Ralph Boschung’s maiden GP3 Series campaign got off to a flying start at Estoril last week (March 18/19) where the Jenzer Motorsport driver clocked the fastest time in the first official two-day pre-season test.The young Swiss ace ended all four timed sessions in the top-10, a performance all the more notable considering the strength of the GP3 field that includes reigning FIA European Formula 3 title-holder Esteban Ocon, Ferrari protégé Antonio Fuoco, and Marvin Kirchhöfer who finished third in the 2014 championship.Ralph looked very much in control at the former grand prix venue, achieving everything he and the team set out to over both days of testing in Portugal. The 17-year-old showed an excellent level of preparation and maturity, despite having not driven since last November’s GP3 post-season tests in Abu Dhabi.Hoping to build upon his strong start, Ralph will now head to JENZER MOTORSPORT’s factory for further work with the team before travelling to the second GP3 pre-season test at Valencia in Spain on April 9/10. Ralph Boschung: “Everything went really smoothly over both days of testing and we ticked all the necessary boxes. And with six hours of track time every day, we had the opportunity to do race simulations as well as qualifying runs.“Honestly, I did not expect to be in the top ten straight away given the extremely high calibre of drivers in the championship entry list. It is of course hugely satisfying to set the fastest time and I think our performance acted as motivation for the entire team.“However, I am well aware that this is only testing, which is often not representative of realistic lap times, particularly in a championship as competitive as GP3. That said, our consistent progress throughout the test made it all the more rewarding. It’s now up to us to keep working hard and continue in the right direction. “On a more personal level, last year was a bit of a wake-up call and has definitely helped me to stay grounded. I really want to give it my best shot and see how we get on, without setting too many specific targets.“As ever, I’d like to extend my gratitude to my main backer B63, as well as Avanthay&Partners and future sponsors. Last but not least, thank you to all the ‘Club 50’ members for their renewed loyalty and ongoing support.”Andreas Jenzer, Team Principal: “Everything went according to plan in our Estoril test, both for the team and for Ralph. He listens carefully to the engineers and other team members, following their instructions and advice. So far Ralph has done a fantastic job and we are very happy with the results from testing.”