24/02/08 -Top 10 finish only just out of reach for D’Alberto in Race 2

Tony D’Alberto was on target for a finish within the top ten in Race 2 at Clipsal on Sunday when a mechanical failure knocked the wind from his sails in reach of the finish line. The mechanical failure occurred on lap 69 of the 78 lap race, bringing an end to a race where D’Alberto proved he had the pace to seriously ruffle feathers in this year’s V8 Supercar season.

D’Alberto got away to a steady start to Race 2, dropping back slightly in the scramble of the opening lap to steer clear of an early tangle. By lap 5 he’d bounced back up the order, keeping a cool head while the race became more aggressive.

The team pitted early in the pit window on lap 27, returning to the track with a long view to the front of the pack. D’Alberto kept on the pace, waiting for the tension to boil over and provide prime passing opportunities. Clipsal delivered, with no less than 7 safety car periods bunching cars and bringing drivers too close for comfort.

By mid-race D’Alberto was ready to make a charge, swiftly cutting through the field to claim 11th by lap 66. D’Alberto’s earlier work in keeping a level head had preserved the car and his pace looked set to carry him forward into the top ten when an issue with the front tyre emerged. An unidentified object rubbed the inside of the rim, splitting the rim open and sending the tyre off. The team brought the car in and fitted a replacement wheel, but the same issue resurfaced once the car was returned to the track, forcing the decision to call D’Alberto back to the garage.

It was an unfortunate end to the race, but an extremely positive demonstration that D’Alberto’s potential is likely to deliver early results this season. The team are thrilled with D’Alberto’s display of skill on debut with attention now fixed on Round 2 at Eastern Creek.

Copyright © Rod Nash Racing 2008

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