Chaves Among leaders in first GP3 SERIES Test of 2011

03/07/2011

American up-and-comer displayed speed and skill at Circuit Paul Ricard with Addax Team LE CASTELLET, FRANCE (March 7, 2011) – American junior formula car standout Gabby Chaves commenced his preparations for the upcoming 2011 race season with a strong showing recently in official GP3 Series winter testing. The highly rated teenager impressed during the two-day outing at the Circuit Paul Ricard, regular placing his Addax Team entry near the top of the speedcharts, despite his limited experience in the competitive class. Ahead of making any final commitments for the upcoming season, Chaves traveled to the south of France to showcase his talents behind the wheel against some of the premier young racers on the planet. Returning to the cockpit of a GP3 car – having first sampled the Formula One feeder series last fall in Portugal – the talented American was immediately one of the drivers to watch in the opening day of official series testing. The reigning Italian Formula 3 Championship Rookie of the Year displayed superb car control and speed in his Addax entry during the chilly morning session, ending the run third on the timecharts. With heavy rains greeting the competitors in the afternoon session, Chaves and his squad focused on setup and balance rather than outright speed, ending day one third quickest overall. Given his performance in the first day of testing, both Chaves and the Addax Team were excited to return to action at the Circuit Paul Ricard. With the 2011 edition of the GP3 Series featuring a new spec Pirelli racing slick, Chaves and his teammates spent day two focusing on tire grip levels and wear, running numerous different setups. While the former Formula BMW Americas champion was ultimately unable to register the flying lap he desired in the two sessions, he ended the day within striking distance of the vastly more experienced GP3 racers at the top of the timecharts, having learned a great deal and gathered vital information for the upcoming season. "It was great to get back behind the wheel," stated Chaves. "Working with the Addax Team was a great experience and we gelled quickly, as evidence by the times on day one. I would have liked to go after a fast lap on day two, but we still accomplished a lot. Now I can't wait for the next test at Silverstone, and the start of 2011 season in Turkey." Chaves plans to announce his full race plans for 2011 shortly, and is scheduled to take part in the next GP3 Series official test on March 29-31, at the Silverstone Circuit in England. Those interested in supporting Chaves charge towards a career in Formula One are encouraged to contact Chaves or his management team.

 

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