Scoring the double in Dubai

Ducati 959
Action shot: Ivan Stan

I had a great time in Dubai, riding one of the Furiaso Racing Ducati 959 rental bikes. First time on track in Dubai, it worked out well that there was a track day the week before on the GP layout, and that the opening round of the Milwaukee Pro Twins Championship would also be held on the GP layout. So it just made sense, to combine the two in to the one trip.
It also allowed me to record video on the trackday, and then rustle up a ‘how I ride’ Dubai GP guide before the races for any interested competitors to have access to.
I had a great time, everyone was very friendly and welcoming, I did a Q&A one evening for anyone who wanted to pick my brains at the Bikers Cafe, Dubai.
Apparently I missed the chequered flag at the end of qualifying, so was demoted on the grid, starting in 8th on a combined grid of Superstock, Supersport and Pro Twins – I got a great start and won the race overall.
On the same tyres for the second race, I just couldn’t get grip from the rear at all, 2nd on track to Mahmoud Tannir, but winning the Pro Twin class – and scoring the fastest race lap of the event, across all the classes of a 2:09.
All in all, a fabulous time, a great experience and looking forward already to going back – once the credit card for this trip has been paid off!

Saska took 2nd, Ivan in 3rd, and Paul Taplin having his first ever race, scored the ‘best rookie’ trophy.