Whatshot
Ford Racing
Ford Racing
SMD Racing team's set-up strategy proved to be successful with Gary Formato slicing his way through the field to finish second in the first race. Shaun Duminy also did well, working his way up to sixth. Both cars ran flawlessly, although the gearbox on Shaun's ST had to be replaced on Friday night. It has been the first time since the car was built almost two years ago that the gearbox had to be repaired, showing just how strong this completely stock standard component is.
Although the second race started from a completely reversed grid, both Gary and Shaun were able to work their way to the front of the field. The two drivers embarked on some formation flying as they thrilled the Killarney crowd to a second and third place finish.
Based on the fastest lap time from race one, Gary took pole position for the third and final race. He led a packed of Audis who hounded him into making a mistake. He missed a gear, losing momentum and dropping him down to fifth. Shaun, being the best wingman a driver could ever wish for, had Gary's back and defended the position from sixth place. The duo again crossed the line in formation.
As if running two cars at the front of a very competitive field wasn't enough, SMD Racing ran the older spec 2.5 litre Focus ST in Class X for Jordan Sherratt. It isn't often that a main circuit novice and get in to a new car at a new track and be on the pace. Jordan defied the odds however and had a great weekend, finishing two of the three races on the podium.Not bad for a first time out.
SMD Racing came home with a fair amount of silverware. In Class A, Gary finished second overall, Shaun fifth and Jordan third in Class X.