|
 |
|
|
|
|
Asian Le Mans: Christian Bakkerud Third In Race At Okayama
The Danish Team Kolles driver, Christian Bakkerud, proved his worth as an endurance driver, when he earlier today took third place in the 500 km long Asian Le Mans race at the Japanese Okayama track. Together with teammate Oliver Jarvis they gambled with the fuel strategy and a strong drive brought them onto the podium.
“That was about time,” a jubilant Bakkerud explains. “It just feels great finishing my first Asian Le Mans race with a third place, and a podium!”
|
|
|
At the moment the stewards are evaluating a protest brought down by Aston Martin, but the young Dane expects to keep the third place. The fuel saving technology of the Audi R10 TDi engine made it possible to gamble on the fuel strategy.
“Aston Martin has protested us, but we still took home third place fair and square on the track. Jarvis took the first two stints, and I drove the last stint to the flag. It is a great feeling, and I am happy for Jarvis and the whole Team Kolles.”
“We gambled with the fuel to save a pitstop, and that made it possible to overtake Aston Martin. They have now protested us on a technical irregularity.”
“No matter what, Jarvis and I took third place and everyone saw that. We were on the podium, and I have the trophy to prove it. The team, Jarvis and I beat Aston Martin, and we raced all the great Le Mans teams; Pescarolo, Oreca and Courage.”
The Asian Le Mans round at Okayama holds two 500 kilometre races, and Christian can’t wait to get back in the car for the next race tomorrow. The Japanese weather seems to hold a surprise for the Audi, but that only eager him on to make yet another strong performance, and bring back yet another trophy!
“Tomorrow we will once again start from sixth place on the grid like we did today. So we just have to make our way to the podium once more! This time I will start the race and drive the first two stints, and Oliver will finish the race.“
“It is rumoured to rain tomorrow, and if it do rain it will make out for a very exciting race."
The race was won by Christophe Tinseau and Shinji Nakano in the #10 Pescarolo Judd. Race two will start Sunday morning at 6.30 CET, and will be broadcasted on live on both British, French and International Eurosport.
PaddockTalk Perspective
|
|
|
Also in American Le Mans Series News: |
|
| |
|
