An exciting WorldWCR weekend has concluded at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, bringing positive results for team MotoXracing and its riders, Roberta Ponziani and Ornella Ongaro.
On Friday the riders were out on track for free practice and Superpole, both #96 and #28 immediately determined and quick enough to place inside the top ten. Roberta stood out with an impressive 01’49”579, which assured her of a spot on the second row of the grid, while Ornella secured a solid P8, with everything to play for Race 1.
On Saturday, and after a ten-minute warm-up in which Roberta again showcased her speed, the MotoXracing riders took to the grid for this first history-making women’s world championship race. When the lights went out, Roberta made a very fast start, while Ornella’s race came to a premature end, after not even one lap, when another rider made contact. Italian Ponziani battled for the top five and was looking competitive until lap five, when the race was halted with a red flag following a serious incident for another competitor. This meant Roberta had to start over. The race was postponed to the afternoon, and #96 was again quick off the line. This time the race comprised just five laps and the Italian champion fought hard for the podium. She eventually crossed the line fourth, having put in an impressive performance. Ornella was unfortunately unable to start, following the incident in the previous heat.
Another day, another race! On Sunday, the two riders focused on bringing home important championship points. After an intense warm-up, during which both verified that everything was ready with the bike, it was time for the highly anticipated Race 2. At 11.50 am local time, the adrenaline reached a peak, with both team MotoXracing riders making an explosive start. Lap after lap, they proved to have the pace to run at the front.
The race was a triumph of determination and speed, with both riders closing top ten. While #96 scored a strong fifth place finish, #28 crossed the line seventh. Although the Italian just missed out on the podium at her home round, Team MotoXracing is very happy with this season-opener.
The team headed up by Sandro Carusi will take on round two of the WorldWCR at Donington Park in the UK, on 12-14 July.
“I’m pleased with the weekend; it was a positive round despite us having the pace to do even better! I’m proud of the riders and know our potential is very high.”
“It was a good weekend! I definitely wanted to do more, considering this was my home round, but I’m pleased we collected crucial data for the championship. I’m among the quickest, I just need to improve something in the race. We’ll do more next time!”
“I’m happy with Race 2. I’ve been waiting for this moment for seven years and this dream has finally come true. I’d say we made up for a tough Race 1! I didn’t think I’d be able to fight for seventh right away, though I had the pace for top five, I think. I’m pleased that we’ve collected useful data and now we’ll focus on round 2 at Donington!”
