Q: 3rd, a whopping last lap utilizing the super rubbered track. I wasn't even that perfect but had a super exit from the uphill left hairpin
R: 10th. Could have been 5th if not for 2 things:
1. Front left brake failure on 3rd last lap
2. What I thought was my inlap was really the last lap!
The starting laps were intense! I pushed 100% and tried to leave 5-10% to save the tyres...
I was amazed at my pace and thought I had too little fuel or something
2nd was eventually lost to Delamare who was rocketing! Then 3rd to David who at least had to fight a bit but sadly after his pass, I had lost around 10% at several tyres and a baaaad wheel vibration. Got really distracted and lost pace.
The rest became a game in defense and struggle for grip. In Motec afterwards I saw what huge difference in tyre deg I had through T5-8. Lots of lessons learned!
Pitted early due to FL at ~8%. Then learned the importance of both taking care of new tyres as well as push them at the right places... I didn't succeed with the 100% push + 5-10% save-strategy in stint 2 either
After all had pitted, I tried to settle my pace but was tempted to push closer to Sean ~2 secs in front. We were evenly paced but I had some FL deg already. A one lap push got me much closer, as well did the FL to its reincarnation. I was also chased so couldn't risk pushing too hard.
The moment of "glory" was when Steeve knocked on the door! I eventually "won" that fight.
Last laps I also learnt some things about brakes... and finish a'la rF2...
Hope someone enjoys!: (in 13 minutes
)
Congratulations go to all who have endured until this 1st race of this challenging first season with rF2, phew! Now we're on the right track, lets help each others out and keep this team moving forward!
Special thanks for David who has told he even dreams about how to get us running.