BRITISH teenager Alex Murley may have left the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in Italy on Sunday with no additional championship points, but that did not stop the teenager looking back on what was a positive weekend in many respects.
Murley, who is currently mid-way through his debut season in the European Junior Cup, had never been to Misano before but that did not prevent him finishing inside the top ten in free practice and in the sole qualifying session.
Murley’s tenth on the grid was impressive and also earned the 17-year-old the accolade of being the best placed British entrant at the event.
Raceday dawned with confidence high but the hopes of a big points haul were short lived as Murley, who made a good, start slid out of contention towards the end of the opening lap on a track that appeared less grippy than during earlier sessions.
Despite failing to add to his tally, Murley still sits a more than respectable 17th overall in the standings with four rounds remaining, the next of which takes place in a couple of months at the Lausitzring in Germany.
“The weekend was so positive in many ways that I’m not too disappointed with the outcome of the race,” said Murley.
“Qualifying was strong. I was in the top ten with no track knowledge and I was top Brit which is always nice.
“The weekend was so good up until the race but we move on to the next round confident with the steps that we are making each time we go out.
“Rider development is so important at my age and we are getting better and better each time I ride and this is the main thing. Thanks to Matt, and everyone that was there to support me.”
