29 Jul 2017 Every second counts in slight rain - FRD LMP3 qualifying
On 29 July 2017, FRD LMP3 series qualifying session begins. Racing at the wide and open Shanghai International Circuit, qualifying is especially important. The qualifying session officially begins at 2pm. The regulations state that the LMP3 qualifying session is divided into two parts, each part is only 10 minutes long. Between the two parts, there is a 10 minutes break for driver changes. The fastest lap time achieved during the two parts session will be the basis for the starting grid.
As qualifying begins, the circuit is already breezy with a slight drizzle. The wet circuit raises a few problems for the drivers. In order to ensure equality for all, every car must be fitted with dry tyres. In the early stages, the race tyres cannot get up to working temperature, so many drivers run conservatively. Eurasia #91 takes to the front while #33 S&D Motorsport car and #7 PTRS car follow closely. Since the track is slippery, entering the corners too quickly will result in a slide on the exit. But this does not affect the drivers from overtaking each other on track, looking for a clear track to set a time.
Finally, #95 Craft Bamboo Racing sets a 2:09.774 to take the provisional pole position. PTRS #7 and #17 set 2:10.748 and 2:11.421 respectively to line up in second and third positions on the grid. In the second session, the drivers begin to increase their pace and their times improve. In the end Craft Bamboo Racing #95 takes pole position with 2:04.106. PTRS #17 takes second position with 2:06.006. FS Sports #1 takes third position with 2:06.035.
Craft Bamboo Racing's team manager said, "Today the rain makes qualifying very difficult, especially as the regulations state that tyre changes are not permitted. Our drivers used dry tyres for the sessions and the team is satisfied with the result. If the race car could switch to intermediate tyres we are confident of better results." For the race, being on pole position is more important than a faster lap time.