The ever-changing weather reflected the mixed emotions of the day and its solemn excitement as the 2011 season was coming to a close. It was evident that the tragic event two weeks ago was still heavy on everyone's hearts as riders and spectators alike were doing their best to hold in the tears.
A number of other factors made this race stand out from the others--it would be the last time we'd see Loris Capirossi race as he had announced his retirement; we'd all say farewell to the 125 class as Moto3 would begin next season; and the grid would just not look the same without the charismatic Italian we all grew to love so dearly, Marco Simoncelli. What a season. So long 2011 or as Marco would say, "Ciao...ciao ciao!"
