Haydon's the Daddy.

The Virgin Mobile Optoma Loans Yamaha race team took to the Croft circuit for the first time on the new 2007 Yamaha YZF-R1, but they were without there number one rider, James Haydon.

Haydon was called away on the eve of the test as his wife Jo had gone into early labour with their second child. Maya Jo Haydon was born at 06.24 on the morning of the test. Though six weeks early, Maya is reported to be doing well, weighing a tiny 4lb7oz.

With Haydon returning to his family, the test work fell to Tommy Hill, who made the most of the dry conditions in the morning, taking to the track on Pirelli slicks, allowing him to discover how good the new engine feels. He was joined on the circuit by team mentor, Niall MacKenzie, the feedback from both riders was positive.

The Superbikes were joined on track by the Supersport riders, Billy McConnell and Tom Grant, took the opportunity to get onboard their new Yamaha YZF-R6 bikes for the very first time. With the bikes superseding all expectations for both riders and the team, it was smiles all round at the test.

"We got everything we hoped for from the test," said Team Manager Rob McElnea, "This is the first time we have had the bikes on track and they have performed really well. We'd expect to come away with some issues that need resolving from the first run out but both Superbike and Supersport bikes have surprised us with a really satisfying test."

Hill was also pleased with the test outcome saying, "As we were testing our new R1, it was without doubt we had to do a shakedown test, and get everything working on the new bike, which looked fantastic. The boys had a late night in the workshop prepping the bikes ready for the test and they've done a great job. The test went well with some good first impressions. With a few laps under my belt, I just want to get riding again and get the show on the road."

New Dad, Haydon commented, "What a day of mixed emotions for me! Obviously I am gutted that I could not make the test but excuses don't get any better than my new baby girl making an early appearance. Not only am I the proudest Dad in the world, I can rest easy knowing my race bike is performing well already."