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SBK, Rea makes history at Imola, 59 wins like Carl Fogarty

The Cannibal does the double by snatching the Race 2 win, ahead of Davies and Sykes, a black Sunday for Melandri, knocked out by van der Mark's Yamaha

SBK: Rea makes history at Imola, 59 wins like Carl Fogarty

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He headed out on track with the aim of finishing second, in that starting from the third row and reaching the highest step of the podium appeared to be an almost impossible task. Not for Johnny Rea though, who once again demonstrates his superiority, scoring his 59th career win at Imola, just like Carl Fogarty.

To reach the legend's total, the Cannibal paid attention to every detail in Race 2, putting on his armour and setting out with the bit between his teeth. Getting off to a faultless start, and quickly getting the better of a number of his rivals, he soon had race leader Chaz Davies in his sights. Johnny took time to prepare his moves, passing the Welshman eight laps from the end through the Variante Alta. Once in front he had no trouble racing into the history books: "I'm pleased with this result, a perfect race though not a simple one."

Behind Rea, the Panigale of Chaz Davies, who could do nothing to stop the Kawasaki today: "I'm sorry about this second place in front of the Imola crowd, it's a pity, but I couldn't have done any more."

There was also space on the podium for Tom Sykes, who was able to get the better of Xavi Forés in the final stages: “A great battle, I was struggling through the turns, it's an important podium"'. He was followed across the line by the team Barni rider, the MV Agusta of Jordi Torres and the Yamaha of Alex Lowes. Seventh for Michael Rinaldi. A race to forget for Marco Melandri, who crashed out after coming into contact with van der Mark on the R1.   

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Translated by Heather Watson
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