Qatar Moto2 Test: Gardner fourth, rookie Fernandez impresses again
High winds at the Losail International Circuit certainly caused problems for riders on day-two of Official Testing in Qatar, but it was still a strong performance for Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez.
Gardner has been in top form during the test so far, much like the form that took him to victory in the final race at Portimao last year.
The Australian topped the combined standings on Friday, and followed that up with a fourth place overall on Saturday.
Speaking after the second day, Gardner said: "We had another positive day of testing in Qatar today. In the morning, there was a lot of wind, so we couldn’t ride much. Even so, we were able to try something out.
"In the afternoon, the conditions improved, and we did a positive job. We set the fourth fastest time, but were only a few thousandths off the top.
"I’m very happy with the pace we showed, as we are definitely on the right track. Once again, I want to thank the team. We still have one more day in which we will push to the fullest."
Equally impressive but for different reasons has been Gardner's rookie team-mate Raul Fernandez.
The Spanish rider was the most in-form rider from the Moto3 championship during the final rounds of the season, and with his considerable height, it seems Fernandez has taken to the bigger machines well.
Fernandez led the last session of the day early on, before finishing in eighth place overall for the Red Bull KTM Ajo team.
Fernandez is not the only rookie to be showing great speed, but he has been the most eye catching so far.
"I’m very happy with how the day went. The experience of the team has been key to my adaptation to the new class," added the 20 year-old.
"I want to thank everyone for the work they are doing. Today we were able to do a few laps, because in the morning it was quite windy, but I’m satisfied with the sessions we had.
"However, we have to keep our feet on the ground and continue taking steps forward progressively, as we are still adapting to Moto2."
