Stokes Skis Australia Porsche racer Jason Miller has kicked off his CUE Production Sports Endurance Series title defence with Class A victory at Sydney Motorsport Park today, after what he has described as one of the most physically demanding races of his career.
Starting seventh on the grid, Miller launched his Porsche into the top five with a strong start, before spending the first stint on the tail of Richard Gartner’s Lamborghini.
Miller was finally able to unleash his Porsche when Gartner came in for his compulsory pit stop, taking advantage of clear track to set a string of fast laps.
Miller’s team elected to leave his pit stop until the end of the pit window; the strategy worked, with Miller jumping ahead of Gartner’s Lamborghini.
Some determined defensive driving enabled Miller to hold off some faster cars in the closing laps, and he was able to secure the class win and fifth position outright.
“That was one of the toughest races I’ve ever done, but it was also one of the most rewarding,” Miller said.
“Because I was sitting behind Richard for quite a few laps, my tyres were getting hot and there was also the aero turbulence from the Lamborghini, so it was hard work behind the wheel.
“My crew gave me a great strategy, and we were able to jump ahead of the Lambo by staying on track for a few extra laps.
“At the end, my tyres were starting to lose their edge, and I had to drive defensively to hold off Geoff Morgan and Geoff Taunton at the end, but I was able to keep them at bay.
“I’m stoked to come away with the class win – it’s a great way to start my title defence – but I certainly had to work for it today.”
The second one-hour CUE Series race will be held tomorrow afternoon.
