In a race marked by both subtle and dramatic weather changes, Honda’s Marco Melandri emerged victorious at Phillip Island today. Finishing second, and taking his first-ever podium in MotoGP, was Suzuki’s Chris Vermeulen (an Australian riding on his home track). A charging Valentino Rossi (Yamaha) finished third. Champion points leader Nicky Hayden (Honda) finished fifth.
With three races remaining, and pending a decision on Rossi’s pass, Hayden has a 21 point lead over Rossi in the championship. For additional details, results and points, visit the official MotoGP site here.