Top Ten Finish for Dean in GP3 Race Two
GP3 Round 4, Red Bull Ring -Spielberg, Austria, Sunday 22nd June 2014. Dean Stoneman produced an impressive top ten finish despite starting the second race in Austria from the penultimate row of the grid in 23rd.
Having suffered a frustrating race one, in which he was punted off at the first corner, the Marussia Manor Racing driver was in a determined mood when the lights went out. Starting in an unfamiliar position way down the field, Stoneman tore through the field and as he began lap two he was already up to twelfth place with an extraordinary drive with eleventh clearly in his sights. Stoneman was then one of three cars vying for eighth place and with it one important championship point. But as the 18-lap race drew to a close Stoneman was unable to get close enough to improve his position.
Stoneman was slightly disappointed not to have secured eighth. “ The start was great and I was able to gain a few placed in the first lap, but this took its toll on my tires which began to fade and be less effective as the race drew to a close. Tenth is still pretty good considering where I started, although I really thought I could get even higher.” The Southampton driver was also grateful to the Manor Marussia team. “After the collision yesterday my car was destroyed at the front. The team did a great job in getting it ready for today. The car was great and I want to thank them for working so late into the night to get it fixed.”
Following rounds three and four Stoneman stands seventh in the GP3 Championship. Stoneman will now turn his attentions to the next rounds of the GP3 Series, which moves on to his home circuit of Silverstone 5/6 July.
For more information:
Ant Shaw
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