There were positive signs for Jaxon Evans following a tough Melbourne SuperSprint supporting the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park.
The New Zealander’s pace was strong in opening practice, where the 2018 Porsche Carrera Cup champion placed the SCT Motorsport Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in fifth, but from then on, the weekend proved a challenge as he and his Brad Jones Racing team-mates struggled for qualifying pace.
Race 3 of the season capped off a busy Thursday where contact from another competitor tipped Evans into a spin at the final corner, causing damage to the rear. Evans continued and was able to score important points, while also continuing to gain mileage in these Gen3 Supercars.
Evans finished 18th in the second race of the weekend. Despite a shortened and safety car-interrupted third event, Evans progressed from 22nd to 18th and did the same in the finale to again bank points.
“It was a very tough weekend,” said Evans.
“I started well with a top five result in the opening practice, but unfortunately we were not able to carry that momentum throughout the remainder of the weekend.
“It was awesome to be back at the Australian Grand Prix and part of the F1 event. It was my first time on the soft tyre for me and a new race format – with the short back-to-back qualifying and sprint races.
“We continue to learn and build each time we roll out on track. Collectively as a team, we struggled to find a setup window that gave us a weapon to fight with across the four races.
“We’ve got plenty of data to work through and try to get out of the hole we currently find ourselves in. I have full faith that it will come sooner rather than later.
“It’s only Round 2; there’s a long road ahead – we will keep hustling as best we can.”
The New Zealander’s perfect finishing record sees him continue to lead the rookie driver’s standings in the Repco Supercars Championship.
The next round of Supercars will be its first visit to Taupo International Motorsport Park on April 19-21.
Words and images: Supplied
