Mawson's Learning Experience Continues In Italy
| AKA media | 4 February 2013 |
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Australian Joseph Mawson continued his learning experience in his 2013 European campaign during the opening round of the WSK Euro Series at the La Conca circuit in Italy across the weekend.
After qualifying 46th fastest in the KF category, the Top Kart driver (right, KSP pic) overcame brake and carburetor issues during his heat races before snaring a start in the main event by the narrowest of margins.
In the pre-final Mawson made good start, which saw him move up from his 33rd starting position to 23rd place in the opening few laps, he then battled hard before damage following contact with another competitor forced him onto the sidelines four laps from the finish.
Unfortunately for the Australian Motor Sport Foundation-backed driver his run was almost over before it began on turn one of the final where he was caught up in an opening corner melee. After returning to the circuit Mawson battled carburation issues, and later an issue with his clutch, before a dropped chain ended his run.
While Mawson was left to wonder on the sidelines, he reflected on a weekend full of experiences with the aim of continually improving when the Euro Series continues later this month.
“My aim coming into the weekend was to make the final, which I achieved in the end,” said Mawson.
“The style of racing over here is very different and a huge step up but I really feel as though I’m starting to get on top of things. I had Ben George (Australian karter living in Europe) helping me this weekend, it was great to have him around to share his knowledge.
“Overall we improved the set-up of the kart significantly during the weekend and if it wasn’t for a couple of crashes and mechanical issues the result could have been a whole lot better.
“Every time I took to the circuit this weekend I felt as though I improved my driving in this style of racing. I’m really looking forward to the next event where I can put the lessons we learnt this weekend into practice.”
Above: Mawson will next be in action in Round Two of the WSK Euro Series on March 21-24
pic - KSP
Mawson said the support shown by the Australian karting community and associates has been very encouraging from the other side of the globe.
“The Australian Motor Sport Foundation has been a great supporter of my campaign, as has Top Kart, Bell Helmets and of course my parents. Every time I turn my facebook, phone or email on I’ve got another message from someone who is back home wishing me good luck. I hope to be able to achieve some good results for them all over the coming few months,” said Mawson.
Great Britain's Ben Barnicoat won the round ahead of Polish driver Karol Basz and Lotus F1 Junior Team Member Dorian Boccolacci.
Mawson’s next event will be the WSK Euro Series Round Two on March 21-24 at the International Circuit Zuera in Spain.
