IRC's Thunder in the Park hosted the second round of the Bridgestone Porsche Series over the weekend. The challenge of the weekend was driving through a continuous stream of water flowing across the final corner over the mountain caused by the massive downpour's of rain during Friday's practice session making qualifying treacherous. For those who dared, their bravery was rewarded with the fastest lap times of the morning. Qualifying results were Kevin Etches first followed by Andrew Stewart, Robert, Paul and Nigel.
Race one saw the stream spread out providing a crossing which lead to lap times improving along with the grip. The start was three cars wide at the first corner as Paul slipped though making up several places. In lap two Robert passed Paul after getting caught up with Straun's 928 having a power steering problem. Paul regained the position later for a second placing followed by Robert, Andrew Stewart and Nigel.
The reverse grid race on Sunday morning saw Robert take the early lead after getting the jump on his brother Nigel off the grid and then started to hunt down Chris Barendregt at the end of the back straight under brakes. By the beginning of lap three Kevin had moved into a close second before overtaking Robert in lap five. The V8 of Straun Robertson finally made use of his house power advantage chasing down Kevin for the overall win, Paul made a move late in the race for a class second followed by Robert, Andrew Stewart and Nigel.
Race 3 saw Robert pick up third just behind Paul after competing for positions with higher class cars for much of the race before losing the battle in the later stages at the horse power dominated Pukekohe Circuit.
After Round two the class championship points have Paul second followed by Robert, Andrew Stewart and Nigel
The next round will be held at Taupo Motorsport Park over the weekend of the second and third of January at the IRC's New Year Thunder Meeting. With 10 race classes competing this will be well worth a look. Gate sales available.
TYR.