Snetterton: Sam Bird race notes

FLYING START PUTS BIRD IN SECOND PLACE

Sam Bird (20, Claygate), enjoyed two more podium finishes in the British Formula 3 championship at Snetterton, Norfolk to put him into second place in the championship.. Having qualified in 5th and 2nd places for the two races, the BP Ultimate driver was hopeful of getting one podium from the weekend, but was delighted to score his fourth consecutive appearance by Sunday afternoon.

A blistering start in race one saw him take second place by the first corner, and although he was chasing down the leader, overtaking him for the win was just not feasible. Speaking about his lightening start, Bird commented, "I got great traction and was able to get a really great start. I visualize my starts over and over and I was able to achieve what I had visualized. After that, I thought the top step of the podium might be within my grasp, but Niall drove a very solid race and made no mistakes which would have allowed me the pass. I've started catching Stephen and Marko in the championship a bit recently, and that's what I hope to achieve, just moving up gradually. It's going to be really hard to catch Marko Asmer, but that's the aim.

In the second race, starting from the front row, Sam again tried his quick getaway, but the polesitter effectively blocked him at each attempt. Sam kept close, but after several laps, the car developed a serious oversteer problem, causing handling problems and allowing Bird's team-mate Valerio to pass. Despite the problems, Sam hung on to third place to claim the final podium position of the weekend.

The solid points haul hoists Bird into 2nd place in the championship, and top rookie.

Sam's next race takes place in Italy, at the renowned Monza circuit on June 23/24.

-credit: www.sambird.