GWR Australia have recorded an outright podium along with a Trophy Class victory with Brett Hobson while the RAM Motorsport Mercedes entry also scored an AM class podium in Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS.
Hobson enjoyed a straightforward race, running by himself in third outright for much of the 60 minute affair with only the pit stop window temporarily dislodging him. The victory in Trophy Class was the best Hobson could have hoped for in his title fight with his main Championship rival finishing 2nd in class but eighth outright. The result is a simple equation for tomorrow’s season finale, Hobson must hope for a DNF from the current points leader.
“It’s great to get this result and we’ve managed to close the gap to Brad (Schumacher) but even if we win tomorrow we need him to DNF,” Hobson said.
“I’m not wishing any negative outcomes for him, but that’s the math. The best approach for us is to attack tomorrow and try get another outright result. That will be a good send off for the old girl (Nissan GTR).”
The Mercedes campaigned by Michael Sheargold and Garth Walden experienced a busier race in the pack. Sheargold started the car and was able to hold his own and maintain position, in what was one of his first experiences racing a GT car. The car was handed over to Walden in 10th position outright at the halfway mark. Walden charged forward, climbing to position six overall and was just a few seconds shy of the AM class win when the chequered flag flew.
“I felt comfortable today, I was able to actually race against other cars and I wasn’t just a field filler,” said Sheargold.
“It was good to hold my ground, I made some moves and kept out of trouble. I’m certainly feeling more accustomed to the car each time I get in it. I handed it over to Garth who did a phenomenal job as he always does, no matter the car. I’m stoked to get second in our first outing and we’ll see what we can do tomorrow.”
Race two and the final outing of the year for Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia will take place tomorrow at 8:55am.
