I am now back home after the first race in Abu Dhabi last weekend. I have to admit, I am disappointed in the result, though optimistic for the year. Looking at it on the surface, I came 8th, and could not get the aircraft started for the super 8.
If we scratch a little deeper we find the following:
We only had the aircraft flying for a total of 8 days prior to shipping to the first race. In that time, we had an engine failure and engine change, rewired a new electrical system in, and replaced a damaged vertical fin…not an ideal way to head into the first race.
At the race itself, we had very trying atmospheric conditions, fitting all the race equipment in the aircraft for the very first time, and chasing ongoing ‘new aircraft’ problems all week which resulted in 2 battery changes and 3 boost pump changes, and the fuel tank out of the aircraft 3 times.
While these are not meant to be excuses, when you then look at the improved times we did all week, working our way from 7th on Training 1, to the second fastest time on a number of occasions, we actually kept it together pretty well.
I honestly believe that a podium was within easy reach had we kept the plane in the air.
I also look at the Championship in a broader view. I am in this for a long time hopefully, and while it seems devastating for the year, it is not for my career.
My goals this year continue to revolve around safety and improvement, with the results following from this attitude.When I look at my goals and the race, we actually did achieve them.
Once again, below the surface, things are actually on track, with a small dent in the armour specifically for this season’s Championship. I would rather be where I am, than having not been safe or not improved myself
The exciting news is we already have the aircraft in Perth, and Lenny is already working hard on improving it.
Things we are working on: new engine, new electrics, a few aerodynamic mods, and a new data tracking system for track analysis. All this, no jet lag for me, and a home crowd for the first time all points toward a good race for us. I will be arriving in Perth to train a week early, leaving home after just 6 days. I will be running the new engine in, and testing the new equipment for a number of days before the other teams turn up.
If you are in Perth, and specifically around Jandakot airport next week, keep an eye out for the yellow race plane with the Australian flag and the Southern Cross…give me a wave and I promise I will wave back!
Matt.
