RP riders brace for tight AF3 race

GUANGDONG, China–Unpredictable weather conditions, the pullout of a certified Australian star and the return to form of one of the Philippines’ most promising drivers are expected to pave the way for a wide open race in round five of the Asian Formula Three Grand Prix Saturday at the Zhuhai International Racing Circuit here.

Defending champion Christian Jones of Australia won’t be around to shoot for a follow-up win in the fourth leg last month. He decided to give way to Rodolfo Avila of Macau whose car, the one driven to victory last year by Jones, broke down in practice Friday.

Jones will sit out the race while Avila, who joined the Jones Motorsport team after a below-par performance in his debut last month with another squad, will drive the new car supposed to be driven by the Australian.

"We had engine trouble with the other car, and Avila will be using mine," said Jones, who is currently running second in the standings with 62 points behind Indonesian Ananda Mikola who has 75 points.

"It’s more important to him (Avila)," added Jones, who is also taking part in the Australian One Grand Prix whose schedule coincides with the AF3 later this year.

Rain showers in the morning and dry conditions in the afternoon marked Friday’s practice runs that were dominated by Speedtech Asia’s Tyson Sy.

Buoyed by his dominant show in the practice races, Sy is confident his winless spell so far after four legs will finally end here. The 17-year-old Sy is currently running seventh with 17 points in the open class.

"I like the circuit here. It’s wider and it gives me an opportunity to really make my move, unlike in Batangas na masikip ang track," said Sy.<