Southland ’ s Cormac Buchanan endured a baptism by fire at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand . It was a trying day for the 18-year-old but it was a masterful display of sheer grit and determination that will serve him well as he comes to grips with the challenge . Struggling a bit in qualifying in the 40-degree heat , Buchanan got off to a good start on his Denssi Boe Motorsports Team KTM , making his way up the field before coming unstuck and falling in the final turn of the opening lap . Undeterred , he picked up his bike and got going again , chasing down the field and managing to score NZ ’ s first ever Moto3 point for his troubles and showing his team just what they have in the young rookie . Sure , you need the talent and speed to excel in this environment , but it is the work ethic and resilience that the outside world doesn ’ t often get to see that dictates whether you thrive and survive or get relegated to yesterday ’ s news when you hit a hurdle . To be in a race , watched by the entire motorcycle race world , come off