Weiron and Rump romp to podium finish on Chang Circuit

PETALING JAYA: Weiron Tan continued his strong form in the Blancpain GT World Challenge Asia series, picking up another top three finish in the GT35 class at the Chang International Circuit.

Weiron and Audi Sport Asia Team Absolute Racing teammate Martin Rump of Estonia did well to finish third in their Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo in Race 1 in Buriram on Sunday.

The duo completed 37 laps in 1’01:09.425, setting their fastest lap of 1:35.370 on lap 23.

Luck, however, was not on their side in Race 2.

Rump started from sixth on the grid, which would have given them another shot at a podium finish, but was forced to retire after being struck by another car just after the start of the race.

The Chang International Circuit in Buriram was host to the second round of the championships. Sepang hosted the opening round last month.

Despite their misfortune, Weiron maintained a positive outlook.

“I am very happy to secure my first overall podium finish with Audi Sport Asia Team Absolute in this championship.

“Big thanks to the whole crew for their relentless hard work and support as well as to Audi Sport Asia and to my sponsors back home.

“Unfortunately Race 2 didn’t go as planned. My teammate started the race in sixth and was hit by another car just after the lights went out.

“We suffered heavy damage on the rear and had to retire.

“I think overall the weekend was positive. We have much work to do and hope to further improve as a team before the next round in Suzuka, Japan,” said Weiron.

The duo also finished third in the GT35 class in Race 2 at the opening round in Sepang.

The 24-year-old Weiron has now accumulated 27 points in the drivers standings after four races.

The next round of the series will be held at the Suzuka International Circuit on June 22-23.