Bournemouth Kawasaki’s James Hillier made an emotional return to the podium on Monday, securing his first top three finish since 2019.
“It’s been a while too long,” Hillier admitted after the race. “When the news broke and everything fell through, we had to put this deal together ourselves. This makes it all worthwhile—all the hard work.”
The veteran rider set his quickest lap of the race at 126.709, despite battling treacherous winds.
“That last lap, I heard this horrible noise. The wind was really bad at the top—really gusty up there,” he said. “I thought the bike was getting slower, but fair play to all the marshals and spectators up there. The bike didn’t really miss a beat.”
Supporters
Hillier, who finished comfortably ahead of fourth-placed David Todd, paid tribute to his team and supporters.
“It’s just magic. Everyone who’s waved on the last lap, everyone who’s bought a t-shirt—it’s worth it. I don’t think people can appreciate what goes on behind the scenes just to get here, the effort before we even booked the boat. But this is why we do it.”
After frustration in the morning’s first race, Hillier’s mood lifted with his strong finish. “I was a bit sad earlier—I didn’t really get to where I wanted. But happy now. Peter and the guys at Bournemouth will be happy too.”
As the chequered flag fell, Hillier soaked in the moment. “I’ll sleep well tonight,” he smiled. “Just seeing the fans, the marshals—it’s what makes it special.”
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