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Preston targets S5000 debut following first test
KARTING STAR Jac Preston has targeted an S5000 Australian Drivers’ Championship debut this season following his first test at Phillip Island last week.
The 18-year-old from Queensland was one of several young drivers to test a Garry Rogers Motorsport-prepared Rogers AFO1/V8 S5000 entry at the Victorian circuit.
Though his racing background is limited to a stint in Formula Ford last year, driving for the famous Sonic Motor Racing squad, Preston quickly adapted to the 560hp wings and slicks racer at Australia’s fastest circuit.
“The goal is to do open wheelers and get to IndyCar racing,” Preston said.
“I raced Formula Ford last year but didn’t get to do much because of Covid. We thought this year that S5000 would be the way to go; they’re the fastest things you can get in to!
“We were put on to GRM to do the test and it was a great experience.”
Preston said his first experience of S5000 horsepower was an eye-opening one.
“It was a bit overwhelming! I hadn’t been in a car with a Halo, or in a monocoque like that so it was very different,” he said.
“When you put down the power it’s crazy! It’s a kick up the backside and you feel the thing ready to go.
“Formula Ford helped me get up to speed and if I hadn’t have had that experience already, I wouldn’t have done as well as I did.
As well as logging his first laps in Australia’s quickest racing cars, Preston was able to rely on some friendly faces for advice as he got up to speed.
“I was pretty happy with the day overall,” he said.
“The team was welcoming and straight on it, and it was great to have both Jimmy (Golding) and Nathan (Herne) there as well. I have raced both of them in karts for a long time so it was good to get a few tips from them.
“It was all about learning, coming to grips with the car. We chipped away and got closer and closer to the pace by the time the day ended. I’d love to do more driving.
“The plan is to race this year. If we can get it all together and get a plan happening, we’ll be there for the first race.”
Race Tasmania will launch the 2022 Australian motorsport season featuring Supercheap Auto TCR Australia, S5000 Australian Drivers’ Championship and the Turtle Wax Trans Am Series.
Make sure you get your tickets through Moshtix.