Donington: Sam Abay practice report

ABAY UP FRONT IN OPENING PRACTICE SESSION

Australian rookie Sam Abay recorded the 2nd and 5th fastest times, in the two opening practice sessions for the final round of the 2008 Lloyds TSB British Formula 3 Championship at Donington Park.

Abay who is competing in his third year of open wheel racing has shown impressive speed during his debut Formula 3 season, but has admitted the results are not what they could have been. "It's all part of the learning curve and we've learnt and developed an incredible amount this year." said the youngster.

"We've run within the top four positions during the course of 8 different races this year, but frustratingly have yet to convert any of these opportunities into a podium, which we should have done a few times by now. A lot of that was inexperience on my part, mixed with a bit of misfortune. We'd love to be able to make amends here at Donington and reward my backers and team for all their support."

Returning to Donington Park where he sat on pole position for last years Formula BMW UK race, the Oxia Carlin driver was confident of a strong result in the season finale. The venue which is set to host the British Grand Prix from 2010 is a favourite amongst the 23 Formula 3 drivers.

Qualifying starts 11:35am and 3:55pm Saturday, with race one at 11:10am and race two at 4:05pm Sunday.

-credit: sa