Lorenzo amazed by qualifying performance

Jorge Lorenzo says he was amazed that he was able to ride at all in today's qualifying session at Shanghai, let alone qualify fourth, after injuring his ankles in a fall yesterday

Steven English May 3, 2008, 11:26 AM

The Spaniard said the high-side in practice was the biggest crash of his career, and has reserved expectations for tomorrow's race.

"The way I felt yesterday I couldn't even have imagined a result like this," he said. "It was all I could do to believe that I would be able to ride at all. The result is amazing for me, as good as my other pole positions, and it's given me a lot of confidence despite the pain.

"The crash was big, probably the biggest of my career, but I think I was actually quite lucky not to have worse injuries. I have a lot of pain in both feet and ankles, and it's difficult to change down with the left and to change direction with the right, but I showed I am able to do it.

"Now I just have to take care, and hopefully I will be feeling better again tomorrow and we will do what we can in the race, rain or shine."