Jason Plato ready for podium fight

Jason Plato says he feels confident that Power Maxed Racing can fight for podium finishes on race day after qualifying sixth on the grid at Thruxton.

Plato set a best time just over four tenths of a second off the pace of pole sitter Sam Tordoff in a hectic qualifying session that came down to a five minute fight for pole after a late red flag that saw the clock reset when there had been just 90 seconds left to run.

Although one of the drivers who was unable to improve over the course of those five minutes, strong pace from his Vauxhall Astra left Plato well placed going into the latest three races of the year, with the former champion hopeful of being in the mix come race day.

“I’m pleased with the progress we’re making,” he said. “We keep getting closer to the sweet spot and where I want the car to be and we are going down a development route that is different to what I’m used to. It’s taking a little bit of time but it’s working, and each time we run the car we are getting closer with it.

“I didn’t quite the last little bit out of my best lap which I think would have been a 15.7, but I hit some traffic with the BMWs who were trying to get themselves sorted for a lap, and it that screwed up my lap.

“That happens and I think we’re still a few tenths off at the moment whilst the car is still not performing quite as I’d like. However, in the main, it’s pretty good and whilst I think the BMWs will be gone tomorrow as we know the performance they have both in a straight line and over a single lap, there are podiums to fight for for sure.”