Slipstreaming and race-craft will be the key to success in this weekend’s sixth round of the Australian Formula Ford Championship at Phillip Island, according to Lachlan Mineeff.
Like several other circuits on this year’s calendar, Phillip Island will be a new venue for the 15-year-old Southern Highlands racer, who has been studying footage and accumulating seat time on a simulator in preparation for the weekend.
“I’ve enjoyed racing at some new tracks this season – Queensland Raceway, Sandown and Tailem Bend – and I’m really looking forward to Phillip Island,” Mineeff said.
“From everything I’ve been told by other drivers, and all the simulator work I’ve done and footage I’ve studied, it’s definitely a driver’s track.
“There are lots of high-speed corners, which require commitment and bravery.
“Because it is such a fast track, there’s a real advantage to be gained by slipstreaming – getting a tow from the car in front.
“In qualifying, it’s important to be running with other cars to get a tow and a good lap time, and in the races I’m expecting all the cars to be running in packs, with lots of changes in position.
“It’s almost a case of not wanting to be in the lead coming out of the last corner, because the cars behind will slipstream their way past you before the start-finish line – we’ve seen this happening at plenty of Phillip Island Formula Ford races over the years.”
Mineeff is currently sixth in the national Formula Ford standings, following his consistent performances in the opening five rounds.
“Our goal this year, for our first full year racing at a national level, was top 10 in the championship, so we’re achieving that objective,” Mineeff said.
“It’s definitely a competitive field, but we’ve been constantly learning and improving… hopefully we can fight for podium results this weekend.”
The weekend’s action will consist of qualifying and one race on Saturday, followed by two more races on Sunday.
Lachlan Mineeff is proudly sponsored by:
Southern Star Truck Centre
UsedTrucks.Sydney
Acceleration Helmet Parts
Race Stars Simulators + Slot Cars Bowral
Zego Building Systems
Midcoast Trucks
Lous Smash Repairs
Pitman Truck Sales
Global Equipment Finance
Bowdens Own
Thermo King Rail
National Truck Wholesalers
