There were two Island residents lined up on the grid at the latest MotoGP round yesterday.
And it was the debutant at the level, Jonathan Rea, who fared better around the circuit in San Marino.
The Northern Irishman, who lives in Castletown, normally lines up in World Superbikes but is currently filling in for the injured Casey Stoner at Repsol Honda.
He finished a creditable eighth.
Ramsey resident Cal Crutchlow made a poor start from third on the grid and had been shuffled back to fifth, before he crashed out on the third lap of the race.
Basketball: Thrilling start to 2026/27 Manx season
Swimming: Island competitor sets new European and British record
Boxing: Tyson Fury's sons part of Manx squad to face Merseyside & Cheshire
Cycling: Rider views sought on latest MTB series