Bradley Ray shocks field to clinch debut win in opening race at Donington Park

Updated 02/04/2018 at 10:17 GMT

Bradley Ray stunned the field to take his maiden BSB championship victory in the first race of the season at Donington Park.

Bradley Ray celebrates winning at Donington Park

Image credit: Eurosport

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The Buildbase Suzuki rider, 20, saw of competition from pole-sitter Leon Haslam (JG Speedfit Kawasaki), who seemed to struggle with a mechanical problem before finishing ninth, six-time champion Shakey Byrne (BeWiser Ducati), plus 2015 champion Josh Brookes (McAms Yamaha).

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In a thrilling final lap, Byrne overtook James Ellison (Anvil Hire Tag Yamaha) to clinch second following a poor start where he drifted back through the field.

He couldn't pass Ray, however, after the youngster had taken the lead following an excellent start from the third row and a smart pass on Ellison at Redgate on the sixth lap.

Race 1 had been brought forward to Easter Sunday, with Race 2 still scheduled for Monday at 4.30pm, weather permitting.

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