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Rossi captures 100th MotoGP victory at Assen

2009-06-28 12:32 BJT

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Valentino Rossi stormed to his 100th grand prix victory at the Assen MotoGP in the Netherlands on Saturday.

Valentino Rossi of Italy reacts on the podium after winning the MotoGP race and his 100th GP victory in Assen, northern Netherlands, Saturday June 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Bas Czerwinski) 
Valentino Rossi of Italy reacts on the
podium after winning the MotoGP race and
his 100th GP victory in Assen, northern
Netherlands, Saturday June 27, 2009.
(AP Photo/Bas Czerwinski)
 

The Italian, riding his Yamaha to the landmark win.

Starting on pole position, the scene was set for Rossi to chalk up his 100th MotoGP win. But Casey Stoner - who won at Assen last year - surged up from third to take the lead at the first bend.

The man they call 'The Doctor' was not to be denied. However, a lap later, Rossi wrestled control back from his Australian rival and pulled away - the race result as good as settled.

Tony Elias and Randy de Puniet did their best to liven things up with a tussle for position in the middle of the field. The pair finishing in seventh and eighth places respectively.

For Rossi it was all too easy, compiling a huge advantage over the rest of the field

Now, if only Loris Capirossi could have shown the same masterful control, as a late error sent him veering off track and out of the top six.