It has not been the easiest start for the five Yamaha R3 bLU cRU Challenge riders to the 2018 FIM Supersport 300 World Championship, but all of that changed on Sunday at Round 3 of the season at a sun-drenched Imola. Galang Hendra Pratama showcased his talent to the world as he charged from 14th on the grid to take a stunning fifth-place finish after battling for the podium the entire race. Local hero Luca Bernardi was on fire too and had a sensational race, blasting his way through the pack and putting on a show for the Italian fans as he rode from 39th on the grid to cross the line in 12th. Dennis Koopman followed up his 15th in Assen by crossing the line in 14th in Italy, while Hugo de Cancellis rode from 32nd on the grid to 18th and Joep Overbeeke made up 14 places from his starting position to finish in 22nd.