Pata Honda’s Kyle Smith is “chuffed” with his first podium place in World Supersport at Aragon but admits there is work to be done before this coming weekend at Assen in Holland.

Following a difficult start on the first few laps in Spain, Smith settled into a rhythm and claimed third place after an intense battle with Gino Rea for most of the 16-man race.

Smith created a gap between himself and Rea on the 10th lap, and the CBR600RR rider finished just two seconds behind second place finisher Patrick Jacobsen.

“I am so happy to be on the podium for the first time in Supersport, and especially here with my friends and family around me,” said the Huddersfield racer, who moved to Spain at an early age.

“It wasn’t easy as we worked towards finding the right setting for the CBR600RR, but I felt that I had more chance of a podium at the last two rounds.

“However, I settled into the race and thought if I can’t be the fastest then I want to be the most consistent, so I concentrated on getting good, consistent lap times and it brought me on the podium.

“I’m really chuffed with the result and we just have some things to work on ahead of Assen next weekend.”

Smith’s performance in Aragon – near his family home – also pleased team boss Pieter Breddels.

“Hopefully now he has the taste for the podium and we’re looking forward to going to our home race with a third place under our belts and see what we can do there,” he said.