KCMG has brought its debut season in Formula Pilota China to a promising conclusion as British driver Dan Wells cements 2nd place in the championship, after cruising to 2nd position during the series’ 17th round in Sepang International Circuit over the weekend. The title-deciding finale which underlined the battle for the championship crown between Wells and Team Eurasia’s Antonio Giovanazzi has been the highlight of the series’ final event.
The team arrived in Kuala Lumpur early last week with a resolute aim to secure the championship title as Wells together with Malaysian teammate, Akash Nandy pulled out all the stops to challenge for top positions. With 55 title points up for grabs and a massive challenge to conquer, the team rendered tremendous efforts throughout the weekend.
In typical Malaysian fashion, the ever-changing weather caused the team to constantly adjust set-ups and tire strategy to best suit circuit conditions. During a wet first qualifying session, Wells secured 4th position while Nandy lined up in 8th position for Race 1. Later that afternoon, on a drying circuit, the British and Malaysian drivers qualified in 5th and 6th positions during the second qualifying session.
Race 1 was replete of action and unpredictability, with Wells starting off three places ahead of his Italian rival on the starting grid. Giovanazzi made a blistering start and went on to take the win and championship title as Wells fought hard to defend his position from Indian driver Parth Ghorpade. Meanwhile, Nandy was an early retirement after a collision from 7th position. Wells took 4th position in Race 1 which moved him one step closer to taking the championship’s 2nd overall place this season.
KCMG moved on to Race 2 with their eyes set on challenging for the win with Wells and Nandy respectively starting 4th and 9th positions on a dry circuit. As if to make the competition more challenging, Malaysian skies hinted rain and a mid-race shower caused drivers to tip toe to the finish in treacherous conditions on slick tires. Wells, who was now defending his position in the championship in wet conditions, finished 2nd place – adding another podium to his tally and officially taking the title as Formula Pilota China’s Vice Champion for 2012.
Nandy also had an astounding drive and completed 6 laps in dry/wet conditions. The Malaysian driver started off in 8th position, climbed as high as 3rd but final lap contact dropped him to 6th position in Race 2.
Formula Pilota’s final race during Saturday morning was greeted by fine weather. With the team’s purpose to cap off its debut season in the series with success, the team pushed for strong results in the closing round. Unfortunately, Wells and Nandy struggled and finished 6th and 9th positions during the last race.
Dan Wells has had his share of highs and lows during his full season competing in Formula Pilota China. Despite all the challenges, the British driver believes that his move to Hong Kong and decision to race in an Asian championship has been rewarding. “It’s been an amazing first year all in all,” said Wells. “I’ve learnt so much both on and off track, and have so many people to thank for the opportunity that I have been given, not least KCMG who have done a fantastic job in their first season of the championship. Obviously I would have loved to win, but all things considered I am delighted with the runner-up spot. “
Regardless of his crash in Race 1, Akash Nandy is satisfied with the results that he was able to deliver over the weekend and can only look forward to the upcoming season in 2013. “Though it has not been the results that I initially rooted for, I know I pushed really hard and gave all the races my 100%. I am happy to have been able to compete in Sepang and I’m really eager for the plans ahead with KCMG for next year.”
KCMG Deputy Managing Director John O’Hara deems this season to be a success. Despite not being able to achieve the main objective for this season, he believes that it has generally been a good debut year for KCMG in the series and there is much to look forward to in 2013. “I am thankful to our drivers, staff and supporters who have backed us in our first season in Formula Pilota China. We have had an interesting and progressive season, which would not have been possible without our hardworking team. It’s been a pleasure working with everyone and we’re eager to start on our 2013 campaign!”
For more information about KCMG, visit www.kcmg.com.hk. To keep track of latest updates, please like KCMG’s Facebook page or follow @KCMotorgroup on Twitter.
