Paul Ip and Henri Karjalainen join Team Goddard Jan 11 07
Hong Kong Chinese driver, Paul Ip, and Finn Henri Karjalainen have joined Team Goddard for the Asia Formula Three Pacific Series. The first race will be held at the Zhuhai Circuit in China on January 21st and is shaping up to be an extremely competitive event.
This will be Paul Ip's debut in the series and he will be driving one of the Team's Dallara 304 TOM'S cars. The 27 year old driver raced in the Radical World Series in 2006 and the team has been impressed with his pre-season testing over the past week at the Zhuhai Circuit. Finnish driver, Karjalainen is no stranger to the team or the Chinese track, having raced for the team in the Sentul round of the 2006 AF3 Series and won a round of the 2006 Asian Formula Renault Series at the Zhuhai circuit.
Karjalainen will also drive a Dallara 304 TOM'S car and must start as one of the pre-race favourites to take a race win. The first race in Zhuhai looks like it will be extremely competitive with many competitive drivers coming on board for the AF3 Pacific mini-series.
Hong Kong Chinese driver, Paul Ip, and Finn Henri Karjalainen have joined Team Goddard for the Asia Formula Three Pacific Series. The first race will be held at the Zhuhai Circuit in China on January 21st and is shaping up to be an extremely competitive event.
This will be Paul Ip's debut in the series and he will be driving one of the Team's Dallara 304 TOM'S cars. The 27 year old driver raced in the Radical World Series in 2006 and the team has been impressed with his pre-season testing over the past week at the Zhuhai Circuit. Finnish driver, Karjalainen is no stranger to the team or the Chinese track, having raced for the team in the Sentul round of the 2006 AF3 Series and won a round of the 2006 Asian Formula Renault Series at the Zhuhai circuit.
Karjalainen will also drive a Dallara 304 TOM'S car and must start as one of the pre-race favourites to take a race win. The first race in Zhuhai looks like it will be extremely competitive with many competitive drivers coming on board for the AF3 Pacific mini-series.
Karjalainen wins race one of the AF3 Pacific Series for TGf3 - Jan 20 07
Henri Karjalainen took a lights to flag win from pole position with Oliver Turvey second and Walter Grubmuller third. The Promotions class was won by James Littlejohn . Team Goddard's Paul Ip finished seventh in his first F3 race.
Karjalainen made a good start and was never headed whilst fellow front row starter, Walter Grubmuller, made a poor getaway and dropped to third behind a fast starting Oliver Turvey. Moreno Soeprapto spun at turn four and spent the rest of the race playing catch up.
Karjalainen controlled the pace at the front of the field, the gap back to Turvey remaining around the one second mark for the entire race. Walter Grubmuller was on a real charge after dropping back over the first few laps and set the race's fastest lap on the final tour. Next up was Dillon Batisitni from James Littlejohn, Philip Forsman, Paul Ip and Moreno Soeprapto.
Henri Karjalainen took a lights to flag win from pole position with Oliver Turvey second and Walter Grubmuller third. The Promotions class was won by James Littlejohn . Team Goddard's Paul Ip finished seventh in his first F3 race.
Karjalainen made a good start and was never headed whilst fellow front row starter, Walter Grubmuller, made a poor getaway and dropped to third behind a fast starting Oliver Turvey. Moreno Soeprapto spun at turn four and spent the rest of the race playing catch up.
Karjalainen controlled the pace at the front of the field, the gap back to Turvey remaining around the one second mark for the entire race. Walter Grubmuller was on a real charge after dropping back over the first few laps and set the race's fastest lap on the final tour. Next up was Dillon Batisitni from James Littlejohn, Philip Forsman, Paul Ip and Moreno Soeprapto.
Henri Karjalainen wins round two - Jan 21 07
Team Goddard's Henri Karjalainen took another lights to flag win in round two of the Asian F3 Pacific Series. Team Mate Paul Ip was sixth.
It all went wrong in round three when Oliver Turvey ounted Karjalainen out of first place and into retirement. Whilst Turvey went on to win he was penalized 30 seconds for causing an avoidable accident and dropped to third. Team Mate, Paul Ip finished fifth.
Team Goddard are proving to be the pace in Asian F3 Pacific and Karjalainen looks set to dominate the series if he can avoid errant competitors.
Team Goddard's Henri Karjalainen took another lights to flag win in round two of the Asian F3 Pacific Series. Team Mate Paul Ip was sixth.
It all went wrong in round three when Oliver Turvey ounted Karjalainen out of first place and into retirement. Whilst Turvey went on to win he was penalized 30 seconds for causing an avoidable accident and dropped to third. Team Mate, Paul Ip finished fifth.
Team Goddard are proving to be the pace in Asian F3 Pacific and Karjalainen looks set to dominate the series if he can avoid errant competitors.
Team Goddard dominate Zhuhai weekend - Jan 25 07
Team Release: Team Goddard dominated the first round of the AF3 Pacific Series in Zhuhai with Henri Karjalainen taking pole position in qualifiying and winning two of the three races, robbed of the final race win by some over aggressive driving. Paul Ip also took a fifth and sixth place finish from the weekend.
Karjalainen had raced for the team in Indonesia last year and demonstrated great promise in the team's 301 car and when installed in a Team Goddard Dallara 304 TOM'S he was immediately setting the pace and was comfortably on pole position for race one. He went on to take a lights to flag finish from McLaren Autosport BRDC Award winner Oliver Turvey with Walter Grubmullerin third, the Finn never having to push to the limit and driving well within himself.
Race two was the same story whilst race three run in damp conditions spoilt the almost perfect weekend. A poor start dropped Karjalainen to second but he was soon back in the lead with a great pass on Dillon Battistini at turn 4. Oliver Turvey got a run on the exit of the same corner a couple of laps later and drew alongside Karjalainen at the flat out 200 kph turn 6. The resultant attempted pass saw Karjalainen out on the spot whilst Turvey survived to take the flag first. However the stewards took a dim view of the over aggressive driving and docked Turvey 30 seconds for causing an avoidable accident.
Karjalainen and Turvey are equal on points in the driver's championship. "The team gave me a perfect car and we almost had a perfect weekend" reported Karjalainen. "Henri barely out a foot wrong all weekend and he demonstrated he is a real talent and can follow in the footsteps of Hakkinen and Raikkonen. The fact that he beat Oliver Turvey in a straight fight reflects the speed he possesses and also how competitive Asian F3 is now" stated Team Boss, Mark Goddard.
Paul Ip, also in a Dallara 304 TOM'S, enjoyed his first F3 race and improved throughout the event to finish in fifth in the final race. "Paul's driving developed throughout the event and we were all very happy with his performance" said Goddard.
Renowned driver coach, Malcolm Smith, was on hand to help Paul Ip and his advice to both Paul and Henri certainly helped with their performances.
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Team Release: Team Goddard dominated the first round of the AF3 Pacific Series in Zhuhai with Henri Karjalainen taking pole position in qualifiying and winning two of the three races, robbed of the final race win by some over aggressive driving. Paul Ip also took a fifth and sixth place finish from the weekend.
Karjalainen had raced for the team in Indonesia last year and demonstrated great promise in the team's 301 car and when installed in a Team Goddard Dallara 304 TOM'S he was immediately setting the pace and was comfortably on pole position for race one. He went on to take a lights to flag finish from McLaren Autosport BRDC Award winner Oliver Turvey with Walter Grubmullerin third, the Finn never having to push to the limit and driving well within himself.
Race two was the same story whilst race three run in damp conditions spoilt the almost perfect weekend. A poor start dropped Karjalainen to second but he was soon back in the lead with a great pass on Dillon Battistini at turn 4. Oliver Turvey got a run on the exit of the same corner a couple of laps later and drew alongside Karjalainen at the flat out 200 kph turn 6. The resultant attempted pass saw Karjalainen out on the spot whilst Turvey survived to take the flag first. However the stewards took a dim view of the over aggressive driving and docked Turvey 30 seconds for causing an avoidable accident.
Karjalainen and Turvey are equal on points in the driver's championship. "The team gave me a perfect car and we almost had a perfect weekend" reported Karjalainen. "Henri barely out a foot wrong all weekend and he demonstrated he is a real talent and can follow in the footsteps of Hakkinen and Raikkonen. The fact that he beat Oliver Turvey in a straight fight reflects the speed he possesses and also how competitive Asian F3 is now" stated Team Boss, Mark Goddard.
Paul Ip, also in a Dallara 304 TOM'S, enjoyed his first F3 race and improved throughout the event to finish in fifth in the final race. "Paul's driving developed throughout the event and we were all very happy with his performance" said Goddard.
Renowned driver coach, Malcolm Smith, was on hand to help Paul Ip and his advice to both Paul and Henri certainly helped with their performances.
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Moreno joins Team Goddard for Melbourne - Feb 09 07
Moreno Soeprapto will race a Team Goddard Dallara 304 TOM'S in the Melbourne F1 GP support event. He joins Paul Ip and Championship leader, Henri Karjalainen in the Team.
Team Proprietor, Mark Goddard, reported "It's a bit like welcoming him home as he raced for our sister team, Eurasia Motorsport, in F.BMW Asia in 2004. He won the Shanghai GP support race so we hope he will make a habit of winning in front of an F1 crowd.!"
Moreno Soeprapto will race a Team Goddard Dallara 304 TOM'S in the Melbourne F1 GP support event. He joins Paul Ip and Championship leader, Henri Karjalainen in the Team.
Team Proprietor, Mark Goddard, reported "It's a bit like welcoming him home as he raced for our sister team, Eurasia Motorsport, in F.BMW Asia in 2004. He won the Shanghai GP support race so we hope he will make a habit of winning in front of an F1 crowd.!"
Team Goddard robbed by bad luck in Melbourne - Mar 20 07
Team Release: Team Goddard's Henri Karjalainen set the pace in the Asian F3 Pacific class in the Melbourne F1 GP support races but was robbed by bad luck and the bad judgment of his rivals. Team Mate, Moreno Soeprapto, also suffered bad luck although he did take a class win in the first race.
Henri Karjalainen started tenth in race one after suffering an engine problem in qualifying but was up to fourth place overall, first in Class, by the end of the first lap. A safety car period proved his undoing when Charlie Hollings went for a gap that did not exist at the restart sending Henri into the air and out of the race. Hollings went on to win the race whilst Karjalainen would start race two from 28th place. The stewards found Hollings to be totally responsible for the accident but this was little consolation for the Finn. Ironically Hollings had won for Team Goddard in a one off appearance at Batangas last year. "We know there was no malice in Charlie's actions" reported Mark Goddard "but that didn't help Henri whose weekend was effectively over".
Moreno Soeprapto, in his first race for the team, was an impressive first in class and looked like he was going to be a factor for the rest of the event. Race two was only six laps long and Karjalainen did a great job to finish 12th overall. Moreno was a little too cautious and finished 8th overall but second in class. "I didn't see the last lap board and was surprised to see the chequered flag as I had planned to take the class lead on the last lap!" reported Moreno.
Race three looked like it would be the turn around for the team. Soeprapto was starting 8th and Karjalainen 12th. "We went for a very low down force set up so I could overtake on the straights and used old tyres to save the final new set for the last race when we hoped we would start in the top six" reported Karjalainen. It all went wrong at the first turn when James Winslow tagged the front wing of Soeprapto and he was forced to struggle with an understeering car. Meanwhile Karjalainen ran wide at turn one and rejoined down in 16th place. He then put on a great come back drive which ended when he caught Moreno. The Finn dived up the inside at turn 15 and an unsighted Moreno turned into him. Moreno was launched into the air whilst Karjalainen spun and rejoined in 11th place. Soeprapto rejoined in 15th.
"We had a discussion after the race about team mates not running into each other!" said Team Manager, Mark Goddard. Race four was a complete disaster with Moreno out on the spot at turn one after contact on the first lap whilst Karjalainen struggled to a finish with badly bent front suspension after he was hit at the start. "Henri showed he was the pace of the AF3 field with his fastest lap times in race 2 and 3 and we are sure if Charlie had not taken him out in race one he would have been on the overall podium." reported Goddard. "Moreno also had the pace but James Winslow in race three and the start-line shunt in race four put paid to his chances".
Team Mate, Paul Ip, finished second in the AF3 Pacific Promotions Class in races one and three but spun into retirement in race two and failed to take the start for race four when his engine failed during its warm up in the paddock. "We are not sure what went wrong until it goes back to TOM'S for investigation" said Goddard.
Team Release: Team Goddard's Henri Karjalainen set the pace in the Asian F3 Pacific class in the Melbourne F1 GP support races but was robbed by bad luck and the bad judgment of his rivals. Team Mate, Moreno Soeprapto, also suffered bad luck although he did take a class win in the first race.
Henri Karjalainen started tenth in race one after suffering an engine problem in qualifying but was up to fourth place overall, first in Class, by the end of the first lap. A safety car period proved his undoing when Charlie Hollings went for a gap that did not exist at the restart sending Henri into the air and out of the race. Hollings went on to win the race whilst Karjalainen would start race two from 28th place. The stewards found Hollings to be totally responsible for the accident but this was little consolation for the Finn. Ironically Hollings had won for Team Goddard in a one off appearance at Batangas last year. "We know there was no malice in Charlie's actions" reported Mark Goddard "but that didn't help Henri whose weekend was effectively over".
Moreno Soeprapto, in his first race for the team, was an impressive first in class and looked like he was going to be a factor for the rest of the event. Race two was only six laps long and Karjalainen did a great job to finish 12th overall. Moreno was a little too cautious and finished 8th overall but second in class. "I didn't see the last lap board and was surprised to see the chequered flag as I had planned to take the class lead on the last lap!" reported Moreno.
Race three looked like it would be the turn around for the team. Soeprapto was starting 8th and Karjalainen 12th. "We went for a very low down force set up so I could overtake on the straights and used old tyres to save the final new set for the last race when we hoped we would start in the top six" reported Karjalainen. It all went wrong at the first turn when James Winslow tagged the front wing of Soeprapto and he was forced to struggle with an understeering car. Meanwhile Karjalainen ran wide at turn one and rejoined down in 16th place. He then put on a great come back drive which ended when he caught Moreno. The Finn dived up the inside at turn 15 and an unsighted Moreno turned into him. Moreno was launched into the air whilst Karjalainen spun and rejoined in 11th place. Soeprapto rejoined in 15th.
"We had a discussion after the race about team mates not running into each other!" said Team Manager, Mark Goddard. Race four was a complete disaster with Moreno out on the spot at turn one after contact on the first lap whilst Karjalainen struggled to a finish with badly bent front suspension after he was hit at the start. "Henri showed he was the pace of the AF3 field with his fastest lap times in race 2 and 3 and we are sure if Charlie had not taken him out in race one he would have been on the overall podium." reported Goddard. "Moreno also had the pace but James Winslow in race three and the start-line shunt in race four put paid to his chances".
Team Mate, Paul Ip, finished second in the AF3 Pacific Promotions Class in races one and three but spun into retirement in race two and failed to take the start for race four when his engine failed during its warm up in the paddock. "We are not sure what went wrong until it goes back to TOM'S for investigation" said Goddard.
Next round of the Asian F3 Pacific Series is Sentul on May 12-13th.
"Henri and Moreno have the pace to lead from the front there so I think we have a very good chance of re-taking the championship lead there" remarked Goddard. "However Battistini has a 28 point lead so its going to be hard to take the Series lead in Sentul unless he has some bad luck but I am sure we should head the points after the last race in Zhuhai on June 24th"
"Henri and Moreno have the pace to lead from the front there so I think we have a very good chance of re-taking the championship lead there" remarked Goddard. "However Battistini has a 28 point lead so its going to be hard to take the Series lead in Sentul unless he has some bad luck but I am sure we should head the points after the last race in Zhuhai on June 24th"
Championship showdown at Zhuhai - June 20 07
Team Goddard driver, Henri Karjalainen, currently lies three points behind championship leader, Dillon Battistini, as the Asian F3 Pacific series goes into the last round at Zhuhai on June 23-24. Karjalainen is confident he can take championship honours and join his team mate, Promotion Class champion elect, Paul Ip as an AF3 Pacific champion.
"We have been the pace all year and its only the misjudgments of rival competitors who have crashed into Henri that has lead to us behind in the points. As long we have no bad luck we are confident Henri will win the driver's series" reported team owner, Mark Goddard.
Henri and Paul will be joined by Moreno Soeprapto and Robin Tato. Moreno still has a mathematical chance of winning the series whilst Robin will hope to continue his improving form after the last event at Sentul in his home Country, Indonesia. Paul Ip will race in the Promotions Class in his 301 Dallara whilst his team mates will all drive Dallara 304 models.
Team Goddard driver, Henri Karjalainen, currently lies three points behind championship leader, Dillon Battistini, as the Asian F3 Pacific series goes into the last round at Zhuhai on June 23-24. Karjalainen is confident he can take championship honours and join his team mate, Promotion Class champion elect, Paul Ip as an AF3 Pacific champion.
"We have been the pace all year and its only the misjudgments of rival competitors who have crashed into Henri that has lead to us behind in the points. As long we have no bad luck we are confident Henri will win the driver's series" reported team owner, Mark Goddard.
Henri and Paul will be joined by Moreno Soeprapto and Robin Tato. Moreno still has a mathematical chance of winning the series whilst Robin will hope to continue his improving form after the last event at Sentul in his home Country, Indonesia. Paul Ip will race in the Promotions Class in his 301 Dallara whilst his team mates will all drive Dallara 304 models.
TGF3 crowned AF3 Pacific team champions - Jun 26 07
Team Goddard clinched the AF3 Pacific Series team championship after the final round held at the Zhuhai Circuit in China on June 24th. Team Goddard's Paul Ip was crowned Promotions Class Champion and Henri Karjalainen finished second overall in the Series. TGF3's Moreno Soeprapto won the final race of the series.
Karjalainen was very disappointed to finish second. "The car was perfect but missing the final part of qualifying because I went off meant I started second for the first race of the weekend and in all three races I made bad starts which spoilt my chances" rued Karjalainen.
Moreno Soeprapto took two third places and a win from the weekend whilst Paul Ip brought home the Promotions Class trophy despite non-finishing two races. "The team were disappointed that Henri did not win the drivers championship. He is extremely talented and has a great future in front of him but this weekend was just not to be. He was very sick with food poisoning and was unable to leave his hotel room for the three days prior to the event so we were all impressed with his effort this weekend" reported Team Proprietor Mark Goddard.
The team are now gearing up for the 2007-2008 Asian F3 Series which starts in October.
Team Goddard clinched the AF3 Pacific Series team championship after the final round held at the Zhuhai Circuit in China on June 24th. Team Goddard's Paul Ip was crowned Promotions Class Champion and Henri Karjalainen finished second overall in the Series. TGF3's Moreno Soeprapto won the final race of the series.
Karjalainen was very disappointed to finish second. "The car was perfect but missing the final part of qualifying because I went off meant I started second for the first race of the weekend and in all three races I made bad starts which spoilt my chances" rued Karjalainen.
Moreno Soeprapto took two third places and a win from the weekend whilst Paul Ip brought home the Promotions Class trophy despite non-finishing two races. "The team were disappointed that Henri did not win the drivers championship. He is extremely talented and has a great future in front of him but this weekend was just not to be. He was very sick with food poisoning and was unable to leave his hotel room for the three days prior to the event so we were all impressed with his effort this weekend" reported Team Proprietor Mark Goddard.
The team are now gearing up for the 2007-2008 Asian F3 Series which starts in October.
Karjalainen's Turkish delight - Aug 21 07
Asian F3 driver, Henri Karjalainen, will race in this weekend's Turkish GP2 event supporting the F1 Grand Prix. He replaces Markus Niemela, who dislocated his shoulder in the Hungarian GP race, at BCN competition. Niemela is expected to make a return in Monza. Karjalainen's results in this years AF3 Pacific Series were instrumental in his been given this opportunity.
Karjalainen won five races on his way to second in the Asian F3 Pacific Series and this led to his name being at the top of the list to replace his injured Countryman, fellow Finn Markus Niemela. He will be jumping in at the deep end, having never sat in a GP2 car nor seen the Turkish track. Asian F3 has once again demonstrated it is one of the most cost effective steps on the way to the higher echelons of the sport.
Asian F3 driver, Henri Karjalainen, will race in this weekend's Turkish GP2 event supporting the F1 Grand Prix. He replaces Markus Niemela, who dislocated his shoulder in the Hungarian GP race, at BCN competition. Niemela is expected to make a return in Monza. Karjalainen's results in this years AF3 Pacific Series were instrumental in his been given this opportunity.
Karjalainen won five races on his way to second in the Asian F3 Pacific Series and this led to his name being at the top of the list to replace his injured Countryman, fellow Finn Markus Niemela. He will be jumping in at the deep end, having never sat in a GP2 car nor seen the Turkish track. Asian F3 has once again demonstrated it is one of the most cost effective steps on the way to the higher echelons of the sport.
Team Goddard's Frederic Vervisch & Rafael Suzuki qualify 1/2 - Nov 23 07
Frederic Vervicsh qualified first for the first round of the 2007-8 Asian Formula Three Series which will be held on Saturday 23rd at the Sepang A1GP event. He was followed by his team mate, Rafael Suzuki ,Hamad Al Fardan and Matt Howson. Arturo Gonzales will start in fifth place.
Vervisch and Suzuki made it a Team Goddard one two with new to AF3 Team GFH Bahrain in third coutesy of Al Fardan. Former F.BMW UK star, Matt Howson, gave PTRS a good debut run in the series. David Julian was fastest Promotions Class car in his Team Goddard Dallara 398.
Top Qualifying Times
Frederic Vervisch 2.02.484
Rafael Suzuki 2.02.919
Hamad Al Fardan 2.03.397
Matthew Howson 2.03.850
Arturo Gonzales 2.05.524
Frederic Vervicsh qualified first for the first round of the 2007-8 Asian Formula Three Series which will be held on Saturday 23rd at the Sepang A1GP event. He was followed by his team mate, Rafael Suzuki ,Hamad Al Fardan and Matt Howson. Arturo Gonzales will start in fifth place.
Vervisch and Suzuki made it a Team Goddard one two with new to AF3 Team GFH Bahrain in third coutesy of Al Fardan. Former F.BMW UK star, Matt Howson, gave PTRS a good debut run in the series. David Julian was fastest Promotions Class car in his Team Goddard Dallara 398.
Top Qualifying Times
Frederic Vervisch 2.02.484
Rafael Suzuki 2.02.919
Hamad Al Fardan 2.03.397
Matthew Howson 2.03.850
Arturo Gonzales 2.05.524
Team Goddard second and third in Sepang race one - Nov 24 07
Team Goddard's Frederic Vervisch and Rafael Suzuki finished in second and third places in the first round of the Asian F3 Series 2007-8 held at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia. David Julian in the teams Dallara 398 was Promotions Class winner.
Vervisch and Suzuki had wrapped up the front row in qualifying but it was Hamad Al Fardan who led into turn one after a fantastic start. Vervisch was alongside into turn four but contact was made spinning the Belgian to the tail of the field. In a great come-back drive, Vervisch scythed his way back up the field to finish second and take a point for fastest lap over one second quicker than the race winner. "I should have been more patient" rued the Belgian.
Suzuki was slow off the line dropping to fifth place but he was soon on the tail of the battling Matt Howson and Arturo Gonzales. However Howson touched Gonzales under braking for turn nine on lap four, pitching the Mexican into a wild spin. Rafael was forced to brake to a standstill to avoid Gonzales whilst Howson continued unabated. Once free of Gonzales, Suzuki then closed on Howson and despite getting alongside at the last turn on the final lap he just failed to grab third place. However Howson was given a thirty second penalty for a false start, he was outside his starting box, dropping him to fifth behind Gonzales.
David Julian had a spirited race with Paul Ip before finishing his first International race on the Promotions Class podium. "I had a blast" reported the delighted American.
Round two will be held tomorrow and Vervisch is confident he has the speed to win whilst Suzuki is confident of a good finish, even a win of he can make a good start.
Team Goddard's Frederic Vervisch and Rafael Suzuki finished in second and third places in the first round of the Asian F3 Series 2007-8 held at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia. David Julian in the teams Dallara 398 was Promotions Class winner.
Vervisch and Suzuki had wrapped up the front row in qualifying but it was Hamad Al Fardan who led into turn one after a fantastic start. Vervisch was alongside into turn four but contact was made spinning the Belgian to the tail of the field. In a great come-back drive, Vervisch scythed his way back up the field to finish second and take a point for fastest lap over one second quicker than the race winner. "I should have been more patient" rued the Belgian.
Suzuki was slow off the line dropping to fifth place but he was soon on the tail of the battling Matt Howson and Arturo Gonzales. However Howson touched Gonzales under braking for turn nine on lap four, pitching the Mexican into a wild spin. Rafael was forced to brake to a standstill to avoid Gonzales whilst Howson continued unabated. Once free of Gonzales, Suzuki then closed on Howson and despite getting alongside at the last turn on the final lap he just failed to grab third place. However Howson was given a thirty second penalty for a false start, he was outside his starting box, dropping him to fifth behind Gonzales.
David Julian had a spirited race with Paul Ip before finishing his first International race on the Promotions Class podium. "I had a blast" reported the delighted American.
Round two will be held tomorrow and Vervisch is confident he has the speed to win whilst Suzuki is confident of a good finish, even a win of he can make a good start.
Vervisch second again, Suzuki fourth in round two at Sepang - Nov 25 07
Frederic Vervisch had the speed to win but just couldn't find a way past Hamad Al Fardan after a race long dice. Rafael Suzuki again put in a tardy first lap but was able to claw his way back to fourth place narrowly failing to take third spot on the line. David Julian won the Promotions Class.
Hamad made another good start and despite enormous pressure from Vervisch he never made a mistake and just came home first. Vervisch got alongside his rival on several occasions but never made the pass stick. "I think we had the fastest car today, I got fastest lap, but Hamad drove a good defensive race and I just could not find a way past" reported Vervisch. "Still as I got pole and two fastest race laps I am only seven points down".
Suzuki tried the outside line at turn one on the first lap and got hung out to dry dropping down to fifth place again. He was soon on the move forcing his past Gonzales at turn one on the third lap and he then got his head down and chased after Matt Howson, setting an extremely fast lap time. He was very close to Howson on the last lap, closing to within a second at the line.
David Julian had a good race to win the Promotions Class again.
"We demonstrated we had the fastest car out there and I am sure we will have a good chance of winning in the next round at Zhuhai on December 15-16th." reported Mark Goddard. "Frederic has the pace and experience in F3 to win and Rafael was improving with each lap and I am sure will be extremely competitive in China."
Frederic Vervisch had the speed to win but just couldn't find a way past Hamad Al Fardan after a race long dice. Rafael Suzuki again put in a tardy first lap but was able to claw his way back to fourth place narrowly failing to take third spot on the line. David Julian won the Promotions Class.
Hamad made another good start and despite enormous pressure from Vervisch he never made a mistake and just came home first. Vervisch got alongside his rival on several occasions but never made the pass stick. "I think we had the fastest car today, I got fastest lap, but Hamad drove a good defensive race and I just could not find a way past" reported Vervisch. "Still as I got pole and two fastest race laps I am only seven points down".
Suzuki tried the outside line at turn one on the first lap and got hung out to dry dropping down to fifth place again. He was soon on the move forcing his past Gonzales at turn one on the third lap and he then got his head down and chased after Matt Howson, setting an extremely fast lap time. He was very close to Howson on the last lap, closing to within a second at the line.
David Julian had a good race to win the Promotions Class again.
"We demonstrated we had the fastest car out there and I am sure we will have a good chance of winning in the next round at Zhuhai on December 15-16th." reported Mark Goddard. "Frederic has the pace and experience in F3 to win and Rafael was improving with each lap and I am sure will be extremely competitive in China."
Vervisch victorious in Zhuhai race one - Dec 15 07
Frederic Vervisch of Team Goddard won round three of the Asian F3 2007-8 Series at the A1GP Zhuhai, China event today. His team mate, Rafael Suzuki, finished third with Team Goddard's David Julian taking the Promotion Class spoils.
Pole sitter, Rafael Suzuki, had too much wheel spin at the start and was down in fourth place after the first turn. His Team Goddard team mate, Frederic Vervisch, made a better start from second on the grid and took the lead from Matt Howson and Hamad Al Fardan. Vervisch put in a stunning first lap and pulled out a good lead whilst Howson and Hamad squabbled over second place. The latter attempted to pass around the outside of turn one on the second lap and dropped to sixth place after a grassy excursion. This left Howson to fend off Suzuki, the pair rarely more than a few car lengths apart for the remainder of the race. Several times the Brazilian was very close but was unable to find a way past. Suzuki entertained the crowd with a high speed spin at the final turn on the last lap, losing only a couple of seconds in the process!
Meanwhile Al Fardan had got his head down and was on the tail of Arturo Gonzales by the penultimate lap. They were side by side through turn nine and into turn eleven Hamad lunged at Gonzales, spinning the Mexican. Al Fardan finished fourth on the road but was given a time penalty for the move and dropped back to fifth behind Gonzales. David Julian was Promotion Class champion, finishing behind Paul Ip.
Vervisch goes into the second Zhuhai round tomorrow full of confidence but with Howson, Suzuki, Gonzales and Al Fardan next up on the grid an exciting race is expected.
Frederic Vervisch of Team Goddard won round three of the Asian F3 2007-8 Series at the A1GP Zhuhai, China event today. His team mate, Rafael Suzuki, finished third with Team Goddard's David Julian taking the Promotion Class spoils.
Pole sitter, Rafael Suzuki, had too much wheel spin at the start and was down in fourth place after the first turn. His Team Goddard team mate, Frederic Vervisch, made a better start from second on the grid and took the lead from Matt Howson and Hamad Al Fardan. Vervisch put in a stunning first lap and pulled out a good lead whilst Howson and Hamad squabbled over second place. The latter attempted to pass around the outside of turn one on the second lap and dropped to sixth place after a grassy excursion. This left Howson to fend off Suzuki, the pair rarely more than a few car lengths apart for the remainder of the race. Several times the Brazilian was very close but was unable to find a way past. Suzuki entertained the crowd with a high speed spin at the final turn on the last lap, losing only a couple of seconds in the process!
Meanwhile Al Fardan had got his head down and was on the tail of Arturo Gonzales by the penultimate lap. They were side by side through turn nine and into turn eleven Hamad lunged at Gonzales, spinning the Mexican. Al Fardan finished fourth on the road but was given a time penalty for the move and dropped back to fifth behind Gonzales. David Julian was Promotion Class champion, finishing behind Paul Ip.
Vervisch goes into the second Zhuhai round tomorrow full of confidence but with Howson, Suzuki, Gonzales and Al Fardan next up on the grid an exciting race is expected.
Vervisch makes it two in a row - Dec 16 2007
Frederic Vervisch of Team Goddard took his second win of the A1GP weekend at Zhuhai in China from Hamad Al Fardan. Team Goddard's Rafael Suzuki was third after a thrilling race with Matt Howson. David Julian, also of Team Goddard, was Promotions Class champion.
At the start Howson was off the line quickest and led into turn one with Vervisch right on his tail. The pair ran side by side for most of the lap before Vervisch swept around the outside at the fast turn ten and that was the last the field saw of him. Al. Fardan had out braked Rafael Suzuki into turn seven on the first lap and was soon on the tail of Howson. Once past Howson at turn one he tried all he could to close the gap on Vervisch, running out of road on the exit of T14 on occasion so hard was he pushing, but to no avail as the Belgian was able to control the three second gap he had opened up on the first two laps.
All the excitement was behind the leading pair with Howson defending hard but fairly to keep Suzuki at bay. On the third lap the pair ran through turn one side by side but without a place change and they tried the same again on lap six at turn nine. Again Howson stayed in front and the delayed Suzuki was forced to defend against Arturo Gonzales who had caught the battling duo.
Lap seven saw Suzuki again attack Howson into turn one, he was unsuccessful and it allowed Gonzales to get alongside and they ran side by side through turn three with Gonzales having to give way at turn four. However Gonzales was again alongside at turn seven, the Mexican just failing to find a way past. This had given Howson some breathing space but a mistake at turn 11 resulted him running wide and this allowed Suzuki and Gonzales to catch up again. The three were side by side down the pit straight and this time Suzuki was finally able to force his way past. Howson was just able to hold off Gonzales and whilst they fought Suzuki was able to pull away over the final two laps and finish a comfortable third whilst Howson was just able to hold off Gonzales at the line. It was a great race between the three young drivers and kept the large crowd entertained.
David Julian was again the Promotions Class victor. Vervisch now has a 13 point over Hamad Al Fardan but there are still 14 races to go over the final four events of the season so the championship is wide open. The next round will be held at Batangas Circuit in the Philippines on January 12-13th.
"We are confident we can win again in Batangas with Frederic and I am also convinced Rafael will continue his remarkable form. Zhuhai was only his seventh car event and the fact he was on pole position demonstrates his speed and with experience I am sure he will join Frederic on the top step of the podium" reported Mark Goddard.
Frederic Vervisch of Team Goddard took his second win of the A1GP weekend at Zhuhai in China from Hamad Al Fardan. Team Goddard's Rafael Suzuki was third after a thrilling race with Matt Howson. David Julian, also of Team Goddard, was Promotions Class champion.
At the start Howson was off the line quickest and led into turn one with Vervisch right on his tail. The pair ran side by side for most of the lap before Vervisch swept around the outside at the fast turn ten and that was the last the field saw of him. Al. Fardan had out braked Rafael Suzuki into turn seven on the first lap and was soon on the tail of Howson. Once past Howson at turn one he tried all he could to close the gap on Vervisch, running out of road on the exit of T14 on occasion so hard was he pushing, but to no avail as the Belgian was able to control the three second gap he had opened up on the first two laps.
All the excitement was behind the leading pair with Howson defending hard but fairly to keep Suzuki at bay. On the third lap the pair ran through turn one side by side but without a place change and they tried the same again on lap six at turn nine. Again Howson stayed in front and the delayed Suzuki was forced to defend against Arturo Gonzales who had caught the battling duo.
Lap seven saw Suzuki again attack Howson into turn one, he was unsuccessful and it allowed Gonzales to get alongside and they ran side by side through turn three with Gonzales having to give way at turn four. However Gonzales was again alongside at turn seven, the Mexican just failing to find a way past. This had given Howson some breathing space but a mistake at turn 11 resulted him running wide and this allowed Suzuki and Gonzales to catch up again. The three were side by side down the pit straight and this time Suzuki was finally able to force his way past. Howson was just able to hold off Gonzales and whilst they fought Suzuki was able to pull away over the final two laps and finish a comfortable third whilst Howson was just able to hold off Gonzales at the line. It was a great race between the three young drivers and kept the large crowd entertained.
David Julian was again the Promotions Class victor. Vervisch now has a 13 point over Hamad Al Fardan but there are still 14 races to go over the final four events of the season so the championship is wide open. The next round will be held at Batangas Circuit in the Philippines on January 12-13th.
"We are confident we can win again in Batangas with Frederic and I am also convinced Rafael will continue his remarkable form. Zhuhai was only his seventh car event and the fact he was on pole position demonstrates his speed and with experience I am sure he will join Frederic on the top step of the podium" reported Mark Goddard.
Team Goddard, dominated the January 12-13 Batangas event - Jan 14 08
Team Goddard's drivers, Frederic Vervisch and Rafael Suzuki, wrapped up the front row of the Asian Formula Three event held at the challenging Batangas Race Circuit in the Philippines on January 12-13th. Vervisch went on to take three wins and a second place from the four races. He was disqualified from one race for reversing before the start and this race result is now under appeal. Vervisch leads the points race as he has his sights on the Force India F1 Prize for the champion.
Brazilian Rafael Suzuki put in two fantastic laps to take pole position from Vervisch, Niall Quinn, Hamad Al Fardan and Matt Howson. AF3 is currently incredibly competitive and any of these drivers are capable of winning.
Qualifying took place in dry conditions on Friday, Rafael setting a fantastic 1.26.962 over a second under the circuit lap record. Saturday dawned extremely wet, albeit this being the dry season in this part of the Philippines, and the race start was postponed several times before the officials felt it was safe to start. Frederic stormed into an early lead but at the turn three hairpin on lap two Hamad's front wheel touched Frederic's rear wheel causing him to spin down the field eventually finishing third. Rafael made a good start but almost lost in a puddle on the run into the first turn and dropped down the field. He spent the rest of the race playing catch up finishing in fourth place. It was his first wet race "I am learning so much each time I get in the car" reported Rafael.
The officials felt Hamad's move was a racing incident although Frederic was not happy with that view!
Race two was also wet and this time Hamad and Frederic put on a great display of racing with no untoward tactics. Frederic hounded Hamad for many laps, often getting alongside his rival but not able to make the move stick. He finally made it by at the turn three hairpin on lap 9 of 12. "It was clean move, close but we did not touch" said Vervisch. Rafael finished fourth after dropping to fifth at the start. Once past Niall Quinn he homed in on Matt Howson but just failed to take the final podium position.
Sunday dawned dry and the first race of the day was to prove controversial. Vervisch arrived on the grid after the warm up lap and overshot his starting "box". He selected reverse and drove back to take the correct position. Hamad made the best start to lead but Frederic was soon past at turn one on the third lap and pulled away to take an easy win. Behind it was much closer as Rafael, Howson and Quinn all battled for third spot. It all came to a head on lap 5 when the three touched and spun at turn one. Rafael suffered a puncture and suspension damage and was forced to retire from the race.
After the race the Stewards excluded Vervisch for reversing on the grid, a decision that has been appealed. This put Frederic near the back of the field for the start of the final race and he had a fantastic first lap getting up to third place. He was soon on the gearbox of Niall Quinn and it took four laps before he was able to find a way past. He then started to hound down race leader, Al Fardan, and it looked like he would catch him with a lap to go. However with two laps to go Hamad's engine went onto three cylinders and Frederic was able to sweep by into the lead. Rafael just failed to take the final podium position from Matt Howson, missing out by just four tenths of a second at the line.
Next round is at the same circuit on February 16-17th and Vervisch is determined to consolidate his lead as he chases the Force India F1 prize drive. Rafael has demonstrated he has the speed to win and he is determined to turn that speed into a race win.
Team Goddard's drivers, Frederic Vervisch and Rafael Suzuki, wrapped up the front row of the Asian Formula Three event held at the challenging Batangas Race Circuit in the Philippines on January 12-13th. Vervisch went on to take three wins and a second place from the four races. He was disqualified from one race for reversing before the start and this race result is now under appeal. Vervisch leads the points race as he has his sights on the Force India F1 Prize for the champion.
Brazilian Rafael Suzuki put in two fantastic laps to take pole position from Vervisch, Niall Quinn, Hamad Al Fardan and Matt Howson. AF3 is currently incredibly competitive and any of these drivers are capable of winning.
Qualifying took place in dry conditions on Friday, Rafael setting a fantastic 1.26.962 over a second under the circuit lap record. Saturday dawned extremely wet, albeit this being the dry season in this part of the Philippines, and the race start was postponed several times before the officials felt it was safe to start. Frederic stormed into an early lead but at the turn three hairpin on lap two Hamad's front wheel touched Frederic's rear wheel causing him to spin down the field eventually finishing third. Rafael made a good start but almost lost in a puddle on the run into the first turn and dropped down the field. He spent the rest of the race playing catch up finishing in fourth place. It was his first wet race "I am learning so much each time I get in the car" reported Rafael.
The officials felt Hamad's move was a racing incident although Frederic was not happy with that view!
Race two was also wet and this time Hamad and Frederic put on a great display of racing with no untoward tactics. Frederic hounded Hamad for many laps, often getting alongside his rival but not able to make the move stick. He finally made it by at the turn three hairpin on lap 9 of 12. "It was clean move, close but we did not touch" said Vervisch. Rafael finished fourth after dropping to fifth at the start. Once past Niall Quinn he homed in on Matt Howson but just failed to take the final podium position.
Sunday dawned dry and the first race of the day was to prove controversial. Vervisch arrived on the grid after the warm up lap and overshot his starting "box". He selected reverse and drove back to take the correct position. Hamad made the best start to lead but Frederic was soon past at turn one on the third lap and pulled away to take an easy win. Behind it was much closer as Rafael, Howson and Quinn all battled for third spot. It all came to a head on lap 5 when the three touched and spun at turn one. Rafael suffered a puncture and suspension damage and was forced to retire from the race.
After the race the Stewards excluded Vervisch for reversing on the grid, a decision that has been appealed. This put Frederic near the back of the field for the start of the final race and he had a fantastic first lap getting up to third place. He was soon on the gearbox of Niall Quinn and it took four laps before he was able to find a way past. He then started to hound down race leader, Al Fardan, and it looked like he would catch him with a lap to go. However with two laps to go Hamad's engine went onto three cylinders and Frederic was able to sweep by into the lead. Rafael just failed to take the final podium position from Matt Howson, missing out by just four tenths of a second at the line.
Next round is at the same circuit on February 16-17th and Vervisch is determined to consolidate his lead as he chases the Force India F1 prize drive. Rafael has demonstrated he has the speed to win and he is determined to turn that speed into a race win.
"Team Goddard take three out four race wins - Feb 17 08
Frederic Vervisch won rounds nine to eleven of the 2007-8 Asian F3 Series held at the Batangas Race Circuit in the Philippines on February 16-17th. His dominent performance came to an end in round twelve when Matt Howson beat him to the flag. Team Goddard team mate, Rafael Suzuki, had two second and two third places from the weekend.
Vervisch qualified on pole position with Suzuki alongside him and he was able to pull away in all of the first three races to take accomplished wins. Suzuki meanwhile had a more evenful weekend having to fend off Matt Howson for the second spot. The rookie driver continues to impress with his performance and that elusive first win will not be far away.
The cars joined the grid for the fourth race with slick tyres mounted but the heavens opened and there was mad rush to fit wet tyres. Both drivers struggled in the race, having several off track excursions. "The set up that makes us so quick in the dry is not good in the wet and we were unable to change the cars in the time available on the grid" reported Team Engineer, Roberto Bautista.
Vervisch now leads Matt Howson in the points table with Rafael Suzuki in third place"
Frederic Vervisch won rounds nine to eleven of the 2007-8 Asian F3 Series held at the Batangas Race Circuit in the Philippines on February 16-17th. His dominent performance came to an end in round twelve when Matt Howson beat him to the flag. Team Goddard team mate, Rafael Suzuki, had two second and two third places from the weekend.
Vervisch qualified on pole position with Suzuki alongside him and he was able to pull away in all of the first three races to take accomplished wins. Suzuki meanwhile had a more evenful weekend having to fend off Matt Howson for the second spot. The rookie driver continues to impress with his performance and that elusive first win will not be far away.
The cars joined the grid for the fourth race with slick tyres mounted but the heavens opened and there was mad rush to fit wet tyres. Both drivers struggled in the race, having several off track excursions. "The set up that makes us so quick in the dry is not good in the wet and we were unable to change the cars in the time available on the grid" reported Team Engineer, Roberto Bautista.
Vervisch now leads Matt Howson in the points table with Rafael Suzuki in third place"
Team Goddard wraps up Asian F3 title - Mar 29 08
Team Goddard won the 2007-8 Asian F3 Drivers and Team title today at the Batangas Race Circuit in the Philippines. Frederic Vervisch took the title in style winning round 16 of the Series and wrapping up the title with two rounds still to be run on Sunday March 30th. His team mate, Rafael Suzuki, had taken his first win in the Series in the previous day, winning round 13 of the series.
Round fourteen had been won by Vervisch's championship rival, Matt Howson after both Vervisch and Suzuki stalled on the grid. Vervisch finished second with Suzuki third after storming drivers through the field. The Belgian then dominated round 15 to put the title within reach before ending the day with his win and a well deserved championship.
Team Goddard won the 2007-8 Asian F3 Drivers and Team title today at the Batangas Race Circuit in the Philippines. Frederic Vervisch took the title in style winning round 16 of the Series and wrapping up the title with two rounds still to be run on Sunday March 30th. His team mate, Rafael Suzuki, had taken his first win in the Series in the previous day, winning round 13 of the series.
Round fourteen had been won by Vervisch's championship rival, Matt Howson after both Vervisch and Suzuki stalled on the grid. Vervisch finished second with Suzuki third after storming drivers through the field. The Belgian then dominated round 15 to put the title within reach before ending the day with his win and a well deserved championship.
Chris Maliepaard impresses at Sepang F3 test - Oct 05 08
Chris Maliepaard, a race winner in the British Formula Ford Championship this season, spent four days testing Eurasia Team Goddard's championship winning Dallara 304 TOM'S car getting up to speed prior to testing in the UK for a 2009 British F3 campaign. He was able to get under the Asian F3 qualifying record after an extremely impressive performance.
The team was really happy with Chris's performance. "I think the best compliment we could give him is that we would be really happy to have him drive for us in the 2009 Asian F3 Series. I believe he will be able to test for any team in British F3 now and immediately get up to speed." reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Team Goddard. "It's a really cost effective way to learn how to drive an F3 car, much cheaper than testing in the UK and warm weather is guaranteed. A cold wet Pembrey or Snetterton at three times the cost is a far less sensible introduction to F3, in my opinion" added Goddard.
Testing is available at Sepang with the team; interested drivers should e mail mark@eurasiamotorsport.com for details.
Chris Maliepaard, a race winner in the British Formula Ford Championship this season, spent four days testing Eurasia Team Goddard's championship winning Dallara 304 TOM'S car getting up to speed prior to testing in the UK for a 2009 British F3 campaign. He was able to get under the Asian F3 qualifying record after an extremely impressive performance.
The team was really happy with Chris's performance. "I think the best compliment we could give him is that we would be really happy to have him drive for us in the 2009 Asian F3 Series. I believe he will be able to test for any team in British F3 now and immediately get up to speed." reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Team Goddard. "It's a really cost effective way to learn how to drive an F3 car, much cheaper than testing in the UK and warm weather is guaranteed. A cold wet Pembrey or Snetterton at three times the cost is a far less sensible introduction to F3, in my opinion" added Goddard.
Testing is available at Sepang with the team; interested drivers should e mail mark@eurasiamotorsport.com for details.
F3 testing at full speed on two continents Feb 7 09
Eurasia Team Goddard has been flat out testing with their F3 cars at the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia and at Mallala near Adelaide in Australia. Several drivers have taken the opportunity to get more F3 miles under their belt at Sepang whilst the Australian testing is in preparation for the team's entry to the 2009 Australian F3 Championship.
"We have now had five drivers sample our Dallara 304 TOM'S cars at Sepang in recent months and they have all gone away feeling they have learnt a lot and that it will help their 2009 campaigns in Japan and UK. It's a cost effective way to gain F3 miles on a Grand Prix circuit in good weather, which is impossible this time of year in Japan and UK" reported the team's Mark Goddard. One of the drivers set the fastest ever F3 lap time set with 1m59.8 second lap. "The drivers have asked the team to keep their names confidential.
"The testing in Australia went very well and we hope to announce our driver line up for the Australian Championship very shortly" said Goddard. The team will enter the series with a Dallara 307 Mercedes and they hope to back up their 2008 Asian F3 Title with a competitive campaign in Australia.
Eurasia Team Goddard has been flat out testing with their F3 cars at the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia and at Mallala near Adelaide in Australia. Several drivers have taken the opportunity to get more F3 miles under their belt at Sepang whilst the Australian testing is in preparation for the team's entry to the 2009 Australian F3 Championship.
"We have now had five drivers sample our Dallara 304 TOM'S cars at Sepang in recent months and they have all gone away feeling they have learnt a lot and that it will help their 2009 campaigns in Japan and UK. It's a cost effective way to gain F3 miles on a Grand Prix circuit in good weather, which is impossible this time of year in Japan and UK" reported the team's Mark Goddard. One of the drivers set the fastest ever F3 lap time set with 1m59.8 second lap. "The drivers have asked the team to keep their names confidential.
"The testing in Australia went very well and we hope to announce our driver line up for the Australian Championship very shortly" said Goddard. The team will enter the series with a Dallara 307 Mercedes and they hope to back up their 2008 Asian F3 Title with a competitive campaign in Australia.
Eurasia driver wins BMW scholarship - Feb 10 09
BMW today announced that Axcil Jefferies has won a coveted BMW Scholarship of Euro50,000 plus all the benefits of the BMW education and coaching program. The prestigious award is a great start to the season for the Eurasia Motorsport driver and a testament to the coaching Axcil received from the team in the past year.
"We are extremely happy for Axcil and I am sure he will repay the faith that both BMW and Eurasia have in his abilities with some great results this season" reported Eurasia's Mark Goddard.
Testing for the 2009 season will continue in the first week of March at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia prior to the first event on April 5th at the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix.
BMW today announced that Axcil Jefferies has won a coveted BMW Scholarship of Euro50,000 plus all the benefits of the BMW education and coaching program. The prestigious award is a great start to the season for the Eurasia Motorsport driver and a testament to the coaching Axcil received from the team in the past year.
"We are extremely happy for Axcil and I am sure he will repay the faith that both BMW and Eurasia have in his abilities with some great results this season" reported Eurasia's Mark Goddard.
Testing for the 2009 season will continue in the first week of March at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia prior to the first event on April 5th at the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix.
Sho Hanawa confirms Australian F3 campaign Feb 15 09
Twenty year old Japanese driver, Sho Hanawa, has confirmed he will contest the 2009 Formula 3 Australia Drivers Championship in a Team Goddard Dallara Mercedes. Hanawa has been testing with the team and setting some competitive lap times making both driver and team confident that he will be at the sharp end of the grid for the first race at the Clipsal 500 Adelaide street race on March 19-22nd.
Hanawa has had three partial seasons in UK Formula Renault and despite his relative lack of experience has impressed the team with his speed during testing at the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia and Mallala near Adelaide. "We know it is going to be challenge to win in Australia because it is a very hard fought championship but we are confident we will be competitive this season with Sho behind the wheel" reported Team boss, Mark Goddard.
The team will be testing at Mallala again on March 12th and 13th prior to the first event at Adelaide. "Ideally we would like to run two drivers and we hope that we can sign up a team mate for Sho prior to the first event" stated Goddard.
Twenty year old Japanese driver, Sho Hanawa, has confirmed he will contest the 2009 Formula 3 Australia Drivers Championship in a Team Goddard Dallara Mercedes. Hanawa has been testing with the team and setting some competitive lap times making both driver and team confident that he will be at the sharp end of the grid for the first race at the Clipsal 500 Adelaide street race on March 19-22nd.
Hanawa has had three partial seasons in UK Formula Renault and despite his relative lack of experience has impressed the team with his speed during testing at the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia and Mallala near Adelaide. "We know it is going to be challenge to win in Australia because it is a very hard fought championship but we are confident we will be competitive this season with Sho behind the wheel" reported Team boss, Mark Goddard.
The team will be testing at Mallala again on March 12th and 13th prior to the first event at Adelaide. "Ideally we would like to run two drivers and we hope that we can sign up a team mate for Sho prior to the first event" stated Goddard.
Chris Wootton joins Eurasia F.BMW team - Feb 20 09
Australian Chris Wootton returns to the F.BMW Pacific Series for a second season joining Eurasia Motorsport for a concerted attack on the championship. Wootton, who is a second year BMW Junior driver, will start as one of the favourites for championship honours. He joins Axcil Jefferies in the team and together they form an extremely strong line up.
Australian Chris Wootton returns to the F.BMW Pacific Series for a second season joining Eurasia Motorsport for a concerted attack on the championship. Wootton, who is a second year BMW Junior driver, will start as one of the favourites for championship honours. He joins Axcil Jefferies in the team and together they form an extremely strong line up.
Hanawa to miss first round of Australian F3 - Mar 15 09
Sho Hanawa will miss the first round of the Australian F3 Championship after his management company declared insolvency leaving the Japanese driver without funds for the first F3A round at Adelaide. It is hoped that he will be able to join the series from round two.
"The team was shocked to learn of this development which has left us in the lurch. We have attempted to find a replacement but at such short notice it was not possible" reported Team Principal, Mark Goddard. "We hope Hanawa will be able to resolve the problem with his management company which will allow him to complete the season. We are also investigated the possibility of running other drivers as we are extremely keen to compete in the Australian Championship, especially after investing so much time and money in our campaign".
Sho Hanawa will miss the first round of the Australian F3 Championship after his management company declared insolvency leaving the Japanese driver without funds for the first F3A round at Adelaide. It is hoped that he will be able to join the series from round two.
"The team was shocked to learn of this development which has left us in the lurch. We have attempted to find a replacement but at such short notice it was not possible" reported Team Principal, Mark Goddard. "We hope Hanawa will be able to resolve the problem with his management company which will allow him to complete the season. We are also investigated the possibility of running other drivers as we are extremely keen to compete in the Australian Championship, especially after investing so much time and money in our campaign".
Pre-season F.BMW Pacific testing ends Mar 15 09
Testing is now banned until the first event of the 2009 Formula BMW Pacific Series which will support the Malaysian F1 GP at Sepang. The final six days of practice saw Axcil Jefferies confirm his status as a potential Championship winner with Chris Wootton quickly getting back into the groove after a long lay off.
Testing times can give the wrong picture as it is impossible to know who is running to the regulations but Axcil Jefferies was consistently on or near the top of the unofficial test sheets. "We do not wish to fool ourselves so we ran Axcil's car within the regulations in order to know exactly what we are capable of and he was consistently right at the top of the time sheets", reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "We are sure we have a real shot at the championship this season and after seeing the performance of Chris Wootton we now have twice the chance of winning".
The official test takes place at Sepang on March 29th before practice and qualifying for the GP support race on April 3rd.
Testing is now banned until the first event of the 2009 Formula BMW Pacific Series which will support the Malaysian F1 GP at Sepang. The final six days of practice saw Axcil Jefferies confirm his status as a potential Championship winner with Chris Wootton quickly getting back into the groove after a long lay off.
Testing times can give the wrong picture as it is impossible to know who is running to the regulations but Axcil Jefferies was consistently on or near the top of the unofficial test sheets. "We do not wish to fool ourselves so we ran Axcil's car within the regulations in order to know exactly what we are capable of and he was consistently right at the top of the time sheets", reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "We are sure we have a real shot at the championship this season and after seeing the performance of Chris Wootton we now have twice the chance of winning".
The official test takes place at Sepang on March 29th before practice and qualifying for the GP support race on April 3rd.
Chris Wootton heads to Malaysia - Mar 26 09
As most of Australian motorsport has its attention to the Formula 1™ ING Australian Grand Prix this weekend, Australia's Formula BMW Junior - Chris Wootton - heads to Malaysia to finalise preparations for his quest to become the Formula BMW Pacific Champion.
The 20-year-old will arrive in the humidity of Kuala Lumpur for final testing across the Australian Grand Prix weekend, with the first round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series to be held in conjunction with the Formula 1™ PETRONAS Malaysian Grand Prix the following weekend - April 2-5.
During March, the Formula BMW Junior has completed a successful bracket of testing with Eurasia Motorsport at Sepang. Chris set the quickest times in wet conditions and performed solidly in the dry as the team finalises its race setup for the spectacular circuit.
The test was used to familiarise Chris with the Eurasia Motorsport team and prime him for this first round. They will be aiming for outright pace from when he gets back in the car next week for the final official test.
He will link up with his race engineer for this season, Greg Wheeler, who will be fresh from engineering a V8 Supercar for Australian Television personality, Grant Denyer, at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide last weekend.
Chris carries with him added status this year as the only second year Formula BMW Junior competing in the Formula BMW Pacific Series.
As a Formula BMW Junior, Chris will meet with Dr. Mario Thiessen and BMW Sauber F1 Team officials, drivers and sponsors at events that coincide with Formula 1™ Grands Prix.
BEHIND THE HELMET - CHRIS WOOTTON:
"We're very happy with where we are at," Chris said. "We've been working through a variety of setups to get me comfortable in the car and get the team comfortable with me. We were approaching the pace we wanted in the dry at the end of the test, but our wet weather form was impressive.
"Sepang is just such a top facility. It is really technical and has some tough, high speed corners. It's going to be awesome to have the first two events there.
"Being behind the wheel again was great, but testing and a race weekend are two completely different things - particularly at an F1 Grand Prix!
"Thinking back to last year when I raced at my first Grand Prix weekend, there is so much happening around you, it's very difficult to focus.
"Naturally, there's a lot of excitement associated with being at a Grand Prix, not to mention the lure of wanting to watch what's happening on track, but you have to keep your mind on the job.
"I'm lucky that I have a few of those weekends under my belt now, whereas many of the guys coming into Formula BMW for the first time will be dealing with that additional pressure -let alone that for many of them, it will be their first race meeting out of karts.
"We've aimed to be quick from the first round and indications are that we will be. We know what we want to achieve from this season and we're ready. Mark (Goddard) and the Eurasia guys have me in the best frame of mind possible to do the job."
As most of Australian motorsport has its attention to the Formula 1™ ING Australian Grand Prix this weekend, Australia's Formula BMW Junior - Chris Wootton - heads to Malaysia to finalise preparations for his quest to become the Formula BMW Pacific Champion.
The 20-year-old will arrive in the humidity of Kuala Lumpur for final testing across the Australian Grand Prix weekend, with the first round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series to be held in conjunction with the Formula 1™ PETRONAS Malaysian Grand Prix the following weekend - April 2-5.
During March, the Formula BMW Junior has completed a successful bracket of testing with Eurasia Motorsport at Sepang. Chris set the quickest times in wet conditions and performed solidly in the dry as the team finalises its race setup for the spectacular circuit.
The test was used to familiarise Chris with the Eurasia Motorsport team and prime him for this first round. They will be aiming for outright pace from when he gets back in the car next week for the final official test.
He will link up with his race engineer for this season, Greg Wheeler, who will be fresh from engineering a V8 Supercar for Australian Television personality, Grant Denyer, at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide last weekend.
Chris carries with him added status this year as the only second year Formula BMW Junior competing in the Formula BMW Pacific Series.
As a Formula BMW Junior, Chris will meet with Dr. Mario Thiessen and BMW Sauber F1 Team officials, drivers and sponsors at events that coincide with Formula 1™ Grands Prix.
BEHIND THE HELMET - CHRIS WOOTTON:
"We're very happy with where we are at," Chris said. "We've been working through a variety of setups to get me comfortable in the car and get the team comfortable with me. We were approaching the pace we wanted in the dry at the end of the test, but our wet weather form was impressive.
"Sepang is just such a top facility. It is really technical and has some tough, high speed corners. It's going to be awesome to have the first two events there.
"Being behind the wheel again was great, but testing and a race weekend are two completely different things - particularly at an F1 Grand Prix!
"Thinking back to last year when I raced at my first Grand Prix weekend, there is so much happening around you, it's very difficult to focus.
"Naturally, there's a lot of excitement associated with being at a Grand Prix, not to mention the lure of wanting to watch what's happening on track, but you have to keep your mind on the job.
"I'm lucky that I have a few of those weekends under my belt now, whereas many of the guys coming into Formula BMW for the first time will be dealing with that additional pressure -let alone that for many of them, it will be their first race meeting out of karts.
"We've aimed to be quick from the first round and indications are that we will be. We know what we want to achieve from this season and we're ready. Mark (Goddard) and the Eurasia guys have me in the best frame of mind possible to do the job."
Axcil Jefferies looks forward to first race - May 27 09
A comprehensive pre-season testing campaign leaves Axcil Jefferies in a confident frame of mind for his first car race, round one of the 2009 Formula BMW Pacific Series at the Malaysian F1 GP event to be held at the Sepang Circuit on April 4th.
Eurasia Motorsport formulated a comprehensive testing program for the young Zimbabwean driver and it leaves both driver and team confident they will be competitive from the start of the season. Jefferies has consistently been setting top three fastest lap times in testing this year, often the fastest time of the session. The team and driver have worked hard not only on speed but on starts and race craft giving Axcil the best possible chance of performing well in his first event. Axcil has also undergone a rigorous physical training program to ensure he is in top shape for the season.
Axcil reports "It is going to be incredibly exciting to start my first car race at a Formula One Grand Prix and I am really looking forward to getting on track next week."
Axcil is a BMW Junior Driver, having won a 50,000 Euro scholarship for the season, and his weekend will include visits to the BMW Sauber F1 Race Team Pit Garage allowing him to get a real taste of life in the upper echelons of the sport.
"This year looks like it will be extremely competitive with some very talented drivers on the grid so I believe just like in 2006 when the likes of Daniel Ricciardo, Earl Bamber, Sam Abay, Dominic Storey and Aaron Lim were racing in the series that 2008 will see the start of several successful careers in motorsport and I am sure Axcil Jefferies has a bright future ahead of him" reported Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard.
Axcil's team mate is Chris Wootton who will start his second season in F.BMW Pacific and he should also be fighting for victories. "We have a very strong line up with Chris and Axcil and we are now really looking forward to the season. The whole team can't wait for the flag to drop at the first race!" remarked Goddard.
A comprehensive pre-season testing campaign leaves Axcil Jefferies in a confident frame of mind for his first car race, round one of the 2009 Formula BMW Pacific Series at the Malaysian F1 GP event to be held at the Sepang Circuit on April 4th.
Eurasia Motorsport formulated a comprehensive testing program for the young Zimbabwean driver and it leaves both driver and team confident they will be competitive from the start of the season. Jefferies has consistently been setting top three fastest lap times in testing this year, often the fastest time of the session. The team and driver have worked hard not only on speed but on starts and race craft giving Axcil the best possible chance of performing well in his first event. Axcil has also undergone a rigorous physical training program to ensure he is in top shape for the season.
Axcil reports "It is going to be incredibly exciting to start my first car race at a Formula One Grand Prix and I am really looking forward to getting on track next week."
Axcil is a BMW Junior Driver, having won a 50,000 Euro scholarship for the season, and his weekend will include visits to the BMW Sauber F1 Race Team Pit Garage allowing him to get a real taste of life in the upper echelons of the sport.
"This year looks like it will be extremely competitive with some very talented drivers on the grid so I believe just like in 2006 when the likes of Daniel Ricciardo, Earl Bamber, Sam Abay, Dominic Storey and Aaron Lim were racing in the series that 2008 will see the start of several successful careers in motorsport and I am sure Axcil Jefferies has a bright future ahead of him" reported Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard.
Axcil's team mate is Chris Wootton who will start his second season in F.BMW Pacific and he should also be fighting for victories. "We have a very strong line up with Chris and Axcil and we are now really looking forward to the season. The whole team can't wait for the flag to drop at the first race!" remarked Goddard.
Wootton second, Jefferies fourth in race one - April 4 09
Chris Wootton opened his season with a fine second place in round one of the Formula BMW Pacific Series held at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia whilst Axcil Jefferies took an impressive fourth place in his first car race. Wootton starts second for round two, which will be held before the F1 Grand Prix, whilst Jefferies will be fourth on the starting grid.
Chris Wootton opened his season with a fine second place in round one of the Formula BMW Pacific Series held at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia whilst Axcil Jefferies took an impressive fourth place in his first car race. Wootton starts second for round two, which will be held before the F1 Grand Prix, whilst Jefferies will be fourth on the starting grid.
Wootton second in round two - April 5 09
Chris Wootton took another fine second place in round two of the Formula BMW Pacific Series supporting today's Malaysian F1GP at the Sepang Circuit. Wootton now lies second in the driver's championship whilst Eurasia Motorsport leads the Team Championship despite Axcil Jefferies failing to finish after being crashed out of the race by an errant competitor.
Wootton made a good start in damp conditions from second on the grid and took the lead closely followed by team mate Axcil Jefferies and Rio Haryanto. Wootton immediately drove away from the field and had a large lead by the final turn on the first lap. Turn 15 was the wettest corner on the circuit and Wootton ran wide on the exit, narrowly missing the wall. He was still able to rejoin just behind Axcil Jefferies and the pair crossed the line in first and second place. However Haryanto was able to take advantage of the melee and took the lead. Wootton followed him through whilst Jefferies dropped to third place in the confusion.
It all went for Jefferies at turn 11 when Calvin Wong speared into the Zimbabwean, Axcil's rear wheel riding over the front wheel of Wong tipping him into a spectacular ride through the gravel and into retirement. He did have the consolation of having led a race however and he will surely be a factor in the championship this year.
Wootton kept the pressure up despite having lost his front splitter causing a handling imbalance. The race was cut short after five laps and results declared with half points awarded.
Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport reported "The team is happy as we know we will be a factor in this year's championship with two competitive drivers. Chris was a little unlucky not to win this weekend and it's only a matter of time before he will win his first race. Axcil now has his first event under his belt, he led for a lap and we are sure he will be fully competitive at the second event in Sepang in May."
Chris Wootton took another fine second place in round two of the Formula BMW Pacific Series supporting today's Malaysian F1GP at the Sepang Circuit. Wootton now lies second in the driver's championship whilst Eurasia Motorsport leads the Team Championship despite Axcil Jefferies failing to finish after being crashed out of the race by an errant competitor.
Wootton made a good start in damp conditions from second on the grid and took the lead closely followed by team mate Axcil Jefferies and Rio Haryanto. Wootton immediately drove away from the field and had a large lead by the final turn on the first lap. Turn 15 was the wettest corner on the circuit and Wootton ran wide on the exit, narrowly missing the wall. He was still able to rejoin just behind Axcil Jefferies and the pair crossed the line in first and second place. However Haryanto was able to take advantage of the melee and took the lead. Wootton followed him through whilst Jefferies dropped to third place in the confusion.
It all went for Jefferies at turn 11 when Calvin Wong speared into the Zimbabwean, Axcil's rear wheel riding over the front wheel of Wong tipping him into a spectacular ride through the gravel and into retirement. He did have the consolation of having led a race however and he will surely be a factor in the championship this year.
Wootton kept the pressure up despite having lost his front splitter causing a handling imbalance. The race was cut short after five laps and results declared with half points awarded.
Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport reported "The team is happy as we know we will be a factor in this year's championship with two competitive drivers. Chris was a little unlucky not to win this weekend and it's only a matter of time before he will win his first race. Axcil now has his first event under his belt, he led for a lap and we are sure he will be fully competitive at the second event in Sepang in May."
Daniel Ricciardo takes double British F3 win - Apr 21 09
Eurasia Motorsport graduate, Daniel Ricciardo, won the opening two rounds of the British F3 Championship at Oulton Park in the UK. Ricciardo was a race winner in his first year of racing, competing in the F.BMW Asia Series with Eurasia Motorsport.
Ricciardo graduated from F.BMW Asia to Formula Renault in Italy in 2007 and then went on to finish second in the F.Renault Euroseries last year. This year sees him race in British F3 and with Red Bull backing he looks a good bet to on the Formula One grid in the not too distant future.
Daniel appreciated the grounding he was given in F.BMW with Eurasia and he has demonstrated that the team is the best around if you wish to develop your driving skills to the highest level.
Eurasia Motorsport graduate, Daniel Ricciardo, won the opening two rounds of the British F3 Championship at Oulton Park in the UK. Ricciardo was a race winner in his first year of racing, competing in the F.BMW Asia Series with Eurasia Motorsport.
Ricciardo graduated from F.BMW Asia to Formula Renault in Italy in 2007 and then went on to finish second in the F.Renault Euroseries last year. This year sees him race in British F3 and with Red Bull backing he looks a good bet to on the Formula One grid in the not too distant future.
Daniel appreciated the grounding he was given in F.BMW with Eurasia and he has demonstrated that the team is the best around if you wish to develop your driving skills to the highest level.
Formula BMW have announced that the 2010 scholarship trials will take place at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia on September 1-2 this year. Winners will receive a Euro 50,000 scholarship towards the cost of the 2010 season. Participants should contact Eurasia Motorsport immediately for details of our scholarship development program which gives drivers the best possible chance of gaining a scholarship.
F.BMW Pacific 2010 scholarship trials announced May 8 09
Eurasia Motorsport have conducted coaching at Sepang for several successful scholarship recipients and with limited track time available at Sepang potential candidates should contact us as soon as possible. E mail Mark Goddard at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com for details.
Drivers aged between 16-21, who have not previously participated in any international car race series and no more than 10 car national meetings, are eligible to compete for a scholarship. However, the trial, which gives all young drivers an important assessment and driver training from BMW Motorsport professionals, is open to all.
An early-bird registration fee of Euro €2,600, which covers the cost of everything except transportation and accommodation, is available until July 1, after which the cost is Euro €2,900. For entry forms and information on scholarship eligibility, potential applicants should contact Formula BMW Pacific Series Manager Mark Turner (mark.turner@partner.formulabmw.com).
For drivers ineligible for a scholarship, due to age or experience, the training and assessment programme provides a valuable opportunity to receive expert tuition and guidance. The programme also provides those preparing to enter the region's premier single seater entry series with an introduction to the FB02 racing car.
While five graduates of Formula BMW in Europe, where the formula has been established for longer than in Asia-Pacific, are already competing in Formula One, alumni and Juniors from this region are busy working their way up the career ladder of international motorsport.
Former Formula BMW Pacific Junior Daniel Ricciardo is currently fast making a name for himself in British Formula 3. The 19-year old was selected as a Formula BMW Pacific Junior for the 2006 season, where the Australian placed second in the Rookie Cup and third overall in the Drivers Classification with Eurasia Motorsport.
That year Ricciardo rounded off a brilliant debut season by not only finishing in the top five in the Formula BMW World Final, but also picking up a special achievement award in Valencia, Spain. Beating both the Formula BMW UK and USA series winners to finish 5th in the World Final, organisers judged his performance throughout the weekend to be exceptional in sportsmanship and in driving discipline and style.
Fast forward to 2009, and Ricciardo is currently considered one to watch in British Formula 3, after winning three out of the season's first four starts and impressing throughout winter testing. Ricciardo praises the grounding he received in F.BMW from Eurasia Motorsport and counts it as part of his subsequent success.
Other former Formula BMW Juniors from the region are currently furthering their international motorsport careers. India's Armaan Ebrahim, a Junior in 2005, competed in the 2008 season of GP2 Asia. Ebrahim has also been a Team India A1GP driver and has competed in the Formula Renault V6 series. Fellow 2005 Junior Michael Patrizi of Australia is competing in the popular V8 Supercar Championship, while 2006 Junior Aaron Lim, also of Eurasia Motorsport, has been given the honour of representing Malaysia in A1GP. More recently, 2007 Junior Ross Jamison of Hong Kong won the 2008 Formula BMW Pacific title in convincing fashion.
As the influence of the Asia Pacific region continues to grow in the world of top-level motorsport, the development of the region's own talent becomes increasingly important. Formula BMW Pacific not only recognizes this imperative, but continues to lead the charge
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Drivers aged between 16-21, who have not previously participated in any international car race series and no more than 10 car national meetings, are eligible to compete for a scholarship. However, the trial, which gives all young drivers an important assessment and driver training from BMW Motorsport professionals, is open to all.
An early-bird registration fee of Euro €2,600, which covers the cost of everything except transportation and accommodation, is available until July 1, after which the cost is Euro €2,900. For entry forms and information on scholarship eligibility, potential applicants should contact Formula BMW Pacific Series Manager Mark Turner (mark.turner@partner.formulabmw.com).
For drivers ineligible for a scholarship, due to age or experience, the training and assessment programme provides a valuable opportunity to receive expert tuition and guidance. The programme also provides those preparing to enter the region's premier single seater entry series with an introduction to the FB02 racing car.
While five graduates of Formula BMW in Europe, where the formula has been established for longer than in Asia-Pacific, are already competing in Formula One, alumni and Juniors from this region are busy working their way up the career ladder of international motorsport.
Former Formula BMW Pacific Junior Daniel Ricciardo is currently fast making a name for himself in British Formula 3. The 19-year old was selected as a Formula BMW Pacific Junior for the 2006 season, where the Australian placed second in the Rookie Cup and third overall in the Drivers Classification with Eurasia Motorsport.
That year Ricciardo rounded off a brilliant debut season by not only finishing in the top five in the Formula BMW World Final, but also picking up a special achievement award in Valencia, Spain. Beating both the Formula BMW UK and USA series winners to finish 5th in the World Final, organisers judged his performance throughout the weekend to be exceptional in sportsmanship and in driving discipline and style.
Fast forward to 2009, and Ricciardo is currently considered one to watch in British Formula 3, after winning three out of the season's first four starts and impressing throughout winter testing. Ricciardo praises the grounding he received in F.BMW from Eurasia Motorsport and counts it as part of his subsequent success.
Other former Formula BMW Juniors from the region are currently furthering their international motorsport careers. India's Armaan Ebrahim, a Junior in 2005, competed in the 2008 season of GP2 Asia. Ebrahim has also been a Team India A1GP driver and has competed in the Formula Renault V6 series. Fellow 2005 Junior Michael Patrizi of Australia is competing in the popular V8 Supercar Championship, while 2006 Junior Aaron Lim, also of Eurasia Motorsport, has been given the honour of representing Malaysia in A1GP. More recently, 2007 Junior Ross Jamison of Hong Kong won the 2008 Formula BMW Pacific title in convincing fashion.
As the influence of the Asia Pacific region continues to grow in the world of top-level motorsport, the development of the region's own talent becomes increasingly important. Formula BMW Pacific not only recognizes this imperative, but continues to lead the charge
Sign up to receive breaking news as well as receive other site updates!
BMW Scholarship entry forms released - May 18 09
BMW have published the 2010 Formula BMW Pacific Scholarship Regulations and Entry forms. Drivers interested in taking part in the scholarship trials at Sepang Circuit in Malaysia on September 1-2 2009 may request copies from the team or apply direct to BMW.
E mail Mark Goddard at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com and we will e mail copies of the regulations and the entry forms to you. Eurasia Motorsport will be conducting pre-scholarship training at the Sepang Circuit and drivers wishing to give themselves the best possible chance of gaining a Euro50,000 scholarship should contact the team now for more details.
BMW have published the 2010 Formula BMW Pacific Scholarship Regulations and Entry forms. Drivers interested in taking part in the scholarship trials at Sepang Circuit in Malaysia on September 1-2 2009 may request copies from the team or apply direct to BMW.
E mail Mark Goddard at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com and we will e mail copies of the regulations and the entry forms to you. Eurasia Motorsport will be conducting pre-scholarship training at the Sepang Circuit and drivers wishing to give themselves the best possible chance of gaining a Euro50,000 scholarship should contact the team now for more details.
Antonio Martinez joins Eurasia for Sepang May 22 09
Formula BMW Europe Rookie driver, Antonio Martinez, is taking advantage of the opportunity to get some more racing miles under his belt by competing in rounds 3 -6 of the Formula BMW Pacific Series to be held at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia on May 28-31st.
Martinez, who is racing with Fortec Motorsport in Europe, will take advantage of the four races to be held at the Asian Festival of Speed to gain more race experience at the venue of the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix. Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard reported that the team was looking forward to working with the young Spaniard and that the team hope his experience in Sepang will assist him in his Formula BMW Europe campaign.
Martinez will have plenty of running with the event consisting of official testing on Thursday of race week, practice on Friday and qualifying and two races on Saturday May 30th. The event ends with two more races on Sunday May 31st.
Formula BMW Europe Rookie driver, Antonio Martinez, is taking advantage of the opportunity to get some more racing miles under his belt by competing in rounds 3 -6 of the Formula BMW Pacific Series to be held at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia on May 28-31st.
Martinez, who is racing with Fortec Motorsport in Europe, will take advantage of the four races to be held at the Asian Festival of Speed to gain more race experience at the venue of the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix. Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard reported that the team was looking forward to working with the young Spaniard and that the team hope his experience in Sepang will assist him in his Formula BMW Europe campaign.
Martinez will have plenty of running with the event consisting of official testing on Thursday of race week, practice on Friday and qualifying and two races on Saturday May 30th. The event ends with two more races on Sunday May 31st.
Wootton anticipates some Malaysian magic in F.BMW event two
Eurasia Motorsport's Australian Formula BMW Junior driver, Chris Wootton, is looking to step up his attack on the Formula BMW Pacific Title at the second event coming up next weekend, once again at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. After recording a brace of seconds at the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix in April, Wootton is seeking to make the most of the four rounds he will compete in as part of the Asian Festival of Speed (AFOS) event.
The 20-year-old from Brisbane's bayside will return to the wheel on Wednesday as part of an official AFOS test day at the facility. The Eurasia Motorsport team will focus on extracting every last ounce of speed from Wootton's Formula BMW FB02. He is aiming to chase down current Formula BMW Pacific leader, Irishman, Gary Thompson.
Being on the same track as round one will be an advantage to all competitors, however vastly different grip levels are expected due to not having Formula 1 on hand this time around.
Chris will be the subject of a feature story for the AFOS television coverage from this event. He will be taken to the city of Putrajaya to film Putrajaya replaced Kuala Lumpur as the host city for the Malaysian Government in 1999. It features some spectacular architecture that reflects the modern focus of Malaysia as a nation and an emerging world economy.
With no opportunity for testing in the two months between events, Wootton has been concentrating on his fitness, as well as getting the Chris Wootton Supporter's Club up and running, among other promotional duties.
Now he can switch attention back to business and advancing to the top of the Formula BMW Pacific ladder. Chris admits things will be a little different this time, but with his experience at Sepang, he's hoping to walk away with a maximum point score.
Being on the same track as round one will be an advantage to all competitors, however vastly different grip levels are expected due to not having Formula 1 on hand this time around.
Chris will be the subject of a feature story for the AFOS television coverage from this event. He will be taken to the city of Putrajaya to film Putrajaya replaced Kuala Lumpur as the host city for the Malaysian Government in 1999. It features some spectacular architecture that reflects the modern focus of Malaysia as a nation and an emerging world economy.
With no opportunity for testing in the two months between events, Wootton has been concentrating on his fitness, as well as getting the Chris Wootton Supporter's Club up and running, among other promotional duties.
Now he can switch attention back to business and advancing to the top of the Formula BMW Pacific ladder. Chris admits things will be a little different this time, but with his experience at Sepang, he's hoping to walk away with a maximum point score.
BEHIND THE HELMET: CHRIS WOOTTON
"Although the circuit is the same as the one we raced on a few weeks ago at the Grand Prix, we're going to be basically starting again.
"The grip levels between a Formula 1 Grand Prix and an AFOS event are completely different. Whilst there's a lot of different categories racing as part of AFOS, there isn't the grip of Formula 1.
"Last time I raced at Sepang, there were a few errors I made which ultimately cost me wins. Naturally, the aim from first practice onwards is to iron out those errors and shoot for the top step of the podium.
"We have an understanding now as to who is quick and who isn't. We're right there with them and with four point scoring opportunities throughout the weekend, we have the chance to come away with a good swag of points towards the Formula BMW Pacific points score.
"It is these events with plenty of track time that make or break a Championship and with the heat in Malaysia, fitness is going to play a part. It will come down to who can manage their physical exertion the best. I wouldn't expect the wet weather to play as much as a role as it did two months ago, but you just never know there.
" I'm obviously as fit as I ever have been, so I know that won't be a problem. For some of the younger fellas it could well be. Having said that, they showed they are pretty well unflappable with their performances at the first Formula BMW Pacific event, so we'll just wait and see.
"Taking a detour and filming the piece for Formula BMW Pacific television will be fun. I enjoy the promotional aspects of racing, it's nice to get away from the track and see some of the sights. Having never been to Putrajaya, I will get to see another part of Asia I haven't seen before. To be honest, I'd never heard of it, but having hunted around the 'net to get some background, it looks like an amazing place.
"I'm really excited about visiting there now and have to thank AFOS for asking me to be part of that event, along with Formula BMW Pacific, Eurasia Motorsport and my family for all the effort they put into allow me to go racing."
"Although the circuit is the same as the one we raced on a few weeks ago at the Grand Prix, we're going to be basically starting again.
"The grip levels between a Formula 1 Grand Prix and an AFOS event are completely different. Whilst there's a lot of different categories racing as part of AFOS, there isn't the grip of Formula 1.
"Last time I raced at Sepang, there were a few errors I made which ultimately cost me wins. Naturally, the aim from first practice onwards is to iron out those errors and shoot for the top step of the podium.
"We have an understanding now as to who is quick and who isn't. We're right there with them and with four point scoring opportunities throughout the weekend, we have the chance to come away with a good swag of points towards the Formula BMW Pacific points score.
"It is these events with plenty of track time that make or break a Championship and with the heat in Malaysia, fitness is going to play a part. It will come down to who can manage their physical exertion the best. I wouldn't expect the wet weather to play as much as a role as it did two months ago, but you just never know there.
" I'm obviously as fit as I ever have been, so I know that won't be a problem. For some of the younger fellas it could well be. Having said that, they showed they are pretty well unflappable with their performances at the first Formula BMW Pacific event, so we'll just wait and see.
"Taking a detour and filming the piece for Formula BMW Pacific television will be fun. I enjoy the promotional aspects of racing, it's nice to get away from the track and see some of the sights. Having never been to Putrajaya, I will get to see another part of Asia I haven't seen before. To be honest, I'd never heard of it, but having hunted around the 'net to get some background, it looks like an amazing place.
"I'm really excited about visiting there now and have to thank AFOS for asking me to be part of that event, along with Formula BMW Pacific, Eurasia Motorsport and my family for all the effort they put into allow me to go racing."
Eurasia to enter Sepang Merdeka 12 hours Enduro
Eurasia Motorsport is entering a Porsche 997 Cup car in the 2009 Merdeka Millennium Endurance 12 hour race held at the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia on August 8th 2009. The MME has become established as the premier endurance event in the South East Asian region and is hotly contested by teams and drivers from throughout the World. Drivers who are interested in taking part should contact the team as soon as possible.
The car is fully prepared for endurance racing with an up-rated aero package, enhanced suspension and a driver cooling and drinks system. The team will begin testing on July 21st prior to the event itself which is held from August 6-8th. The race starts at 11.30am on Saturday August 8th and ends at 11.30pm. Eurasia Motorsport personnel are no strangers to the MME having been involved twice with the overall race winning car.
Interested drivers should contact Mark Goddard now at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com for full details.
Interested drivers should contact Mark Goddard now at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com for full details.
Axcil Jefferies signs up new sponsor
The Zimbabwean BMW Junior driver has attracted support from Pioneer Africa Corporation, a transport and logistics company based in Central and Southern Africa. Axcil will sport the Pioneer logo on his car for the next round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series which will be held at the Sepang F1 Circuit on May 28-31.
Jefferies impressed with his speed at the first event of the series also held at Sepang supporting the Malaysian F1 GP. He finished fourth in his career first car race and led at the completion of the first lap of round two before being punted off by an errant competitor. Axcil is determined to put that disappointment behind him and is confident he can shine this coming weekend. "Now I have my first race under my belt I know what to expect and I am full of confidence for the weekend" remarked Axcil.
Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport commented "This weekend is vital for the championship as there are four races and a lot of points to be won. We know from testing that Axcil has the pace and I am confident its all going to come together for Axcil and we will be celebrating on Sunday evening!".
The Zimbabwean BMW Junior driver has attracted support from Pioneer Africa Corporation, a transport and logistics company based in Central and Southern Africa. Axcil will sport the Pioneer logo on his car for the next round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series which will be held at the Sepang F1 Circuit on May 28-31.
Jefferies impressed with his speed at the first event of the series also held at Sepang supporting the Malaysian F1 GP. He finished fourth in his career first car race and led at the completion of the first lap of round two before being punted off by an errant competitor. Axcil is determined to put that disappointment behind him and is confident he can shine this coming weekend. "Now I have my first race under my belt I know what to expect and I am full of confidence for the weekend" remarked Axcil.
Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport commented "This weekend is vital for the championship as there are four races and a lot of points to be won. We know from testing that Axcil has the pace and I am confident its all going to come together for Axcil and we will be celebrating on Sunday evening!".
Eurasia locks out the front row in qualifying.
Eurasia Motorsport's Chris Wootton took a stunning pole position at Sepang Circuit for round three of the Formula BMW Pacific Series today. Team mate Axcil Jefferies qualified in second place a mere .045 of a second slower. Wootton will also start first on the grid for round four with Jefferies third on the grid.
Both Eurasia drivers are confident there is even more speed to come and that they can give the team championship leaders their first win of the season. Round three will be held on Saturday afternoon, May 30th.
Eurasia Motorsport's Chris Wootton took a stunning pole position at Sepang Circuit for round three of the Formula BMW Pacific Series today. Team mate Axcil Jefferies qualified in second place a mere .045 of a second slower. Wootton will also start first on the grid for round four with Jefferies third on the grid.
Both Eurasia drivers are confident there is even more speed to come and that they can give the team championship leaders their first win of the season. Round three will be held on Saturday afternoon, May 30th.
Axcil Jefferies wins round three.
Eurasia Motorsport's Axcil Jefferies was first past the line in round three of the Formula BMW Pacific Series held at the Sepang International Circuit today. He belied his young age with a mature drive soaking up tremendous pressure before pulling way to record his first race win of the season.
Team mate Chris Wootton was a little slow away at the start handing the lead to a fast starting Jefferies. The Zimbabwean pulled out a small gap to the battling Wootton who was fending off Gary Thompson and Fahmi Ilyas. However it ended in tears at turn one when Thompson out braked Wootton into turn one and Fahmi tried to follow him through in an overly ambitious attempt at a pass. The subsequent contact forced Chris to pit to repair the damage, the Eurasia Team replacing a steering arm and front wing allowing Wootton to rejoin a lap down. Despite their best efforts Chris finished just outside the points.
Meanwhile Jefferies was soaking up the pressure from Thompson making no mistakes and giving his rival no chance of taking the lead. Thompson actually found a way past into turn one by leaving his braking impossibly late but Jefferies kept his cool and cut past again as Thompson ran wide on the exit. Axcil then pulled away at the end of the race to take an accomplished win and put himself right in the thick of the title race.
"Axcil demonstrated today he is a real talent and has a great future in front of him. He stayed cool under pressure and won the race on genuine pace" reported Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "Round four takes place this afternoon and we hope Chris can convert pole position into his first win of the season".
Eurasia Motorsport's Axcil Jefferies was first past the line in round three of the Formula BMW Pacific Series held at the Sepang International Circuit today. He belied his young age with a mature drive soaking up tremendous pressure before pulling way to record his first race win of the season.
Team mate Chris Wootton was a little slow away at the start handing the lead to a fast starting Jefferies. The Zimbabwean pulled out a small gap to the battling Wootton who was fending off Gary Thompson and Fahmi Ilyas. However it ended in tears at turn one when Thompson out braked Wootton into turn one and Fahmi tried to follow him through in an overly ambitious attempt at a pass. The subsequent contact forced Chris to pit to repair the damage, the Eurasia Team replacing a steering arm and front wing allowing Wootton to rejoin a lap down. Despite their best efforts Chris finished just outside the points.
Meanwhile Jefferies was soaking up the pressure from Thompson making no mistakes and giving his rival no chance of taking the lead. Thompson actually found a way past into turn one by leaving his braking impossibly late but Jefferies kept his cool and cut past again as Thompson ran wide on the exit. Axcil then pulled away at the end of the race to take an accomplished win and put himself right in the thick of the title race.
"Axcil demonstrated today he is a real talent and has a great future in front of him. He stayed cool under pressure and won the race on genuine pace" reported Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "Round four takes place this afternoon and we hope Chris can convert pole position into his first win of the season".
Jefferies fourth in round four at Sepang.
Axcil Jefferies finished fourth with a damaged car after being hit by Fahmi Ilyas whilst Chris Wootton was out on the spot at turn one after being crashed out of the lead by ….Fahmi Ilyas.
Wootton made a good start to lead into the first turn whilst Jefferies slotted into second to make it a Eurasia Motorsport one two at the end of lap one. The safety car was deployed whilst the mess from a first lap accident was cleared up but Ilyas was slow to react and ran into the back of Jefferies bending the exhaust and the rear wing. At the re-start Axcil found the bent exhaust was causing a loss of power and Fahmi swept past only to tap Wootton into a spin under braking for turn one. Chris was out on the spot and understandably extremely upset with his Malaysian rival.
Meanwhile Jefferies was struggling with his lack of power and drove a measured race to finish fourth and entertaining the crowd with his efforts to stay in front of Thompson, Haryanto and Sofyan. The latter was unable to find a way past.
Rounds five and six will take place on Sunday May 31st. Jefferies will start round five on pole position whilst Wootton will be at the back due to his finishing position in round three. "Chris deserves some good luck tomorrow" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport "and he has the speed to take a good points haul. Axcil has shown he has the pace to win and from pole position he is going to be hard to beat".
Axcil Jefferies finished fourth with a damaged car after being hit by Fahmi Ilyas whilst Chris Wootton was out on the spot at turn one after being crashed out of the lead by ….Fahmi Ilyas.
Wootton made a good start to lead into the first turn whilst Jefferies slotted into second to make it a Eurasia Motorsport one two at the end of lap one. The safety car was deployed whilst the mess from a first lap accident was cleared up but Ilyas was slow to react and ran into the back of Jefferies bending the exhaust and the rear wing. At the re-start Axcil found the bent exhaust was causing a loss of power and Fahmi swept past only to tap Wootton into a spin under braking for turn one. Chris was out on the spot and understandably extremely upset with his Malaysian rival.
Meanwhile Jefferies was struggling with his lack of power and drove a measured race to finish fourth and entertaining the crowd with his efforts to stay in front of Thompson, Haryanto and Sofyan. The latter was unable to find a way past.
Rounds five and six will take place on Sunday May 31st. Jefferies will start round five on pole position whilst Wootton will be at the back due to his finishing position in round three. "Chris deserves some good luck tomorrow" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport "and he has the speed to take a good points haul. Axcil has shown he has the pace to win and from pole position he is going to be hard to beat".
Eurasia Motorsport's Axcil Jefferies demonstrated yesterday's race win at Sepang in the Formula BMW Pacific Series was not a one-off by taking another accomplished victory in round five of the Championship.
Jefferies once again spent the race dicing with Gary Thompson with Akhil Khushlani an ever present third. A great start from pole saw Axcil take the lead and the top three quickly drew away from the chasing pack. Axcil looked in control despite the pressure being applied by Thompson. However on lap six Thompson took the lead at Turn One only to lose it again at turn four, Khushlani taking the opportunity to slip into second,
Jefferies once again spent the race dicing with Gary Thompson with Akhil Khushlani an ever present third. A great start from pole saw Axcil take the lead and the top three quickly drew away from the chasing pack. Axcil looked in control despite the pressure being applied by Thompson. However on lap six Thompson took the lead at Turn One only to lose it again at turn four, Khushlani taking the opportunity to slip into second,
Axcil Jefferies storms to second win
Khushlani taking the opportunity to slip into second, albeit for a few corners only. Thompson did all he could to find a way past but Axcil did not succumb to the pressure and took another win after a mature drive.
The pole position and the fastest F.BMW lap officially recorded at Sepang in the Championship's seven year history must have seemed a distant memory to Chris Wootton as he exited the final turn upside down on the first lap. Rio Haryanto had again clashed wheels with Wootton who escaped serious injury demonstrating the strength of the F.BMW chassis.
The final race of the weekend takes place this afternoon and Jefferies will start in fourth place and Wootton in tenth as the results of round four determines the starting positions of round six.
The pole position and the fastest F.BMW lap officially recorded at Sepang in the Championship's seven year history must have seemed a distant memory to Chris Wootton as he exited the final turn upside down on the first lap. Rio Haryanto had again clashed wheels with Wootton who escaped serious injury demonstrating the strength of the F.BMW chassis.
The final race of the weekend takes place this afternoon and Jefferies will start in fourth place and Wootton in tenth as the results of round four determines the starting positions of round six.
Jefferies third, Wootton sixth in round six
Axcil Jefferies finished in third place closing to within eleven points of the championship lead whilst Chris Wootton impressed with his drive to sixth place from the rear of the grid.
Fahmi Ilyas, Thompson, Haryanto and Jefferies started in that order and remained so for the first few laps. The four drivers pulled away from the pack and proceeded to put on an entertaining show. Haryanto took the lead with Thompson also finding a way past the erstwhile leader. The battling duo allowed Jefferies to take advantage and slip by with Thompson falling to fourth in the confusion.
Wootton was quickly into 8th place after a couple of laps in his rebuilt car, after his round five roll, and entertained with his efforts to pass Dominic Ang and then Dustin Sofyan. Once past the latter the lead group was simply too far ahead and he had to settle for sixth place in a courageous drive as he was still battered and bruised from his high speed roll earlier in the day.
"We demonstrated we have the speed with first and second in qualifying and Axcil with four podiums including two wins over the weekend has shown he is now a genuine title contender. Chris is now in seventh place in the championship and we hope all his bad luck is over for the season as we know he has the speed to win races" reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia. "We are really looking forward to the next event in Sentul and I am sure both Chris and Axcil will add to our tally of race wins".
Axcil Jefferies finished in third place closing to within eleven points of the championship lead whilst Chris Wootton impressed with his drive to sixth place from the rear of the grid.
Fahmi Ilyas, Thompson, Haryanto and Jefferies started in that order and remained so for the first few laps. The four drivers pulled away from the pack and proceeded to put on an entertaining show. Haryanto took the lead with Thompson also finding a way past the erstwhile leader. The battling duo allowed Jefferies to take advantage and slip by with Thompson falling to fourth in the confusion.
Wootton was quickly into 8th place after a couple of laps in his rebuilt car, after his round five roll, and entertained with his efforts to pass Dominic Ang and then Dustin Sofyan. Once past the latter the lead group was simply too far ahead and he had to settle for sixth place in a courageous drive as he was still battered and bruised from his high speed roll earlier in the day.
"We demonstrated we have the speed with first and second in qualifying and Axcil with four podiums including two wins over the weekend has shown he is now a genuine title contender. Chris is now in seventh place in the championship and we hope all his bad luck is over for the season as we know he has the speed to win races" reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia. "We are really looking forward to the next event in Sentul and I am sure both Chris and Axcil will add to our tally of race wins".
Martinez happy with Sepang event
Antonio Martinez joined Eurasia Motorsport for rounds 3-6 of the Formula BMW Pacific Series with a view to adding to his experience and to help him improve for his European F.BMW campaign. A happy Martinez increased his race mileage four fold and racked up as many kilometers as he would have done in four European events!
"It was a great experience to be able to compete in the F-BMW Pacific Championship at the Sepang race. The circuit is fantastic and there were many quick drivers. I also found that the Teams were very good. Apart from seeing different faces, the championship is pretty the same as in Europe. If everything goes well in the next few races, I hope I will be able to compete in another meeting. Definitively worthwhile!" reported Martinez.
"It was a great experience to be able to compete in the F-BMW Pacific Championship at the Sepang race. The circuit is fantastic and there were many quick drivers. I also found that the Teams were very good. Apart from seeing different faces, the championship is pretty the same as in Europe. If everything goes well in the next few races, I hope I will be able to compete in another meeting. Definitively worthwhile!" reported Martinez.
"From a personal point of view I think I learnt a lot and I had the opportunity to do a lot of racing miles which is what I lack. Now I'm looking forward to Zandvoort which will be a difficult weekend because we won't have much time to learn the track and I have been told it is not easy."
"I want to thank Eurasia Team for the treatment they gave me, it was first class during the whole week. They are very good as their results prove it"
The next Formula BMW Pacific event takes place at Sentul Circuit in Indonesia and like Sepang the Asian Festival of Speed meeting offers incredible value with four races and plenty of practice sessions. The event runs from July 16-19. Interested drivers should contact Mark Goddard at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com
"I want to thank Eurasia Team for the treatment they gave me, it was first class during the whole week. They are very good as their results prove it"
The next Formula BMW Pacific event takes place at Sentul Circuit in Indonesia and like Sepang the Asian Festival of Speed meeting offers incredible value with four races and plenty of practice sessions. The event runs from July 16-19. Interested drivers should contact Mark Goddard at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com
F.BMW seat available for AFOS Sentul Event
Eurasia Motorsport has its third car, driven by Antonio Martinez in the last F.BMW Pacific event at Sepang, available for the Sentul event to be held at the Sentul Circuit in Indonesia on July 16-19. It offers great value with four races, one qualifying session and at least seven practice sessions over four days held at the built for F1 track near Jakarta. Interested drivers should contact the team now for a special price.
The car is also available for the Singapore, Okayama and Macau events. Drivers interested in any of the events should contact Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com
The car is also available for the Singapore, Okayama and Macau events. Drivers interested in any of the events should contact Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport at mark@eurasiamotorsport.com
Axcil Jefferies becomes a Childline Zimbabwe Ambassador
While Zimbabwe's 15 year old Formula BMW racing ace, Axcil Jefferies has unlocked his talent with the support of his prime sponsor; Pioneer Corporation Africa, he is aware of the social responsibility role that his career enables him to accomplish as a recognised sporting icon. In this regard Axcil is now an official Childline Zimbabwe ambassador and shall race to glory with the Childline logo gracing his vehicle. Axcil is upbeat about the work he can do in this socially uplifting capacity. He has recently travelled with the Childline team to Bindura, where he had the chance to inspire young children from less privileged backgrounds as part of Childline's outreach program.
Axcil began his racing career at the Donnybrook racing circuit near Harare's Mabvuku suburb and had the opportunity to interact with young Children from the surrounding community. His father and manager, Suhail Jefferies has cultivated a culture of generosity in the family as his business has always contributed to a local orphanage.
In his own words, Suhail Jefferies believes "Giving back is a vital component for total success to happen; there is no better feeling than that of unlocking doors for others."
Axcil has certainly learnt much more than a thing or two from his father and is set to reach out to millions of children in Zimbabwe, Africa and around the world. Childline is a worldwide organisation with independently run offices in various countries, and is on a mission to help bring smiles to the world's little ones.
While Zimbabwe's 15 year old Formula BMW racing ace, Axcil Jefferies has unlocked his talent with the support of his prime sponsor; Pioneer Corporation Africa, he is aware of the social responsibility role that his career enables him to accomplish as a recognised sporting icon. In this regard Axcil is now an official Childline Zimbabwe ambassador and shall race to glory with the Childline logo gracing his vehicle. Axcil is upbeat about the work he can do in this socially uplifting capacity. He has recently travelled with the Childline team to Bindura, where he had the chance to inspire young children from less privileged backgrounds as part of Childline's outreach program.
Axcil began his racing career at the Donnybrook racing circuit near Harare's Mabvuku suburb and had the opportunity to interact with young Children from the surrounding community. His father and manager, Suhail Jefferies has cultivated a culture of generosity in the family as his business has always contributed to a local orphanage.
In his own words, Suhail Jefferies believes "Giving back is a vital component for total success to happen; there is no better feeling than that of unlocking doors for others."
Axcil has certainly learnt much more than a thing or two from his father and is set to reach out to millions of children in Zimbabwe, Africa and around the world. Childline is a worldwide organisation with independently run offices in various countries, and is on a mission to help bring smiles to the world's little ones.
Driver release: Harare's Axcil Jefferies might only be 15-years old, yet he has achieved great things in his first year of international motorsport which is why Air Zimbabwe recently announced a sponsorship partnership with the young Harare scholar.
Competing in the highly competitive Formula BMW Pacific championship with the top flight Eurasia team, he has notched up two wins already to become Zimbabwe's latest sporting ambassador.
Aside from his on track activities, he was also invited to spend a few days at BMW's Formula One facility in Switzerland where he met the team and drivers. He particularly enjoyed an eye-opening tour through the factory where he was shown how things work behind the scenes.
Competing in the highly competitive Formula BMW Pacific championship with the top flight Eurasia team, he has notched up two wins already to become Zimbabwe's latest sporting ambassador.
Aside from his on track activities, he was also invited to spend a few days at BMW's Formula One facility in Switzerland where he met the team and drivers. He particularly enjoyed an eye-opening tour through the factory where he was shown how things work behind the scenes.
Zimbabwe's top sportsman flying high
With valued backing from Air Zimbabwe and Pioneer Corporation, he was also recently appointed as an official Childline Zimbabwe ambassador. "Having Zimbabwe's national airline as a sponsor makes me proud to be Zimbabwean."
His father, Suhail, also his manager, explained what it meant. "The fact that Axcil is competing in an official BMW motorsport series as a Zimbabwean shows the world that Zimbabwe is still a technologically advanced country."
Prior to switching his attention to single seaters, Axcil won two successive karting championships in South Africa and also competed internationally where he won a round of the Rotax European Championship. Last year he also represented Zimbabwe at the World Finals in Italy.
Earlier this year Air Zimbabwe was in the news when Air Zimbabwe Holdings Group Chief Executive Officer Dr. Peter Chikumba was voted Tourism Manager of the Year In The Public Sector for outstanding contribution to tourism development in 2008 at the Zimbabwe National Tourism Awards held in Bulawayo.
Dr Chikumba was recognized for his stewardship of the airline during one of the most turbulent times in aviation history, an era characterized by the global economic meltdown which has seen several airlines ground operations and falling passenger numbers.
Air Zimbabwe has an impeccable safety record and currently flies to: Beijing, China; Dar es Salam, Tanzania; Gaborone, Bostwana; London, England; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lusaka, Zambia; Lilongwe, Malawi; Lumbumbashi, DRC; Singapore.
The airline has a comprehensive technical and engineering base which holds approvals from civil aviation authorities of several countries. This enables Air Zimbabwe engineers to do third party work for both the domestic and external markets.
His father, Suhail, also his manager, explained what it meant. "The fact that Axcil is competing in an official BMW motorsport series as a Zimbabwean shows the world that Zimbabwe is still a technologically advanced country."
Prior to switching his attention to single seaters, Axcil won two successive karting championships in South Africa and also competed internationally where he won a round of the Rotax European Championship. Last year he also represented Zimbabwe at the World Finals in Italy.
Earlier this year Air Zimbabwe was in the news when Air Zimbabwe Holdings Group Chief Executive Officer Dr. Peter Chikumba was voted Tourism Manager of the Year In The Public Sector for outstanding contribution to tourism development in 2008 at the Zimbabwe National Tourism Awards held in Bulawayo.
Dr Chikumba was recognized for his stewardship of the airline during one of the most turbulent times in aviation history, an era characterized by the global economic meltdown which has seen several airlines ground operations and falling passenger numbers.
Air Zimbabwe has an impeccable safety record and currently flies to: Beijing, China; Dar es Salam, Tanzania; Gaborone, Bostwana; London, England; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lusaka, Zambia; Lilongwe, Malawi; Lumbumbashi, DRC; Singapore.
The airline has a comprehensive technical and engineering base which holds approvals from civil aviation authorities of several countries. This enables Air Zimbabwe engineers to do third party work for both the domestic and external markets.
BMW announce continued support for Pacific Series in 2010
In the wake of the pull out of F1 by BMW the car manufacturer has officially announced it will continue its support of the Formula BMW Pacific and European Championships. The Pacific Series scholarship trials go ahead as planned at the Sepang Circuit on September 1-2. Two winners will receive a Euro50,000 scholarship from BMW towards their 2010 Formula BMW Pacific campaign.
"BMW have done a fantastic job to help develop Formula One stars of tomorrow, witness the number of current Grand Prix racers who raced in Formula BMW" stated Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "The Pacific Series has been growing in stature and we are confident 2010 will see an even bigger and better championship. It's really great value with F1 Grand Prix support races and a race at Macau. and is a cost effective option for career drivers, no matter from what part of the World they hail. As budgetary considerations become ever more important the Pacific Series must become a route to consider, especially for drivers straight out karting. It's an economically viable method getting up to speed in a Formula car".
In the wake of the pull out of F1 by BMW the car manufacturer has officially announced it will continue its support of the Formula BMW Pacific and European Championships. The Pacific Series scholarship trials go ahead as planned at the Sepang Circuit on September 1-2. Two winners will receive a Euro50,000 scholarship from BMW towards their 2010 Formula BMW Pacific campaign.
"BMW have done a fantastic job to help develop Formula One stars of tomorrow, witness the number of current Grand Prix racers who raced in Formula BMW" stated Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "The Pacific Series has been growing in stature and we are confident 2010 will see an even bigger and better championship. It's really great value with F1 Grand Prix support races and a race at Macau. and is a cost effective option for career drivers, no matter from what part of the World they hail. As budgetary considerations become ever more important the Pacific Series must become a route to consider, especially for drivers straight out karting. It's an economically viable method getting up to speed in a Formula car".
Jefferies stays in the title hunt
Axcil Jefferies kept his title hopes alive by taking two second places, one third and a fourth place finish over the four race Sentul round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series. Team mate, Chris Wootton, suffered a character building weekend with two non-finishes on Saturday but bounced back to finish sixth from last on the grid in the final race.
Qualifying had been an exciting affair with the top spot constantly changing between Jefferies, Haryanto, Fahmi and Thompson. Jefferies held top spot with a couple of minutes to go only to be pipped at the post by Haryanto and Fahmi. "My last lap was going to be quicker but I was baulked by a slower car" reported a disappointed Jefferies. Sepang pole position holder, Chris Wootton, secured fifth place on the grid, just five tenths off fastest lap.
Jefferies finished a disappointed fourth in race one, after an exciting drive through the field. Jefferies was in third place after the first lap right on the tail of Rio Haryanto when the safety car was deployed to retrieve a car from the turn three gravel. At the re-start Axcil drew alongside Haryanto and, in his attempt to pass around the outside of his title rival in turn one, ran out of road and dropped to ninth place. He then produced a measured drive through the field to finish a chastened fourth. Chris Wootton had made a good start from fifth on the grid but a trip through the gravel on lap four damaged a brake line. Perhaps fortunately his engine expired at the following corner allowing Chris to coast to the pit lane before he ran of brake fluid.
Race two saw Haryanto take the lead from Fahmi and Jefferies. Axcil was frustrated as Fahmi's pace allowed Haryanto to pull away but he kept his head and waited for an opportunity to pass, which he did at Turn six in a daring out braking maneuver. Jefferies finished the race just 1.7 seconds behind the leader and proved he had the pace to win but the race had been lost in the laps stuck behind Fahmi.
Chris Wootton was again right with the leaders in the early laps before another trip through the gravel resulted in retirement with damage to the car. It was bitter moment for drivers and team, the mechanics having changed the engine in just over an hour between he races.
Race three, on Sunday morning, saw Jefferies start fourth and Wootton tenth, starting positions being determined by the finishing positions of race one. Jefferies had been in contention in the early laps but on lap three he ran wide and the ensuing moment saw him drop to seventh place. Another drive through the field saw him finally take third spot, demonstrating again he had the speed to win. Wootton meanwhile completed a measured drive to finish seventh.
The final race saw Haryanto and Jefferies pull away from the field and for many tense laps Axcil put tremendous pressure on the leader. The tactic almost paid off when Haryanto made a mistake in turn six, allowing Jefferies to draw alongside. Axcil perhaps demonstrated his inexperience by giving too much room to his rival and a wheel on the grass saw him drop back. Haryanto, who has a season and a half of Formula BMW and Formula Renault under his belt, did his best to pull away but Jefferies was soon back on his tail. A sideways moment with two laps to go blunted the attack and Jefferies took the flag in second place. "Every race I am adding to my experience and I am sure at Singapore I can add to my Formula BMW race win tally" remarked Jefferies.
Chris Wootton started eleventh on the grid and in another mature drive fought his way up to sixth place. Team and driver were disappointed with the results in an event where Wootton was expected to shine but the manner in which he was able to bounce back after his disastrous Saturday demonstrates he should be back on form for the next event which supports the Singapore GP.
The driver's championship is now between three drivers, Jefferies, Haryanto and Thompson with 22 points covering first to third.
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Axcil Jefferies kept his title hopes alive by taking two second places, one third and a fourth place finish over the four race Sentul round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series. Team mate, Chris Wootton, suffered a character building weekend with two non-finishes on Saturday but bounced back to finish sixth from last on the grid in the final race.
Qualifying had been an exciting affair with the top spot constantly changing between Jefferies, Haryanto, Fahmi and Thompson. Jefferies held top spot with a couple of minutes to go only to be pipped at the post by Haryanto and Fahmi. "My last lap was going to be quicker but I was baulked by a slower car" reported a disappointed Jefferies. Sepang pole position holder, Chris Wootton, secured fifth place on the grid, just five tenths off fastest lap.
Jefferies finished a disappointed fourth in race one, after an exciting drive through the field. Jefferies was in third place after the first lap right on the tail of Rio Haryanto when the safety car was deployed to retrieve a car from the turn three gravel. At the re-start Axcil drew alongside Haryanto and, in his attempt to pass around the outside of his title rival in turn one, ran out of road and dropped to ninth place. He then produced a measured drive through the field to finish a chastened fourth. Chris Wootton had made a good start from fifth on the grid but a trip through the gravel on lap four damaged a brake line. Perhaps fortunately his engine expired at the following corner allowing Chris to coast to the pit lane before he ran of brake fluid.
Race two saw Haryanto take the lead from Fahmi and Jefferies. Axcil was frustrated as Fahmi's pace allowed Haryanto to pull away but he kept his head and waited for an opportunity to pass, which he did at Turn six in a daring out braking maneuver. Jefferies finished the race just 1.7 seconds behind the leader and proved he had the pace to win but the race had been lost in the laps stuck behind Fahmi.
Chris Wootton was again right with the leaders in the early laps before another trip through the gravel resulted in retirement with damage to the car. It was bitter moment for drivers and team, the mechanics having changed the engine in just over an hour between he races.
Race three, on Sunday morning, saw Jefferies start fourth and Wootton tenth, starting positions being determined by the finishing positions of race one. Jefferies had been in contention in the early laps but on lap three he ran wide and the ensuing moment saw him drop to seventh place. Another drive through the field saw him finally take third spot, demonstrating again he had the speed to win. Wootton meanwhile completed a measured drive to finish seventh.
The final race saw Haryanto and Jefferies pull away from the field and for many tense laps Axcil put tremendous pressure on the leader. The tactic almost paid off when Haryanto made a mistake in turn six, allowing Jefferies to draw alongside. Axcil perhaps demonstrated his inexperience by giving too much room to his rival and a wheel on the grass saw him drop back. Haryanto, who has a season and a half of Formula BMW and Formula Renault under his belt, did his best to pull away but Jefferies was soon back on his tail. A sideways moment with two laps to go blunted the attack and Jefferies took the flag in second place. "Every race I am adding to my experience and I am sure at Singapore I can add to my Formula BMW race win tally" remarked Jefferies.
Chris Wootton started eleventh on the grid and in another mature drive fought his way up to sixth place. Team and driver were disappointed with the results in an event where Wootton was expected to shine but the manner in which he was able to bounce back after his disastrous Saturday demonstrates he should be back on form for the next event which supports the Singapore GP.
The driver's championship is now between three drivers, Jefferies, Haryanto and Thompson with 22 points covering first to third.
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Wootton happy with conclusion to Sentul weekend
Australian Formula BMW Junior, Chris Wootton completed a character building weekend in Formula BMW Pacific at Sentul in Indonesia, recording two DNF's in Saturday's round 7 and 8 and finishing Sunday's two races strongly in seventh and sixth placings respectively.
The weekend started well for the 20-year-old right on the pace in practice and qualifying, the top five were within half a second. He was confident his race setup would position him well for the four races around the 3.9 kilometre circuit.
Race one ended on lap nine when the motor let go in the last corner, Chris coasted to a halt in pit lane. It was discovered the timing chain had failed. He was tracking well before the failure and keeping with the leaders.
Chris was fired up for the second race of the weekend, with a fresh engine behind him. He was looking very good for a strong result before he went off circuit on lap six. Thankfully, the damage done to Eurasia Motorsport Formula BMW FB02 was minor and wouldn't compromise his starting on Sunday.
Having to start the final two races from the rear of the grid, Chris charged through the field to finish seventh in round nine, having raced hard to work his way through the field.
In the final race, again from the rear of the grid, he was able to force his way forward to sixth placing. He showed plenty of grit and determination to get that far through and his pace was very similar to that of the front runners even though he was fighting his way through traffic.
This has given the Brisbane racer some encouragement despite the disappointment of once again having a weekend start strongly, but having circumstances conspire against him.
Chris is hoping his luck turns around at the next event the Formula 1™ Singtel Singapore Grand Prix over the weekend of September 25-27 which marks the beginning of the second half of the Formula BMW Pacific season.
Despite the two DNF's, Chris retained seventh placing in the overall Driver's Classification.
BEHIND THE HELMET: Chris Wootton
"What a weekend. Today's fight through the field in the two races has energised me a lot and I leave feeling far happier than I was after Saturday's events.
"The pace we had would have held us in good stead for the races. Qualifying was tight with only 0.5 of a second separating the front three rows of the grid. I would have liked to be on the front row as I have for the other events, however, the team thought it would work out once racing got underway.
"The most frustrating part is that we are there at the front of the field in qualifying, but it is the races that count!
"I'm really pleased with the fightback today, though. To come through the field as I did was pleasing and with there only being a few weeks between events, my focus is immediately on Singapore.
"It's going to be a big event for us. We have several sponsors in Singapore and we have a number of events that we're planning during race week so it's going to be busy. I love the circuit there and racing as part of the only Formula 1™ night Grand Prix is exciting, the atmosphere is second to none."
Australian Formula BMW Junior, Chris Wootton completed a character building weekend in Formula BMW Pacific at Sentul in Indonesia, recording two DNF's in Saturday's round 7 and 8 and finishing Sunday's two races strongly in seventh and sixth placings respectively.
The weekend started well for the 20-year-old right on the pace in practice and qualifying, the top five were within half a second. He was confident his race setup would position him well for the four races around the 3.9 kilometre circuit.
Race one ended on lap nine when the motor let go in the last corner, Chris coasted to a halt in pit lane. It was discovered the timing chain had failed. He was tracking well before the failure and keeping with the leaders.
Chris was fired up for the second race of the weekend, with a fresh engine behind him. He was looking very good for a strong result before he went off circuit on lap six. Thankfully, the damage done to Eurasia Motorsport Formula BMW FB02 was minor and wouldn't compromise his starting on Sunday.
Having to start the final two races from the rear of the grid, Chris charged through the field to finish seventh in round nine, having raced hard to work his way through the field.
In the final race, again from the rear of the grid, he was able to force his way forward to sixth placing. He showed plenty of grit and determination to get that far through and his pace was very similar to that of the front runners even though he was fighting his way through traffic.
This has given the Brisbane racer some encouragement despite the disappointment of once again having a weekend start strongly, but having circumstances conspire against him.
Chris is hoping his luck turns around at the next event the Formula 1™ Singtel Singapore Grand Prix over the weekend of September 25-27 which marks the beginning of the second half of the Formula BMW Pacific season.
Despite the two DNF's, Chris retained seventh placing in the overall Driver's Classification.
BEHIND THE HELMET: Chris Wootton
"What a weekend. Today's fight through the field in the two races has energised me a lot and I leave feeling far happier than I was after Saturday's events.
"The pace we had would have held us in good stead for the races. Qualifying was tight with only 0.5 of a second separating the front three rows of the grid. I would have liked to be on the front row as I have for the other events, however, the team thought it would work out once racing got underway.
"The most frustrating part is that we are there at the front of the field in qualifying, but it is the races that count!
"I'm really pleased with the fightback today, though. To come through the field as I did was pleasing and with there only being a few weeks between events, my focus is immediately on Singapore.
"It's going to be a big event for us. We have several sponsors in Singapore and we have a number of events that we're planning during race week so it's going to be busy. I love the circuit there and racing as part of the only Formula 1™ night Grand Prix is exciting, the atmosphere is second to none."
Eurasia Driver wins British F3 Championship
Daniel Ricciardo, who drove for Eurasia Motorsport in the 2006 Formula BMW Asia season, clinched the British F3 title today with third and seventh places in the Algarve round of the championship. Ricciardo won races for Eurasia in his rookie year and he has used the grounding he received from the team to give himself a realistic chance of a Formula One seat.
"Eurasia congratulates Daniel for his championship success and we hope he will be the first season long driver from the Pacific Series to gain an F1 race seat." stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "This demonstrates that the combination of Eurasia Motorsport and the Pacific F.BMW Series is a great career path for any young driver."
Daniel Ricciardo, who drove for Eurasia Motorsport in the 2006 Formula BMW Asia season, clinched the British F3 title today with third and seventh places in the Algarve round of the championship. Ricciardo won races for Eurasia in his rookie year and he has used the grounding he received from the team to give himself a realistic chance of a Formula One seat.
"Eurasia congratulates Daniel for his championship success and we hope he will be the first season long driver from the Pacific Series to gain an F1 race seat." stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "This demonstrates that the combination of Eurasia Motorsport and the Pacific F.BMW Series is a great career path for any young driver."
Jack Harvey and Paul Lau join Eurasia Motorsport
F.BMW Europe race winner, Jack Harvey, joins Eurasia Motorsport for the Singapore GP support races along with Hong Kong driver, Paul Lau. They join series drivers, Chris Wootton and Axcil Jefferies, for one of the flagship events of the F.BMW Pacific Series.
Jack Harvey who is a race winner in the 2009 F.BMW Europe Series with Fortec Motorsport will be a potential victor alongside Wootton and Jefferies. "We are really happy that Racing Steps Foundation supported driver, Jack Harvey, is joining us at Singapore for what is building up to be a really competitive event." stated Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "We also welcome Paul Lau to the team and I am sure he is going to have a memorable experience in his first F1 GP support event".
F.BMW Europe race winner, Jack Harvey, joins Eurasia Motorsport for the Singapore GP support races along with Hong Kong driver, Paul Lau. They join series drivers, Chris Wootton and Axcil Jefferies, for one of the flagship events of the F.BMW Pacific Series.
Jack Harvey who is a race winner in the 2009 F.BMW Europe Series with Fortec Motorsport will be a potential victor alongside Wootton and Jefferies. "We are really happy that Racing Steps Foundation supported driver, Jack Harvey, is joining us at Singapore for what is building up to be a really competitive event." stated Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "We also welcome Paul Lau to the team and I am sure he is going to have a memorable experience in his first F1 GP support event".
Wootton aiming for a sling of wins in Singapore!
Driver Release: Australian Formula BMW Junior Chris Wootton is in the final stages of preparation to compete at Asia-Pacific's most glamorous motorsport event the Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix where Formula BMW Pacific acts as the curtain raiser to the main event.
The Singapore event is important to the 20-year-old in more ways than one. He attracts significant sponsorship support from Singapore, ensuring he has a busy week connecting with sponsors such as First Automobile and Fraser Place and appearances at the One 15 Degree Marina in the week leading up to the Grand Prix.
After a strong performance at the only night Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar last year, Wootton is hoping that he can turn things around on the biggest stage there is and show his true potential in front of the Formula 1 paddock.
Wootton's team, Eurasia Motorsport currently sits third in the Team's Classification and is still in with a strong mathematical chance of winning that Title.
Aside from the concrete canyon that lines the Marina Bay circuit, Wootton will have numerous other challenges to contend with, namely a late afternoon schedule for all sessions and the prediction of thunderstorms to go with humid temperatures well into the 30's (C).
BEHIND THE HELMET: Chris Wootton
"In my opinion, the Singapore Grand Prix is the best event on the Formula BMW Pacific calendar, it's a great circuit and a very unique challenge.
"It supports one of the best F1 events of the year and the spectacle of Formula 1 at night has no peer it has to be seen to be believed.
"The people in Singapore are always friendly and the country is very clean, which is lovely. I really feel comfortable going there, it's a fabulous place.
"I'm really hoping for a breakthrough win at the Grand Prix, there can be nothing better than winning a race in support to a Formula 1 event.
"We have achieved some great results this season, I hold the lap record at the Sepang circuit and had had a collection of podiums and pole positions. "Overall, this event is very important to me. I have fantastic support from First Automobile, Fraser Place and the One 15 Degree Marina in Singapore. We're really looking forward to spending some time with our sponsors leading up to the event and seeing them come out to the race."
FRASER PLACE SUPPORT
Chris Wootton Racing is pleased to announce a new partnership with Fraser Place serviced apartments. The Fraser Place brand lays in its distinctive modernity. Chic, contemporary and trendy, the lure of its upbeat lifestyle is carried by the pulsating city vibe. It offers the perfect balance of work and life's little pleasures for the discerning traveler in search of true cosmopolitan living.
Fraser Places' branding will appear on the engine cover of Chris Wootton's Formula BMW FB02 as it takes to the track for the first of the practice sessions ahead of the Singtel Singapore Formula 1 event, which takes place next weekend at the Marina Bay Circuit. The Fraser Place logo will feature on the Chris Wootton's race suit.
Ken Wootton, the manager of Chris Wootton Racing said: "We are delighted to welcome Frasers Place to Chris Wootton Racing, Formula BMW and the fantastic Singapore F1 Event, we are looking forward to working with the team at Frasers Place to position this leading brand in front of the influential Formula 1 crowd."
WHAT IS FRASER PLACE?
Fraser Place Robertson Walk, Singapore, fashioned in the style of a Mediterranean village, comprises 161 splendid apartments, ranging from one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, all fused with the warmth influence of the Mediterranean to evoke a delightfully vibrant ambience.
Ideally situated near the banks of the historic Singapore River, the residence offers a panoramic view of the modern city skyline and enjoys close proximity to the Central Business District. Residents are also accorded easy access to the entertainment riverside corridor of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay hosts of a myriad of themed restaurants, al fresco dining, chic cafes, pubs and specialty shops for the trendy and hip.
With a comprehensive range of lifestyle amenities including gym, sauna, pool and an al fresco dining area featuring a pool table, Fraser Place Robertson Walk also features The Retreat, an award-winning innovative meeting concept, living spaces and communities infuse business with leisure.
Fraser Place Singapore is located approximately a 30-minute ride from Changi International Airport.
www.frasershospitality.com
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Driver Release: Australian Formula BMW Junior Chris Wootton is in the final stages of preparation to compete at Asia-Pacific's most glamorous motorsport event the Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix where Formula BMW Pacific acts as the curtain raiser to the main event.
The Singapore event is important to the 20-year-old in more ways than one. He attracts significant sponsorship support from Singapore, ensuring he has a busy week connecting with sponsors such as First Automobile and Fraser Place and appearances at the One 15 Degree Marina in the week leading up to the Grand Prix.
After a strong performance at the only night Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar last year, Wootton is hoping that he can turn things around on the biggest stage there is and show his true potential in front of the Formula 1 paddock.
Wootton's team, Eurasia Motorsport currently sits third in the Team's Classification and is still in with a strong mathematical chance of winning that Title.
Aside from the concrete canyon that lines the Marina Bay circuit, Wootton will have numerous other challenges to contend with, namely a late afternoon schedule for all sessions and the prediction of thunderstorms to go with humid temperatures well into the 30's (C).
BEHIND THE HELMET: Chris Wootton
"In my opinion, the Singapore Grand Prix is the best event on the Formula BMW Pacific calendar, it's a great circuit and a very unique challenge.
"It supports one of the best F1 events of the year and the spectacle of Formula 1 at night has no peer it has to be seen to be believed.
"The people in Singapore are always friendly and the country is very clean, which is lovely. I really feel comfortable going there, it's a fabulous place.
"I'm really hoping for a breakthrough win at the Grand Prix, there can be nothing better than winning a race in support to a Formula 1 event.
"We have achieved some great results this season, I hold the lap record at the Sepang circuit and had had a collection of podiums and pole positions. "Overall, this event is very important to me. I have fantastic support from First Automobile, Fraser Place and the One 15 Degree Marina in Singapore. We're really looking forward to spending some time with our sponsors leading up to the event and seeing them come out to the race."
FRASER PLACE SUPPORT
Chris Wootton Racing is pleased to announce a new partnership with Fraser Place serviced apartments. The Fraser Place brand lays in its distinctive modernity. Chic, contemporary and trendy, the lure of its upbeat lifestyle is carried by the pulsating city vibe. It offers the perfect balance of work and life's little pleasures for the discerning traveler in search of true cosmopolitan living.
Fraser Places' branding will appear on the engine cover of Chris Wootton's Formula BMW FB02 as it takes to the track for the first of the practice sessions ahead of the Singtel Singapore Formula 1 event, which takes place next weekend at the Marina Bay Circuit. The Fraser Place logo will feature on the Chris Wootton's race suit.
Ken Wootton, the manager of Chris Wootton Racing said: "We are delighted to welcome Frasers Place to Chris Wootton Racing, Formula BMW and the fantastic Singapore F1 Event, we are looking forward to working with the team at Frasers Place to position this leading brand in front of the influential Formula 1 crowd."
WHAT IS FRASER PLACE?
Fraser Place Robertson Walk, Singapore, fashioned in the style of a Mediterranean village, comprises 161 splendid apartments, ranging from one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, all fused with the warmth influence of the Mediterranean to evoke a delightfully vibrant ambience.
Ideally situated near the banks of the historic Singapore River, the residence offers a panoramic view of the modern city skyline and enjoys close proximity to the Central Business District. Residents are also accorded easy access to the entertainment riverside corridor of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay hosts of a myriad of themed restaurants, al fresco dining, chic cafes, pubs and specialty shops for the trendy and hip.
With a comprehensive range of lifestyle amenities including gym, sauna, pool and an al fresco dining area featuring a pool table, Fraser Place Robertson Walk also features The Retreat, an award-winning innovative meeting concept, living spaces and communities infuse business with leisure.
Fraser Place Singapore is located approximately a 30-minute ride from Changi International Airport.
www.frasershospitality.com
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Axcil Jefferies confident for Singapore
Axcil Jefferies, who currently lies a close third in the Formula BMW Pacific Series, is confident he can reduce the 22 point gap to the lead of the Championship over the Singapore F1 GP weekend.
In the ten races of the 2009 Series held to date Jefferies has taken two wins, four podium finishes and has not finished a race lower than in fourth place. An impressive record for his first year in car racing. "Axcil is improving every time he sits in the car and I am sure he will relish the challenge of his first experience of a street circuit" reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "There are five races to go before the final in Macau and Axcil is confident he can close the points gap to the leader. Like his team mate, Chris Wootton, he is demonstrating prodigious talent for his experience and he will keep getting better."
Practice and qualifying takes place this Friday afternoon with race one on Saturday and the second race on Sunday evening.
Axcil Jefferies, who currently lies a close third in the Formula BMW Pacific Series, is confident he can reduce the 22 point gap to the lead of the Championship over the Singapore F1 GP weekend.
In the ten races of the 2009 Series held to date Jefferies has taken two wins, four podium finishes and has not finished a race lower than in fourth place. An impressive record for his first year in car racing. "Axcil is improving every time he sits in the car and I am sure he will relish the challenge of his first experience of a street circuit" reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "There are five races to go before the final in Macau and Axcil is confident he can close the points gap to the leader. Like his team mate, Chris Wootton, he is demonstrating prodigious talent for his experience and he will keep getting better."
Practice and qualifying takes place this Friday afternoon with race one on Saturday and the second race on Sunday evening.
Daiki Sasaki to race in Okayama
The Japanese karting star, who finished second in this year's Formula Challenge Japan, will race alongside Eurasia Motorsport series regulars, Axcil Jefferies and Chris Wootton, in the Okayama round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series on November 1st.
Nismo supported Sasaki was the 2008 All Japan Kart Championship KF-1 Class champion before graduating to the Formula Challenge Japan Series this year. The premier series in Japan below Formula Three has produced many Japanese racing stars. Kimiya Sato, who raced in Macau for Eurasia Motorsport in 2008 finishing on the podium, was also a graduate of Formula Challenge having finished second in the series in 2008.
"We are happy that Nismo again chose Eurasia to run their driver in F.BMW. The main objective is for him to gain experience in an International racing series and as long as he finishes both races we will be happy. Naturally we hope that he can also finish in the top ten which will be a great achievement especially considering how competitive this year's championship has turned out to be. This year has been the most competitive since 2006 and with some of the top drivers from the European and Americas Series also joining a top ten finish will be good, top six really good and a podium would be excellent!" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport.
Practice and qualifying takes place at Okayama on Friday October 30th with race one on Saturday and race two on Sunday November 1st. World Touring Cars and Asian Le Mans will also compete over the weekend.
The Japanese karting star, who finished second in this year's Formula Challenge Japan, will race alongside Eurasia Motorsport series regulars, Axcil Jefferies and Chris Wootton, in the Okayama round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series on November 1st.
Nismo supported Sasaki was the 2008 All Japan Kart Championship KF-1 Class champion before graduating to the Formula Challenge Japan Series this year. The premier series in Japan below Formula Three has produced many Japanese racing stars. Kimiya Sato, who raced in Macau for Eurasia Motorsport in 2008 finishing on the podium, was also a graduate of Formula Challenge having finished second in the series in 2008.
"We are happy that Nismo again chose Eurasia to run their driver in F.BMW. The main objective is for him to gain experience in an International racing series and as long as he finishes both races we will be happy. Naturally we hope that he can also finish in the top ten which will be a great achievement especially considering how competitive this year's championship has turned out to be. This year has been the most competitive since 2006 and with some of the top drivers from the European and Americas Series also joining a top ten finish will be good, top six really good and a podium would be excellent!" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport.
Practice and qualifying takes place at Okayama on Friday October 30th with race one on Saturday and race two on Sunday November 1st. World Touring Cars and Asian Le Mans will also compete over the weekend.
Eurasia has one car still available for Macau
Eurasia Motorsport still has one car available for the Macau GP on November 22. Essential for any driver considering a F3 career the F.BMW race is the only opportunity to learn the circuit in a Formula car.
Jack Harvey, who was the only driver to get to close to European Champion and Singapore race winner Nasr on lap time, demonstrated the car is a potential winner in the right hands. "If Jack had not hit the wall in qualifying in Singapore, bending the suspension and consigning himself to 7th on the grid, I think he would have definitely been on the podium if not a winner in both races" says Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "We offer a very competitive deal for Macau and drivers should contact us immediately for details. Last year Kimiya Sato finished third in Macau in a Eurasia Car in a one-off race, further demonstrating that we know how to field a competitive car on one of the greatest tracks any driver will probably race on ". E mail mark@eurasiamotorsport.com
Eurasia Motorsport still has one car available for the Macau GP on November 22. Essential for any driver considering a F3 career the F.BMW race is the only opportunity to learn the circuit in a Formula car.
Jack Harvey, who was the only driver to get to close to European Champion and Singapore race winner Nasr on lap time, demonstrated the car is a potential winner in the right hands. "If Jack had not hit the wall in qualifying in Singapore, bending the suspension and consigning himself to 7th on the grid, I think he would have definitely been on the podium if not a winner in both races" says Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "We offer a very competitive deal for Macau and drivers should contact us immediately for details. Last year Kimiya Sato finished third in Macau in a Eurasia Car in a one-off race, further demonstrating that we know how to field a competitive car on one of the greatest tracks any driver will probably race on ". E mail mark@eurasiamotorsport.com
Daniel Ricciardo to test with Red Bull F1 at Jerez from 1-3 December
Ricciardo, who raced for Eurasia Motorsport in the 2006 Formula BMW Asia Series, demonstrates that the Formula One dream can become a reality for Formula BMW Pacific racers and that a combination of Formula BMW and Eurasia's renowned driver development program really does produce the F1 stars of tomorrow.
Ricciardo, a race winner in his first year of International car racing with Eurasia Motorsport, went on to impress Red Bull with his performances in Europe and this year was a runaway British Formula Three Champion. "We are really happy for Daniel, not only is he an extremely talented driver but he is also a great guy and he fully deserves his success" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "Its gratifying for the team that we are playing a major role in the development of young drivers".
Ricciardo, who raced for Eurasia Motorsport in the 2006 Formula BMW Asia Series, demonstrates that the Formula One dream can become a reality for Formula BMW Pacific racers and that a combination of Formula BMW and Eurasia's renowned driver development program really does produce the F1 stars of tomorrow.
Ricciardo, a race winner in his first year of International car racing with Eurasia Motorsport, went on to impress Red Bull with his performances in Europe and this year was a runaway British Formula Three Champion. "We are really happy for Daniel, not only is he an extremely talented driver but he is also a great guy and he fully deserves his success" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport. "Its gratifying for the team that we are playing a major role in the development of young drivers".
James Cole to race for Eurasia in Macau
2009 British Formula Ford champion, James Cole, will race for the team at Macau in the final round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series this weekend. It's an opportunity to learn the circuit prior to racing in the F3 Macau GP in the future.
Cole won a hard fought British Formula Ford Championship this season and should adapt to the F.BMW car quickly at the renowned Macau street circuit. "The driver makes a huge difference at Macau and James has demonstrated he possesses tremendous car control in Formula Ford this year which should help him be at the front end of the field" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport.
James will join the team's series drivers, Chris Wootton and Axcil Jefferies, whilst Paul Lau returns to the team for this event. Practice will be held on Thursday November 19th with qualifying on Saturday and the race on Sunday 22nd.
2009 British Formula Ford champion, James Cole, will race for the team at Macau in the final round of the Formula BMW Pacific Series this weekend. It's an opportunity to learn the circuit prior to racing in the F3 Macau GP in the future.
Cole won a hard fought British Formula Ford Championship this season and should adapt to the F.BMW car quickly at the renowned Macau street circuit. "The driver makes a huge difference at Macau and James has demonstrated he possesses tremendous car control in Formula Ford this year which should help him be at the front end of the field" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport.
James will join the team's series drivers, Chris Wootton and Axcil Jefferies, whilst Paul Lau returns to the team for this event. Practice will be held on Thursday November 19th with qualifying on Saturday and the race on Sunday 22nd.
Final BMW fling for Wootton in Macau
Driver Release: The 'Las Vegas of the East' - Macau - beckons for Australian Formula BMW Junior, Chris Wootton, where he will take on the final event of the 2009 Formula BMW Pacific season as part of the legendary Macau Grand Prix this weekend.
With just a single FBMW Pacific race as part of the action-packed Macau program, there is only one chance to leave a lasting impression for 2009. Wootton is aiming to use his experience around the 6.2 kilometre street circuit to his advantage.
During practice and qualifying runs, getting the maximum track time and avoiding incidents will prove critical, as will starting as close as possible to the front of the grid. Chris' preparation has included continuing his hard work in the gym to ensure he's in peak condition for the physical nature of the event and has also been busy with his Bachelor of Sports Science studies as the university year winds down in Australia.
The Macau circuit sees the Formula BMW competitors hit their highest top speed of the year - bouncing off the rev limiter at some 230 kilometres an hour - with Armco and concrete barriers mere inches either side.
Wootton is hoping for a phenomenal finish to a year that has shown a great deal of promise - from recording a podium and setting pole and a lap record in Sepang, to some fighting drives in the face of adversity - the Australian has literally seen all the ups and downs of motor racing.
He loves the Macau circuit and firmly believes it will work to his advantage. Other major events on the Macau card include the time-honoured Formula 3 Macau Grand Prix, the World Touring Car Championship finale and motorcycle racing, among other categories.
HOW DID HE GET THROUGH THAT? CHRIS' AMAZING ESCAPE IN JAPAN:
At the previous event of Formula BMW Pacific at Okayama in Japan, Chris was involved in one of the closest 'near misses' in motorsport history, being spun in front of the entire field at near on 200 kilometres an hour.
It was an absolute miracle that the other competitors got past him, leaving the Australian without so much as a scratch on his racecar. The video shows some sensational driving from the other competitors to miss Chris' stricken racecar.
Check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn_mATRzt-Q
BEHIND THE HELMET: CHRIS WOOTTON
"This is the last race of the season, so we really want to go out with a good result not just personally, but for the Eurasia Motorsport team.
"Macau is an epic race circuit - it's a 6.2 kilometre concrete and Armco jungle, you really have to be on top of your game, otherwise you'll come unstuck fairly large.
"Having raced at Macau last year, I think it will work in my favour, I have the experience there, but getting a clean lap in qualifying will be absolutely crucial.
"Last year I went there just after racing at Bathurst in Australia. Bathurst itself is an awesome piece of racetrack, so it was a perfect test to get me ready for Macau. It's something incredibly different, a really enjoyable circuit.
"We hit the highest speed of the year, topping out at 230kph and to say it's a real buzz is an understatement - it's fantastic!"
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Driver Release: The 'Las Vegas of the East' - Macau - beckons for Australian Formula BMW Junior, Chris Wootton, where he will take on the final event of the 2009 Formula BMW Pacific season as part of the legendary Macau Grand Prix this weekend.
With just a single FBMW Pacific race as part of the action-packed Macau program, there is only one chance to leave a lasting impression for 2009. Wootton is aiming to use his experience around the 6.2 kilometre street circuit to his advantage.
During practice and qualifying runs, getting the maximum track time and avoiding incidents will prove critical, as will starting as close as possible to the front of the grid. Chris' preparation has included continuing his hard work in the gym to ensure he's in peak condition for the physical nature of the event and has also been busy with his Bachelor of Sports Science studies as the university year winds down in Australia.
The Macau circuit sees the Formula BMW competitors hit their highest top speed of the year - bouncing off the rev limiter at some 230 kilometres an hour - with Armco and concrete barriers mere inches either side.
Wootton is hoping for a phenomenal finish to a year that has shown a great deal of promise - from recording a podium and setting pole and a lap record in Sepang, to some fighting drives in the face of adversity - the Australian has literally seen all the ups and downs of motor racing.
He loves the Macau circuit and firmly believes it will work to his advantage. Other major events on the Macau card include the time-honoured Formula 3 Macau Grand Prix, the World Touring Car Championship finale and motorcycle racing, among other categories.
HOW DID HE GET THROUGH THAT? CHRIS' AMAZING ESCAPE IN JAPAN:
At the previous event of Formula BMW Pacific at Okayama in Japan, Chris was involved in one of the closest 'near misses' in motorsport history, being spun in front of the entire field at near on 200 kilometres an hour.
It was an absolute miracle that the other competitors got past him, leaving the Australian without so much as a scratch on his racecar. The video shows some sensational driving from the other competitors to miss Chris' stricken racecar.
Check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn_mATRzt-Q
BEHIND THE HELMET: CHRIS WOOTTON
"This is the last race of the season, so we really want to go out with a good result not just personally, but for the Eurasia Motorsport team.
"Macau is an epic race circuit - it's a 6.2 kilometre concrete and Armco jungle, you really have to be on top of your game, otherwise you'll come unstuck fairly large.
"Having raced at Macau last year, I think it will work in my favour, I have the experience there, but getting a clean lap in qualifying will be absolutely crucial.
"Last year I went there just after racing at Bathurst in Australia. Bathurst itself is an awesome piece of racetrack, so it was a perfect test to get me ready for Macau. It's something incredibly different, a really enjoyable circuit.
"We hit the highest speed of the year, topping out at 230kph and to say it's a real buzz is an understatement - it's fantastic!"
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Scholarship winner joins Eurasia for 2010
BMW Scholarship winner, Kotaro Sakurai, has signed with Eurasia Motorsport for the 2010 Formula BMW season. He joins Duvashen Padayachee and Richard Bradley in the team's line up for next season.
Sakurai joins Formula BMW after a successful career in Japanese karting. The young Japanese driver won one of the two BMW scholarships available for next season at the run-offs held at Sepang Circuit in September. "Kotaro trained with us prior to the scholarship run-offs and BMW obviously recognized what we had seen, that he is a very talented young driver with a lot of potential" reported Eurasia's Mark Goddard.
Kotaro joined his two confirmed team-mates in a three day test at Sepang from December 15-17th. Sakurai recorded the fastest time of the week, which was attended by several teams. His testing campaign will continue at the next open test on January 3-5th next year.
BMW Scholarship winner, Kotaro Sakurai, has signed with Eurasia Motorsport for the 2010 Formula BMW season. He joins Duvashen Padayachee and Richard Bradley in the team's line up for next season.
Sakurai joins Formula BMW after a successful career in Japanese karting. The young Japanese driver won one of the two BMW scholarships available for next season at the run-offs held at Sepang Circuit in September. "Kotaro trained with us prior to the scholarship run-offs and BMW obviously recognized what we had seen, that he is a very talented young driver with a lot of potential" reported Eurasia's Mark Goddard.
Kotaro joined his two confirmed team-mates in a three day test at Sepang from December 15-17th. Sakurai recorded the fastest time of the week, which was attended by several teams. His testing campaign will continue at the next open test on January 3-5th next year.
Check out the Autoextreme TV Eurasia Special on our website
Autoextreme TV followed the team at last year's Macau GP for a Castrol Edge special broadcast on MTV in the Philippines. Play the video on the top right area of our www.eurasiamotorsport.com home page.
Ardie Lopez of Autoexteme TV produced the special for the team's partner, Castrol Edge Philippines, for broadcast on the MTV Channel in the Philippines. A memorable event with a 17 car pile up certainly produced some memorable footage. You can also go to YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fwfyUONc9Y
Autoextreme TV followed the team at last year's Macau GP for a Castrol Edge special broadcast on MTV in the Philippines. Play the video on the top right area of our www.eurasiamotorsport.com home page.
Ardie Lopez of Autoexteme TV produced the special for the team's partner, Castrol Edge Philippines, for broadcast on the MTV Channel in the Philippines. A memorable event with a 17 car pile up certainly produced some memorable footage. You can also go to YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fwfyUONc9Y
Nabil Jeffri completes F.BMW line up
Malaysian karting star, Nabil Jeffri, has joined the team for the 2010 F.BMW Pacific Series thereby completing our four driver line-up. 16 year old Nabil is the current Asia and Malaysia ROTAX Max Junior Champion and was 6th in the 2009 ROTAX Max World Finals in Egypt, Dec 2009.
Nabil began his preparation by testing for the team in January and he is demonstrating he will be a competitive driver who is determined to succeed. Malaysian ex-F1 driver Alex Yoong has assisted Nabil with coaching at the test days and he will be part of the team for the entire 2010 season.
"We are really excited about the 2010 season as we now have four very competitive drivers who will push each other to succeed and yet they all working very well with each other. This season is looking like it will develop into the most competitive season yet in F.BMW Pacific and the first race at the Malaysian F1 GP on April 3rd and 4th is eagerly awaited" reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport.
Nabil will be announcing his backers shortly. His participation has attracted much attention in his home Country with a TV film crew on hand to record his announcement as team member at the Sepang F1 Circuit during Eurasia Motorsport's testing campaign which is in full fling at the venue of the first event. COMMA Motorsports who has been managing Nabil since 2005 has officially signed with Eurasia for F BMW Pacific 2010 season.
Malaysian karting star, Nabil Jeffri, has joined the team for the 2010 F.BMW Pacific Series thereby completing our four driver line-up. 16 year old Nabil is the current Asia and Malaysia ROTAX Max Junior Champion and was 6th in the 2009 ROTAX Max World Finals in Egypt, Dec 2009.
Nabil began his preparation by testing for the team in January and he is demonstrating he will be a competitive driver who is determined to succeed. Malaysian ex-F1 driver Alex Yoong has assisted Nabil with coaching at the test days and he will be part of the team for the entire 2010 season.
"We are really excited about the 2010 season as we now have four very competitive drivers who will push each other to succeed and yet they all working very well with each other. This season is looking like it will develop into the most competitive season yet in F.BMW Pacific and the first race at the Malaysian F1 GP on April 3rd and 4th is eagerly awaited" reported Mark Goddard of Eurasia Motorsport.
Nabil will be announcing his backers shortly. His participation has attracted much attention in his home Country with a TV film crew on hand to record his announcement as team member at the Sepang F1 Circuit during Eurasia Motorsport's testing campaign which is in full fling at the venue of the first event. COMMA Motorsports who has been managing Nabil since 2005 has officially signed with Eurasia for F BMW Pacific 2010 season.
Richard Bradley dominates F.BMW Pacific Round One
Eurasia Motorsport began the year with a race win in round one of the F.BMW Pacific Series held before F1 qualifying at the Malaysian GP. Richard Bradley had qualified on pole position with a stunning 2m 9.9 lap and dominated the 25 car field leading from lights to flag.
Bradley's team-mate, Kotaro Sakurai, started from the third spot on the grid and slotted in behind Bradley and Carlos Sainz Junior. A forceful Kvyat attempted an outside pass at turn six which slowed both drivers allowing the leading two to get away. Kvyat went off later in the lap leaving Sakurai in third several seconds in front of the pack. Whilst Bradley recorded fastest lap after fastest lap and pulled away to a comfortable win, Sakurai was gradually closing in on Sainz in second place. The young Japanese made a mistake on lap six, running wide onto the marbles and spinning into retirement.
Eurasia's Nabil Jeffri had qualified a fine seventh, fastest Malaysian, but was forced wide at turn one on the first lap and fell to the back of the field. He got his head down and picked his way back up to ninth place by the flag. Duvashen Padayachee was attached by Oscar Tunyo in qualifying leaving him with three wheels only and consigning him to 16th on the grid. He was involved in a fine three car battle for 13th place when he was forced wide at turn eleven on the final lap and spun out.
"It was easy" stated an elated Bradley after the race. "I mean its never easy but I was able to control the gap and I still had some performance in hand."
Round two will take place on Sunday before the F1 GP itself.
Eurasia Motorsport began the year with a race win in round one of the F.BMW Pacific Series held before F1 qualifying at the Malaysian GP. Richard Bradley had qualified on pole position with a stunning 2m 9.9 lap and dominated the 25 car field leading from lights to flag.
Bradley's team-mate, Kotaro Sakurai, started from the third spot on the grid and slotted in behind Bradley and Carlos Sainz Junior. A forceful Kvyat attempted an outside pass at turn six which slowed both drivers allowing the leading two to get away. Kvyat went off later in the lap leaving Sakurai in third several seconds in front of the pack. Whilst Bradley recorded fastest lap after fastest lap and pulled away to a comfortable win, Sakurai was gradually closing in on Sainz in second place. The young Japanese made a mistake on lap six, running wide onto the marbles and spinning into retirement.
Eurasia's Nabil Jeffri had qualified a fine seventh, fastest Malaysian, but was forced wide at turn one on the first lap and fell to the back of the field. He got his head down and picked his way back up to ninth place by the flag. Duvashen Padayachee was attached by Oscar Tunyo in qualifying leaving him with three wheels only and consigning him to 16th on the grid. He was involved in a fine three car battle for 13th place when he was forced wide at turn eleven on the final lap and spun out.
"It was easy" stated an elated Bradley after the race. "I mean its never easy but I was able to control the gap and I still had some performance in hand."
Round two will take place on Sunday before the F1 GP itself.
Bradley wins F. BMW round two with Sakurai third
Richard Bradley once again led from start to finish, taking round two of the Formula BMW Series by storm whilst team mate, Kotaro Sakurai, was third after overtaking Carlos Sainz Jr on the last corner of the last lap. Duvashen Padayachee finished eleventh in the 25 car field whilst Nabil Jeffri retired on lap one after being hit from behind suffering terminal damage.
In extremely hot and humid conditions Bradley led the field away after a good start with Sainz, Tunjo, Sakurai and Kyvat forming a five car train. Behind, Nabil Jeffri was tapped into a spin at turn four which sent cars flying in all directions. Yazid slammed into the back of Jeffri putting both cars out on the spot.
Bradley spent the first two laps working out how much grip was in the track, which had changed with over-night rain, and as soon as he was confident he simply pulled away from the pack. Once he had built up a three second lead he simply controlled the gap to the flag. Sainz, Tunyo and Sakurai slowly dropped Kyvat and the three then had a spirited battle for second place. Tunyo found a way past Sainz on lap nine of the ten lap race whilst Sakurai made a fantastic move on the last corner of the last lap to grab the final podium spot.
Padayachee was caught up in the first lap accident at turn four having to go off track in avoidance. He was soon up to twelve place and became embroiled in a fantastic battle with Oon, Wong, Jefferies and Sofyan. He finally finished eleventh after a great drive.
"Its been a fantastic start to the season for Eurasia Motorsport, pole position, two wins and two fastest race laps could not be better." remarked Eurasia's Mark Goddard.
Richard Bradley now leads the Driver's Championship by twelve points whilst Eurasia leads the Team Championship with a fourteen point lead.
Richard Bradley once again led from start to finish, taking round two of the Formula BMW Series by storm whilst team mate, Kotaro Sakurai, was third after overtaking Carlos Sainz Jr on the last corner of the last lap. Duvashen Padayachee finished eleventh in the 25 car field whilst Nabil Jeffri retired on lap one after being hit from behind suffering terminal damage.
In extremely hot and humid conditions Bradley led the field away after a good start with Sainz, Tunjo, Sakurai and Kyvat forming a five car train. Behind, Nabil Jeffri was tapped into a spin at turn four which sent cars flying in all directions. Yazid slammed into the back of Jeffri putting both cars out on the spot.
Bradley spent the first two laps working out how much grip was in the track, which had changed with over-night rain, and as soon as he was confident he simply pulled away from the pack. Once he had built up a three second lead he simply controlled the gap to the flag. Sainz, Tunyo and Sakurai slowly dropped Kyvat and the three then had a spirited battle for second place. Tunyo found a way past Sainz on lap nine of the ten lap race whilst Sakurai made a fantastic move on the last corner of the last lap to grab the final podium spot.
Padayachee was caught up in the first lap accident at turn four having to go off track in avoidance. He was soon up to twelve place and became embroiled in a fantastic battle with Oon, Wong, Jefferies and Sofyan. He finally finished eleventh after a great drive.
"Its been a fantastic start to the season for Eurasia Motorsport, pole position, two wins and two fastest race laps could not be better." remarked Eurasia's Mark Goddard.
Richard Bradley now leads the Driver's Championship by twelve points whilst Eurasia leads the Team Championship with a fourteen point lead.
Nabil gains valuable lessons Driver Release
It was a bittersweet weekend for Formula BMW Pacific 2010 debutant Nabil Jeffri. Formula BMW Pacific Round 1, which was the support race held in-conjunction with the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix, was held at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday.
The 16-year-old Malaysia, who raced his first single seater race, had a ninth place finish in Race 1 but failed to get another commendable result as he retired from Race 2 after being hit by compatriot Afiq Ikhwan Yazid.
"It has been an incident prone weekend for me but I have learnt a lot from this. I would however like to thank everyone who supported me especially my family, the Eurasia team and my sponsors," said Nabil.
Nabil, who is also the 1 Belia 1 Malaysia icon, is looking forward to the next outing which will also be at Sepang on May 14-16 during the Asian Festival of Speed.
"There is the process of getting the car back in shape and planning for the next race. I will also increase my fitness routine to prepare myself physically and mentally for Round 2," said Nabil.
Despite ending his weekend with an incident, Nabil, as the 1 Belia 1 Malaysia icon, stated that the best place to race is on the track and not on the road. "As a young Malaysian and a courteous one, we must adhere to the road rules for the safety of everyone. What I do on the track is only suppose to be done there."
"I hope that those interested in motorsports take it up at circuits around the country and not on our roads," said Nabil who will be sitting for his Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examinations this year.
It was a bittersweet weekend for Formula BMW Pacific 2010 debutant Nabil Jeffri. Formula BMW Pacific Round 1, which was the support race held in-conjunction with the Malaysian F1 Grand Prix, was held at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday.
The 16-year-old Malaysia, who raced his first single seater race, had a ninth place finish in Race 1 but failed to get another commendable result as he retired from Race 2 after being hit by compatriot Afiq Ikhwan Yazid.
"It has been an incident prone weekend for me but I have learnt a lot from this. I would however like to thank everyone who supported me especially my family, the Eurasia team and my sponsors," said Nabil.
Nabil, who is also the 1 Belia 1 Malaysia icon, is looking forward to the next outing which will also be at Sepang on May 14-16 during the Asian Festival of Speed.
"There is the process of getting the car back in shape and planning for the next race. I will also increase my fitness routine to prepare myself physically and mentally for Round 2," said Nabil.
Despite ending his weekend with an incident, Nabil, as the 1 Belia 1 Malaysia icon, stated that the best place to race is on the track and not on the road. "As a young Malaysian and a courteous one, we must adhere to the road rules for the safety of everyone. What I do on the track is only suppose to be done there."
"I hope that those interested in motorsports take it up at circuits around the country and not on our roads," said Nabil who will be sitting for his Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examinations this year.
AirAsia Asean Driver Development Program Launched
Nabil Jeffri was announced, by Tony Fernandes CEO of AirAsia, as a member of the AirAsia Asean Driver Development Program which was launched at the AirAsia Academy in Kuala Lumpur on April 28th. The program is designed to nurture up-and-coming young drivers in their quest to become Formula One Drivers. Jeffri is receiving training from ex-F1 driver, Alex Yoong, who is working alongside Eurasia Motorsport to develop Nabil into a star of tomorrow.
Two drivers have been selected for 2010, Nabil and 12 year old Singaporean Karter, Daim Hishammuddin. "AirAsia is searching the field of talent in this region for youngsters, both male and female, to joun the programme. We want to find young drivers with great talent and commitment for success" stated Fernandes at the launch. "As a bonus, these youngsters will also receive AirAsia support for publicity and sponsorship. We will help to raise their profiles and help them source other long-term corporate sponsorship"
"We are really happy that Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes chose Eurasia Motorsport for Nabil Jeffri and we are happy to have Alex Yoong working with the team. His experience at the highest level of the sport is a great asset to Nabil and all our drivers" reported Eurasia's Mark Goddard. "Considering Nabil's experience to date he has already demonstrated he possesses great talent and we expect him to be fully competitive by the season's end and vying for championship honours in 2011."
Nabil Jeffri was announced, by Tony Fernandes CEO of AirAsia, as a member of the AirAsia Asean Driver Development Program which was launched at the AirAsia Academy in Kuala Lumpur on April 28th. The program is designed to nurture up-and-coming young drivers in their quest to become Formula One Drivers. Jeffri is receiving training from ex-F1 driver, Alex Yoong, who is working alongside Eurasia Motorsport to develop Nabil into a star of tomorrow.
Two drivers have been selected for 2010, Nabil and 12 year old Singaporean Karter, Daim Hishammuddin. "AirAsia is searching the field of talent in this region for youngsters, both male and female, to joun the programme. We want to find young drivers with great talent and commitment for success" stated Fernandes at the launch. "As a bonus, these youngsters will also receive AirAsia support for publicity and sponsorship. We will help to raise their profiles and help them source other long-term corporate sponsorship"
"We are really happy that Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes chose Eurasia Motorsport for Nabil Jeffri and we are happy to have Alex Yoong working with the team. His experience at the highest level of the sport is a great asset to Nabil and all our drivers" reported Eurasia's Mark Goddard. "Considering Nabil's experience to date he has already demonstrated he possesses great talent and we expect him to be fully competitive by the season's end and vying for championship honours in 2011."
Front row start for Kotaro Sakurai in round 3
Kotaro Sakurai led a Eurasia one-two-three in the Pacific standings after qualifying for round three of the F.BMW Pacific Series held at Sepang on May 15th. Sakurai was a mere .062 of a second slower than guest driver and pole man Daniil Kyvat with fellow guest drivers Michael Lewis and Carlos Sainz Jr just in front of Eurasia's Nabil Jeffri and Championship leader, Richard Bradley.
Sakurai was happy to be so close to pole and to be starting from pole position in his third event whilst Nabil Jeffri was pleased to be second of the Pacific Series point scorers and first local driver on the grid. Bradley who had dominated the first event and was consistently fast in practice was disappointed to be 6th on the grid after he met traffic on his "tyre window" laps on both new sets during qualifying.
At the start Kyvat led from Sakurai with a fast starting Bradley up to third. The leading duo pulled away whilst Bradley, Sainz and Lewis fought over third place. Sakurai took the lead with a brave dive up the inside of a weaving Kyvat at turn one on lap 5. It was a lead he was to keep to the last lap despite a bent front steering arm after contact during his pass for the lead. Bradley was embroiled in the battle for third which ended in tears on lap 7 when Lewis appeared to turn into the Singapore based driver, tearing off Bradley's rear wheel in the process.
Sakurai looked in control with a 1.5 second lead at Turn 12 on the last lap when the damaged steering arm gave way causing him to spin out of control, crashing into Sainz Jr as he attempted to regain the circuit. Sakurai limped back to the pits on three wheels taking the chequered flag in the pit lane. Nabil Jeffri finished 7th overall, 5th Pacific Series runner after a brave run. The Malaysian was suffering from a high fever and was struggling in the humid heat. Duvashen Padayachee was tenth in the Pacific Series points after a good drive in traffic.
The Stewards were busy after the race, penalising Kyvat three grid positions for the next round for weaving in front of Sakurai whilst the latter was given a five grid position grid penalty for crashing into Sainz, reduced from the normal 10 places due to mitigating circumstances, namely his broken steering arm.
Round four was held two hours later and the team worked miracles to repair Sakurai's extensively damaged car and get it out before the pit lane closed with less than a second in hand! The finishing touches we put to the car on the grid before the start. Bradley made a great start to slot into third before he was harpooned by James Birch (penalised 10 grid positions for round five for his actions) spinning the Eurasia driver who was hit by a passing Calvin Wong bending his rear wing to a crazy angle. Despite dropping to the back of the 23 car field he was able to force his way back to 8th place, 5th in the points after a 'champions' drive. Sakurai finished fifth, second in the points after a great drive with a car that was set up by eye on the grid. It was all for nothing as the rear wing main-plane was found to be one degree over the allowed limit and, despite the fact it gave no advantage as it adversely affected his straight-line speed, he was disqualified, consigning him to last on the grid for round six the following day. No other penalties were applied due to the mitigating circumstances. Nabil Jeffri was a fine 5th overall, second in the points, despite having to take anti-biotics due to his high fever. Duvashen Padayachee was tenth, 7th in the points, after another forceful drive.
Rounds 5 and 6 will take place on Sunday 16th May.
Kotaro Sakurai led a Eurasia one-two-three in the Pacific standings after qualifying for round three of the F.BMW Pacific Series held at Sepang on May 15th. Sakurai was a mere .062 of a second slower than guest driver and pole man Daniil Kyvat with fellow guest drivers Michael Lewis and Carlos Sainz Jr just in front of Eurasia's Nabil Jeffri and Championship leader, Richard Bradley.
Sakurai was happy to be so close to pole and to be starting from pole position in his third event whilst Nabil Jeffri was pleased to be second of the Pacific Series point scorers and first local driver on the grid. Bradley who had dominated the first event and was consistently fast in practice was disappointed to be 6th on the grid after he met traffic on his "tyre window" laps on both new sets during qualifying.
At the start Kyvat led from Sakurai with a fast starting Bradley up to third. The leading duo pulled away whilst Bradley, Sainz and Lewis fought over third place. Sakurai took the lead with a brave dive up the inside of a weaving Kyvat at turn one on lap 5. It was a lead he was to keep to the last lap despite a bent front steering arm after contact during his pass for the lead. Bradley was embroiled in the battle for third which ended in tears on lap 7 when Lewis appeared to turn into the Singapore based driver, tearing off Bradley's rear wheel in the process.
Sakurai looked in control with a 1.5 second lead at Turn 12 on the last lap when the damaged steering arm gave way causing him to spin out of control, crashing into Sainz Jr as he attempted to regain the circuit. Sakurai limped back to the pits on three wheels taking the chequered flag in the pit lane. Nabil Jeffri finished 7th overall, 5th Pacific Series runner after a brave run. The Malaysian was suffering from a high fever and was struggling in the humid heat. Duvashen Padayachee was tenth in the Pacific Series points after a good drive in traffic.
The Stewards were busy after the race, penalising Kyvat three grid positions for the next round for weaving in front of Sakurai whilst the latter was given a five grid position grid penalty for crashing into Sainz, reduced from the normal 10 places due to mitigating circumstances, namely his broken steering arm.
Round four was held two hours later and the team worked miracles to repair Sakurai's extensively damaged car and get it out before the pit lane closed with less than a second in hand! The finishing touches we put to the car on the grid before the start. Bradley made a great start to slot into third before he was harpooned by James Birch (penalised 10 grid positions for round five for his actions) spinning the Eurasia driver who was hit by a passing Calvin Wong bending his rear wing to a crazy angle. Despite dropping to the back of the 23 car field he was able to force his way back to 8th place, 5th in the points after a 'champions' drive. Sakurai finished fifth, second in the points after a great drive with a car that was set up by eye on the grid. It was all for nothing as the rear wing main-plane was found to be one degree over the allowed limit and, despite the fact it gave no advantage as it adversely affected his straight-line speed, he was disqualified, consigning him to last on the grid for round six the following day. No other penalties were applied due to the mitigating circumstances. Nabil Jeffri was a fine 5th overall, second in the points, despite having to take anti-biotics due to his high fever. Duvashen Padayachee was tenth, 7th in the points, after another forceful drive.
Rounds 5 and 6 will take place on Sunday 16th May.
Bradley increases championship lead, Eurasia top team championship
Richard Bradley increased his championship lead to 34 points following rounds 5 and 6 of the F.BMW Pacific Series held at the Sepang F1 Circuit on May 16th. Eurasia increased its lead in the Team Championship thanks to the efforts of all four drivers.
Round five, the third race of the weekend, was once again held in hot and sunny conditions. Starting positions for the days two races were based on the finishing positions of the previous day therefore Nabil Jeffri lined up 5th with Padayachee 10th, Sakurai 15th and Bradley 18th. Another brilliant drive from Bradley saw him scythe through the field, finishing fourth overall, second in the Pacific Series. Kotaro Sakurai also had an impressive drive, finishing 5th overall from 15th on the grid, third in the Pacific points. Nabil Jeffri faded towards the end of the race, his fever being worse than the day before. It was a brave drive again from the local driver. Duvashen Padayachee was again battling for the whole race, finally finishing in 10th place, 7th in the Pacific points.
The grid for round six had Nabil Jeffri in 5th place, Bradley 8th, Padayachee 10th and Sakurai in 22nd. Bradley was soon up to 5th place and hunted down Oon to take the Pacific lead. He then cruised around content to finish behind the three guest drivers having learnt that racing with them could be detrimental to his championship points. Sakurai from the very back was up to 6th with a couple of laps to go when he was tagged by Dixon into turn one, damaging the front wing and consigning him to 8th place. Padayachee had a very entertaining race, constantly battling again and grabbing tenth place on the last lap. Meanwhile Nabil Jeffri had a fraught race, contact with Calvin Wong and James Birch dropping him down the field. He eventually finished 11th, still suffering from a fever.
"We demonstrated we are the pace in the Pacific Series, coming away with increased leads in both driver and team championships. We were also very competitive with the guest drivers, without the accidents I am sure we could have won overall. It demonstrates the standard here is now on par with Europe" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia.
Next event is in Korea in August, the AFOS event will be the first race meeting at the new Korean F1 Circuit
Richard Bradley increased his championship lead to 34 points following rounds 5 and 6 of the F.BMW Pacific Series held at the Sepang F1 Circuit on May 16th. Eurasia increased its lead in the Team Championship thanks to the efforts of all four drivers.
Round five, the third race of the weekend, was once again held in hot and sunny conditions. Starting positions for the days two races were based on the finishing positions of the previous day therefore Nabil Jeffri lined up 5th with Padayachee 10th, Sakurai 15th and Bradley 18th. Another brilliant drive from Bradley saw him scythe through the field, finishing fourth overall, second in the Pacific Series. Kotaro Sakurai also had an impressive drive, finishing 5th overall from 15th on the grid, third in the Pacific points. Nabil Jeffri faded towards the end of the race, his fever being worse than the day before. It was a brave drive again from the local driver. Duvashen Padayachee was again battling for the whole race, finally finishing in 10th place, 7th in the Pacific points.
The grid for round six had Nabil Jeffri in 5th place, Bradley 8th, Padayachee 10th and Sakurai in 22nd. Bradley was soon up to 5th place and hunted down Oon to take the Pacific lead. He then cruised around content to finish behind the three guest drivers having learnt that racing with them could be detrimental to his championship points. Sakurai from the very back was up to 6th with a couple of laps to go when he was tagged by Dixon into turn one, damaging the front wing and consigning him to 8th place. Padayachee had a very entertaining race, constantly battling again and grabbing tenth place on the last lap. Meanwhile Nabil Jeffri had a fraught race, contact with Calvin Wong and James Birch dropping him down the field. He eventually finished 11th, still suffering from a fever.
"We demonstrated we are the pace in the Pacific Series, coming away with increased leads in both driver and team championships. We were also very competitive with the guest drivers, without the accidents I am sure we could have won overall. It demonstrates the standard here is now on par with Europe" stated Mark Goddard of Eurasia.
Next event is in Korea in August, the AFOS event will be the first race meeting at the new Korean F1 Circuit
GT3 Asia supports Japanese Super GT at Sepang
Eurasia Craft Racing is expecting a good result in the second event of the GT3 Asia Series which supports Japanese Super GT at Sepang in Malaysia on June 20th. The team's Ginetta Zytek G50Z cars have set competitive times in testing allowing drivers, Frank Yu, Samson Chan and Eric Cheung, to be confident of scoring a good haul of championship points.
The first event of the Series was held at Sepang in May. "The team received the cars race week and the first event was basically a public shakedown." reports Mark Goddard of Eurasia Craft. "Since the event we have had three weeks to develop the cars and we undertook a very successful test with Alex Yoong behind the wheel last week. Alex set some very competitive lap times which demonstrated the potential of the car. We have some more parts, developed by the team, on the way for the third event, also at Sepang, in July which will move the car to a further level whilst improving the reliability".
The GT3 Asia Series ends the season with a race at the new Korean F1 Circuit in August before travelling to Japan for two events at Fuji and Autopolis. The season ends with a non-championship race at Macau in November.
Eurasia Craft Racing is expecting a good result in the second event of the GT3 Asia Series which supports Japanese Super GT at Sepang in Malaysia on June 20th. The team's Ginetta Zytek G50Z cars have set competitive times in testing allowing drivers, Frank Yu, Samson Chan and Eric Cheung, to be confident of scoring a good haul of championship points.
The first event of the Series was held at Sepang in May. "The team received the cars race week and the first event was basically a public shakedown." reports Mark Goddard of Eurasia Craft. "Since the event we have had three weeks to develop the cars and we undertook a very successful test with Alex Yoong behind the wheel last week. Alex set some very competitive lap times which demonstrated the potential of the car. We have some more parts, developed by the team, on the way for the third event, also at Sepang, in July which will move the car to a further level whilst improving the reliability".
The GT3 Asia Series ends the season with a race at the new Korean F1 Circuit in August before travelling to Japan for two events at Fuji and Autopolis. The season ends with a non-championship race at Macau in November.
AFOS announce new replacement series
BMW today announced that they will no longer support Formula BMW in Europe and Pacific from 2011. AFOS, the promoter and organizer of the F.BMW Pacific Series since its inception in 2003, has confirmed a new series using the same Mygale chassis with Mygale parts support. The current media and television package will remain in place. Read on for the full AFOS statement.
Eurasia Motorsport has confirmed they will enter cars in the new championship which will continue to offer a viable cost effective career path for young drivers. "Formula BMW in Asia has developed many World class drivers in its eight seasons and the new Formula will continue to offer the same professional environment for drivers to develop their talent" stated Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "The media and TV package is second to none and AFOS continue as organizer and promoter so in fact as far as drivers and teams are concerned there will be very little difference in the way the series is run."
"Eurasia Motorsport would like to thank BMW for supporting the championship over the years. Now we are looking to the future and this is an opportunity for the championship to develop even further without some of the constraints of a major manufacturer. Its an exciting opportunity of which Eurasia is happy to be a part"
.
AFOS RELEASE JULY 9 2010
Following the announcement by BMW Motorsport today that they are to axe the Formula BMW Series, Motorsport Asia who have been the Formula BMW Pacific Series Organiser and Promoter since its inception, announced the continuation of the Series in an independent form.
"We have been aware that BMW have been considering withdrawing for quite some time and are well advanced with our plans to continue the Series independently. We already have the full support of Mygale for the spare parts and everything else in place to continue. We also have the full support of all of the Teams and we jointly recognize that there is a vital need for this Series in Asia. I would like to take this opportunity to thank BMW Motorsport for their support since 2003. It has been a very good relationship, which has seen the development of many young and talented drivers from the Series. We fully intend to continue this," stated David Sonenscher CEO of Motorsport Asia.
"I do not expect there to be too much change to the format or the quality of the Series. We have planned a six event Series, just as in the present year and all of the existing Media and Television exposure will remain in place. Our existing structure is strong enough to support the Series even without the involvement of BMW."
"I am holding meetings in Silverstone with the European Teams tomorrow and next week back in Asia with the Asian based Teams to decide on some of the minor details. We will make a further announcement very shortly but as far as we are concerned it is pretty much business as usual," he added.
BMW today announced that they will no longer support Formula BMW in Europe and Pacific from 2011. AFOS, the promoter and organizer of the F.BMW Pacific Series since its inception in 2003, has confirmed a new series using the same Mygale chassis with Mygale parts support. The current media and television package will remain in place. Read on for the full AFOS statement.
Eurasia Motorsport has confirmed they will enter cars in the new championship which will continue to offer a viable cost effective career path for young drivers. "Formula BMW in Asia has developed many World class drivers in its eight seasons and the new Formula will continue to offer the same professional environment for drivers to develop their talent" stated Eurasia Motorsport's Mark Goddard. "The media and TV package is second to none and AFOS continue as organizer and promoter so in fact as far as drivers and teams are concerned there will be very little difference in the way the series is run."
"Eurasia Motorsport would like to thank BMW for supporting the championship over the years. Now we are looking to the future and this is an opportunity for the championship to develop even further without some of the constraints of a major manufacturer. Its an exciting opportunity of which Eurasia is happy to be a part"
.
AFOS RELEASE JULY 9 2010
Following the announcement by BMW Motorsport today that they are to axe the Formula BMW Series, Motorsport Asia who have been the Formula BMW Pacific Series Organiser and Promoter since its inception, announced the continuation of the Series in an independent form.
"We have been aware that BMW have been considering withdrawing for quite some time and are well advanced with our plans to continue the Series independently. We already have the full support of Mygale for the spare parts and everything else in place to continue. We also have the full support of all of the Teams and we jointly recognize that there is a vital need for this Series in Asia. I would like to take this opportunity to thank BMW Motorsport for their support since 2003. It has been a very good relationship, which has seen the development of many young and talented drivers from the Series. We fully intend to continue this," stated David Sonenscher CEO of Motorsport Asia.
"I do not expect there to be too much change to the format or the quality of the Series. We have planned a six event Series, just as in the present year and all of the existing Media and Television exposure will remain in place. Our existing structure is strong enough to support the Series even without the involvement of BMW."
"I am holding meetings in Silverstone with the European Teams tomorrow and next week back in Asia with the Asian based Teams to decide on some of the minor details. We will make a further announcement very shortly but as far as we are concerned it is pretty much business as usual," he added.