MOTORBIKE racer Curtis Rothwell came back with a bang after almost a year out of the saddle.
The 28-year-old Bolton rider returned to Aintree for the final championship round of the Superbike and Powerbike series.
And it was like he had never been away as he won both events on his Kawasaki ZX10.
He said: "I didn't really have any plans this year due to getting married in June.
"I just wanted to get everything settled down at home before getting back on bike.
"I've not ridden a bike since the last round of the Thundersport GB at Cadwell Park in October last year.
"We sent the bike off for a refresh a few weeks back and only decided to do Aintree at the last minute because we managed get the bike back in time.
"I had no expectations, I just wanted get back on the bike and have some fun.
"I had a mega day. I felt much more comfortable on the bike than I thought I would.
"I never imagined I would win both the Powerbike and Superbike finals.
"I've got nothing confirmed yet for after Aintree but we planned on doing the Anglesey Grand meeting – which hosts riders from the British Superbike Championship – next month if this event went well so hopefully we can have a go there.
"I've got no plans for next year yet. I'm trying to find some help in terms of sponsorship, so hopefully if all goes well we should be out next season."
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