Jack Le Brocq is making his mark in top-level car racing – and one of the reasons is that former champion V8 driver Mark Skaife, middle, is in his corner as marketing manager. Trent Harrison, left, is a team-mate of Le Brocq’s.
By Gavin Staindl
JACK LE BROCQ has begun his racing year in style, recording his first podium finish during round two of the Australian Formula Ford Championship at Winton Raceway.
Le Brocq, 18, backed up his Cams rising star scholarship from last year’s debut season with a third placing at Winton to move into the championship’s top 10 racers for 2011.
But the celebrated result did not come easily for the Upper Beaconsfield resident, who had to battle car problems and slippery conditions.
Le Brocq’s vehicle, the number 49 Mygale, struggled with balance during Friday’s practise sessions, but an overnight change meant the ex-Berwick Secondary School student was able to qualify in sixth position the following day.
Finishing seventh in race one, Le Brocq’s standing for the weekend significantly increased when he claimed third spot in race two.
A crash between two cars in front of Le Brocq moved the young driver into third, and some quick closing laps meant Le Brocq took full advantage of his fortuitous situation.
Le Brocq finished fourth in the final race, which was enough to give him an overall third placing for the weekend.
“I was rapt,” Le Brocq said.
“I was lucky in a way with the guys in front of me coming together (in race two)… but to finally be able to get a podium finish is great.
“It’s definitely one of the best things that could have happened for the team.
“We can now head to Eastern Creek (NSW) and really take it to the other drivers.”
Round three of the championships will be held at Eastern Creek between 15 and 17 July.
