FORMER World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty was the fastest rider today, the opening day of a two-day test at the Misano circuit in Italy - venue for round two of the World Superbike Championship on April 20.

Ducati rider Fogarty overcame the challenge of New Zealander Aaron Slight who was fastest in the morning session at the Adriatic coastal track.

Slight ended the day third fastest on his Castrol Honda behind the Blackburn ace and Yamaha's Scott Russell, the 1993 World Superbike champion.

World Championship leader, and winner of both races at Misano a year ago, John Kocinski was eighth quickest on his Castrol Honda, improving from 11th fastest on Tuesday morning.

Burnley's Neil Hodgson was 11th fastest, almost a second slower then Fogarty.

"I feel as good about the bike now as I have all year," said Fogarty.

"It doesn't mean anything to me being fastest this week.

"All that matters is that I put two good testing sessions in and that I do well in the races next week."

Times from opening day of two-day test: 1 Carl Fogarty, GB (Ducati) 1m 34.877s, 2 Scott Russell, USA (Yamaha) 1m 34.911s, 3 Aaron Slight, New Zealand (Castrol Honda) 1m 35.221s 11 Neil Hodgson, GB (Ducati) 1m 35.867.

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