Jonathan Legris made a major impression on the British F3 paddock at
Brands Hatch over the weekend with a scintillating performance that landed a debut podium in his first run with the Litespeed entry.
Driving the unique SLC-based car for the first time in Friday practice, the F
BMW graduate - who has been starring in the Spanish F3 series this year - impressed mightily with a very competitive fourth place on the National Class grid for race one, although a disappointing second session saw him languishing at the tail of the field.
A large number of guests added extra pressure for raceday, but Legrid responded mightily by making a great start and immediately gaining several places to run second in class and begin challenging leader Jay Bridger. Although he also had to be wary of rivals running close behind, Legris joined Bridger in easing away, and was closing on top spot when an accident caused the race to be curtailed after several laps behind the safety car.
"We always knew that we had the technical capability to produce outstanding results, but Friday's testing at Brands threw a curve ball to us," technical director Steve Kenchington said, "We made a couple of definitive set-up alterations to the car to suit the undulating bends of Brands Hatch - Jonathan is a remarkable driver with such a natural affinity to our R1, and his feedback was imperative to making the adjustments prior to qualifying. Together, we have made some significant changes to the car's ability this weekend and the results are there for all to see."
Although Legris again drove a great first lap to make up places in race two, it was always going to be hard to gain a second podium finish on a track where it is almost impossible to overtake. However, despite the dual handicap, he eventually made his way into a very creditable fifth in class, although those in front were long gone by that stage.
