Suffering Stoner fastest in Czech practice

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

BRNO, Czech Republic (AFP) — Reigning world champion Casey Stoner clocked up the fastest time in free practice ahead of Sunday's Czech Republic Grand Prix, despite suffering from a mystery illness.

The Australian posted a time of 1min 57.231sec, which was 0.179sec in front of Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi - a feat all the more impressive after it was revealed Stoner had been suffering from fever and abdominal cramps.

"I've not been feeling well for a few days and I felt very weak today - I even felt sapped of energy just putting my gloves on," Stoner told www.motogp.com.

"I can deal with a bit of tiredness but this afternoon I could only ride a handful of laps before I started to feel cramps in my stomach."

Loris Capirossi, on a Suzuki, was third...