From a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA TEAM TESTS
Barcelona, Spain
10 February, 2003

UNFORTUNATE TUMBLE FOR CHECA, BREAKTHROUGH FOR MELANDRI

Carlos Checa crashed out of today’s Fortuna Yamaha Team test in Barcelona, Spain, not long after he took to the track. The Spaniard fell at the second turn and landed heavily on his bottom. He was taken to hospital as a precaution but released soon afterwards without needing any treatment. He had completed 21 laps before the fall and took no further part in the day’s action but is expected to ride at his home circuit again tomorrow.

Team-mate Marco Melandri, meanwhile, made a significant breakthrough with the minor braking problems he experienced at the team’s previous test in Valencia. The Italian had found difficulties with his front braking and spent today trying to rectify this. This was his first test with the YZR-M1 at the Catalunyan circuit, and he adapted well to the longer and faster straights, ending the day with a best time of 1:46.2 having completed a total of 52 laps.

Team Director Davide Brivio was philosophical about the day, “We have had good weather conditions considering it is only February. We can only have about four or five hours a day of testing, as the track temperature is too low the rest of the day but we knew this before we came here”, said the Italian. “It’s a great shame that Carlos fell again, we hope that he will be back out tomorrow. He is seeing his physiotherapist tonight so hopefully that will help him. Marco has been working very hard on his front end braking problem with the support of Brembo. His lap times today were not too bad. We are basically finding a way to adjust the braking system to his riding style, and will continue to do so tomorrow.”

LAP TIMES

Alex Barros, Gauloises Yamaha Team 1:44.8 (52 laps)

Shinya Nakano, D’Antin Yamaha 1:46.1 (56 laps)

Marco Melandri, Fortuna Yamaha Team 1:46.2 (52 laps)

Carlos Checa, Fortuna Yamaha Team 1:46.6 (21 laps)

Olivier Jacque, Gauloises Yamaha Team 1:49.1 (41 laps)