AG Racing Australian FF Queensland race notes

Career best for Graham in the toughest weekend

21 June, 2003 - Ford KartStars graduate Adam Graham last weekend battled through the toughest time of his life thus far to compete in the fifth round of the Ford Racing Australian Formula Ford Championship.

Last Thursday Adam's older sister, Kristy was tragically killed in a car accident at only 20 years old.

Showing maturity and courage well beyond his 18 years of age Adam focused on the challenge of the hotly contested Formula Ford events throughout the weekend.

During the qualifying sessions Adam bobbed in and out of the top 10 eventually qualifying in 14th.

After making several positions during the opening lap in the first of the 10-lap races Adam was forced to take avoiding action after several cars collided in front of him forcing him well off the circuit. The cross-country adventure dropped him almost a dozen places.

He then got back into his rhythm and charged through the pack passing 10 cars in the remaining 7 laps to finish a career best 13th in his Super Cheap Auto supported Spectrum.

A determined Adam was again on the charge in the second race passing several cars during the opening lap before a second lap spin dropped him well down the order. Aiming to rise over adversity he once again had the bit between his teeth to record his second 13th place finish for the weekend and in the process set the sixth fastest of the race.

"I'm still trying to grasp the realism of what has happened over the last few days it has been a very painful and trying few days," said Graham.

"Everyone has been very supportive for me, Mum and Dad. It was my choice to race, no one forced me too I just wanted to do it for Kristy."

After returning to the family's home in Lismore on Thursday evening Adam's parents, Kel and Janelle, were on hand to witness their young son in action yesterday. To say they were proud of Adam's efforts would be an understatement.

The Graham family would like to thank the Karting, Formula Ford and entire motorsport fraternity for their support and thoughts over the past few very trying days.