Malaysian GP: Gresini Honda Saturday notes
Marco Melandri confirmed his good early sensations as he secured a front row start for tomorrow's Malaysian Grand Prix in this afternoon's qualifying practice. Third fastest in the grid shoot-out, just 0.06 seconds off the pole time set by Dani ...
Marco Melandri confirmed his good early sensations as he secured a front row start for tomorrow's Malaysian Grand Prix in this afternoon's qualifying practice.
Third fastest in the grid shoot-out, just 0.06 seconds off the pole time set by Dani Pedrosa (Honda), Marco set a good pace throughout the session and is confident of his chances in the race.
His team-mate Toni Elias also enjoyed a good day at the track, securing eighth place and making a tyre choice he is happy with for tomorrow's penultimate race of the 2007 season.
MARCO MELANDRI (3rd, 2.01.944):
"I'm happy - we know that I have got a good race pace. A front row position on the grid is a good start for tomorrow. The bike is improving - I can get on the gas early and the speed down the straights is much better. The bike and tyres are working well together and this is a circuit I have always enjoyed. This is probably the first time we've had the right conditions to get the most out of it and I felt comfortable today. I had fun and now I feel confident about the race. It will be tough and demanding on both the tyres and our physical condition. It's really hot here - like going from full winter in Australia to full summer in Malaysia!"
TONI ELIAS (8th, 2.02.432):
"We've done a good job today, together with the team. The bike setting has improved and we were able to do some good tyre tests. We have chosen our tyre for the race after running it in both sessions. Unfortunately I didn't get a better starting position because I ran out of time on my second qualifying lap. It will be important to get a good start tomorrow to try and stick it out with the lead group."
FAUSTO GRESINI:
"I am very satisfied with the performance of both Marco and Toni. Marco made the most of his qualifying tyre and it was a bit of a shame Toni couldn't do the same with his second one. Anyway, I'm confident for the race and it looks like we're in good shape for some top results. The team staff and riders have worked tirelessly."
Credit: gh
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