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Monday, 24th March 2008

Manor man on top in Portugal.

Sam Bird recorded the fastest time over a two-day F3 Euroseries test at Estoril in Portugal despite the fact it was the Briton's first outing at the circuit.

Having made the switch from the British F3 series, Bird endured a steep learning curve during the test, working with a new car, on new tracks and getting used to his new Manor Motorsport team.

“I knew it would be tough but I'm not concerned with times too much today,” Bird said after day one. “I am learning the car and the different tyres and trying to get the best set up with my engineer.”

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On the second day of testing, Bird had got to grips with the car, putting in a best time of 1min 32.035secs, beating season favourite Nico Hulkenberg into second place.

“Obviously it's just testing and we're all trying out different settings, brakes, using both new and old tyres,” he said, “but I'm naturally thrilled to have come out on top over the two days.

“It certainly gives me a great deal of confidence going into the new season, and I'm looking forward to racing again after the long winter break.”

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