joonas Kylmakorpi and our own Jason Crump continued, both trading blows for one win each in the lead up heats.

Crowd favourite Masatoshi Ohmori came to grief falling heavily in one heat. Bruised and winded, the likeable Japanese was all smiles after the spill.

A race-fan standing near Bayliss was overheard in the pits saying, “Hey Champ, ya’ gunna give these blokes a floggin’?” To Troy’s smiling reply, “That’s the general idea,” to the delight of the crowd.

Bayliss thanked Taree Motorcycle Club, officials and competitors for their commitment and flexibility working with the trying conditions.

“It was a great day considering,” Bayliss said.

A Spokesperson from Troy Bayliss Events said “no date has been selected for 2017, however planing is already under way for the event.

“This year we tried our best but the weather eventually overcame us.

“Troy was on the spot, with officials and riders alike, desperately trying to find a way forward for the highlight evening session, and is determined to see the event bigger and better next year.”

Photos by James Ward, Ed Tricket & Todd Taylor

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