September 13th, 2008 by R.J.

The first day of action at Indianapolis for MotoGP riders saw attention turning away from the new circuit and towards the skies, as torrential rain hit the track during the 800cc practice sessions at the Brickyard.

No rider was immune from the weather, but of those least affected was Kawasaki’s Anthony West onboard his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-RR. The Australian star has been known for his ability to perform during downpours, and it was no different today as he took fastest lap with a 1:53.034 in his opening session.

West was also fastest in the second session under even heavier rain, but with a slower time.

The Kawasaki rider is competing for a ride in 2009, and he’s doing it in impressive fashion. With rain in the forecast for Sunday’s race, West could be one of the key players.

The top 3 fastest riders of the day were Anthony West, Alex De Angelis, and Casey Stoner - who crashed yet again in the morning practice session.