MOTORSPORT

Fair City racer Chloe Grant will resume F1 Academy action in Spain later this month off the back of a confidence-boosting performance.

Grant, a former Perth High student, banked two top seven placings in Valencia last weekend - including a superb fourth.

The 17-year-old started Race 1 from third on the 15-car grid and returned fourth after 17-laps of the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. She missed out on the podium by less than four seconds.

Beginning Race 2 on Saturday from sixth place, Ecurie Ecosse driver Grant recorded a solid seventh spot before crossing the finishing line fifth in the third race on Sunday after another third-row start. Unfortunately, Grant was subsequently given post-race penalties but now heads for Barcelona ninth in the championship standings.

“Overall it was a good weekend,” reflected Grant. “I’ve shown in Valencia that I have the pace, that I’m a big contender in the series and will become even stronger with more mileage in the car and experience with the team.

“Saturday was a really good day with a fourth and seventh, scoring solid points in both races. I lost a position in both races at the start but, from then on, my pace was very good.

“Race 3 was a mixed combination of emotions. I took the chequered flag in fifth, which was another good, solid result, but unfortunately I collected penalties dropping me to P11.

“I’ve gone from P14 to ninth in the championship standings and aim to progress with every race starting at Barcelona later this month.”

Grant’s season is supported by Laser Tools, John Clark Motor Group, Kevin Cuthbert PT and Fierce Racing.