Focus On – Dan Linfoot
Focus On – Dan Linfoot
Words:- Sue Symons
Dan Linfoot
After two years with Regional and National success racing Mini Bikes, Dan Linfoot moved up a gear to the 125cc class with many club racing wins at Croft under his belt and he quickly moved on to the national scene in 2004. It was a steep learning curve for the naturally talented young man from Knaresborough, but he finished a very creditable twenty-fourth overall. He excelled the following season finishing fourth overall in the British 125 championship, his highlight was being granted a ‘wildcard ride’ at the ‘monsoon like’ British Grand Prix at Donington Park, where he stunned the opposition crossing the finish line in a sensational ninth position.
He was focused on winning the British series in 2006 but after four successful rounds, Dan was given the opportunity to ride in the European championship at Vallelunga in Italy where he won the race in fine style, this success led to a further eighth ‘wildcard’ in the 250cc Moto GP class with encouraging results.
Dan Linfoot
His 2007 season got off to a shaky start when the race team failed to secure the sponsorship money, but recognising his potential, Dorna came to his rescue and he was eventually placed with the Italian 250cc team Sicilia for seven races, his best result was ninth again at Donington in similar weather to his earlier success.
The following year was a revelation when he joined the Stonebaker Racing team to compete in the WSBK European Superstock 600 series, he took to the larger capacity machine like a duck to water and was soon up with the front runners, picking up two incredible race wins… one at Assen in Holland, and the other at Magny Cours in France, eventually finishing fifth overall in the championship.
2009 saw him racing back in Britain with Rob Mac Racing competing in the British Supersport championship. He got off to a sensational start with three podiums in the first four races, before injury forced him out of contention. Returning from injury he was given the chance to pilot a Superbike in preparation for his 2010 campaign with the MotorPoint Yamaha BSB team.
Twenty-two year-old Dan is a likable character who works hard at his personal presentation and physical fitness, he cycles up to 140 miles a week as well as swimming, running and weights all to built up his stamina for becoming a top flight Superbike rider.
