Going Dutch proved the perfect tonic for Holmfirth racer Joe irving.
The British Superbikes Championship took their most recent meeting to the circuit dubbed ‘The Cathedral’ at Assen, and teenager Irving came away with a third place in the Monster Energy Motostar race.
However, he finished behind two Dutch riders – the winner was Bo Bendsneijder and second place was Jerry Van De Bunt – and was the first British rider home and collected maximum points.
It leaves him third in the title race, but now just 12 points behind second placed Tarran MacKenzie.
“It was a brilliant weekend, I was third across the line but won the British Championship race so take points for a win,” said irving. “There were two Dutch riders in front of me, but they have raced there three times at Assen already this season and know the track.
“So it was even better that I also set the lap record in the race!
“Having gained some points it is now just fingers crossed for another win in the next meeting at Silverstone.”
There was a return to action for Doodson Motorsport team rider Robbin Harms in the Superbikes race at Assen.
The Dane, back after breaking his wrist at Snetterton, took 17th place in the first race for the Huddersfield-based team but then crashed in race two.
