WHETS THE APPETITE
Confirmed and potential drivers for the inaugural 2008 Aston Martin Asia Cup (AMAC) recently had their first taste of the Championship’s N24 cars at an official test held at Beijing’s Goldenport Circuit. The day proved to whet the appetite further for the new series, supported by Aston Martin, which holds its first race at Shanghai on 23-25 May.
Dusty and cool conditions couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm as the drivers enjoyed their first taste of the newly delivered Aston Martin N24s. Beijing’s twisty circuit is demanding on both car and driver and proved to be the perfect setting to showcase the N24’s superb handling and enviable reliability.
The lap times tumbled with the honour of the day’s fastest lap going to Singaporean racer Mel Choo who put in an impressive 1m11.606s. Mel also put in the most laps, completing 97 trouble free laps of the 2.3km track.
AMAC’s dedicated team and Aston Martin engineers were on hand to offer invaluable advice and knowledge, demonstrating the organiser’s commitment to ensuring this professionally run Championship delivers a first class racing experience. Indeed, 2 new drivers were so impressed they signed up on the spot with several more finalising their budgets in anticipation.
Race drivers weren’t the only ones to enjoy the pulling power of the N24s. Champion racing driver, Tim Sugden was on hand to give media, guests and regional Aston Martin dealers flying laps to experience first hand the excitement of the N24s at full throttle. Having enjoyed a glamorous James Bond ‘Casino Royale’ theme party the night before, the fast laps more than demonstrated the Aston Martin Asia Cup’s license to thrill!
Double O-Seven impressions aside, Tim was full of praise for the N24s and the potential of the new Championship.
“The car handles beautifully, and is in essence very easy to drive” Tim reported back. “It has both the straight-line pace and corner handling to ensure it will be a pleasure to drive at the many varied tracks AMAC visits. This will offer many an aspiring, as well as established, drivers the opportunity to have a superb race experience in a very reliable car.”
Series Director Ian Geekie was thrilled at the response of drivers and guests on the test day. “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day and it certainly heightened the growing excitement for the series. We look forward to welcoming further drivers, from Asia and further afield, for what we feel will be a very challenging, close and exciting Championship.”
Aston Martin Asia Cup Series Partner is one of the most recognised names in international motorsport, Michelin. All drivers will have the advantage of racing on cutting-edge tyres supplied by series partner Michelin. The consistent performance and leading technology of Michelin tyres constantly improve the performance of many teams in international motorsport, and the Aston Martin Asia Cup will benefit greatly from the company’s vast expertise and impressive motorsport pedigree.
The series also welcomes other valuable partners. Dura, creators of exceptional modular cabinets and accessories for professional workshops and residential garages. Powerbuilt professional hand tools, Racing Logistics International and Auto Media China. The partnership with these leading companies reflects the professional and innovative approach of the Aston Martin brand.
