Jakub Smrz gets Padgetts chance

Jakub Smrz looks on the verge of continuing in the MCE British Superbike Championship after joining the Padgetts Honda team for testing.

Former WSBK star Smrz was left without a ride following the withdraw of Splitlath Redmond, the team he joined late last year and had been expecting to spend his first full BSB season with in 2013.

The Czech rider took part in a shakedown test with Padgetts at Mallory Park on Wednesday, then headed straight for the official BSB test at Donington Park.

"I am happy to have this opportunity to test this week with Padgetts Honda and I have enjoyed being part of their team already so I need to thank everyone who has made this possible," said Smrz.

"I like the feeling of the Honda, it is different to what I am used to, but after a few laps I am getting more comfortable on the new bike. I am looking forward to Donington Park tomorrow now and seeing what we can do for the start of the season."

Team owner Clive Padgett is currently unable to confirm that Smrz will race for the team, but would clearly like to put a package together.

"We are really hoping that we can pull everything together for the start of the season, but today has been really exciting and it has been fantastic to work with Kuba," he said. "We had this initial test today so that we can go to Donington Park tomorrow for the official test and see what happens after that. I love my racing and today really has given me the spring back in my step."