Talented South African teenager Ruche Moodley continued his maiden Moto3 campaign this weekend as the world championship series visited Qatar in the Gulf region and it was the Gqeberha-born racer’s first competitive outing at the Lusail International Circuit that requires high levels of confidence and familiarity due to its high speed and flowing nature.
Picture Credit: BOE Motorsports
Moodley continues to impress in his rookie season by qualifying in 20th position on the grid and had the following to say, “It was my first visit to this track, and racing under lights is a completely new experience for me. I was feeling strong after the early practice sessions, but I knew the front runners would lift their pace as the weekend progressed. A good position during qualifying at Qatar relies heavily on slipstreaming and the over one kilometre-long pit straight, means that your qualifying performance is almost reliant on those around you, as it does your own speed. I was in a bit of a middle ground during qualifying and I couldn’t really pick up a decent tow from anyone.”
Not deterred about starting far back on the grid, Moodley has proven that race day is where he shines and he has consistently finished races several positions ahead of where he has started.
The BOE Motorsports rider dropped a few spots at the start and ended the opening lap in 22nd. “I had a big wheelie off the line so I had to get off the gas to bring the front wheel back to the ground. We opted to race on the slightly harder compound tyre. This meant the bike wouldn’t have the initial grip, but it would get better and be more consistent over the full race distance.” added Moodley
The race leaders were setting a blistering pace, which really caused the field to stretch out, yet Moodley was in a quick bunch of seasoned campaigners. “I knew that I could learn a bit from racing with guys who are in their second and third year of Moto3.”
The South African teen kept his cool as the action heated up and he gained positions as the lap counter clicked down quickly progressing from 22nd into the high teens. A few more positions were gained as riders ahead suffered crashes and mechanical issues and at just over half race distance Moodley was into the points.
“I had managed my tyre wear to keep a little in reserve for the end of the race.” And it paid off. In the closing stages Moodley gained two more positions. He took the chequered flag in 13th, earning more championship points in the process making this the third race out of four this season, in which Moodley has scored points.
An excited Moodley had the following to say “The race pace today was really quick and the heat, for the tyres and riders, was tough to deal with. It was the first time I have ridden in these conditions and I now know how tough it is, so I am glad that I kept my cool as gaining experience is very important. To leave here with points is great.”
