Giovanardi stays on top at Brands Hatch

Rob Collard topped the afternoon session at Brands Hatch. But the Airwaves BMW-driver was unable to beat Fabrizio Giovanardi’s time from the first part of the test day.
“I’m happy with my car but it’s very close now and I think it will be even closer when we return here next week for round one,” said Giovanardi to BTCC.net.

It was a strong day for both the Vauxhall team and Airwaves BMW. Johnathan Adam’s time from the first part of the test was second fastest overall and team mate Collard’s time was third fastest overall.

“I’m very satisfied with how today’s gone. We had a busy schedule and we got through everything we needed to. Nor are we playing games – our times are true and I’m confident we can replicate that speed when we come back here in ten days’ time,” said Collard.

Airwaves BMW team boos David Bartrum was very pleased with the day.

“Today’s results in testing were very positive. As it’s our local track we are always confident of running well here and we know it also favours the strengths of the BMW 320si. However, both Jonny and Rob really kicked it up a gear and showed that they will be serious contenders for race honours when the real action starts,” said Bartrum.

Matt Neal was fourth fastest overall, being only 0.023 seconds from getting under the magical 49.00 times at Brands Hatch.

Gordon Shedden claimed fifth fastest time in the Team Dynamics prepared Honda Civic ahead of Team RAC man Stephen Jelley.

Andrew Jordan was seventh fastest ahead of Colin Turkington. The BMW-man spent most of the test running long distances, opting the race setup.

Harry Vaulkhard improved his best time of the day to end up ninth overall after his visit in the graveltrap earlier today. David Pinkney rounded off top ten with a time of 49.592.

The all new Ford Focus of Tom Chilton was 12th fastest. His best time of the day was just over a second slower compared to Giovanardi’s best time.