|
Carlin lauds 'stunning' rookie trio |
Trevor Carlin has hailed the performance of his three Macau rookies after Sam Bird, Niall Breen and Brendon Hartley all brought their cars home to the chequered flag ahead of the all-important final.
Although the trio, racing around the streets of the principality for the first time, struggled in qualifying to start well outside the top ten, they made the most of the typical incidents ahead to forge forward.
While their lack of experience was expected to catch at least one of the trio out, Bird, Breen and Hartley drove around the carnage to come away with fifth, tenth and twelfth by the chequered flag. The result places them in much better positions for the more lucrative Macau Grand Prix Final.
Bird proved a particular star, finishing an excellent fifth having started down in 15th position, to emerge as the best rookie finishers. In fact, Bird, Breen and Hartley were the top three rookie finishers, much to Carlin's delight.
“This was a stunning race from all three rookies,” Carlin said. “Not only did they stay out of the wall, but they were on the pace too. Sam was putting in some great laps and I think could have challenged for fourth, but he played it safe to keep the car in good shape for the main race tomorrow and did great a great job to be the first rookie home.
“With a little bit of luck he could be looking at a podium tomorrow, but of course with this being Macau, anything could happen.
“Niall was also impressive to make up so many places at the start and stay out of trouble. I think Brendon was quicker that his 12th place suggests, he could have made up a few more places had the race continued and was held up by a few accidents ahead of him. Once again the entire team have done a great job and we're in good shape for the main event tomorrow.”
