Road Race
Round 1: Malaysian Grand Prix
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ROAD RACING SERIES
By Michael Scott
Photos by Gold & Goose
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSlA, APR. 18
11 sorts of records were set in Malaysia today, at the magnificent new Sepang circuit
outside Kuala Lumpur, when "American Express" Kenny Roberts Jr. claimed a commanding first Grand Prix win in the blazing 32-degree tropical heat.
It was the first win for Suzuki since Germany in 1995. It was the first time since
that same race that a Honda has not finished first or second; the first win by a rider whose
father had also won a 500cc GP since Alberto and Nello Pagani; and the first win by an
American since Kevin Schwantz at Donington Park in 1994.
Mainly, it was a superb start to!, 500cc season that promises heaps of drama to come.
(Left) The happiest man in the world: Kenny Roberts Jr. shocked everyone but himself when he
won the opening round of the SOOcc World Championship in Malaysia. Nothing was handed to
him - Roberts simply dominated the race from start to finish.
(Below) The 500cc pack enters turn one at the new Sepang circuit with John Kocinski (19) leading
the way as Roberts Jr. (10) heads up the inside.
;::
a.
«
24'
