Remy Gardner’s first pole position was promptly hailed by his absent father Wayne. “He was on the phone when I got back to my pit, so that was great,” the jubilant 21-year-old said.
Remy had been fastest in free practice, but found the going tougher in the heat of the afternoon qualifying session.
“This morning was awesome – half a second ahead. I knew then I could be on the front row. I was sort of expecting pole, but I didn’t want to say I’d get it.
It was a lot more difficult in the afternoon. When I went out the bike was sliding around a lot and it was difficult to make a good lap time.
“I came into the pits and said: fire in a new rear tyre, and the the bike was like in the morning.
“I nearly got pole at Silverstone last year, so this is really cool.
“I’m finally getting over my collarbone injury, and I’m able to train, so I’m back in shape.”
1987 500 champion Wayne has shepherded Remy to his present position, but does not attend every race.
