History will be written as the Aussie Racing Cars roll out onto the Albert Park street circuit for the first time this weekend as an official support to the Formula 1 ING Australian Grand Prix.
The 2007 Aussie Racing Cars Series began just a fortnight ago on the streets of Adelaide with 2004 Series Champion James Ward taking victory over defending Champion Paul Kemal in a fierce street fight.
This weekend, every driver will start on a level playing field, as prior experience in the cars around the Albert Park circuit is non-existent. This could provide some surprising results.
2006 Series champion, Paul Kemal is eagerly awaiting the challenge of learning the circuit, especially since it is part of the Formula 1 calendar.
“I can’t wait for it, †he said.
“It is going to be a great event with the Aussie Racing Cars competing on the same days as the Formula 1. â€
“It’s going to be interesting having to learn an all-new circuit for us, and since no-one has been there before it will mean everyone goes into the event without experience. â€
The ‘pocket rockets’, famous for their four-wide braking manoeuvres and extreme slip-streaming will be perfectly suited to the flowing street circuit and will no doubt thrill the Melbourne crowds.
Series coordinator Phil Ward is excited by the prospect of racing in front of the F1 crowds.
“For the fans that have not seen Aussie Racing Cars in action before, they are in for a real treat, †he said.
“We will have a capacity field of cars which is a credit to all the crews after the short turn-around time since Adelaide.
Kemal and James Ward will have to contend with many challengers this weekend including the fast-learning James Manderson who finished close behind the pair in his first outing in the category.
The likes of Kyle Clews, Ben McCashney, Sheridan Philips and Charles Davison are likely to push for victory over the weekend.
Thursday will be a busy day for the teams with practice and qualifying in the morning followed by Race 1 in the afternoon. Friday, Saturday and Sunday will host one race each to determine the first Aussie Racing Cars winner at Albert Park.
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