SWINDON’S Max Cook saw his Red Bull Rookies race come to a disappointing end after crashing out in Tuscany, Italy.

With ideal weather conditions going into the qualifying sessions on Friday, Cook had a turbulent time as he led for five of the 12 laps, before dropping back - resulting in a 20th place start on the grid.

However, the youngster made a decent start and gained four places by the time he got to the second turn.

Sitting in 16th, Cook was leading the way for a group of riders pushing to make up places.

Unfortunately he got caught up in a fight for 15th, which ultimately slowed his progress.

After passing the riders he was tussling with, it was clear would be unable to catch the race leaders as they had broken away and were four seconds ahead.

Fully aware that the leading group would disappear into the distance,the teenager felt the only option was to push hard to try and make up time.

Without the aid of the slipstream, Cook pushed and managed to set some very good lap times, including 2:02.4.

Unfortunately, he pushed too hard and upon entering the uphill section of turn turn two, got on the throttle too early and too hard, which high-sided him, leading the bike into the gravel.

“I’m disappointed to crash out, as I felt great and so did the bike as the guys at the tent worked really hard on the bike during the day,” said Cook, who was fresh from securing a win and second place in the British Talent Cup at Donington Park.

“I was determined to start well and run with the leading group, but I got caught up in a battle for 15th and the leading group pulled a four second gap.

“When I eventually passed the rider for 15th, I knew I was on my own and I knew I had to push really hard to catch them up. Unfortunately, I pushed too hard and crashed early in the race.

“Its not all doom and gloom as racing at Mugello was a dream come true, the atmosphere and experience was incredible and I’ve learnt loads this weekend.

“I’m now looking forward to going to Assen in four weeks.”