CREWE rider Stu Wilson remained philosophical after being forced out of the KTM 990 Superduke Championship round five at Donington Park on Saturday.
After taking provisional pole position on Friday, and then qualifying eighth on the grid, the Wistaston-based 27-year-old looked in good shape to pick up points in front of thousands at the Moto GP event.
But in the main race, he was struck by gearbox problems which eventually ended his assault.
He said: 'On the first lap, the gearbox didn't feel right and by the second lap it was obvious I had a serious fault.
'I was gaining on riders in front of me but just could not get past as changing gears was difficult. I could not rely on it so I decided to pull in.
'But that's racing. It is unpredictable and although I'm disappointed, there's nothing anyone could have done to fore-see what happened.'
Stu will next compete in the Superduke at Mallory Park on July 22. To follow his progress, or to offer sponsorship, visit www.stuwilsonracing.co.uk
