Lanzi, Laconi impress on AMA debut.

The Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin team closed out the 2004 AMA Superbike season with strong performances from world championship regulars Lorenzo Lanzi and Regis Laconi, at Virginia International Raceway, USA.

Although the team's usual racer, Eric Bostrom, was out with an injury suffered at the previous round in Atlanta, the European riders stepped in and performed well on the factory Ducati 999.

World Supersport rider Lanzi ran near the front in both 28-lap races, but saw his shot at a podium disappear when a technical problem ruined his strong run for third place in race two.

Lanzi placed fourth in his first Superbike race in America, a remarkable finish on a track which he had seen only once before. In race two, the 22-year-old Italian diced for third place, closing the gap and eventually making his bid for a spot on the box until misfortune struck.

"I think we had a shot at the podium, but unfortunately a switch broke with six laps to go," said Lanzi. "Still, it was really good to race with Regis and Ben Bostrom."

Lanzi must surely be within a shot of a World Superbike ride for 2005, following Ducati bosses tipping the young Italian rider for a WSBK ride next season before this event.

Meanwhile, 2004 World Superbike runner-up Laconi showed his experience and quickly worked his way up to speed at a track he had never seen before yesterday.

The 29-year-old Frenchman was fifth in both 28-lap races, held in clear autumn conditions at the scenic Virginia track.

"Both Regis and Lorenzo did a fantastic job, especially since neither have ever raced here," said Team Owner Terry Gregoricka. "Both riders really performed well and tried very hard."

"Lorenzo was riding especially well in the second race - we really thought he had a shot of getting on the podium," added Racing Manager Tom Bodenbach. "And for how little time Regis had on the track, we're pleased with the fifth place finishes."

"Regis and Lorenzo learned a lot from the first race. They had never competed with the AMA riders before and only Lorenzo had tested here at Virginia, so it took some time. The limited schedule didn't work to our advantage, but the guys are still to be commended on their performances," concluded Bodenbach.