THE Doha eight-hour World Endurance Series race proved a disappointment for Evesham racer Simon Andrews.

Although the experience was thrilling, Andrews’ team had to retire less than half-way through the Qatar challenge.

Andrews, competing in the desert for the first time, was joined by James Hutchins andGary Mason in the 666 Diablo Bollinger team.

Having had several days to acclimatise, their expectations after the first practice session were high.

Preparing for qualifying included day and night sessions and it became clear the team worked well together.

As the speeds increased, the laps became faster and expectations rose.

Combined qualifying of the three riders placed the team into seventh place for the start.

After the first half-an-hour, they took the lead and began to settle into a long, hard day.

But a water pipe supplying rehydrating fluids to Andrews through his helmet burst, which made visibility difficult.

The team were fourth on the first timing point after an hour and broke away with the leaders.

A podium place looked likely as they retained their position for the next two hours, racing at almost two seconds a lap faster than their main rivals.

But, after three hours and thirty-seven minutes racing and 101 laps, a problem forced Andrews to return to the pits and retire.