Parts Canada Superbike Championship

RMR Racing’s Ryan Appenrodt, (Quesnel, B.C.) came to the season opening round of the Honda CBR125R Challenge at the ICAR Circuit in Quebec, looking to start off his season on the right foot. He did just that by capturing both wins of the double-header.

Due to not arriving until late Thursday night, Ryan had to wait until Friday morning to get his first full look at the track. However, with some off-track advice from fellow A.M.R.A. riders Bodhi Edie (Warman, SK) and Cody Conrad (Calgary, AB), Ryan felt confident. The extra day off did not seem to phase the rider, as he set the fastest lap of the first session Friday morning, and again in the second session that afternoon. Heading into qualifying, Ryan seemed poised to attain pole position.

Despite his efforts, qualifying results were in and fellow rider Loic Viscasillas (Laval, QC) had achieved pole, with Ryan finishing a mere 0.486 seconds behind. After just missing out on the top spot, Ryan knew that when it came time to race, he could win.

Race action began on Saturday, and with rain throughout the early morning the RMR Rider was hopeful that it would persist. His experience with the A.M.R.A. where you race rain or shine would be a huge advantage. However, shortly before the race, clear skies advanced and did not seem to be going anywhere. It was time to race.

Race 1 of 2 was Saturday afternoon. Starting from second position on the grid, and seeing how close qualifying times were, Appenrodt knew how crucial the start would be. After clinching the holeshot the young rider put his head down. Despite some challenges by Loic for the lead, Ryan lead 9 out of the 10 laps to capture his first ever national win of his career in a photo finish. The margin of victory was 0.017 seconds. 

“We looked at each other on the cool down lap, and both shrugged our shoulders because we weren’t sure.” Said the B.C. rider. “I finally found out as I rode into the pits and my team was waiting there to congratulate me on the win.”

Race 2 was Sunday afternoon, and Ryan had his eyes on the weekend sweep. The lights went out and he held onto second place throughout the first few corners. As he headed into turn seven for the first time, Ryan over took Loic for first place. As they crossed the line the first time, it was Ryan in first followed closely by Loic, and Will Hornblower (Sarnia, ON). This race looked like a repeat of the first with the back and forth battles that took place between the top three riders. Soon, Ryan had opened up a small gap. It didn’t take long however for Loic and Will to reel him back in and now it was again a three-way battle for the lead. Heading onto the final lap, Ryan held the lead and maintained his position crossing the line 0.316 seconds ahead of second place Loic Viscasillas, who was closely followed by Will Hornblower who took third 0.735 seconds behind.

At this time, Ryan would like to thank to his sponsors: Honda Canada, The A.M.R.A., Long-time local sponsor Curry Repairs, and The PMP staff for putting on a great event.