Nico Terol remained in a class of his own as the first day of running in the 2011 125cc World Championship came to a close. The Spaniard recorded a 2:07.418, leaving him a full second clear of Sandro Cortese.
The Intact-Racing Team Germany improved from 3rd in the first session to split the Aspar riders, with Hector Faubel in 3rd.
Luis Salom starred again to take 4th with Jonas Folger and Efren Vazquez completing the top six.
The front runners very quickly dropped below the mark from first practice, with Faubel leading after the initial runs before Terol took over. The big surprise for British fans was the performance of Danny Kent. The Chippenham teenager had an off track excursion after setting the 6th fastest time, before ending an excellent 8th.
Rookie Miguel Oliveira also took the scenic route on his way to 11th with Maverick Vinales finishing his opening day in 14th.
He finished just ahead of Mahindra Racing's Danny Webb, while former Red Bull Rookies Harry Stafford and Taylor Mackenzie took 26th and 27th places.
Second practice also saw accidents for Joan Perello and Luigi Morciano while debutant Sarath Kumar also visited the gravel trap. The Indian suffered a difficult first day in World Championship competition as he failed to set a time in FP2.
The third practice session will take place tomorrow afternoon ahead of Saturday's Qualifying session.
