Having signed a deal to contest the All-Japan F3 Series with reigning champions TOM’s in 2007, Oliver Jarvis is confident that his decision can keep him on the road to
Formula One.
The Far East has already been kind to the 23-year old, as he scored Team Great Britain’s first A1GP podium of the season in China last November, and Jarvis heads back to the Orient hoping to emulate the success of other European drivers, who have gone on to make it big in Japan, not least A1GP team-mate Darren Manning, who dominated the All-Japan F3 Series with TOM's back in 1999.
Q:
What prompted your move to the All-Japan F3 Series?
Oliver Jarvis:
I was actually contacted by TOM’S themselves just before I entered the Macau Grand Prix last November. It was quite fortunate as they were also competing there, so I was able to check them out for myself and see what a professional outfit they are! I have to admit competing in Japan wasn’t on my radar but, following their approach, I started thinking about it more and more. As many people are aware, budgets are a big factor in motor racing and, put bluntly, TOM’S approached me with a very good deal and it proved too good to turn down!
Q:
Did you have any options open to remain in the UK and go for the British F3 title?
OJ:
Yes, I had plenty of options to remain in the UK but, from a career opportunity, I think going to Japan will benefit me more. The competition in Japan is hugely underestimated, and many people have made their careers out there, some going straight to Formula One!
Q:
You competed with Carlin Motorsport in the UK last season and have signed with another multiple championship winning team for 2007 with the TOM’s Toyota squad. What separates these teams from the opposition, and how much pressure is there to deliver given their respective pedigrees?
OJ:
I think what separates the likes of TOM’s and Carlin from their opposition is the fact that they know how to put everything in place to win. They have an ability to adapt and, as a result, they’ve been able to build a pedigree of success. TOM’s, in particular, has proved itself to be successful in working with British drivers based in Japan. They’ve been able to get the best out of them and, certainly, from my dealings so far, I see no reason why that can’t continue.
