Andre Heimgartner has powered through for a third position despite a small mid-race spin while in second position during the second race of the Carrera Cup at the 2017 Clipsal 500.
Heimgartner, from Dannemora, started on the front row after winning yesterday’s opening race from pole, but race winner David Wall was able to have a slightly better start to lead into the first corner.
The 22-year-old Melbourne-based Kiwi did all he could to make sure he remain close in the battle with Wall, but in pushing hard found the limit. However, he was able to recover quickly to lose only one position and continue the remainder of the race to cross the line in third position and second in the title points with one race remaining for the event.
“Wall got a slightly better start than me and I didn’t want to risk throwing it away on the first corner so I set to work chasing him down,” Heimgartner said.
“The car was feeling good and I was pushing really hard, but at the same time the reality is this is my third day ever driving this car and in throwing everything at it trying to take back that first position I made a small mistake.
“I am a bit disappointed with that but I was able to recover quickly and make sure I only lost one spot.
“I went after it for the remaining laps while trying to make sure I looked after the car, and crossed the line in third position behind Wall and McConville.
“While I am not happy with the mistake, to so far have a first and a third and be second in the championship points in my first event in this car and with this team is still a good score card.
“You can rest assured I will be doing all I can tomorrow to try and bring home another win.”
The third and final Carrera Cup race for the 2017 Clipsal 500 will be held tomorrow (Sunday) at 1.30pm (4pm NZT).
