by Russell Atkins
As he gets set to embark on his maiden campaign in the British F3 International Series at
Oulton Park next weekend, Formula Renault graduate Sam Bird is making it clear that two years without a title have left him very hungry for success.
The 20-year-old has registered ten victories over the past two years – on his way to the runner-up spot in Formula
BMW UK and fourth place in his rookie season in Formula Renault respectively – but only bad luck prevented a championship challenge in both. Although 2007 will mark his F3 baptism, he is determined to make it third time lucky…
Q:
Sam, first of all how excited are you about your forthcoming season in British F3?
Sam Bird:
I’m very excited. We are coming into F3 off the back of quite a successful campaign in Formula Renault. Hopefully I can have a good F3 campaign now too.
Q:
How much of a step-up is F3 from Formula Renault?
SB:
It is a step-up, both in terms of the competition and the car. It’s going to be interesting to see how the first race goes.
Q:
You are with one of the top teams in the category in Carlin Motorsport. How have you settled in there?
SB:
Very well. I’ve been with Carlin before. I know all the guys here and they are absolutely fantastic. Hopefully we can work very well with them this year.
Q:
How has testing gone so far?
SB:
Testing has been very promising. We have been reasonably fast wherever we have gone, and hopefully we can continue that form at Oulton Park on Easter Monday.
Q:
2007 will be your maiden season in F3. You have already proven that doesn’t really matter with your performance in Formula Renault last year. How confident do you feel as you head into it?
