Open Paddock build-up to exciting Imola Superbike weekend
Excitement is growing at Imola for the arrival of this weekend's World Superbike round. In the traditional open day for the public, the paddock was invaded by a sea of fans and SBK enthusiasts who surrounded the interview area to greet the riders and join the queues for autographs. Judging by today's influx and the perfect spring weather conditions it is expected that the total of 78,000 fans recorded last year will be exceeded.
The championship standings see Max Biaggi (Aprilia Racing) in the lead with 45 points, ahead of Marco Melandri (BMW Motorrad) on 30, an intriguing situation for all Italian fans. Today the two champions were present at the official press conference together with 2011 title winner Carlos Checa (Ducati Althea Racing), 2011 race 1 winner Jonathan Rea (Honda World Superbike Team) and 2009 winner Michel Fabrizio (BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet), the only Italian to triumph in an Imola Superbike race.
But this weekend's event was not the only talking-point at the press conference, as the riders were quizzed by pupils from a couple of Imola state schools about road safety.
"It's always better to be very careful on the road. I've been racing for many years, I'm not here to preach to you but just to say to you that if you want to ride fast then do it on the track with the right equipment, the right bike and every possible safety measure", said Melandri.
"When I was a lad I did some crazy things on a scooter but now I'm champion I realize how wrong it was," added Biaggi. "I am lucky to be able to talk about it today, don't make the same mistakes, if you want to emulate us then do it on the track, never amongst pedestrians, cars and lorries".
The schedule for the second World Superbike round sees action start with Free Practice 1 in the morning (11.45-12.30) and first Qualifying at 15.30-16.15. World Supersport and the two Superstock categories (1000 and 600) make up the rest of the weekend programme.
