Bakk Chat: Excitement building.

Thursday, 12th April 2007

It was a jump I wasn’t really expecting and I underestimated it. There is a massive leap in power - these cars are seriously quick – but there is also plenty of aerodynamic grip, the car’s a lot heavier and they have carbon brakes, all of which you need to get used to.

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The Bahrain circuit won’t be entirely new to me as I managed to get out in a Formula BMW car down there. The circuit has a BMW school down there, and that gave me a chance to learn the circuit. I did around 60 laps to see where the corners go and that will help hugely when free practice comes around, as we only have half an hour before going into qualifying.

It means I can push straight away and I think that is going to make a big difference at the first round especially. Of course, we go over F1 footage from the past, so you can get an idea of where you want to put the car on the track, but it isn’t the same until you do it for real.

I am really looking forward to kicking off the season at Bahrain International Circuit, as it is an awesome place to go to. The circuit it fun too and, although we only drove a Formula BMW car there, it was clear that there were plenty of nice challenging corners. I thought the sand may be a problem, but the grip level was fine and it goes without saying that the facilities are second to none. I expect it to be very hot - I have been told it could be about 30 degrees - so I know I am going to have to be as fit as possible, take on plenty of fluids and really be on top of my game.

I am keeping my expectations modest though. I know the first few races are going to be really tough because they are longer than I am used to, but if I can get into the top ten then I will be really pleased – and if we can score points then I will be delighted. Bit, like I said, I know how tough it is going to be – there are some seriously quick guys out there - so we will just take it as it comes.

So am I excited..? You could say so...

Christian