An exciting race between Adam Norrodin and Masaki saw the leader’s authority imposed in the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup, but a great victory by Japan’s Ayumu Sasaki in the first race of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup, running alongside WSBK this weekend at the Sepang International Circuit.

Sasaki started from pole in the morning after achieving the fast time in Qualifying, over seven tenths of a second faster than Masaki in second and 1’1 quicker than Rasol, looking as though it would be a comfortable victory for the Japanese rider come race day, but both Kunimine and Malaysian Norrodin were up towards the front with Ogura, Masaki and Atiratphuvapat going getting off to the fastest start.

The race pace was slower than anticipated, the leading group featuring more and more competitors as they caught the leading trio. Sasaki, after trying to escape and seeing it was impossible to do so, chose to let the others fight it out for the lead, watching and saving his tires for the end. This tactic was also being used by Norrodin.

The group of six riders produced a great battle, with constant changes at the front meaning it would all come to the last lap. This was the moment that Norrodin chose to stand as the leader, but it was clear that Sasaki did not want to miss the chance of taking his first win of the year. With the action reaching a crescendo at the last corner, Sasaki crossed the line first, winning ahead of Norrodin and Masaki. This he becomes the fifth different winner from five races so far in the Cup.

Sasaki retains the lead in the standings with 101 points, Masaki is 33 behind with Thailand’s Chantra a further 40 back, missing this round through injury. Adam Norrodin is currently is 8th position in the championship with 46 points.

Catch Race 2 in Sepang Intenational Circuit 12 noon today, and cheer for Team ATC  Malaysia.

Photo Courtesy: Crunch Communication