Amanzimtoti rider makes a comeback at Dezzi Raceway
Despite facing issues throughout the weekend, the Amanzimtoti motorcyclist worked his way up the grid to podium position.
DESPITE a race weekend riddled with problems, Malcolm Rudman made a comeback by securing an overall second place and the fastest lap at Dezzi Raceway.
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The Amanzimtoti motorcyclist was one of nine who recently competed in Round 7 of the Formula Extreme category, hosted by KZN Road Racing Club.
“From the start of the weekend, we were riddled with problems. We had a fuel pump failure on my main bike which ruled us out of Friday practice. Luckily, my friend and pit crew member, Wesley Schmidt, jumped into action and loaded my spare bike up and brought it in time for qualifying. It all seemed okay until we went out in the qualifying and immediately picked up a misfire,” he said.
After having to pit after one lap, his pit crew rushed to prepare the spare bike and get tyres changed in preparation for Race 1.
Rudman said, “I had to start at the back of the grid because I didn’t have a qualifying time. I fought my way to the front in roughly two laps and built a comfortable lead until disaster struck. A water leak and overheating caused a major power decrease, forcing me to shut off completely and nurse the bike to the finish line. This resulted in a fourth-place finish.”
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Once back in the pits, they jumped into action and got the bike up and running again in time for Race 2. “I started sixth on the grid and got a great start, placing third in turn one. I worked my way to the front within the first lap, building myself a comfortable lead. I maintained my pace and clenched my first race win for 2023, ” said Rudman.
He secured second place overall for the weekend, as well as the fastest lap time of 00:01:15.959.
Rudman thanked all those who made an effort to help him achieve this race result, as well as the KZN Road Racing Club for welcoming him back with open arms.
He is currently gearing up for the next race on November 4 and looking forward to next year’s racing season.
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