Kris Turner Scores First Podium Finish!

June 3, 2007 - American 125cc racer Kris Turner took his first podium finish today with a come-from-behind effort that yielded 3rd place and 16 points in the second round of the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup.

In reaching the podium, Kris scored the first points for an American rider in the 2007 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup!

Young French rider Johann Zarco on Saturday snatched victory from Italy’s Lorenzo Savadori on the Mugello GP racing circuit in Italy to win the race.

Zarco missed a good start but successfully fended off challenges to take victory in an exciting race.

The talented Savadori, just 14 years-old, secured the second place and after winning the first event in Jerez, Spain, solidified his lead in the championship standings.

The young riders not only had another taste of racing before a huge and enthusiastic GP crowd in a major circuit, they also experienced the fickle nature of the weather. 

Although the sun came out over the Tuscan racing circuit before the riders crossed the starting line, there was still a lot of water on the circuit and all started with wet weather tires.

Zarco started on pole but did not put in a good start and settled into a duel with the Spaniard Luis Salon and American Cameron Beaubier.  The American, who then hit the front, low-sided in lap 8 of the 14-lap race and thus put himself out of contention.

A battle developed between Zarco and Savadori with the Italian making up ground as the track continued to dry out.  Savadori made several attempts to take on Zarco in the final stages but had to settle for second place on the podium at the checkered flag.

”What a race,” said Zarco. “At first the battle with Salom, then with Beaubier, then suddenly I had a clear lead and Savadori caught up once again. The race couldn’t have gone on for much longer.”

Savadori, whose wish it had been to follow up his first victory in the championship with another in Italy, said that despite a well planned race, the wet surface made it difficult to challenge Zarco in the final stages. “In the end I’m pretty happy with second place,” he said.

Results
1. Johann Zarco, France, KTM 33'28.750
2. Lorenzo Savadori, Italy, KTM 33'28.986
3. Kris Turner, USA KTM 33'42.263
4. Matthew Hoyle, Britain, KTM 33'47.421
5. Stuart Mitchell, Britain, KTM 33'52.842