16/03/08 - D’Alberto enters top 15 in Race 3

The hard work of the RNR crew paid dividends this afternoon after driver Tony D’Alberto drove the car to a finish in 15th. It wasn’t easy sailing for the team who were faced with soaring temperatures and weakening rear tyres, but D’Alberto kept the car on course.

D’Alberto started back in 19th having clawed his way through the rear of the field yesterday. The racing was no less fierce despite the heat and damage inflicted in earlier races, resulting in a further incident where the safety car was called out for one lap. D’Alberto took a patient approach, awaiting clear passing opportunities before attempting a move to ensure the car wasn’t exposed to damage.

The race was shortened to 16 laps and by the close of the race D’Alberto was comfortably settled inside the top 15. The team were thrilled with the result, especially given it was their first outing at the Grand Prix.

“It was our best result for the weekend and good to find we still had strength in the last race.” D’Alberto said, “We worked overnight to find improvement in some areas of the car and we came up with a pretty good result.”

The V8 Supercar Championship series continues at a brand new event in Hamilton, New Zealand in four weeks time. D’Alberto is keen to get behind the wheel and come to grips with the street circuit.

“I think it’s going to be interesting to see where everyone is in the field at Hamilton.” D’Alberto said, “If we can do a good job early in the weekend and get on top of the track quicker than others then we will get a good result. I’m looking forward to the fresh challenge.”

Copyright © Rod Nash Racing 2008

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