Tony Bates has recovered strongly from a start-line disadvantage in today’s second round of the 2019 Audi Sport R8 LMS Cup at the Adelaide 500, racing back to fourth position.
From third on the grid, the KFC/Moveitnet/Local Roadways/AFS/Bryant & Bryant Audi R8 was checked up by another competitor at the rolling start – the loss of momentum caused Bates to fall to seventh.
Despite the loss of track position and 30kg success ballast due to his Race 1 win, Bates charged through the field, slicing down the inside of his rivals with moves through Turns 6 and 7.
“Losing so many positions at the start was a severe setback; with the main contenders so evenly matched, and the aerodynamic turbulence when you’re following cars closely, I knew it was going to be difficult to pass.”
Combined with his Round 1 win yesterday, Bates ended the weekend second in points.
“While today didn’t quite go according to plan, it’s been a very positive weekend overall,” he said.
“It’s the sixth year in a row I’ve won a race here, and the car was fantastic all weekend.
“I’m looking forward to racing in the opening round of the Australian GT Championship at the Australian Grand Prix in a fortnight, and know we have the package to be an outright contender once again.”
Event Results
Qualifying 1 – 1st
Qualifying 2 – 3rd
Race 1 – 1st
Race 2 – 4th
Audi R8 LMS Cup Points
1. Geoff Emery – 41
2. Tony Bates – 38
3. Yasser Shahin – 33
4. Alex Au – 28
5. Daniel Bilski – 20
