Jono Lester
It’s a nice way to end the year; driving a racing car.
In 2009, I haven’t really done it all that much. My last official ‘race’ was in April when I won the Hamilton 400 Trophy, and since I’ve been itching to drive whatever I can.
I’ve spent a good portion of this time as a test driver for Juno Racing New Zealand with their new Synergy V8-powered sports car, but insofar as Porsche racing goes, there’s been very little.
That very little however, has meant a hell of a lot.
I’ve aligned myself with the very successful Lechner Racing Team and in July had a two-day test at the Hungaroring, which put me in line for the 2010 Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup after setting some really competitive times and working well with the team’s experienced engineers.
Again, this past fortnight, I’ve been up in Bahrain for some more testing with the team; this time developing the new 2010 Porsche GT3 Cup car which will be used in the Supercup next season.
As from the last 997 upgrade in 2008, this car is a cut above any Cup Car ever made. The response of the steering and engine; the noticeable increases in torque and power; the more docile yet more refined rear end with the giant rear wing – all of this has contributed to a very special race car.
To be one of the first in the world to steer one was a genuine pleasure for me.
My entry for the 2010 Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup has been lodged and I’m proud to be a part of the Lechner Racing Team with its passionate and hard-working mechanics and engineers, and a really positive and focussed team environment.
There’s still a budget to find, but isn’t that always the case with motorsport? I couldn’t have really picked a worse time to be money-hunting given the economic climate, however that won’t curb my enthusiasm and drive to make this happen.
I can see this being my one shot at making a career out of professional motorsport in Europe. I’ve gotta take it with both hands!
The weather’s great back here in NZ – believe it or not it rained more in Bahrain that it has here in the last two or three months! I’m really looking forward to heading up to the beach with my girlfriend, family and friends over the Xmas break for some brief R&R before heading full-steam into an exciting 2010.
See you all there!
Jono
Entries (RSS)
All the very best Jono for the year 2010, do keep posting!