A productive test day at Winton Motor Raceway, in the lead up to round three of the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia season, has further solidified the natural speed within Ashley Seward Motorsport’s new Lynk & Co 03 TCR.
Tom Oliphant took quickly to the latest in his season of new track experiences, as the Winton circuit plays similarly to the style of British race tracks the two-time BTCC race winner is accustomed to.
“We had a superb day at Winton, the test went very well,” said Oliphant.
“As with any new car, we’re learning new things in every session and we were able to make great improvements throughout the day. I’ve become comfortable with the track, it’s extremely stop-start in nature, even compared to what I’ve driven in the U.K. but it certainly shares a similar style to what I’ve spent many years driving.”
In the first outing for Lynk & Co in Australia, Oliphant and ASM steered the #115 to three top 10 finishes after an impressive qualifying session saw the Autoglym entry earn sixth position on the grid. Combined with a consistent top five weekend at round one aboard the Alfa Romeo, Oliphant sits 10th in the standings with two rounds completed in the 2023 season.
“Our race starts weren’t optimal over the first two races at Phillip Island. We’ve received data and info from Europe that’s going to assist us in making alterations to our start procedure.
“The forecast says there’ll be a threat of rain which doesn’t phase me, I’m British! Wet weather is pretty much a 50/50 chance at every meeting over there, so I’m confident in my abilities to adapt if we get some adverse conditions,” concluded Oliphant. Winton Raceway hosts round three of Supercheap Auto TCR Australia, with qualifying and all three races live on Stan Sport.
Weekend Schedule
Friday
Practice 1 – 11:15am
Practice 2 – 1:55pm
Saturday
Qualifying – 11:50am
Race 1 – 4:10pm
Sunday
Race 2 – 12:30pm
Race 3 – 4:10pm