Motorcycling: Robust win for Rainey

(First Edition)

THE reigning world champion, Wayne Rainey, led from start to finish to win the French 500cc Grand Prix at Magny-Cours yesterday.

The American completed the 27-lap race on his Yamaha in 45min 5.182sec, finishing more than six seconds ahead of Honda's Australian rider, Wayne Gardner. Rainey's second victory this year lifted him into second place in the world championship standings with 93 points, 37 behind Michael Doohan of Australia, who has missed the last two grands prix with a fractured leg.

'I still hope to win (the championship), but it will be very difficult as soon as Michael Doohan gets back,' Rainey said.

Results, Sport in Short, page 29