 Ryan Simpson managed to fend of a flock of fast Queenslanders to set the early pace in Round 2 of the Genuine Ford Parts Australian Formula Ford Championship at Queensland Raceway today.
The Parramatta Smash Repairs Mygale driver finished the day’s final practice session marginally ahead of championship leader Chaz Mostert and teammates Nick Foster and Geoff Uhrhane.
“We had some really challenging conditions today and it was difficult to find a good set-up that work consistently,” said Simpson.
“The track went away over the course of the day as the temperature really heated up, but I think tomorrow will be really close amongst the top few guys.”
All four drivers went quicker in the morning’s first practice session, recording standout times, but as track conditions worsened, the times dropped away.
“We struggled a bit when the track was hot, but we are near the front and I think that’s a positive,” Spectrum pilot Mostert said.
“I think we almost need to find two different set-ups to suit the changing conditions, so having said that I would say we’re half way there.”
Steeline drive Foster echoed Mostert’s comments following another strong performance.
“We have the pace; it’s just a matter of trying to find that extra little bit. Obviously the conditions today made that tough, but we’ll be right there tomorrow,” Foster said.
Adam Graham was fifth in his Mygale, ahead of New Zealander Martin Short and Andre Borell, while Tom Williamson, Ash Walsh, who had radiator problems, and Ben Jurczak rounded out the top 10.
Round 2 of the series continues with qualifying and Race 1 tomorrow at Queensland Raceway.
Find the Genuine Ford Parts Australian Formula Ford Championship on twitter @ffordaustralia to keep up to date with Australia’s premier junior development category.
IPSWICH 300, QUEENSLAND RACEWAY - PRACTICE 3
1. Ryan Simpson, Mygale SJ10a, 1:14.7515
2. Chaz Mostert, Spectrum 012, 1:14.7946
3. Nick Foster, Mygale SJ10a, 1:14.8783
4. Geoff Uhrhane, Mygale SJ10a, 1:14.9577
5. Adam Graham, Mygale SJ10a, 1:14.9882
6. Martin Short, Mygale SJ09a, 1:15.0994
7. Andre Borell, Mygale SJ10a, 1:15.2748
8. Tom Williamson, Mygale SJ09a, 1:15.2942
9. Ashley Walsh, Spectrum 012, 1:15.3064
10. Ben Jurczak, Spectrum 012, 1:15.3474
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