The 4 hour long round 3 of the 2008 Super Taikyu series was held at Fuji Speedway.
The qualifying round was held on 14th June in hot summer like conditions. The #39 TEIN user in ST3 class set the top time in the A driver's session just like in the previous round. In the B driver's session, they were able to grab 2nd position, putting them in top position in their class and in a great position to win the race.
The weather for race day on the 15th June was unlike yesterdays qualifying round. Cloud filled the sky and as the temperatures dropped the surface temperature differed by as much as 20 degrees from the previous day. All teams adjusted their strategy to suit the changing conditions as the 4hour race started.
Right from the start, the race order changed in ST3 class. The #39 car starting from the top position in its class dropped down the order, but in the later half Iiri, who has been performing well, took over and started his attack up the order. The #113 car was driving under a 2 pit strategy and didn't stop for a tire change, allowing him to be the top car in its class. At the 2 hour mark, the safety car had to come out due to problems with some cars. Because of this, the #113 car's lead they had built up disappeared into thin air. The #39 car also lost out to the safety car coming out and dropped down the order. Within all the trouble, the #15 car picked up its pace and at the 3 hour mark, it was within grasps of a podium finish. As the 4 hour race came to a finish, the #15 came home on the podium in 3rd place.
TEIN users will aim to comeback strongly in the next round, the 24 hour race in Tokachi. |
