New Praga R1 owner and driver, Ross Poulakis, enjoyed a winning Praga race weekend on his debut with the team from Praga Racing ANZ supported by Euro Motorsport and Zagame Autosport at the opening round of the Australian Prototype Series, Sydney Motorsport Park on 12 – 13 April.
The Australian amateur driver, who has stepped into the world of downforce after previous experience in GT3 racing, joined the grid of seasoned prototype drivers, including two former series champions. Over three sprint races Poulakis’ speed, consistency and determination resulted in a dream debut: overall race-weekend winner.
Following an encouraging P3 in qualifying, Ross finished Race One in second, Race Two in second, and, having led for the majority of the final race, finished Race Three in second, securing the overall Round One win.
Rick Campbell, Team Principal at Praga Racing ANZ, said; “Ross has certainly set the tone for our 2024 season. After only two private track sessions leading up to the race weekend to get to grips with the R1’s phenomenal cornering speeds, Ross quickly showed his true racing attitude: fast, consistent and committed. He’ll take to the wheel of his own R1 for Round Two and hopefully compete with our R1 for a win!”
Round Two of the Australian Prototype Series takes place at The Bend International Circuit on 7 – 9 June 2024. Praga Racing ANZ is planning to fly UK driver, Miles Lacey, over for the race weekend for his second season with the team. Having raced, and won, in the R1 in the Praga Cup UK, Lacey is regarded as one of the world’s best R1 racers. In last year’s Australian Prototype Series, Miles secured a second place finish on his Australian debut at The Bend.
Mark Harrison, Sales and Marketing Director for Praga Cars, said; “To see a new Praga customer like Ross taking podiums and a round win on his first competitive outing is a great example of why drivers choose the Praga R1: it’s competitive, accessible and fast – for drivers with commitment and a desire to hit that point where grip and aero combine to such devastating effect. Rick Campbell and the team at Praga Racing ANZ have done a great job competing the Praga R1 across Australia over the past two seasons with convincing results, and with Ross now racing, it’s a great start to the season.”
To find out more about Praga Racing ANZ visit https://pragaracinganz.com/.