A pair of Tauranga based Formula One sidecar riders are looking forward to a strong outing at Manfield this weekend following a positive start to the Suzuki Tri Series.

For Barry Smith and Robbie Shorter, Smith Shorter Racing, round one was the first time their new sidecar had seen competitive action following a lengthy build process.

Barry Smith and Robbie Shorter of Smith Shorter Racing.

And despite the bike being completely new and not seeing any previous racing, the pair were instantly competitive qualifying in second place.

Taking out second place in race one, despite spinning out in wet conditions, the riders then went on to take a third place in race two which was restarted following an accident involving three bikes on lap one.

'We are feeling particularly pleased with the bike on its first outing and now we can't wait for round two at Manfield” says team coordinator Gavin Sokolich.

In the F1/Superbike category, Tauranga born and raised Sloan Frost also produced a good showing at Hampton Downs in his second competitive race meeting on board the ex-Andrew Stroud Suzuki.

After qualifying third Sloan went on to take third position in race one and after a tense battle with Kawazaki Rider Nick Cole, took the chequered flag in race two. He currently sits in second place overall for the series with two rounds to go.

Sloan Frost onboard the number 4 Suzuki.

'It was a tough weekend. I am still learning how to get the most out of the Fujitsu TSS Red Baron Suzuki but it is a very good bike so it is making my job easier” says Sloan.

Now living in Wellington, Sloan says Manfield is his new home round and is feeling confident of posting some great results, strengthening his championship position.

'I suspect Craig Shirriffs to be a force around Manfield as will all the usual suspects so it's going to be another hard fight.”

Tauranga based M1 Motorsport will be looking to build on their results from Hampton Downs also. Linden 'Magoo” Magee, who took over the ride at M1 Motorsport from Sloan, goes into round two at Manfield in sixth after finishing 12th in race one and third in race two.

Round two of the Suzuki Tri Series will be held at Manfield this Sunday.