Okayama, Japan – KC Motorgroup Ltd. (KCMG) secured impressive points-scoring finishes with Kamui Kobasyahi in Super Formula’s two-race event last May 27-28 at Okayama International Circuit. A solid performance by the Japanese ace throughout the weekend resulted in a Top 4 (Race 1) and 5 (Race 2) finish whilst setting the fastest lap in the #18 Toyota-powered KCMG Elyse SF14 during Sunday’s 51-lap challenge.
Kobayashi launched Race 1 from 7th position on the grid and off to a superb start. He moved up the field to 4th place on the opening lap and ran a strong 30-lap sprint race on dry conditions. The Japanese driver held onto this position until the chequered flag and posted the third fastest lap of the session.
Kobayashi and the Hong Kong-based squad returned the following day for the Japanese series’ second race on Okayama’s 3.703km track. From 6th position on the grid, the blue and white #18 Dallara got off to a rough start and slipped to 7th place at the first corner of the first lap. Kobayashi went on to recover two places and ultimately concluded the race in the top 5, while setting the session’s fastest lap.
Kamui Kobayashi: “The first race this weekend was a sprint challenge so there were no pitstops after the start. I focused on getting off a good start and just kept pushing. Luckily, I jumped up to 4th place during the opening lap despite difficulty to overtake at Okayama Circuit. Another main factor was to manage the tyres throughout the session and to hold onto my position until the end of the race.”
“I had to start the second race in 6th position, which is not so bad. However, we moved one place down the field after the first lap, which meant I had to push hard to recover my position. 5th place was not the result that I was aiming for but I’m happy that I was able to secure championship points in both races and the best result so far for the team.”
“The car and team have improved significantly since our last outing in Suzuka and the potential to finish on the podium is edging closer. We will work harder to achieve this! Overall, this event was a big step forward for us – we proved a lot and gained sufficient data to learn and improve more for the upcoming races. Once again, thank you for all our fans and followers’ support and see you all in the next race at Fuji Speedway!”
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.
Image Copyright: Super Formula
