MotoGP: Hayden hoping for better second half as heads to home race
2006 MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden is the only American currently running in the MotoGP World Championship, and the Red Bull Indianapolis Grand prix represents the home race for the “Kentucky Kid.”
He is hoping to make amends to his fans after being forced to miss last year’s race through injury. Heading into Indianapolis, Hayden feels that he and his team can expect a better second half of the year after only managing two point-scoring finishes in the first nine races.
“I am excited to race at Indianapolis, my true home grand prix, which is really close to where I live,” said the 34-year-old Hayden. “Unfortunately I had to miss it last year and it was tough to be there watching without being able to take part. It also means I haven't had chance to evaluate the changes to the track myself yet although the feedback from the other riders was generally positive, so I'm looking forward to riding. We will be competing alongside the MotoAmerica boys, who will be riding from Thursday so there should be some rubber laid down for when we go out on Friday, which is good. It is no secret that the first half of the season has not gone as well as we'd hoped. I have had a chance to rest up a little over the last three weeks and also get some training done. I am sure we will return at a higher level for the second half of the season.”
