Queensland based Kiwi Hunter McElrea was able to continue his form over the weekend at Sandown Raceway, for Round 4 of the Australian National Formula Ford Championship.
The young gun started the weekend off in style, taking pole position, the third time this season.
“This is probably the most rewarding pole so far this year,” commented McElrea. The way this track is, with the slip streaming being such a big factor, and the new tyre gain not really making a massive difference, I knew I just had to keep pushing 100% the whole session.”
McElrea looked set to be on for victory number eight for the year before running off the track after the safety car restart, ultimately ending in a ninth place finish.
The disappointment was short lived, as McElrea was able to put on a driving display in Race 2. Driving his #2 Sonic Eximm Mygale from ninth to first in three laps, then was able to pull away from the field with the fastest lap by 0.3 of a second.
“After my mistake yesterday, I was very annoyed with myself, but I have learned from it, and moved on. Race 2 was definitely my favourite win of the year, it was a perfect race start to finish and I just had so much fun! I am really happy to repay everyone for their hard work and support!” McElrea said.
Race 3 was unfortunately spent under safety car, with the only racing lap falling against Hunter’s favour, dropping to third due to the slip stream nature of the track’s long straights.
This gifted Hunter his fourth straight overall national podium finish, and extended his lead to 29 Points in the Australian National Formula Ford Championship.
“I’m very happy to walk away with an extended championship lead, and podium overall. It was a great recovery after my race 1 mistake, I know I could have won the round, but nevertheless I am still happy,” McElrea said.
Zac Soutar scored his maiden round victory scoring one race win, as well as a second and fourth place in the three races held to take overall honours ahead of Liam McLellan and McElrea.
Round five of the 2018 Australian Formula Ford Championship will support the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship at the OTR Supersprint at The Bend Motorsport Park on August 24th-26th.
2018 AFFC Standings (Top 10)
Hunter McElrea – 207pts
Hamish Ribarits – 178pts
Zac Soutar – 131pts
Angelo Mouzouris – 112pts
Nathan Herne – 109pts
Liam McLellan – 105pts
Lachlan Mineeff – 92pts
Cameron Shields – 84pts
Bart Horsten – 82pts
Jake Donaldson – 58pts
Comments