Denby Dale racer Tom Tunstall picked up points again as he managed to survive the carnage at Cadwell Park.
For the fifth meeting on the trot the 34-year-old was in the points in the Superstock 1000 category at the British Superbikes Championship meeting.
The Superstock 1000 race at the Lincolnshire track was a hectic affair with multiple crashes bringing out the red flag out twice.
Doodson Motorsport Kawasaki rider Tunstall managed to steer through the mayhem and claim more championship points with 13th place – his season’s tally of 23 points putting him 15th in the rankings.
Following the previous round at Thruxton, Tunstall underwent surgery on his right forearm to relieve the symptoms of “arm pump”, a common condition for motorcycle racers which can limit the control on the bike.
Despite trying all alternatives, the operation was the next logical step for Tunstall having been hampered by it since returning to track action at the start of last year.
Without a chance to ride or test before Cadwell, Tunstall built his pace as the meeting progressed and took 18th on the grid for the 15-lap race.
A crash in the race prior saw a delay requiring the air ambulance and the race distance was reduced to 12 laps.
The race initially got underway but after only three laps two riders collided into Charlie’s Corner and along with another crash brought out the red flag, with the riders returning to the pit lane and regrouping for an eight lap dash on the restart.
On the second attempt Tunstall again started well and was locked in a dice for 11th with James Egan and Nick Anderson.
Jesse Traylor joined the battle for a couple of laps before crashing out himself at Charlie’s.
With Egan stretching the gap Tunstall was looking for a way passed Anderson when the red flag was brought out a second time this time following a crash at the top of the “Mountain” section.
Having completed just five laps the result was declared and Tunstall was pleased to come away unscathed.
“It was a bit of a manic race and to be honest I’m glad it wasn’t restarted again,” said Tunstall.
“The second start was better for me and I was getting a good rhythm when it was stopped, all things considered I’m happy to come away with some more points and in one piece.
“I didn’t really get enough laps in a row to get a feel for condition of the arm but another couple of week’s recovery should help before Oulton Park which will be a good test.
“We’ll be stronger there I’m sure and I’m looking forward to it”
Holmfirth racer Joe Irving returned to action in the Superstock 600 race but the Kawasaki rider did not finish as he went out on lap eight of a 12-lap contest.
The next round of the British Superbike Championships brings a second visit to Oulton Park in Cheshire over the weekend of September 4-6.
