High for Qabil, low for Danish in Asia Cup

PETALING JAYA: Young rider Qabil Irfan (pic) got his Moto4 Asia Cup season off to a flying start after stepping on the podium at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram yesterday.

The 14-year-old crossed the finish line in second place for Race 2, improving on his sixth-place finish for Race 1 on Saturday.

“It was my first time racing in this Moto4 championship, and I got to see how I rode against the others,” said Qabil.

“I tried my best for Race 1, but could only manage a sixth-place finish.

“But in Race 2, I started in second place and tried to fight from the start till the end. I learned a lot and I’m really happy to walk away with second place.”

Japan’s Hayato Chisiki won both races and leads the championship with 50 points, with compatriot Waku Kunitate in second place with 33 points.

Qabil’s results see him in third place with 30 points heading to the second round at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar next month.

Meanwhile, Moto3 debutant Hakim Danish Ramli wrapped up his first race in 18th place in Thailand with a time of 32:39.996s.

Spain’s David Almansa took the win after clocking 32:14.186s, followed by compatriot Maximo Quiles in second and Argentina’s Valentin Perrone in third.

The 18-year-old had started the race in 15th on the grid, but said he still needed some time to get adjusted to the bike.

“Finishing 18th wasn’t the result I wanted. It wasn’t an easy race because I tried to keep up with the leading pack, but they had good pace,” said Hakim.

“I still need to improve my riding. I’m still finding the right flow on riding the bike, as well as the right setup for me.

“I will focus on it for the next race, especially my handling and corner entry. I know it’s good, but it can be better,” he said.

Hakim was three spots away from collecting points in the opening round, but will hope things improve when the next round takes place in Brazil from March 20-22.