ELIAS TRIED TO MAKE IT, BUT CHECA IS TO RACE AGAIN
Not even the excitement of racing in front of his home fans
could help Toni Elias overcome the pain of his injuries suffered
in Le Mans. Thus, the FORTUNA YAMAHA rider - who took part
in both sessions on Friday - will be replaced by David Checa,
as he was at Mugello last week. Ruben Xaus, for his part,
suffered a spectacular fall this morning but escaped unhurt.
He went on to post the 17th fastest time of the day as he
continues his adaptation the his Yamaha bike.
Toni Elías (24):
(Free session: 1.46.702, 18th + 3.051 – 10/22 laps)
(Qualifying session: 1.47.746, 19th + 4.429 - 4/8 laps)
Toni Elias tried everything. In the morning he managed to
complete 22 laps despite the intense pain he was suffering
from the injury to his left wrist. However, in the afternoon,
with track conditions very hot, he was forced to retire from
‘his’ race.
“I gave it everything. I managed a few minutes of qualifying
which have left me hopeful about competing at Assen. Things
went better than I expected in the morning, but I lost power
in the afternoon and had to retire. I did not want to make
things any worse and would prefer to wait a bit and be 100
percent for Assen. I had it in my head that I could make it
through to Sunday and start the race, but my arm has said
no sooner than I expected. I just have to accept that is how
it is.”
The absence of Elias means David Checa will again cover for
him. The Spaniard was training at Magny Cours yesterday, but
will now fly to Barcelona to stand in for his friend.
David Checa:
“I feel bad for Toni. I would prefer not to have to
substitute for him in these circumstances, but there’s
nothing that can be done in reality. I will try to give my
best at a less demanding circuit than Mugello. Although it
will not be easy for me because I only have one day to prepare
for the race, I will give it my all.”
Ruben Xaus (11):
(Free session: 1.45.061, 16th + 1.410 – 10/19 laps)
(Qualifying session: 1.45.374, 17th + 2.057 -16/19 laps)
“I am very happy to be racing at home, in great weather
in front of many fans and the bike is going better all the
time. I hope to improve in the two sessions that are left
and find a good rhythm for Sunday’s race.”
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