Cebu Pacific Air by KCMG extended their advantage in Formula Masters China Series after James Munro and Dan Wells each scored race wins during the Asian series’ fifth event at Zhuhai International Circuit. Despite the highs and lows that the team endured throughout the weekend, the Hong Kong-based team’s pursuit for the Formula Masters crown remained steadfast.
Wells was in top form during the free practice runs and completed three out of four sessions in first place. Meanwhile, Munro struggled for pace in the first three sessions due to a mechanical issue that was identified and resolved by the team prior the final practice. Qualifying for Races 13 and 15 saw Cebu Pacific Air by KCMG deliver varied results, with Munro securing fourth and third and Wells in seventh and fifth positions, respectively.
Starting from the second row of the grid, Munro managed to move two places up the field and finished Race 13 in second position. However, Meritus GP’s James Parsons received a penalty for jumping the start, which promoted Munro to first place. Wells suffered a different fate after contact from behind on Lap 1 forced him to retire early in the race.
Saturday’s races were tough for the 17-year-old Christchurch driver. Munro retired after championship contender Matt Solomon came into contact on the final lap of Race 14. A collision with Solomon again occurred during the afternoon race. This time, Munro was able to recover but lost another opportunity to score points and had to settle for a P13-finish.
Wells wrapped up the day with strong results. Race 14 witnessed the British driver start from the back of the grid and impressively finished in fifth place. He went on to clinch another podium after concluding Race 15 in third position.
The rescheduled Race 3 was held the following day, with both Cebu Pacific Air by KCMG drivers starting from the front row of the grid. Unfortunately, a slip by Munro at Turn 4 of the first lap cost him the lead. Another mistake on Lap 2 dropped him down the order and finished the race in seventh place. After taking the lead from his teammate, Wells was then engaged in an intense battle with Solomon for first place. Wells defended his position until he crossed the finish line and grabbed his maiden Formula Masters victory in thrilling fashion.
James Munro: “It was a tough weekend. We initially struggled with braking issues but managed to bounce back by winning Race 13. Unfortunately, it went downhill form there. Being taken out of both races on Saturday before struggling for pace on Sunday. I’m not really sure what happened in the last race, but we just seemed to have no speed. We should bounce back though in Shanghai.”
Dan Wells: “This weekend has been a roller coaster of emotions. To be crashed out in the opening race was disappointing, but we kept progressing, kept our heads down and worked hard to improve. Taking 5th from the back of the grid, then moving up again to 3rd and subsequently taking a victory is a great way to round out the weekend. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Carbroso, the HK Classic Car and Vintage Festival and a few other people behind the scenes this weekend for their support – most especially my family who have helped me achieve this win. It means a lot for sure.”
John O’Hara, KCMG Deputy Managing Director: “The weekend was one of the most trying outings that we’ve had this season. The share of wins and struggles over the weekend has directed the team in areas that need to be improved before the final event in Shanghai. With three races remaining, our goal is to finish on top next month. It will be a tight battle, but I’m confident that the team will persevere to finish the season with the championship crown.”
James Munro still leads the Drivers Classification by 6 points, while Cebu Pacific Air by KCMG has a 52-point advantage in the Team standings. To find out more about Formula Masters China Series, visit http://www.formulamasterschina.com/
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 and Instagram.
©Thomas Lam
