Toro Rosso Jerez test notes 2009-12-01

Circuit: Jerez de la Frontera 4.423 kms
Driver: Brendon Hartley
Chassis: STR4 - 03
Best time: 1:21.325, 69 laps

It is "kindergarten week" at the Jerez circuit in Southern Spain as several Formula 1 teams are taking part in a three day session specifically aimed at young drivers. The criterion for taking part in the test is that a driver should not have driven in more than three Formula 1 Grands Prix.

Today, Brendon Hartley was at the wheel of the STR4. His programme did not get off to the best of starts, as he spun at the fast right hander, following the chicane, having just switched to different aero settings on the car. The damage was repaired in time for the New Zealander to get back on track by the end of the morning. His programme had three main elements: aero measurement testing in view of 2010, running the car with ballast to simulate the weight of next year's cars on full tanks, as refueling is banned, and carrying out some brake testing.

"Apart from going off the track early on, I was generally happy with the way the day went, as I had not driven an F1 car for a while, so now I'm looking forward to making the best of Thursday when I get another run."

Tomorrow, the STR4 will be entrusted to Mirko Bortolotti.

-credit: toro rosso