After performing so well in pre-series practice, it was surprising to see Ben Spies (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) qualify way back in 11th position for the opening round in Qatar last weekend. Somewhat vague about the causes, Spies claimed he was not responsible for all of the issues (a setup mistake by his team, perhaps?). Nevertheless, it was the race that counted, and Spies had to make the best of a difficult grid position.
That he did. Showing the same aggression he frequently displayed on a Superbike, Spies gained four positions on the opening lap, and continued to charge forward to finish in fifth position, just two seconds outside the podium, and less than four seconds behind race winner Valentino Rossi (Yamaha)!
During his charge to the front, Spies posted the fourth quickest lap time of the race (on lap 17), and passed scores of experienced MotoGP pilots, including Dani Pedrosa (Honda). Who knows what he might have done with a better grid position at the start. This kid will be fun to watch.
