Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By Glenn Le Santo

Katsuaki Fujiwara took pole position for Sunday’s World Supersport race in Sugo in a dry final qualifying session.

The Alstare Suzuki rider fought off a determined challenge from teammate and 2002 race winner Stephane Chambon. Christian Kellner and Pere Riba joined the pair for an all-Dunlop front row.

Fujiwara’s time of 1:32.044 is over one second faster than the first Pirelli rider on the grid, wild card Tekkyu Kayo on the Belgarda Yamaha this weekend. His best lap of 1:33.059 put him on the second row in front of fellow Pirelli riders Karl Muggeridge, Chris Vermeulen and Iain MacPherson. In typical Supersport fashion, only half-a-second separates the riders from 5th place down to 15th place!

World Supersport Championship
Round Three, Sugo
25-26-27 April 2003

Final Qualifying
Fastest Times

1. K. Fujiwara, JPN, Suzuki, 1:32.044
2. S. Chambon, FRA, Suzuki, 1:32.344
3. C. Kellner, GER, Yamaha, 1:32.823
4. P. Riba, Kawasaki, 1:32.995
5. T. Kayo, JPN, Yamaha, 1:33.059
6. K. Muggeridge, AUS, Honda, 1:33.078
7. C. Vermeulen, AUS, Honda, 1:33.089
8. I. MacPherson, GBR, Honda, 1:33.127
9. B. Parkes, AUS, Honda, 1:33.129
10. J. VD Goorbergh, NED, Yamaha, 1:33.132




More, from a press release issued by Ten Kate Honda:

Saturday brings a great improvement for the Ten Kate Honda team

After a disappointing Friday qualifying in terrible conditions, the Ten Kate Honda team worked hard to put both riders onto the second row for Sunday’s race.

Karl Muggeridge, who will start from sixth on the grid said: “I’m really happy we got some dry time today so we could get a proper race set up sorted. I’ve done so many laps in the last two days that I’m now the happiest on the new Honda CBR600RR that I’ve ever been. The bike is great in all areas, we have a good race tyre and I feel this is a perfect opportunity for me to be contesting for a win.”

His team mate Chris Vermeulen, fresh from his win in Phillip Island, will be right beside Muggeridge on the grid after qualifying seventh.

“Things were much better today,” said Vermeulen after qualifying. “And that wasn’t just because it was dry, but because we needed more time on the new bike at this circuit. Remember that Fujiwara and Chambon tested here after Phillip Island and as a result of that test they’re in another world so far this weekend and that’s making life hard for us. But I think on race tyres things are much closer and so I am confident of a good finish.”

Team Manager Ronald ten Kate confirmed his riders feelings, “The entire team has worked very hard with the riders to find a good race setting,” he explained. “We are very confident for Sunday because we know that on race tyres things will be different. We are all getting ready for a very big race on Sunday!”

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Combined MotoGP Qualifying Times
Arnette Africa’s Grand Prix
Welkom, South Africa

1. Sete Gibernau, Spain, Honda, 1:33.174
2. Valentino Rossi, Italy, Honda, 1:33.370
3. Max Biaggi, Italy, Honda, 1:33.386
4. Loris Capirossi, Italy, Ducati, 1:33.408
5. Shinya Nakano, Japan, Yamaha, 1:33.548
6. Tohru Ukawa, Japan, Honda, 1:33.586
7. Carlos Checa, Spain, Yamaha, 1:33.662
8. Colin Edwards, USA, Aprilia, 1:33.697
9. Troy Bayliss, Australia, Ducati, 1:33.756
10. Alex Barros, Brazil, Yamaha, 1:33.765
11. Nicky Hayden, USA, Honda, 1:33.838
12. Olivier Jacque, France, Yamaha, 1:33.917
13. Jeremy McWilliams, UK, Proton, 1:33.938
14. Norick Abe, Japan, Yamaha, 1:34.152
15. Nobuatsu Aoki, Japan, Proton, 1:34.269
16. John Hopkins, USA, Suzuki, 1:34.306
17. Kenny Roberts, USA, Suzuki, 1:34.646
18. Makoto Tamada, Japan, Honda, 1:34.670
19. Noriyuki Haga, Japan, Aprilia, 1:34.731
20. Andrew Pitt, Australia, Kawasaki, 1:35.128
21. Garry McCoy, Australia, Kawasaki, 1:35.566



Top Speeds:
1. Capirossi, Ducati, 274.5 kph
2. Rossi, Honda, 272.1 kph
3. Bayliss, Ducati, 271.7 kph
4. Ukawa, Honda, 270.9 kph
5. Hayden, Honda, 270.0 kph
6. Nakano, Yamaha, 269.1 kph
7. Biaggi, Honda, 269.1 kph
8. Gibernau, Honda, 266.8 kph
9. Tamada, Honda, 266.7 kph
10. Hopkins, Suzuki, 266.3 kph
11. McCoy, Kawasaki, 265.3 kph
12. Jacque, Yamaha, 264.4 kph
13. Checa, Yamaha, 264.4 kph
14. Edwards, Aprilia, 264.3 kph
15. Roberts, Suzuki, 263.4 kph
16. Abe, Yamaha, 263.4 kph
17. Barros, Yamaha, 263.0 kph
18. Haga, Aprilia, 261.9 kph
19. Pitt, Kawasaki, 260.4 kph
20. Aoki, Proton, 253.5 kph
21. McWilliams, Proton, 252.1 kph


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

African’s Grand Prix
Saturday, 26 April 2003
Welkom, South Africa

FORTUNA YAMAHA TEAM MORE UPBEAT AFTER FINAL QUALIFYING

Fortuna Yamaha Team rider Carlos Checa put in a determined effort to improve his grid position for Sunday’s 28 lap race in what was one of the most competitive final qualifying sessions so far in MotoGP, for the Africa’s Grand Prix. In perfect conditions, and with a clean line around the 4242m circuit, virtually every rider in the 21 bike field improved on their Friday times – leaving only one second separating the top 15 riders, and 2.392 seconds separating the entire field.

Following on from the change in direction made yesterday to the suspension set-up of his Yamaha YZR-M1, Checa and his team improved the overall feel and balance of the machine even more today, resulting in a 1.144 second improvement to his Friday time. Consistently strong throughout the hour-long session, even while endurance testing tyres, the Spaniard eventually posted his fastest time, a 1:33.662, only on lap 27 to qualify seventh fastest overall.

Provisional pole sitter Valentino Rossi (Honda) was dislodged from the top of the time sheets when Sete Gibernau (Honda) produced a 1:33.174 in the final stages to clinch the number one position for the start of tomorrow’s main event. Rossi, with a 1:33.370, posted the second quickest time, followed by Max Biaggi (Honda, 1:33.386) and Loris Capirossi (Ducati, 1:33.408) – the latter crashing in the final few minutes of the session. Leaving fifth placed Shinya Nakano (d’Antin Yamaha Team, 1:33.548) to miss out on a front row start by a mere 0.14 seconds.

Checa’s mood was particularly upbeat at the close of the session, “I’m quite satisfied and I think we’ve improved a lot from yesterday, this morning and to now,” said the Spaniard. “At least now I am enjoying the riding much more – I can brake, I can open and flick in the right areas. This has been impossible for me for quite a while, even through this winter in testing and at Suzuka.”

Checa’s crew chief Antonio Jimenez and his team made adjustments to chassis and suspension balance on the YZR-M1 after yesterday’s first qualifying session, and it made all the difference. “We’ve gone back to closer to last year’s set-up,” explained Checa, “and with this new chassis balance I feel more comfortable. Now I have a clearer idea of what we must improve to go faster, even though we’re already close to the limit. I’m so close to the top guys so I’m sure the race will be difficult and this is not an easy circuit to pass at. But I feel quite confident to have a chance to win. I’m mostly happy because I was riding so rigidly before and now I don’t look like a plastic toy rider any more!”

After a somewhat sedate start to the Welkom MotoGP weekend, Fortuna Yamaha Team rider Norick Abe strung together a series of consistent laps that eventually placed him 14th on the timesheets. His time, a 1:34.152, saw him only 0.978 seconds shy of pole.

The Japanese rider and Melandri replacement was very pleased with his performance today, “We changed many settings since yesterday,” said Abe. “My chief mechanic Fiorenzo Fanali and my team worked very well to adjust the front geometry. I think this setting is very good for the race. The lap time I got today was my target, as I said yesterday – to improve by one second, and I got it! I never like qualifying, I like racing, so I think we are in a good position to make a good race tomorrow.”

Team Director Davide Brivio commented, “The team and riders have worked really well together to make improvements since yesterday. Carlos has found a much better feeling, he has taken a big step between yesterday morning and this afternoon. He will start from the second row, and has found a good pace. We can now look forward to tomorrow’s race. Norick has also improved a lot in the two days – tomorrow he can go for the race and enjoy it.”


FRONT ROW

1. Sete Gibernau (SPA) Telefonica Movistar HONDA 1:33.174

2. Valentino Rossi (ITA) Repsol HONDA 1:33.370

3. Max Biaggi (ITA) Camel Pramac Pons HONDA 1:33.386

4. Loris Capirossi (ITA) DUCATI Marlboro Team 1:33.408

7. CARLOS CHECA SPA Fortuna YAMAHA Team 1:34.662
14. NORICK ABE JPN Fortuna YAMAHA Team 1:34.152




More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

Africa’s GP, Welkom
Final Qualifying
Saturday, April 26 2003

DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM GRABS FIRST FRONT-ROW START

Ducati Marlboro Team rider Loris Capirossi stormed back from a late-session tumble in this afternoon’s final Welkom qualifier to grab the team’s first-ever front-row start. Team-mate Troy Bayliss was also gunning for a good grid slot until a minor error in his final run left him on row three, albeit less than sixth tenths off pole.

“We’re very happy with our first front row,” said Ducati Marlboro Team technical director Corrado Cecchinelli. “We’re also happy that we’ve made a big step forward since qualifying for our first MotoGP race at Suzuka three weeks ago. Loris rode a great session, and though he crashed his favourite bike, he still came back on his ‘number two’ machine to move onto the front row. Troy is ninth but very close to the front guys, and this is his first visit to this track.

“The race will be tough – the circuit and the hot weather make it hard for the tyres. The front-tyre wear rate is quite high here and the rear runs high temperatures, but we think we’ve found good race-tyre choices. Both riders did race simulations this morning, though they were cut short when the session was red-flagged.”

Capirossi and Bayliss are wearing black arm bands here in memory of fellow MotoGP rider Daijiro Kao who passed away last Saturday night, following his accident at the Japanese GP on April 6. They also have Kato’s number 74 on their fairing screens.

CAPIROSSI TAKES FOURTH AFTER TUMBLE

Loris Capirossi rode a remarkable session this afternoon. The Ducati Marlboro Team man was making a charge for pole position in the final ten minutes when he slid off his Desmosedici into turn two. Unfazed by the fall, he immediately rode back to the pits, collected his other bike and put in his fastest lap of the weekend, lifting himself from fifth to fourth quickest, just 0.234 seconds off pole.

“It’s important to be on the front row here, because it’s so difficult to pass, it’s not like Suzuka,” said the Italian, who started from row four in Japan but was second into the first turn. “We were focusing on some important tests for the race, rather than going for lap times. But don’t forget, we came here with no data for this circuit, and we’ve had just four hours track time, so anywhere on the front row has to be good! After the crash I took my second bike, which I don’t like quite so much, but I was able to go fast enough to get a front row. And my best lap would’ve been faster if I hadn’t had to pass another rider at the final hairpin.”

BAYLISS NINTH BUT CLOSE TO POLE

Ducati Marlboro Team rider Troy Bayliss ended yesterday’s opening qualifier on the provisional front row but slipped back to ninth fastest this afternoon, after a couple of minor errors in the crucial final stages. Nevertheless the hard-charging Aussie is looking forward to tomorrow’s race, which he expects to be particularly gruelling.

“That was quite good but we made a couple of tiny set-up changes towards the end and maybe we went the wrong way,” said Bayliss, just 0.582 seconds off pole. “Then I made a mistake out on the track on my final run, which I wasn’t so happy about. That leaves us on the third row, which isn’t great, but overall we’re not too bad and we’re heading the right way with the bike. It’s going to be a hard race – long and hot, and it’s difficult to pass here. Tyre-wise we’re feeling okay.”



More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki News Service:

SUZUKIS SIDE BY SIDE IN WELKOM

Welkom, South Africa – Saturday, April 26, 2003

Team Suzuki riders John Hopkins and Kenny Roberts Jr. qualified side by side in the final time sheets for tomorrow’s Africa’s Grand Prix, placed 16th and 17th in an ultra-close list – Hopkins barely a second off pole time.

But the team-mates will start the race on different rows of the grid … Hopkins on the end of the fourth row, and Roberts leading the fifth.

The second of two days of qualifying at the 4.242km Phakisa Freeway circuit, held in blazing sunshine at the high-altitude South African circuit, saw all but one of the MotoGP riders cut their lap times compared with yesterday, with Hopkins taking almost three quarters of a second off his time, and Roberts some three tenths off his.

This was in spite of a puzzling electronic engine-mapping glitch that emerged during the afternoon – each rider had problems that spoiled their chances of moving higher up the grid – a matter of only a few tenths of a second would have gained them one or two rows. The 990cc GSV-R machines they are riding are still at a very early stage of development, and teething troubles – if not welcome – are to be expected.

The weekend has seen a change in the pit-box line-up. With Roberts’s race engineer Bob Toomey temporarily absent for personal reasons, his place has been taken for this race by software engineer and technical coordinator Alfred Willeke.

JOHN HOPKINS – 16th POSITION, 1:34.306
I had quite a good session this morning. We ran through a lot of settings, and dropped almost a second compared with yesterday afternoon. I did a lot of laps and ran race distance on my race tyre, so that was good. I wanted to continue in the afternoon, with a few more little things to try. At the beginning it went okay – I was getting behind people and doing laps. Then things started to go wrong. We made an adjustment that for the first time all day was wrong. Then we ran straight into an engine mapping problem, that I knew we couldn’t cure during the session. So at the end I came in for a new tyre, got behind Troy Bayliss, let him know I wasn’t going to go by, then followed him for a pretty hairball fast lap. I tried my best, and matched my morning time even with the problems. For the race I really want to get the best start possible, then stick in there … stay consistent, give 100 percent, and see what happens.

KENNY ROBERTS Jr – 17th POSITION, 1:34.646
I’m not really sure what kind of day we had, besides a strange one. For the race it’s a different story, as far as getting a start and trying to stay within my lap times. That really doesn’t depend on what we did today. Something happened with my first bike,with the engine mapping system running uncontrollably. So I went out on the other bike and that had a problem of the same sort. I don’t know how to explain it. The best thing is to ask the engineers who designed it, because something happens and the bike becomes somewhat unrideable. I’d backshift, and it would shut off, then come alive again. For the race, my level is not where it needs to be to make us competitive. I need for the engineers to fix the bike so I can ride it tomorrow. Other than that: congratulations to my ex-team-mate Sete, on pole in his first time here on a non-factory bike. That gives me hope.

SATURDAY OFFICIAL QUALIFYING TIMES WELKOM, SOUTH AFRICA

1. Sete Gibernau (Honda) 1:33.174
2. Valentino Rossi (Honda) +0.196
3. Max Biaggi (Honda) +0.212
4. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) +0.234
5. Shinya Nakano (Yamaha) +0.374
6. Tohru Ukawa (Honda) +0.412
7. Carlos Checa (Yamaha) +0.488
8. Colin Edwards (Aprilia) +0.523
9. Troy Bayliss (Ducati) +0.582
10. Alex Barros (Yamaha) +0.591
16. John Hopkins (Suzuki Grand Prix Team) +1.132
17. Kenny Roberts (Suzuki Grand Prix Team) +1.472


More, from a press release issued by Proton Team KR:

PROTON CHALLENGES FAST MEN AS V5 FIRES UP AT HOME

Round 2: Africa’s GP, Welkom
Final Qualifying: Saturday, April 26, 2003

Jeremy McWilliams: 13th, 1:33.938
Nobuatsu Aoki: 15th, 1:34.269

Proton Team KR rider Jeremy McWilliams gave his obsolescent 500cc two-stroke a stirring swansong in the final qualifying session at Welkom today, with a thrilling demonstration of sustained on-the-limit riding. The reward was sixth-fastest time, good enough for the second row of the grid.

The moment did not last, however. In a hectic end to a blazing hot qualifying session. McWilliams was pushed back to head the fourth row in a batch of times so close that tenths of a second made a big difference to position. At the finish, McWilliams was less than eight tenths slower than pole position, almost a second faster than the 4.242km circuit’s lap record, and better than two seconds faster than his qualifying time last year, on essentially the same motorcycle.

Team-mate Nobuatsu Aoki was no less impressive, singing the Bridgestone-tyred two-stroke round the track barely three tenths slower, so he will also start from the fourth row.

The Proton KR3s are the last 500cc two-strokes still racing in the MotoGP class, which last year allowed the new-generation 990cc four-stroke prototypes to join in. Team and riders are both hoping this will be the KR3’s last race, with the team’s own new V5 nearing completion in Britain, and the Spanish GP in two weeks time the target for the four-stroke’s debut.

While the race team was getting the best out of the old bike, team owner Kenny Roberts took the new V5 for its first rolling test, although heavy rain limited the number of runs. Both full-time riders will test the machine at Snetterton circuit in England on Thursday.

Today’s practice took place in hot and sunny conditions. Pole time was set by Sete Gibernau (Honda).

JEREMY McWILLIAMS
I’m feeling a bit frustrated. I thought that time would be good enough to keep me on the third row, but I was pushed off. The lap felt right past the limit, and it was more than I’d expected, so I didn’t do any more like that. Less than a second off is about as close as I got at most races last year, though we were better a couple of times. But when times are so close half-a-second makes a huge difference. I made a little mistake on my fast lap, and that probably cost a tenth or two. It doesn’t matter really, because the four-strokes just drive away from the start. I’ve been practising starts, but they are much faster off the line. But I’m happy with my consistency, and I ran lots of 1:34s. We’ll see how the race goes.

NOBUATSU AOKI
That was hard work. I seemed to get quicker lap by lap, but I stayed in the same position, because others were also improving. But I gave more than 100 percent so I am happy with that. This morning we carried on making the suspension softer, but in the afternoon the track gained some grip, and we made it harder again, which worked well. On a race tyre, I could run comfortable mid to high 1:34s. Then I put on a soft qualifying tyre and it didn’t work well, maybe because of the high temperature. But as long as I am happy with my race tyre, that’s okay.

CHUCK AKSLAND – Team Manager
Both riders did a tremendous job. We didn’t expect to be this close – Jeremy seven tenths off pole, and Nobu right there too. They just keep pushing the bike to the limit, and it’s great to see it. And it will be great to get the four-stroke going, and give them some more power.

Kenny rode the new bike yesterday at Bruntingthorpe airfield. It was raining and there were a few small problems, but he did some runs, and the engine is back on the dyno today. We’re shooting to have both riders test the bike on Thursday, and we’re planning to race it at Jerez.


More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing:

HONDA RACING INFORMATION

Grand Prix of South Africa at Phakisa Freeway
Final Qualifying, Saturday April 26

EMOTIONAL POLE FOR DETERMINED GIBERNAU

Under a cloudless South African sky in fierce heat and with track temperatures up to 36 degrees, Sete Gibernau (Telefonica Movistar Honda RC211V) was convinced he’d received supernatural speed from the spirit of his late team-mate Daijiro Kato. His masterly pole lap of 1m 33.174s was set on his final sprint around the 4.424km Phakisa Freeway as the rest of the pole position protagonists made their bids for the number one slot.

The newly resurfaced track provided more grip than in previous years, and the bumps that made the track so tricky had only been partially eradicated by the recent work. Conditions made qualifying hard work for both riders and machines and the sheer intensity of the final session made securing vital grid positions punishing work.

The narrow track provides few overtaking opportunities and it’s essential to get a good start here. With the top 14 riders covered by only one second, the fast starters who can capitalise on their hard work in qualifying should reap a substantial advantage in tomorrow’s 28 lap race. A race that promises to be a hard one at 1350m above sea-level.

“This has been a tough few days for everyone in the sport,” said Gibernau. “I rode the lap today but it was the push of everyone behind me that helped. I’d like to give this pole position to a great person (Kato) who gave us some great moments and I’d like to thank the fans, the media and everyone in the sport for the respect they’ve shown Kato. Our thoughts are still with his family.”

Valentino Rossi (Repsol Honda RC211V) still shrugging off the effects of flu managed to secure a vital front row start from second on the grid. He left it late to improve on his time from Friday, and he finished only 0.196 seconds shy of Gibernau’s pole time.

“I’m feeling a lot better now thanks to Doctor Costa and his team at the Clinica Mobile,” said the World Champion. “I’m not at 100% but certainly better than in the last few days. We’ve been working very hard for the best race set-up. Tomorrow will be very difficult for sure but it will be difficult for everyone. I tried hard to improve my time but Sete was faster than me and takes the pole. It is good like this with respect for Sete’s team-mate Kato.”

Third place on the grid went to Max Biaggi (Camel Pramac Pons RC211V) who’s team fine-tuned his RC211V’s low rev engine response to maximise drive out of the turns. The hot contender for tomorrow’s race knows the value of a front row start here and looks in good shape for the contest.

“For once I’m not too disappointed about missing out on pole,” said the Italian. “It’s gone to Sete and Fausto Gresini’s team and this has been the best way to remember Daijiro Kato. We fixed the technical problems we had yesterday and right from the first session in the morning the bike went perfectly. I wasted some time pitting in the session, but we had to work on the bike set-up. The race will certainly be hard because it’s very hot and the times are very close.”

Loris Capirossi (Ducati) grabbed the factory’s first ever MotoGP front row start despite crashing and remounting late in the session and Shinya Nakano (Yamaha) put his machine at the head of the second row as best qualifying Yamaha rider.

Tohru Ukawa (Camel Pramac Pons RC211V) lines up next to his Japanese countryman in seventh and he too recognises the value of the hard work put in to qualify well. Especially as he knocked himself about a bit in a fall in yesterday’s free practice.

“I have a good feeling on the bike,” said Ukawa. “I’m optimistic about the race because I’ve recovered from yesterday’s fall and also because the bike is going really well. It’s so important to make a good start because the track is difficult and overtaking is a complicated business here. We’ll work a bit more on the engine settings because the altitude means we don’t have full power. I don’t think the race will be run at pole-setting pace.”

Carlos Checa (Yamaha), Colin Edwards (Aprilia), Troy Bayliss (Ducati) and Alex Barros (Yamaha) complete the top ten while Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda RC211V) just missed out on a top ten qualification by only 0.073 seconds after posting a 1:33.838 lap.

“Things felt really good this morning,” said the Kentuckian. “I was really hoping to get into the 1:33, which I did, but then so did a lot of other guys. Man, that is the hardest I’ve ever ridden for 11th on the grid. Everyone is so close so it’s going to be a really tough race. I’ve got to figure out which tyres to use for the race and I’ll be trying to sweeten up my riding a little, especially in the final section which is so important for the whole lap time.”

Makoto Tamada (Pramac Honda RC211V) qualified 18th after slicing a second off his Friday best and he knows he faces an uphill struggle tomorrow after crashing without injury midway through today’s session. “The start won’t be easy tomorrow,” said the resolute Japanese. “We’ve found a great tyre combination and even though I’m starting way back on the grid I know I can maintain a competitive rhythm for the race.”

Randy de Puniet (Aprilia) grabbed pole by a tenth of a second from Manuel Poggiali in the 250cc category with Aprilia riders Franco Battaini and Fonsi Nieto completing the front row. Sebastian Porto (Telefonica Movistar Junior Team RS250RW) put his machine on the front of the second row as first Honda and is not too despondent.

HONDA TEAM QUOTES:

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica Movistar Honda, 1st: “First of all I want to thank the fans, the press, all the teams and everybody for the support they have given us. It fell to me to lead the tribute we all wish to offer Kato, and I think we are here thanks to the closeness and affection we are receiving. I also have to say that this is no coincidence – we had a good preseason and we continue to work hard. Tomorrow will be a tough race but I will continue to give my best and I hope Daijiro continues to give us his support, because today I felt that he was pushing me from above. Hopefully tomorrow I can honour him, his family and all those who have supported us.”

FAUSTO GRESINI, Team Manager
“Sete has been so brave today, he knew to stay focussed – a difficult thing in such a delicate situation. I have nothing to say, only that it is a nice feeling to enjoy this pole with the team.”

Valentino Rossi, Team Repsol Honda: 2nd: “I’m feeling a lot better now thanks to Dr Costa and his team at the Clinica Mobile. I’m not at 100% but certainly better than the last few days. We’ve been working very hard for the best race set-up. Tomorrow will be difficult for sure but it will be difficult for everyone. I tried hard to improve my time but Sete was faster than me and takes the pole position. It is good like this with respect for Sete’s team-mate Kato.”

Max Biaggi, Camel Pramac Pons Team: 3rd: “For once I am not too disappointed about missing out on pole position because it has gone to Sete and Fauto Gresini’steam and this has been the best way to remember Daijiro Kato. We fixed the technical problems we had yesterday and right from the first session in the morning the bike went perfectly. I wasted some time in the box, but we had to work on the bike set-up. The race will certainly be hard because it is very hot and the times are very close.”

Tohru Ukawa, Camel Pramac Pons Team: 6th: “I have a good feeling on the bike and I am optimistic ahead of the race because I have recovered from yesterday’s fall and also because the bike is going very well. It will be important to make a good start since the circuit is difficult and it is complicated to overtake. In the warm-up we must still work on the engine settings because the altitude means we still do not have full power. I do not think the race will run at pole-setting pace and I have no doubts about the bike’s settings.”

Sito Pons: “It is very competitive with 13 riders setting times in 1:33. We must wait and see each rider’s pace tomorrow in the race and I am convinced that both Max and Tohru have the rhythm to be at the front of the race alongside Gibernau, Rossi and Capirossi who will be their main rivals. I am satisfied because we have good grid positions and we have a great chance tomorrow to take victory.”

Nicky Hayden, Team Repsol Honda: 11th: “Things felt really good this morning and I was really hoping to get into the ‘33’s, which I did but so did a load of other guys. Man, that’s the hardest I’ve ever ridden for 11th on the grid! Everybody is so close it’s going to be a really tough race. I gotta figure out which tyres to use and pick a good set for the race. I’ll also be trying to sweeten up my riding a little, especially in the final section which is so important for the whole lap time.”



And now, qualifying times from 250cc and 125cc:

250cc Qualifying
1. Randy De Puniet, France, Aprilia, 1:36.247
2. Manual Poggiali, San Marino, Aprilia, 1:36.344
3. Franco Battaini, Italy, Aprilia, 1:36.523
4. Fonsi Nieto, Spain, Aprilia, 1:36.770
5. Sebastian Porto, Argentina, Honda, 1:37.063
6. Tony Elias, Spain, Aprilia, 1:37.231
7. Anthony West, Australia, Aprilia, 1:37.398
8. Roberto Rolfo, Italy, Honda, 1:37.426
9. Naoki Matsudo, Japan, Yamaha, 1:37.675
10. Hector Faubel, Spain, Aprilia, 1:37.822

125cc Qualifying
1. Youichi Ui, Japan, Aprilia, 1:40.834
2. Pablo Nieto, Spain, Aprilia, 1:40.908
3. Andrea Dovizioso, Italy, Honda, 1:41.449
4. Alex de Angelis, San Marino, 1:41.655
5. Stefano Perugini, Italy, Aprilia, 1:41.658
6. Steve Jenkner, Germany, Aprilia, 1:41.699
7. Daniel Pedrosa, Spain, Honda, 1:41.793
8. Mika Kallio, Finland, Honda, 1:41.813
9. Mirko Giansanti, Italy, Aprilia, 1:41.849
10. Gabor Talmacsi, Hungary, Aprilia, 1:41.973



Yet another press release, this one from John Hopkins’ publicist:

Hopkins qualifies 16th for Africa’s Moto Grand Prix

WELKOM, South Africa – On Saturday afternoon John Hopkins qualified his Suzuki GSV-R Grand Prix bike in 16th position for Sunday’s Africa’s Moto Grand Prix with a time of 1:34.306 on the 14 turn, 4.2 kilometer Phakisa Freeway circuit. While not totally pleased with where he ended up on the grid, Hopkins was positive about improvements made to his factory Suzuki.

“During this morning’s practice session we made a lot of adjustment to the bike,” Hopkins explained. “We did a full race distance during practice and really worked on finding a good race setup. Stuart (Shenton) wanted to work on some things and I would do about six or seven laps and then come in for adjustments.”

In qualifying Hopkins and his teammate Kenny Roberts, Jr. experience what they were told was engine mapping problems.

“I’m not totally sure what happened,” Hopkins admitted. “I’m sure the technicians will go back and take a look at it, but Kenny and I both had the same problem and it happened towards the end of the qualifying session.

“Late in session I got in behind (Troy) Bayliss and tried to stick with him. I had a couple of hairy moments, but I did the best I could. We made a big improvement over Friday’s times, so I’m happy about that.”

Hopkins now turns his attention to Sunday’s race.

“I’m going to try to get a good start and make up as many positions as I can before the first turn,” he said. “And hopefully I can hook up with a group and just do the best I can. I’m going to give it 100 percent.”

Hopkins finished 14th in last year’s race in South Africa.

For up-to-date info go to the web and check out www.hopperracing.com.

From a press release:

KAWASAKI “SPRING ’03” GOOD TIMES™ POWER BUCKS CUSTOMER CASH BACK PROGRAM

$600 value for purchase of new NINJA® ZX-6RR motorcycle

Motorcycle enthusiasts seeking a new middleweight sportbike will want to head over to their local Kawasaki dealer as Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., has launched the “Spring ’03” Good Times™ Power Bucks Customer Cash Program.

Through May 31, 2003, customers who purchase a new limited-production ’03 Kawasaki NINJA® ZX-6RR sportbike will receive $600 in Good Times Power Bucks Customer Cash. The Power Bucks may be applied to the purchase price of the motorcycle or for special factory race kit accessories or the customer can take the Power Bucks as a cash rebate.

With one of the most respected names in high-performance motorcycling, the Kawasaki NINJA ZX-6RR sportbike is designed to meet homologation rules for National and World Supersport racing. Like every new NINJA sportbike, it comes with a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty that can be extended up to three additional years. Plus, NINJA owners can purchase accessories for their new Kawasaki online at www.buykawasaki.com.

Customers are encouraged to contact their local Kawasaki dealer for more details about the “Spring ’03” Good Times Power Bucks Customer Cash Program. For more information about Kawasaki’s complete NINJA motorcycle line or to find the nearest dealer, log on to www.kawasaki.com or call 1-800-661-RIDE.

From a press release issued by the FIM:

Daijiro Kato

In a short period of time, the motorcycling world lost two great Champions. After Barry Sheene early March, Daijiro Kato passed away following serious injuries due to his accident during the Japanese Grand Prix last April 6.

Daijiro Kato was a rising star: his 250 World title brought him in the MotoGP class where he was considered as a potential World Champion. From 1996 to 1999, he took part in only one event of the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix each year: the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. He finished 3rd in 1996, he won in 1997 and 1998 and ended in 5th place in 1999. He also won there in 2000, in his first full season of the 250 World Championship Grand Prix in which he finished in the 3rd position, winning three more races (Portugal, Rio and Motegi). In 2001 he dominated the 250 class and won 11 out of 16 races – same number as Valentino Rossi in the 500cc class

FIM President Zerbi said: “It is indeed a tragedy that the promising career of Daijiro Kato has been so cruelly cut short. It is a very sad time for world motorcycle racing and a great loss for the motorcycling sport in Japan.”

From a press release issued by the FIM:

Mies, April 25/le 25 avril 2003

Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix

South African Grand Prix: decision of the FIM Stewards

The FIM has decided to take action against the participation of the Harris WCM motorcycle in its current technical configuration in the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix, in the MotoGP class. At the beginning of February, the WCM team was requested by the FIM to provide evidence that the motorcycle Harris WCM was built according to the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix Technical Regulations. A technical inspection was due to take place when the engine was ready. Subsequently, drawings were provided by the team together with the information that the motorcycle would not be ready and would not compete in the first two Grand Prix (Japan and South Africa).

Nevertheless, the WCM team was effectively present in Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix (but did not take part in the last qualifying practice session nor in the race). At the South African Grand Prix in Welkom, two members of the FIM Technical Panel, Messrs Oriol Puig Bulto (President) and Fabio Fazi (Vice-President), examined the Harris WCM and concluded that this motorcycle was not in conformity with Art. 2.2.1 of the Road Racing Grand Prix World Championship Regulations – Technical Regulations (eligibility of a prototype motorcycle).

The matter was put forward to the Race Direction in the first instance, and then brought forward to the FIM Stewards yesterday evening at the circuit of Welkom. The FIM Stewards took the decision to disqualify the two Harris WCM motorcycles from the South African Grand Prix for non conformity with Art. 2.2.1 of the Road Racing Grand Prix World Championship Regulations – Technical Regulations.

An appeal to the International Disciplinary Court may be lodged within 5 days against the decision of the FIM Stewards.

From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

PRESS INFORMATION
Africa’s GP, Welkom
First Qualifying

Friday, April 25 2003

BOTH DUCATI MARLBORO MEN ON PROVISIONAL FRONT ROW!
Ducati Marlboro Team riders Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss were once again on stunning form today, clocking second- and fourth-quickest times in this afternoon’s opening qualifying session at Welkom.

The Ducati Marlboro Team is the only top MotoGP squad never to have competed at the South African circuit, but this didn’t prevent the crew immediately getting their Desmosedecis on the pace. Capirossi even held provisional pole for a few moments before the end of the session, completing the hour-long outing just 0.144 seconds behind World Champion Valentino Rossi (Honda).

“We made some changes to Troy’s front-end set-up when we tested at Mugello last week,” explained Ducati Marlboro Team technical director Corrado Cecchinelli. “And we applied those changes to Loris’ machine for this race. We’ve adjusted the geometry – this is still early stages with this bike – so we’re still making some big changes, but it seems that front-end confidence isn’t a problem any more. But we’re not totally happy because we’re now having some rear-grip problems here, especially in the afternoon heat. The guys are lacking grip going into and through the turns, so we need to work on that.”

Welkom is the highest track in GP racing, with an altitude of 1350 metres, which reduces horsepower by between 15 and 20 per cent – about a 125’s worth! But this requires no adjustments to the Desmosedici – the bike’s Magneti Marelli engine-management system takes care of everything. “It’s a big difference and both riders feel it at first,” added Cecchinelli. “But we don’t need to touch anything on the bikes, and the riders soon adjust to it.”

CAPIROSSI CHALLENGES FOR WELKOM POLE

Loris Capirossi rode a storming first qualifying session at Welkom, challenging for pole position during the final ten minutes. With seven minutes to go the Ducati Marlboro Team man was just 0.101 seconds off pole, then he went fastest with seconds to go, slipping to second in the final order.

“Second fastest is great for us at this stage but I’m not really happy!” said Capirossi, who’s already lapping inside the track record. “We’ve only had two one-hour sessions here with this bike, so we still have a lot of work to do. I’d say we’re at 70 per cent of our potential for this track. Of course, I was pushing more than 100 per cent this afternoon, but if we keep improving the set-up step by step we can make the bike, and the results, even better. We are already very competitive, and Troy’s results prove that, but you must never forget that this project is still very young!

“The circuit is much better than before; the tarmac is smoother and less slippery, which is one reason that the pace is already faster than before. I think I can improve my speed through the final section, I was faster through there last year, so we need to take a look at that.”

BAYLISS ROMPS TO FOURTH
Ducati Marlboro Team rider Troy Bayliss gave the MotoGP paddock another indication of his talent and determination by going fourth fastest this afternoon, even though he’d never ridden the Welkom circuit before this morning. During last week’s Mugello tests the Aussie made significant improvements to front-end set-up, which have made him feel much more at home on his Desmosedici.

“Now it feels like my bike,” he smiled. “We’ve improved the front which makes things better, mainly for corner entry and mid-corner. But I think this race is going to be hard, it’s a nice track, but it’s definitely a lot of work. This afternoon we started off testing quite hard tyres, then we tried something a little different, but we didn’t really get going until the end. Overall it’s not too bad. This morning I forgot about the altitude – I went out and thought something was wrong with the bike, but then I remembered it’s the same at Kyalami, which is also pretty high.”

From a press release:

TOYE REMAINS UNCHALLENGED AS HASKOVEC FIGHTS FROM BACK OF THE GRID TO FINISH SECOND AT WILLOW SPRINGS RACEWAY

Rosamond, CA April 20th, 2003 – A sense of déjà vu permeated the crowd of spectators that flocked to Willow Springs Raceway this weekend to enjoy the 4th installment of the Toyota Cup Unlimited Formula One series. Once again San Diego’s Jeremy Toye enjoyed an unchallenged start-to-finish lead, making this his fourth consecutive first place finish this season.

Despite the lack of competition for the leader’s slot, there was plenty of excitement as a group of exceptionally strong racers battled for points and money positions further back in the pack.

Lake Elsinore’s Vincent Haskovec started the day at the very back of the grid on a Suzuki 750, yet by the end of the 2nd lap had managed to weave his way into second place a position he refused to give up for the remainder of the race.

Las Vegas rider Jeff Stern and Burbank’s Stoney Landers battled back and forth for the third slot with the podium position switching again and again for much of the race. In the end it was Landers who managed to pull away to capture third and add extra points to his strong standings this season at Willow Springs.

An equally ferocious battle between youth and experience was playing out just behind as young Corey Eaton of Placerville and veteran Clinton Whitehouse of Bakersfield fought over fifth place points. As each lap passed, it seemed one or the other had taken advantage of a new situation to take over the hotly contested fifth slot. In the final analysis, it was traffic, not cunning that did Whitehouse in as the two made their way for the checkered flag. Eaton has finished in the top five in three out his four races this season.

Rounding out the top ten money finishers were Marte Cooksey of San Diego, Stephen Hewitt of North Hollywood, Dan Lebson of Hermosa Beach and Reno Karlmian of Glendale.

After the race, Stoney Landers commented on the fun and excitement of racing at Willow Springs. “Even though I only got third place, this was one of my favorite rides. It was a great end to tough weekend … I love racing against guys who pass me … you get to work out how to pass back. … [Stern] is a great rider.”

It was the second second-place finish this year for Czech-born Vincent Haskovec who races for SGI. With less horsepower, but greater maneuverability on the turns, Haskovec was able to snake through traffic that others found frustrating. “I launched pretty good,” noted Vincent. “But it got a little dicey with Stoney
and Stern out there. I’m really happy where I finished. I had a great time.”

Toye who races for Lee’s Cycles, took his fourth consecutive first place finish in stride, claiming he’s been trying new things to get the most out of his equipment. He was racing a new motor this week and felt that he got off to a good start. “I was comfortable after the first few laps. I got a nice steady rhythm going and was able to keep up my concentration.”

The Toyota Cup Unlimited Series is a year-long calendar of events sanctioned by the Willow Springs Motorcycle Cub. These high-charged, unlimited Formula 1 races lead up to the grueling Toyota 200 race to be held October 19th. Here top riders will compete for a $150,000 purse with the winner taking home $50,000, one of the richest rewards in motorcycle racing.

This world-class event is timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the famed Willow Springs International Raceway. Founded in the fall of 1953, the track has been under the ownership of Bill Huth for over 40 years and has hosted many legendary racers.

Round Five of the Toyota Cup will be held May 16-18th including a special 50-mile Solo Race on Saturday May 17th. Call (661) 256-2471 for complete details.

Admission including pit passes and camping privileges is only $10/person.

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday’s 125cc Grand Prix Qualifying Results:

1. Youichi Ui, Aprilia, 1:41.570
2. Daniel Pedrosa, Honda, 1:41.793
3. Pablo Nieto, Aprilia, 1:41.794
4. Andrea Dovizioso, Honda, 1:42.015
5. Mirko Giansanti, Aprilia, 1:42.170
6. Hector Barbera, Aprilia, 1:42.501
7. Alex de Angelis, Aprilia, 1:42.604
8. Lucio Cecchinello, Aprilia, 1:42.697
9. Steve Jenkner, Aprilia, 1:42.836
10. Mika Kallio, Honda, 1:42.887
11. Simone Corsi, Honda, 1:43.042
12. Casey Stoner, Aprilia, 1:43.168
13. Gabor Talmacsi, Aprilia, 1:43.247
14. Stefano Bianco, Gilera, 1:43.523
15. Alvaro Bautista, Aprilia, 1:43.556
16. Gino Borsoi, Aprilia, 1:43.667
17. Jorge Lorenzo, Derbi, 1:43.677
18. Marco Simoncelli, Aprilia, 1:43.731
19. Roberto Locatelli, KTM, 1:43.819
20. Gioele Pellino, Aprilia, 1:43.851
21. Christopher Martin, Aprilia, 1:43.926
22. Stefano Perugini, Aprilia, 1:43.928
23. Max Sabbatani, Aprilia, 1:43.939
24. Arnaud Vincent, KTM, 1:43.947
25. Thomas Luthi, Honda, 1:43.951
26. Mike Di Meglio, Aprilia, 1:44.024
27. Emilio Alzamora, Derbi, 1:44.069
28. Masao Azuma, Honda, 1:44.272
29. Fabrizio Lai, Malaguti, 1:44.310
30. Julian Simon, Malaguti, 1:44.625
31. Imre Toth, Honda, 1:45.408
32. Peter Lenart, Honda, 1:47.140
33. Leon Camier, Honda, 1:48.522

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

First Qualifying Session
Friday, April 25
Welkom, South Africa

1. Valentino Rossi, Italy, Honda, 1:33.442
2. Loris Capirossi, Italy, Ducati, 1:33.586
3. Sete Gibernau, Spain, Honda, 1:33.961
4. Troy Bayliss, Australia, Ducati, 1:34.322
5. Tohru Ukawa, Japan, Honda, 1:34.334
6. Max Biaggi, Italy, Honda, 1:34.364
7. Colin Edwards, USA, Aprilia, 1:34.413
8. Alex Barros, Brazil, Yamaha, 1:34.426
9. Shinya Nakano, Japan, Yamaha, 1:34.535
10. Jeremy McWilliams, UK, Proton, 1:34.617
11. Noriyuki Haga, Japan, Aprilia, 1:34.731
12. Nicky Hayden, USA, Honda, 1:34.739
13. Carlos Checa, Spain, Yamaha, 1:34.806
14. Kenny Roberts, USA, Suzuki, 1:34.907
15. Olivier Jacque, France, Yamaha, 1:34.963
16. Nobuatsu Aoki, Japan, Proton, 1:35.061
17. John Hopkins, USA, Suzuki, 1:35.068
18. Norick Abe, Japan, Yamaha, 1:35.156
19. Makoto Tamada, Japan, Honda, 1:35.392
20. Andrew Pitt, Australia, Kawasaki, 1:36.274
21. Garry McCoy, Australia, Kawasaki, 1:36.583



More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

Africa’s Grand Prix
Friday, 25 April 2003
Welkom, South Africa

FORTUNA YAMAHA RIDERS MAKE PROGRESS IN AFRICA’S GP OPENER

Day one of the African’s MotoGP, held at Welkom’s Phakisa Freeway circuit today, proved to be a challenging venture for Fortuna Yamaha Team riders Carlos Checa and Norick Abe – the latter filling in for the injured Marco Melandri. The notoriously bumpy Welkom circuit has retained some of its former character, although recently resurfaced. The combination of bumps and the dusty surface hindered the Fortuna Yamaha Team’s attempts at finding a balanced chassis set-up during this morning’s free practice session. However as the circuit conditions gradually improved so did Carlos Checa’s confidence, with the Spaniard eventually finishing the day 13th, with a best lap time of 1:34.806.

Much of the improvement was the result of a change to the base set-up, with Checa’s best placing him only 1.364 seconds off the provisional pole time, set by defending MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi (Honda, 1:33.442). Loris Capirossi (Ducati, 1:33.586), Sete Gibernau (Honda, 1:33.961) and Troy Bayliss (Ducati, 1:34.322) completed the front row.

Carlos Checa 13th, 1:34.806: “Overall I felt better this afternoon compared to this morning. We changed the balance and chassis set-up a little since this morning’s practice session, so it feels more like last year’s set-up. The progress we made today is good – we have a better and clearer direction, and I have already got a better lap time than last year. However I am still a step behind the others so we might need to adjust the balance again. We need to use all the materials we have to progress. The circuit feels a bit better than last year because of the new asphalt. It’s still bumpy but I quite like that and I like the racing line of this circuit.”

After spending much of the pre-season testing programme and the opening race of the 2003 season on the Yamaha Factory Testing Team prototype YZR-M1, today Abe made his debut performance on the 2003 spec YZR-M1. The likeable Japanese spent the opening day of the Welkom MotoGP weekend working on a base chassis set-up, eventually finishing 18th fastest with a lap time of 1:35.156.

Abe replaces MotoGP newcomer Marco Melandri, who fell at the Suzuka Grand Prix three weeks ago breaking his leg in three places, and has been out of action since. Melandri is making impressive progress and hopes to return to the MotoGP class soon.

Norick Abe 18th, 1:35.156: “We went step by step today. It was almost the first time on this bike for me as I was only able to ride it for about three hours at the Suzuka test after the race there due to the rain. My feeling on the bike is not too bad but I do need to get a better lap time. It’s not easy with such a small time separating the riders. For tomorrow we are going to change the front geometry slightly, and take it from there. Hopefully I will be able to improve.”

Davide Brivio (Fortuna Yamaha Team Director): “Carlos was in one of the top
positions when he came into the garage to change tyres before the last five minutes of the session. Unfortunately when he went back he only had one lap before the end and was unable to improve his time. He made some improvements compared to this morning. There are many riders that are very close in the top positions so a few tenths of a second difference makes all the difference.

“Norick had his first full day on this bike, and it’s quite different to the prototype that he tested during the winter. This circuit is quite a difficult one to start with as it’s so bumpy. He is still finding his general set-up. We will use today’s feedback from both riders to make the necessary changes, and then we will see what happens tomorrow.”

PROVISIONAL FRONT ROW

1. Valentino Rossi (ITA) Repsol HONDA 1:33.442

2. Loris Capirossi (ITA) DUCATI Marlboro Team 1:33.586

3. Sete Gibernau (SPA) Telefonica Movistar HONDA 1:33.961

4. Troy Bayliss (AUS) DUCATI Marlboro Team 1:34.322

13. CARLOS CHECA SPA Fortuna YAMAHA Team 1:34.806

18. NORICK ABE JPN Fortuna YAMAHA Team 1:35.156



More, from a press release issued by John Hopkins’ publicist:

Tough luck slows Hopper

WELKOM, South Africa – A dusty track and a failing engine made for a tough first day of qualifying for John Hopkins at the South African Motorcycle Grand Prix Friday. Hopkins qualified 17th in Friday’s session after the motor on his factory Suzuki went down to three cylinders on the second-to-last corner on the final lap of qualifying. Qualifying continues Saturday.

“It’s been a tough day,” Hopkins said. “This morning I went out and tested with the Suzuka set up. This track is out in the desert and the racing surface gets really dirty. In practices I ran wide in a turn and got off line out in the dust and tucked the front end. I didn’t get a scratch on me, it was just one of those things that happen.”

Hopkins went to his back-up bike and was struggling to find speed in qualifying.

“The elevation here is something like 4500 feet so everybody is down on power,” Hopper explained. “For some reason it seems to be affecting us more than some of the other teams. I was hoping to get behind some faster bikes to get a draft. On the last lap of the session everything fell into place. I tucked in behind Sete Gibernau and Alex Barros. I had a really good lap going and then on the second-to-last turn the bike went down on three cylinders. Even with that it was by far my best lap of the day. The team figured I lost maybe three or four-tenths of a second on that last lap because of the motor going down. So even though qualifying looks bad I came really close to having a decent run.”

Now Hopkins and the Suzuki squad will focus on getting a good set-up for Saturday’s qualifying and Sunday’s race.

“Welkom is a really bumpy track so we’ll try to get it to where the bike rides smoothly,” Hopkins explained. “Tomorrow I’m hoping for the same situation where I can get a tow around to make a good qualifying run.”

Hopkins said the elevation is not bothering him. “I’ve been here for a few days and have been jogging around the track so it’s not a problem,” he said. “The weather here reminds me a lot of Southern California with the dry heat.”



More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki News Service:

SUZUKI RIDERS UP THE PACE AT WELKOM

Welkom, South Africa – April 25, 2003

Team Suzuki riders Kenny Roberts Jr. and John Hopkins claimed 14th and 17th places on the provisional starting grid for Sunday’s Africa’s Grand Prix, after the first of two days of qualifying, held in blazing sunshine at the high-altitude South African circuit.

Roberts was faster, cutting half-a-second off his previous best lap of the 4.242km circuit, outside the gold mining town of Welkom. Hopkins was only a tenth or so slower, after a desperate end-of-session fast lap went wrong in the last stages, spoiling a potentially better time.

Both riders were riding the all-new Mk2 version of the 990cc four-stroke V4 racing prototype GSV-R, which is still at an early stage of development at this, only the second of 16 races this season. While a clear improvement on last year’s machine, riders and team are still working on finding the right settings for chassis and suspension, while the factory race department is continuing crucial engine development in Japan.

Hopkins had a minor spill in the morning untimed session, but escaped unhurt.

The Phakisa Freeway circuit has been fully resurfaced, reducing the problems caused last year by worsening bumps, and also offering improved levels of grip, often a problem here in the past. Provisional pole position was won by defending champion Valentino Rossi.

KENNY ROBERTS Jr. – 14th Position, 1:34.907
Not a lot to say. It’s a big struggle at the moment. I feel like I’m going about a million miles an hour out there, but the lap time is not where it needs to be. We made the bike better as the day went on, and I was quite surprised to see the lap times we did get in the end, compared with the morning. It’s the same thing. You can’t ride the bike 100 percent at the moment. You can only do what it wants to do. With any type of tyre or setting it seems very similar, because the engine still controls everything. So we’re in difficult circumstances right now.

JOHN HOPKINS – 17th Position, 1:35.068
This track’s fairly dirty, and this morning I ran a bit off line. I was trying to get the bike turned when I lost the front. Nothing spectacular, and I went back out and ran some laps to work on the set-up. This afternoon I was trying some different tyres, and working with the suspension to try and improve corner entry and mid-corner speed. We succeeded a little bit, though I’m not where I want to be. At the end I put on a new tyre and managed to get together with Alex Barros and Sete Gibernau. I was really struggling … having to brake extra hard to make up time lost on the straights, but I was still on their back tyres until the second last turn, when the engine went on to three cylinders. I knew it would still be my fastest lap, so I nursed to nurse it back, and ended up where I did. I’m sure the lap would have easily been a couple of tenths better.

FRIDAY OFFICIAL QUALIFYING TIMES WELKOM, SOUTH AFRICA

1. Valentino Rossi (Honda) 1’33.442

2. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) + 0.144

3. Sete Gibernau (Honda ) + 0.519

4. Troy Bayliss (Ducati) + 0.880

5. Tohru Ukawa (Honda) + 0.892

6. Max Biaggi (Honda) + 0.922

7. Colin Edwards (Aprilia) + 0.971

8. Alex Barros (Yamaha) + 0.984

9. Shinya Nakano (Yamaha) + 1.093

10. Jeremy McWilliams (Proton KR) + 1.175

14. Kenny Roberts (Suzuki Grand Prix Team) +1.465

17. John Hopkins (Suzuki Grand Prix Team) +1.626

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Racer Eric Kelcher, creator and sponsor of the CCS/CMRA Race To The Beach contests, married CCS Event Manager Tiffiney Ingram, on April 6, in Dallas, Texas.