USA: Robert Wickens Lime Rock race notes

Robert atop the podium at Lime Rock.Heads to Montreal with series championship lead

Toronto, Ontario May 31, 2006 -- Red Bull Junior Driver Robert Wickens headed to Lime Rock for round two of the Formula BMW USA series sitting sixth in the championship and looking for another podium finish. By the end of the weekend, the 17 year old Toronto native had his podium and the lead in the championship.Despite a rocky start to the weekend - a major downpour on Friday wiped out the first qualifying session, Robert was mentally prepared for a tough race on Saturday. With no qualifying times, the grid was set based on current point standings and Robert would start on the outside of row three. Racing on the narrow Lime Rock course can be intense and a good start is always rewarded. Always fast off the start, Robert was up to second by lap five and setting his sights on the leader.

In the latter half of the race, Robert was in a tight battle for second following a caution period. He would eventually move into first and take his first win of the season.With the win, Robert would vault to the top of the standings for the overall championship. A strong finish in Monday's race would bring enough points to assure that Robert goes into the next round at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal as the series leader.The next race in the Formula BMW USA Series takes place June 23-25 at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve during the Canadian Grand Prix Formula 1 weekend. That is followed a week later by races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the US Grand Prix.

-www.robertwickens.com