GWR Australia’s three Radical Australia Cup challengers Peter Paddon, Chris Perini and Kosta Pohorukov are ready for some friendly on-track battles when the series heads to Sydney Motorsport Park for Round 2 this weekend.
All three drivers showed glimpses of potential in the season-opener at Bathurst, but were struck by misfortune.
Perini qualified on pole and finished second in Race 1 before retiring with a mechanical problem in Race 2. Conversely, Paddon’s chances in the opening race were dashed with a blown engine, but he bounced back to win Race 2 in fine style.
Pohorukov was ruled out of the weekend’s proceedings after an unfortunate practice crash, but will return this weekend in a new Radical SR3 RSX. Perini is also in an RSX while Paddon is in the older-model RS.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how the older-model 2012 car goes, and if I can challenge for a championship in it,” Paddon said.
“Chris and I were close at Bathurst and I expect the same throughout the rest of the year – he’s fast, but he keeps it clean, so I think it will be a good battle within the GWR team.
“I’m really enjoying racing with the GWR team, having access to data and a dedicated crew working on my car makes it a very comfortable environment,” Perini added.
“The championship is the goal this year – we had a slight setback at Bathurst but one thing I learned last year was not to let setbacks affect me. I’m determined to bounce back and challenge for the title.”
Pohorukov is keen to be back behind the wheel.
“At Bathurst, it was a slight mistake that had big consequences – unfortunately the rear wheel was pushed back into the chassis, and caused a lot of damage,” Pohorukov said.
“The new car looks sensational though, and I’m looking forward to getting back on track and doing some laps.”
Once again, the race format will consist of a pair of 45-minute races.
