Ahmad Nashrul Baharuddin wins the Malaysian Super Series crown; but in unceremonious style after failing to finish the opening race of the 135cc Production Bike Championship at Sepang Circuit today due to mechanical problems.

His title was assured after sole challenger Safrizan Buang failed to take opportunity of Ahmad Nashrul’s misfortunate and only managed to finish fifth to collect 11 championship points.

That brought his total haul to 84 against Ahmad Nashrul’s 120 points with only a maximum of 25 points left in the final race of the season tomorrow at the 2007 Polini Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix as one of the support races.

Ahmad Nashrul’s race only lasted one lap as he was forced to retire and watched from the sidelines close friend Zamri Baba helping him to the title by finishing first and denying Safrizan any chance of winning the overall title.

Frustrated and angry, Ahmad Nashrul, who was second overall last year, said he was determined to make amends at tomorrow’s Race 2 and to go all out to end his season in style.

“Hopefully, I can have the same luck as my brother, Zamani. Hopefully tomorrow will be different. I am happy that we managed to get the bike ready for tomorrow,” he said in reference to Ahmad Zamani’s sensational victory in the opening race of the Superbike Championship.

In a close battle with Brent Odgers, Ahmad Zamani spoiled the Australian’s championship celebrations by edging his rival to second place. With an unassailable lead at the top of the standings with 133 points, Odgers, the 2003 champion, entered today’s race with the overall title already in the bag.

Defending champion Yasuhiro Kuhara was third; making the victory even sweeter for Ahmad Zamani, who was making his debut in the Superbike Championship this season.

“Hopefully, I can have the same form tomorrow in Race 2 and perhaps moved into top three in the championship standings. That would be really something,” said Ahmad Zamani, who missed the opening round of the season.

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