WILD cards Hafiza Rofa and Ramdan Rosli have both set a target of qualifying in the top-25 in Moto3 at the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix today.
Racing for SIC-AJO, Hafiza placed 29th in both free practice sessions, clocking 2 minutes 16.899s (3.126s behind the fastest rider) in the morning and 2:16.652s in the afternoon, 3.069s off the leader.
The 18-year-old said he has learnt a lot from his first experience of competing in the World Championships.
“It is quite different from racing in the Spanish CEV in terms of settings and riding skills.
“The clutch on the bike is a lot lighter and I think that is better
for me,” said the Terengganu-born rider.
“I think I did okay today but there is always room for improvement and a few settings to get right on the bike.
“I do not feel under pressure to perform as the team have not placed high expectations on me but at the same time I want to do well.
“My target is to finish in the top-25 tomorrow and also avoid being the slowest Malaysian in Moto3.”
Ramdan (Petronas AHM), who clocked 2:17.149s for 32nd placing in the first session and 28th on 2:16.652s in the afternoon, echoed Hafiza’s sentiments.
The 18-year-old also races in the Spanish CEV.
“It is a lot different than CEV. There are more riders here and the strategy is also much different.
“I do not feel pressure but I
will have to adjust to the situation,” said Ramdan.
“I was happy to improve my time in the second session today but from the data we have gained, I believe I can go faster.
“Hopefully I will make the top-25 tomorrow.
“Rain or shine, it does not matter to me.” By Fadhli Ishak