The KFC/Moveitnet/C-Tech Laser/B&B/Local Roadways Audi R8 of Tony Bates and Daniel Gaunt will start fourth on the grid for tomorrow’s Phillip Island 101 GT race after a strong performance from both drivers in today’s qualifying sessions.
Bates was sixth-fastest in his session, recording his personal-best time at Phillip Island; he was very pleased with both the car and his own performance.
“I was only a couple of tenths behind a few of the Pro drivers, so I was stoked with the result,” Bates said.
“I know where there’s more time to be found as well, which is very positive for the big race tomorrow because it gives the Melbourne Performance Centre team a good direction for fine-tuning the car.”
Gaunt was third-fastest in his session, the combined times from both drivers securing a second-row start for the team.
“Daniel did a terrific job, and overall we’re in very good shape,” Bates said.
“In the last enduro round at Tailem Bend, we started ninth, had to battle traffic in the opening stint and still fought our way through to fourth; this weekend, we’ll be starting a lot closer to the pointy end.
“We know it’s a long race with lots of variables, so we’re not getting too carried away, but today has been very encouraging,” Bates concluded.
The GT field will complete a warm-up session at 10:05 tomorrow morning, with the 101-lap race to start at 1:05pm. All the action will be live streamed via the Australian GT website.
