Heroic Smith braves pain to claim second row in sizzling Sepang

Posted on Oct 20, 2012 by Tech3 Racing

Tech 3 Racing Team rider Bradley Smith bravely brushed aside the pain from a left foot injury to claim a stunning top six position in Moto2 qualifying in gruelling heat and humidity at the Sepang International Circuit today.

The British rider cracked bones in two toes in a heavy fall in wet conditions yesterday but bounced back with a performance full of grit and determination today to secure a hard earned place on the second row of the grid.

Smith powered his Mistral 610 machine to a fastest lap of 2.07.721, which was less than 0.2s away from Moto2 World Championship leader Marc Marquez, who secured the final place on the front row in third behind Pol Espargaro and Scott Redding.

The 21-year-old is anticipating a physically demanding race tomorrow, which will be made even more complicated by the searing heat and humidity in Malaysia. Smith has been undergoing round-the-clock treatment with Clinica Mobile medical staff and he is confident he will be fighting at the front in what is expected to be another exciting and close Moto2 battle.

Bradley Smith 6th 2.07.721 – 16 laps:
“To be on the second row is a great result considering my physical condition because it was incredibly hard work. I just had to grit my teeth and brave the pain and it is great to be rewarded with a top six. I need to say a big thanks to the Clinica Mobile staff because without them I wouldn't be able to ride. They've done a fantastic job to help me but I know it will be a long and tough race. The heat and humidity makes it even harder when you are not 100% fit at this track, but I will get plenty of rest tonight and ice the foot again. I'm a little bit battered and bruised after two big crashes in a week and my foot is not great. I've got a crack in the fourth toe at the joint and a crack in my big toe. But I will be giving it my best shot tomorrow and I'm still confident I can be battling at the front.”