David Pittard may have finished his 2011 seasons racing last month, but it’s been nothing but work for the Herts based youngster since his last outing a Brands Hatch. After impressing in testing a Porsche Carrera Cup Car for Team Parker only a couple of weeks ago David now turns his attention back to Single Seaters, with a Formula Renault test as his prize for finishing on the podium at the Henry Surtees Foundation Kart event.The test, which will be run with Championship winning squad Manor Competition who famously ran Formula One World Champions Lewis Hamilton & Kimi Raikkonen, is to be held at Silverstone Circuit later this month under the watchful eye of ex Formula One World Champion John Surtees.
“I am really looking forward to testing with the most successful Formula Renault UK team, and to working with the likes of Tony Shaw.” commented David. “ To be able to follow in Lewis Hamiltons footsteps and drive for the same team in the same Formula is a serious honour.”
David’s step up to the 210bhp, 7 speed paddle shift single seater will be his first real experience of a car carrying such a high level of downforce and Formula One inspired technology, something which David will no doubt take in his stride…..
“I think the added down force will be the biggest challenge, but I am going to Manor’s workshop on Monday to fit the seat and look through the data, so I am fully prepared with what I have to do and to ensure I gain maximum benefit from the test.”
Not only will David have to impress Manor Competition team principle Tony Shaw, but the young Brunel University student will be under the watchful eye of F1 World Champion John Surtees, who is renowned for his support and guidance of up and coming racing stars.
“I will have the added pressure of having the 1964 Formula 1 world champion John Surtees watching me during my test! It is an honour to have met him at the Henry Surtees trophy and I can’t thank him enough for this opportunity. I will be out to impress him and the team right from the word go.”
