We’re starting the season off right with a first ever pole position and back-to-back race wins at Thunderhill Raceway last weekend in California! Exactly one year on from the maiden podium I feel faster than ever.
I was up to speed early in testing and spent most of the first two days learning the limit of the new tires (Avons this year). On Thursday, most sessions were spent running longer race simulations and learning how hard to push the tires to find a balance between race pace & tire temperature while also dialing in any visual references for consistency. I ran my first ever sub 1:51 with a 1:50.9 and finished the day feeling comfortable with my pace compared to the competition.
If Thursday hadn’t, then Friday set the stage early for a positive weekend as we snagged pole by over a second. I could have gone faster with the fresh tire, but a 1:51.6 was more than we needed, securing 1st on the grid for the weekend races.
The Saturday forecast said afternoon rain, but it didn’t start falling until 15 minutes to grid. We decided to start the race on full wet tires which was definitely the way to go. Driving in the rain was a blast and I was quick. When race one ended I was 28 seconds clear of P2 and had my first ever race win (!) plus the third fastest finish overall in multi-class (including FM, F3, FA). To complete a perfect day, my fastest lap was only 3.4 seconds slower than the overall winner (in an F3 car). Driving in the rain is great.
Sunday afternoon was race 2. Clouds were gone and I felt confident in the car. Another F4 passed me into turn 1 after a slow start, but I took the position back with a move around the outside in turn 6. I pushed from there until we built a comfortable 14s lead, then matched his pace to maintain until the checkered flag.
What a way to start the season. Feeling great about my odds this year. I couldn’t have made it here without some amazing coaching from Jan at Worldspeed and the continued support from my sponsors and donors. Up next is Sonoma and I plan to win us some more. Thank you all for being a part of it with me.
I still have to raise money for the 2nd half of my season and any donation would be greatly appreciated. I’m currently funded for the next 3 races which total 6 additional races in the Championship Series. I also have an additional spot available on my car for sponsorship if you or anyone you know might be interested. Please reach out to me on email or cell phone for details.
Thanks again and I’ll have another update out after my race in Sonoma at the end of April.
-Jack Holmes