Hakim Danish dedicates Aragon win to all Malaysians
KUALA LUMPUR: Motorcycle racer Hakim Danish Ramli is on track to becoming the first-ever Malaysian to win the Red Bull Rookies Cup title.
With the season nearing the halfway mark, Hakim consolidated his position atop the championship standings after winning his first race of the season in Aragon, Spain (race two) yesterday (June 8).
The 17-year-old now has 125 points to his name. Spanish duo Brian Uriarte (95 points) and Benat Fernandez (63 points) are second and third in the championship.
Hakim dedicated his victory in Aragon, Spain to all Malaysians.
Uriarte (+0.188s) and David Gonzalez (+0.195s) finished second and third in race two.
"Obviously I'm really happy to win the race as it was quite challenging," said Hakim.
"My tyre grip was fading so I had to manage it carefully and try my best to remain patient while staying with the lead group.
"On the second last lap I made a mistake and forgot to downshift one more gear. I got overtaken and went down to seventh position.
"I quickly focused on catching up and during the last corner was able to get on the throttle earlier and hit the line first.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported me, this win is for all Malaysians."
With four rounds and eight races remaining this season, the championship fight is far from over though Hakim's consistent performances this season will put pressure on his rivals.
The Terengganu-born finished second in all his first five races of the season before winning yesterday.
The Red Bull Rookies Cup is one of the key feeder series for the Moto3 World Championship. Former champions in the series who have gone on to shine include Johann Zarco, Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta, among others
Last month Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif disclosed that Hakim essentially has a seat waiting for him in Moto3 next season but must first prove himself worthy of the slot.
Hakim is a product of SIC's two-wheel talent development programme which is run by ZK Racing.
Mugello will host the next round of the Red Bull Rookies Cup on June 21-22.
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