And I got one of the most original Birthday card ever from my work mates... Genius idea by Guy, Artwork by Marijus, well done my friends!

Pictures are courtesy of Craig (aka GByte666) from the DSC, cheers mate!

Thanks to Mike AKA Muttley:

Yesterday took place the first round of the 2007 Desmodue race season at Brands Hatch. Living in Surrey, I could call it my local track. The day was lovely, warm temperatures and sunshine from dusk until dawn. Nothing like last year when I was watching my mates racing in the water.

Anyway, yesterday started quite well when I managed to qualify 6th on the grid. A best lap time of 1.00 mn allowing me to do so. It was the first time I qualified so close to the front row, for once getting a good view on the lights was not a problem. First race went not as good as I would have wished. After a rocket start which got me into 3rd position after Paddock Hill (the first corner), I couldn't keep up with the front runners and started loosing a few positions. The front guys were lapping in 59 seconds or very close below. Stuck at the minute, I didn't manage to go below that time. I finished the race in 9th position. Pretty much the same scenario for the second race, I finished it in 8th position.

On the day I was not 100% happy with my results but I must reckon it was a good season start anyway. I kept the bike rubber down, and I now stand 7th in the championship. So actually, I'm quite happy with that. Keeping in mind all rounds (except Assen, which I'm not taking part to) count this season (i.e. any crash or bike breaking down becoming a real issue regarding championship points), taking home a few points is always a good thing. I must reckon I was very impressed by Bones' and Zimbo's performances, a big well done to you guys.

Best thing for the day for me was to see a lot of friends turning up for the only round in the South East of England. A big thank you to Jesus & Monica, Paul, Phillipe and Guy & Jocelyn. Having you all there helped me a lot in trying to build some confidence... I should not forget my better half. She doesn't approve what I'm doing with my bikes but she's always the first one to offer me help. You're the most important thing I've got in that world my love.

Worst thing of the weekend was to see the second race stopped following the crash of Jon. I haven't met Jon yet in real life, but I feel as if I know him. He's always been so helpful and friendly towards me on the DSC messageboard. Mate I wish you a very speedy recovery. You were very impressive on your bike yesterday.

Finally, a big thank to KapitalMoto.tv, Accountax Solutions and Comics World my sponsors for this season. I've already said it but it's true, I wouldn't be on the grid without them.

Below is a pix of yesterday taken by Paul, cheers mate!

First pictures of my 2007 bike. No big changes during the winter break: the front fairing is a bit shorter (I better stop crashing before there is none of it left...) and I've fitted a 916 oil cooler to help the engine start and finish the season.

A huge thanks to Phill (KapitalMoto.tv), Paul (Accountax Solutions Ltd) and Philipe (Comics World). I wouldn't be on the grid without their help.