Breakthrough win for Guintoli and Czech team
The Team Effenbert Liberty Racing Ducati squad experienced some highs and lows at Assen, but the record books now show that Sylvain Guintoli's race one win was not only the first victory for a team that did not even exist in SBK racing two years ago, it was also the first full-pointer for Guintoli himself. The breakthrough for Guintoli was a long time coming according to the rider, and in truth he has knocked on the door of a win more than once in his SBK career. He scored a podium at the opening round this year to add to the previous four he scored in 2011, as part of the same overall Liberty Effenbert set-up. He did not let that wait detract from the enjoyment of a landmark weekend in his SBK career, however, when speaking from the Paddock Show media area after race two.
"A 1-2 at Assen was fantastic and by far my best weekend in any Superbike round. I think it is looking good. I really enjoy the bike, I am in control and it was not a fluke. In Australia and Imola we were often quite fast and Imola is a hard track. I feel I am gelling well with my bike and my team and I am really enjoying it a lot."
On balance, Guintoli cannot help but be pleased with a great team effort at Assen. "Bringing the first victory for my team is something that I am very proud of. It is a great personal feeling, the best of all probably stepping on the top of the podium and hearing "The Marseillaise." I want to thank every single member of my team for the hard work and support in the good and the more difficult moments."
