Al Harthy all set for Paul Ricard challenge

MUSCAT: Just over a week since departing Silverstone GP Circuit with the frustration of a nearcertain maiden Silver Cup podium being stolen from his grasp, Blancpain Endurance Cup racer Ahmad Al Harthy is ready to hit back in style during round three at Paul Ricard in France on June 2.

On course to seal a fantastic top three class finish during the British round, until a late-race tangle for Oman Racing team-mate Charlie Eastwood dropped the squad to an eventual finish of fifth, Muscat driver Al Harthy says he is now hungrier than ever to return to the Blancpain podium.

This weekend’s race in southern France, which begins at 17.45 local time and runs over a duration of six hours, the longest encounter of the year so far, will bring a whole new set of challenges with the latter portion of the race running under night skies at the Le Castellet venue.

Al Harthy, of course, claimed a tremendous second place ProAm class result at Paul Ricard during the corresponding fixture last season on his way to a memorable and history-making title victory in Pro-Am with then team-mate Jonny Adam.

Having to graduate into the even more competitive Silver Cup this year, as a result of his 2017 success, the Middle East star is certain Oman Racing’s maiden podium in the class is a matter of when and not if.

“I really can’t wait to be back at Paul Ricard later this week,” said the Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 driver.

“Last year we came away with a great result in Pro-Am and although we’re facing a different challenge this year in the Silver Cup, we are feeling confident we have a strong package.”

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