Race Reports

Spa 15/09/2007

Spa Race 1

Super Nova collected twelve points today after a tremendous race as both drivers finish top five at the new Spa Francorchamps circuit!

After a shaky start off the grid, Luca Filippi was pushed wide into turn one, and found himself 2 places down in the first lap.  The team decided on early compulsory pit stops for both cars, Mike Conway first for two rears tyres, followed by Luca on Lap six. The Italian followed Adam Carroll into the pit lane, where an impressive 2-tyre change saw him exit ahead of the FMS car, and running just in front for Mike.

Lapping at comparable speeds to the race leader Nicolas Lapierre, the Super Nova drivers executed some awesome overtaking manoeuvres, to cross the finish line in an impressive 2nd and 5th position; the second week in a row for podium finisher Luca Filippi. Now strong third in both the driver & team championship, the penultimate race tomorrow will be an exciting sprint to the flag before Valencia in two weeks time!
Team Principal David Sears “Another fantastic result for the second weekend in a row with Luca Filippi taking strong 2nd place behind Nicolas Lapierre. Mike Conway drove extremely well to go from 12th to 5th place at the flag. The Super Nova crew gained time and places for both drivers in the pits, & should be congratulated on the best pit stops in the lane!        Super Nova has closed to within 8 points of ART Grand Prix in the teams Championship, & Luca has edged closer to 2nd in the driver championship”

Mike Conway “The choice to pit early was a good one and really worked out for us today, as I was able to pull ahead. Having the boys come out in front of me from the pits was good too, however I did lose a bit of grip, but all in all the pace was there. I hoping for a good start & first lap tomorrow, and then just try a pass get finish in the points again. ”

Luca Filippi “I didn’t get the best start, and locked the front into turn one. The car was difficult to drive for the first 3 or 4 laps, but was still quicker than Adam as we came into the pit lane. The boys did a great job there! When the guys in front pitted on the following lap, & I was able to pass Di Grassi, so I was very happy!  Towards the end there was a bit of over steer, but I was able to manage the car….The points are great for championship! Tomorrow we will have better traction, new tyres, & the chance to over take, so I’m confident it will great for the spectators!!”